All Reviews for Top Places to Visit in Hawaii

I experienced this two days after the Honolulu Marathon, but unfortunately, the weather was bad with high waves, and some people got seasick before the boat even left the shore. Since five groups were boarding in order, there was quite a bit of waiting time, and ultimately, many people ended up feeling sick 💦.

I managed to be okay because I skipped breakfast and took motion sickness medication. Watching the first group go up helped me understand what to expect, so it wasn't too scary, and while going up, there was no swaying, which felt nice!

However, before descending, you are dropped close to the water's surface, so your clothes might get wet.

ホノルルマラソンの2日後に体験しましたが、あいにくの天気で波が高く、ボートが沖に出るまでに船酔いする方もいました。5組が順に上がるので待ち時間も結構あり、最終的に船酔い者続出となりました💦
私は朝食を控え、酔い止めも服用したため何とか大丈夫でしたが。
上に上がるのは一組目の方を見れば要領がわかるのでそれほど怖くなく、上がっている間は揺れもないので気持ちがいいです！
降りる前に海面スレスレまで落とされるので服が濡れる場合ありです。

I purchased a 4-day ticket and used it only once. If you have a leisurely travel schedule, you can search for the boarding spots and adjust your timing, but it was quite difficult to use. I wanted to take my time in the evening, but it wasn't operating then. Besides the Ala Moana Shopping Center, I found it hard to figure out where the boarding spots were. Am I the only one who thought it was challenging?

4日間のチケットを購入して、1度だけ利用しました。時間に余裕のある旅行であれば、乗り場を探して時間に合わせてとできますが、なかなか使いづらかったです。夕方にゆっくりと乗りたいなと思っていたら、夕方は運行していなかったり。アラモアナショッピングセンター以外はどこが乗り場か分かりづらく、難しいと思ったのは私だけでしょうか。

It was absolutely wonderful. The venue was very small, and you could see well from anywhere, which made it very impressive. I was very surprised by the high level of performance. It was really great.

とても素晴らしかった。会場がとても狭く、どこからでもよく見えてとても迫力がありました。レベルの高さにとても驚きました。とても良かったです。

I believe I informed you of my birthday when I applied, but I'm not sure if it was an input error or a communication mistake, as I did not receive any birthday celebration. I had hoped to be celebrated, but by the time I was there, I felt indifferent about it, so I didn't follow up.

申込時に誕生日の連絡をしたはずでしたが、入力エラーだったのか連絡ミスなのかわかりませんが、誕生日お祝いはありませんでした。
できるなら祝って欲しいと思っていた程度だったこともあり、現地ではもうどっちでも良いと思ったので、確認も行いませんでした。

My husband forgot his driver's license, so I ended up driving the buggy! It was my first time driving, so it was quite challenging, especially since there were some steep roads along the way. Because of the danger, I had an instructor ride along with me halfway through. After that, I relaxed and enjoyed the sightseeing. Driving shouldn't be taken lightly, but if you want to drive, make sure you don't forget your driver's license.

主人が運転免許証を忘れて私がバギー運転！
初めて運転なので中々大変、途中かなり急な道もあり、危険ということで半ばからインストラクターなんに同乗。
その後はリラックスして見学に。
運転は甘くみない方がいいですが、運転したい場合は免許証をお忘れなく。

I couldn't find a Japanese tour, so I joined an English tour, which made me a bit anxious, but the result was absolutely satisfying! At one point, the road to the summit was closed due to thick fog, but as predicted by our guide James, the closure was lifted, and we were able to experience the best sunset and a sky full of stars at the summit of Mauna Kea.

Even though Hawaii is a tropical paradise, the temperature at the 4,000-meter summit was very low, around 0 degrees Celsius, and the air pressure was also low, which posed a risk of health issues. However, James was incredibly reliable, preparing and guiding us like a Sherpa, which was truly reassuring.

The beauty of the sunset through the Subaru Telescope and the starlit sky viewed from an even higher location than the Mauna Kea foothills is something I will never forget. James took some very skillful and creative photos, which I continue to enjoy even after returning home. Thank you very much!

