DESCRIPTION

We continue to visit Sandy Beach, a beautiful sandy-bottom beach that looks peaceful and serene but is known for its notoriously powerful shore-breaks, pounding waves and body-surfing opportunities.

Driving by Makapuu Lookout you will see the islands most recent lava flows and enjoy incredible panoramic views of offshore islands, turquoise and azure ocean water and breathtaking lava cliffs above.

We continue to the world-renowned Pali Lookout, that Mark Twain called the most beautiful views on the planet.

Driving north we arrive at the Valley of the Temples and visit the colorful Byodo-in temple, a photographers dream. This Hawaii State Landmark is home to wild peacocks and hundreds of koi carp with a large reflecting pond and meditation niches.

Continuing on the relaxing windward coast we also visit scenic Chinamans Hat, a picturesque islet located in the warm, tropical waters of Kaneohe Bay.

Continuing north to Kahuku, home of the North Shore famous shrimp farms you will observe endangered wetland birds, including Black-neck stilts, Hawaiian coots and Moorhens. Stopping at one of the locals favorite shrimp trucks, try some delicious locally-farmed garlic shrimp, fish or a chicken plate and refreshing drinks. You will be served your choice of nine different sauted shrimp plates, fresh lemon and steaming rice while your nature guide provides information about Hawaiis aquaculture efforts. (*Chicken Katsu and Veggie Chow Mein options are also available!)

Next you can marvel at the world-famous Sunset Beach as we drive by this legendary big-wave surfing location where towering, giant waves arrive between November-April.

Then we visit Waimea Valley Arboretum and Waterfall. This enchanting and relaxing location showcases over 5,000 species of tropical flowering plants, ancient archaeological sites, and one of the most scenic waterfalls on the island.

Get ready to experience the laid-back charm of Haleiwa as we drive through this vibrant town, the heart of Hawaiis North Shore and the official surfing capital of the world. Take a moment to appreciate the stunning ocean views and the legendary waves that make the North Shore world-famous. From the golden sands to the endless blue horizon, the scenery here is simply breathtaking. Whether youre gazing at the surfers riding the powerful swells or enjoying the peaceful serenity of the shoreline, the beauty of Haleiwa and its surrounding beaches is truly unforgettable.

Our last stop is the historic Dole Plantation where you will find many varieties of pineapple species from all over the world. Here, you can buy a souvenir to take home and share with your family and friends and always remember your exciting adventure around the Island of Oahu and Waimea Waterfall.

Throughout your journey of discovery around the island of Oahu your nature guide will provide a fascinating narration about Hawaiis bird and plant species, geology, history and culture.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Queen Kapiolani Park (Drive Through)
• Diamond Head State Monument (Drive Through)
• Kaiwi Channel (Drive Through)
• Halona Blowhole STOP
• Sandy Beach Park STOP
• Makapu?u Point (Drive Through)
• Waimanalo (Drive Through)
• Nu?uanu Pali STOP
• Byodo-In Temple STOP
• Mokoli?i Island STOP
• Kahana Bay Beach Park (Drive Through)
• Tanaka Kahuku Shrimp STOP
• Sunset Beach (Drive Through)
• Waimea Arboretum and Botanical Garden STOP
• Haleiwa (Drive Through)
• Dole Plantation STOP
• Iolani Palace (Drive Through)

INCLUSIONS

• All important stops around the island: 17 Scenic Sights, the most comprehensive coverage of all the scenic locations around the island
• Transportation: Tour includes roundtrip transportation to and from Waikiki in air-conditioned, luxury, panorama touring buses
• Driver: Professional and experienced CDL driver
• Narrator Guide: Professional Nature Guide who narrates your entire tour
• All Admission fees: Admission to Waimea Valley and Byodo-In Temple
• Lunch: Shrimp lunch and drink

GOOD TO KNOW

• Availability: Monday - Friday
• Time: Pickup 7:30 am Return 5:30 pm
• Location: Transportation from central locations throughout Waikiki is included
• Duration: Approximately 10 hours
• Walking Distance: 1.5 miles (3/4 mile each way in the Arboretum to get to the waterfall)
• Walking Time: 1.2 hours on paved trail (approx. 35 minutes each way to get to the waterfall within the Arboretum)
• This is not a hiking adventure, it is a sightseeing tour. Only minimal walking is required at the various photo locations on this circle-island type adventure. This tour visits many of the most famous sights along our island's beautiful coastline so there is no hiking requirement, instead, there are numerous photo stops along the way, (15-120 minutes spent at each location.)

RESTRICTIONS

• This tour is suitable for guests with walking difficulties because there is a small golf cart train in Waimea Valley that can accommodate a limited number of guests and take them up to the waterfall without having to walk at all. A shuttle runs approximately every 30 minutes** and currently charges $10.00* for a one-way transportation per person. *prices are subject to change at the discretion of the Arboretum. **Guests taking this option would miss some of the arboretum narration provided by our guide along the trail.
• Swimming in the waterfall is not permitted.