日本語ツアーが見つけられず、英語ツアーでの参加となり、すこし不安でしたが結果は大満足でした！
一時は濃霧で山頂への道が閉鎖されてましたが、ガイドのJamesさんの予想通り、閉鎖が解除されマウナケア山頂で最高の夕日と満天の星空に出会えました。
常夏の​国ハワイとはいえ4,000m山頂は、気温が0度前後と非常に低く、気圧も低いことから、体調をくずすリスクがある中で、Jamesさんがシェルパのように頼もしく準備・案内してくれ、本当に心強かったです。
​すばる望遠鏡越しに沈む夕日や、マウナケア山麓より、さらに高い場所で見上げる星空は、一生忘れることができない美しさでした。
Jamesさんはとても上手でクリエイティブな写真を撮ってくれ、帰国後も楽しませてもらっています。
ありがとうございました！

The routes are plentiful, and I rode every day! It's a bit pricey, but I felt secure and safe, so I'm glad I used it. However, since there are few departures, you need to plan your time accordingly.

ルートが豊富で、毎日乗っていました！少し割高ですが、安心だし安全だし利用してよかったです。ただ、便数が少ないので時間を考えて行動する必要ありです。

I wanted to take a bus tour around the area for the first time, but I was disappointed that I didn't have enough time. Next time, I would like to set aside a full day to explore.

初めてで中を廻るバスで廻りたかったのですが時間がなくて残念でした。次はまる１日くらい時間を取って廻りたいです。

The pickup from the hotel was very smooth. Climbing to the summit with a light in hand in the pitch dark and watching the sunrise made me feel refreshed. I've visited Hawaii many times, but I realized there are still places I haven't been to, and it felt like I rediscovered the charm of Hawaii. I encountered sea turtles at various beaches, and visiting the macadamia nut farm and coffee plantation was enjoyable as well. Above all, our guide Jonathan's chatter made it a truly delightful tour. I highly recommend it.

ホテル前からのピックアップはとてもスムーズでした。真っ暗な中ライトを片手に山頂まで登って朝日が上がるのを見られて清々しい気分になりました。
何回もハワイを訪れていますが、行っていない場所がまだまだあったんだなーとハワイの魅力を再発見した気分です。
あちこちの海岸でホヌに出会ってマカダミアナッツファームもコーヒー農園も楽しかったです。何よりガイドのジョナサンのお喋りがとても楽しい気分にさせてくれた最高のツアーでした。おすすめです。

I had the best beach experience in Hawaii! Since it was my first tour in Hawaii, I was a bit nervous, but there were Japanese-speaking guides, which made boarding the bus and entering Hanauma Bay go smoothly! During the shuttle ride, they announced information about the surrounding attractions, so I didn't feel bored on the bus. Also, when renting the snorkeling gear, there was a staff member who spoke Japanese, so I was able to borrow it without any issues! The ocean was incredibly beautiful, and everything I saw was a breathtaking view!

ハワイで最高のビーチ観光をすることができました！
ハワイで初のツアーに参加ということで、緊張していましたが、日本語での案内もあり、スムーズにバスの乗車/ハナウマ湾への入場をすることができました！
送迎のバスの中では、周辺の観光情報をアナウンスしてくれてバスの中も退屈しないと思います。
また、シュノーケリングセットのレンタル時も日本語を話せる店員さんがいらっしゃったので、こちらもスムーズに借りることができました！
海も非常に綺麗で目に映るもの全てが絶景でした！

This was our second family trip to Hawaii, and while we were debating what activities to do, we found this one. After checking with the kids, they seemed excited, so we decided to sign up. Unfortunately, it was cloudy on the day of our activity, but we had a great time nonetheless. My eldest son, who is not fond of heights, said it was a bit scary, but my daughter and younger son, who is in elementary school, loved it and wanted to do it again.

I thought I would feel more scared when going up, but I ascended smoothly and didn't feel scared at all. It was a great opportunity to see Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head from the ocean direction, something I had never experienced before.

We were also lucky enough to see whales from the boat. My eldest son was right above them, so he got to see the whales from the sky.

The staff were kind, and we were able to enjoy the experience thoroughly.

2回目の家族ハワイ旅行であり、今回は何のアクティビティをしようかと悩んでいたところ、こちらを見つけました。子供達に確認をとり、楽しそうということで、申し込みをしました。当日はあいにくの曇りでしたが、とても楽しむことができました。高いところが苦手な長男はちょっと怖かったと言っていましたが、長女、小学生の次男はまたやりたい。ととても気に入っていました。
私も上に上がる時にもっと怖いかと思いましたが、スムーズに上がっていき、全く怖さは感じませんでした。海の方角からのワイキキビーチや、ダイヤモンドヘッドを見る機会は今までなかったため、とても良かったです。
今回運良く、ボートから鯨を見ることもできました。長男はちょうど上にいた為、空から鯨の様子を見れたということです。
スタッフの方も優しく、楽しんで体験することができました。

I came to the Rock-a-Hula show as a first-timer to Hawaii to catch a show with my family. It offers a lively, pre-packaged, easy-to-digest introduction to hula, Hawaiian culture, and local history—mixed with plenty of iconic pop-culture moments that Hawaii has embraced and celebrated over time. The experience is broken into a few different ticket options, and what you pay really affects what you get. Here’s what to know before you go:

1. Ticket options & pricing
You can choose between show-only tickets or a luau buffet paired with the show. Pricing varies quite a bit. I was able to snag a 2-for-1 show-only deal, which came out to about $43 per person, and I also saw a single-ticket promo for around $60. The luau + show packages run $100+ depending on whether you upgrade to VIP. The buffet is definitely better suited for non-vegetarians, but there are some meat-free options.

2. The venue & overall vibe
This is a non-traditional show set in a large, comfortable amphitheater on the top floor of a shopping plaza. The show opens with a short historical video about the land and people of Hawaii set in 1920, which sets the timeline for the rest of the performance. From start to finish, the show runs about 1 hour and 10 minutes—just the right length in my opinion.

3. Show highlights
The pacing starts off a bit slow with traditional hula dancers and singers, then really picks up steam once the show moves into the 1950s. The Elvis segment is the longest and most prominent, and honestly, the performer is impressively spot-on in both voice and movement, covering several of Elvis’s biggest hits.

From there, the show transitions into tributes to the Jackson 5 and Michael Jackson, his dance moves really get the audience excited with high-energy dance numbers. You’ll also see nods to familiar cultural touchstones like Israel Kamakawiwoʻole’s “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” Moana, and finally, a dramatic flaming poi performance honoring the fire goddess.

I came to the Rock-a-Hula show as a first-timer to Hawaii to catch a show with my family. It offers a lively, pre-packaged, easy-to-digest introduction to hula, Hawaiian culture, and local history—mixed with plenty of iconic pop-culture moments that Hawaii has embraced and celebrated over time. The experience is broken into a few different ticket options, and what you pay really affects what you get. Here’s what to know before you go:

1. Ticket options & pricing
You can choose between show-only tickets or a luau buffet paired with the show. Pricing varies quite a bit. I was able to snag a 2-for-1 show-only deal, which came out to about $43 per person, and I also saw a single-ticket promo for around $60. The luau + show packages run $100+ depending on whether you upgrade to VIP. The buffet is definitely better suited for non-vegetarians, but there are some meat-free options.

2. The venue & overall vibe
This is a non-traditional show set in a large, comfortable amphitheater on the top floor of a shopping plaza. The show opens with a short historical video about the land and people of Hawaii set in 1920, which sets the timeline for the rest of the performance. From start to finish, the show runs about 1 hour and 10 minutes—just the right length in my opinion.

3. Show highlights
The pacing starts off a bit slow with traditional hula dancers and singers, then really picks up steam once the show moves into the 1950s. The Elvis segment is the longest and most prominent, and honestly, the performer is impressively spot-on in both voice and movement, covering several of Elvis’s biggest hits.

From there, the show transitions into tributes to the Jackson 5 and Michael Jackson, his dance moves really get the audience excited with high-energy dance numbers. You’ll also see nods to familiar cultural touchstones like Israel Kamakawiwoʻole’s “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” Moana, and finally, a dramatic flaming poi performance honoring the fire goddess.

I was able to show my parents a sky full of stars. It takes about half a day, but I think it's a worthwhile experience. Thank you.

満天の星空を両親に見せることができました、時間は半日くらい掛かりますが、それに見合う体験だと思います、ありがとうございます。

The driver arrived at the pickup location on time and was very kind to us, even though we are Japanese! If you're planning to climb Diamond Head, I definitely recommend going early in the morning. We were able to see a beautiful sunrise! ♪

運転手さんは時間通りに送迎場所に来てくださり、日本人の私たちにも優しく接してくださいました！
ダイヤモンドヘッドに登るなら絶対早朝をおすすめします。
とても綺麗なサンライズを見ることができました♪

Highly recommend. We had a local guide who did a fantastic job educating us about the people and culture of the valley. The views were stunning. Can’t say enough good about it.

The shuttle service was convenient and made things easy. It was reassuring to have Japanese staff on-site.

Unfortunately, the air conditioning on the bus going there was broken, and I thought everyone might suffer from heatstroke, so that was a disappointment.

The tour wasn't as dirty as I had heard from rumors! (The weather was nice, which helped.)

I went in sweatpants, but I thought maybe it wasn't necessary to worry about that? However, it might just be luck, so I can't say for sure!

Anyway, I highly recommend it. It's not a problem even for those who are inexperienced drivers!

送迎もあり、楽ちんでした。
日本語のスタッフさんも現地にいるので安心でした。

行きのバスの空調が壊れていて、みんな熱中症になるかと思うくらいでしたので、そこだけ残念でした。

ツアーは、噂で聞いていたほどは汚れませんでした！(お天気だったこともあり。)

ジャージで行きましたがそこまで気にしなくても良かったかも？と思いましたが、これは運かもしれないのでわかりません！

とにかくオススメです。ペーパードライバーでも問題ないです！

Anyone can climb it. However, to climb Diamond Head, prior application is required, so it might be easier to join a tour like this. If you can apply in advance by yourself, it would be cheaper to get to the trailhead by bus or Uber.

誰でも登れます。但し、ダイヤモンドヘッドを登るには、事前申請が必要なので、このようなツアーで参加するのが楽かも知れません。自分自身で事前申請ができるのであれば、登山口まで、バスやウーバーで行った方が安いでしょう。

The staff was very kind, and they were friendly and funny, which made for a great experience. My 6-year-old child also participated and had a lot of fun. I would like to request their services again when I come next time.

とても親切な対応、優しくて面白いスタッフさん達でとても良い体験ができました。6歳の子供も参加して楽しんでました。また今度も来た時はお願いしたいです。

I was glad to be dropped off at the beach on the North Shore and see authentic surfing. The walk towards the town looked interesting, but unfortunately, most places were closed during the tour's time slot. I returned around noon and saw a few shops, but it would have been great if the tour could have been delayed by another hour. I also enjoyed taking pictures of the mini tour and the Haleiwa sign.

ノースショアの浜辺で降ろしてもらい本場のサーフィンが見れて良かったです。
そこから街の方に歩いて行く道のりみせも面白そうで、ただしツアーの時間帯では殆どが開店前、お昼にもどり何軒かは見ましたが、後一時間ツアーを遅らせてくれるとありがたいです。ミニツアーもハレイワ看板も撮れて良かったです。

The meeting went smoothly, and we were able to comfortably move from Kona to the Onizuka Center at the mid-level. It was New Year's Eve, and although the clouds were thick and it had been raining since the day before, I was glad to see rare snow falling at the summit of Mauna Kea! The sunset was beautiful. The stargazing was a bit disappointing due to the clouds, but overall, I had a great experience participating in this tour.

待ち合わせもスムーズに出来て、コナからも快適に中腹のオニヅカセンターに移動できました。大晦日の日でしたが雲も厚く前日から雨でしたが、マウナケア山頂では珍しく雪が舞っているのを見られて良かったです! サンセットはきれいに見れました 。星空は雲のため少し残念でしたがトータルでとても良いツアーに参加できました。

The price was high, but the seats were in a central and easy-to-see location, which was very good. I was satisfied. I always use Beltora for options.

金額も高かったですが、席も中央で見やすい位置でとても良かったです。満足できました。いつもオプションはベルトラさんを使わせていただいてます。

The Cirque du Soleil performance "Awana" was amazing. I want to see it again. I'm always impressed by the high level of the performers.

シルク・ドゥ・ソレイユの公演『アウアナ』は素晴らしかったです。
また見に行きたいと思います。
パフォーマーのレベルの高さにはいつも感心しています。

It was amazing to see the moment the humpback whale jumped!

It was also fantastic to see a pod of long-finned pilot whales.

During snorkeling, I was able to swim with a green sea turtle, and it was just wonderful.

Our guide, Minako, explained everything clearly in Japanese, which made me feel at ease!

ザトウクジラがジャンプした瞬間も見れて最高です！

ハシナガイルカの群れを見れたのも最高です

シュノーケリングではアオウミガメと泳ぐこともできて、とにかく素敵でした

ガイドのミナコさんも日本語で分かりやすく教えてくれて安心でした！

Convenient, smooth, friendly staff. Easy to book and reserve. Perfect way to start your morning on this sunrise cruise

It was a short course starting from 530. Overall, the portions were generous, and even with just three dishes, I was full and had to take half of the main meat home. All the dishes were lightly seasoned, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through. The meat was supposed to be Waimea beef, but I was informed in advance that it wouldn't be available, so it was US beef instead. I would like to create another opportunity to try Waimea beef. The staff were pleasant, and the entire space, including the restaurant and restrooms, had a cohesive and natural feel, creating a stylish atmosphere.

530からのショートコースでした。
全体的に量がたっぷりで、3品でも、お腹が一杯で、メインのお肉は半分持ち帰りました。
全ての料理は味付けがやさしく、材料そのもののお味が楽しめました。お肉はワイメア牛のはずでしたが、事前に用意できないと、連絡があり、US牛でした。又機会をつくって、ワイメア牛をたべてみたいと思いました。スタッフは感じがよく、店内、トイレにいたるところまで、統一感のある自然なかんじ、おしゃれ空間でした。

I am very satisfied. It started to rain halfway through, but I had prepared rain gear. I can't speak English, but I was able to understand somewhat using a translation app. There were also staff members who spoke Japanese on site, and they were very kind and helpful. 😊

とても満足してます。
途中から雨が降り出しましたが、雨具を用意しました。英語は出来ませんが翻訳アプリを使って何となく理解できました。
現地にも日本語を話せるスタッフの方もおられとても親切に対応して頂きました😊

The couple enjoyed canoeing together, and even the wife, who can't swim, had a great time snorkeling in the sea! The tour participants helped each other with getting on and off the canoe and stand-up paddleboarding, creating a lively atmosphere that transcended national borders.

夫婦でカヌーに乗ったり、泳げない妻もシュノーケリングで海を満喫！ツアー者同士でカヌーやサップの乗り降り等で助け合いながら、国を超えて大いに盛り上がりました。

It was a very fulfilling experience to ride horses with my family while exploring the magnificent nature. It was a safe experience, even my daughter, who is in the first year of middle school, could ride alone. I highly recommend it.

家族で乗馬しながら、雄大な自然の中を散策できてとても充実した時間でした。
中学1年生の娘でも1人で乗馬できるくらい安全な体験で、とてもお薦めです。

I participated with my 69-year-old mother at the end of December. I was anxious because I couldn't speak English and it was my first experience with snorkeling, but thanks to the excellent support, I was able to participate in the activities with peace of mind.

First, they were able to confirm reservations and answer inquiries in Japanese over the phone. Additionally, although the boarding staff only provided English guidance that day, a Japanese-speaking staff member came to pick us up since we had requested hotel transportation. That person helped us prepare for boarding, provided us with important information after we boarded, and supported us after we disembarked.

Even though it was the end of December in Hawaii, which made me worry about the cold sea, I followed the staff's recommendation to rent a wetsuit, and I felt comfortable without feeling cold at all. During the activities, there were enough staff members watching over and supporting the participants.

Thanks to this, I had a wonderful experience seeing many manta rays and a beautiful sunset. Even if we hadn't encountered any manta rays, I still think just snorkeling in the waters of Hawaii would have been a fantastic experience. I highly recommend it!

12月末に69歳の母と参加しました。
英語も話せずシュノーケリングも初体験のため不安でしたが、手厚いサポートのおかげで安心してアクティビティに参加することができました。
まず、電話での予約確認や問い合わせに、日本語で対応していただけます。
また、乗船スタッフは英語ガイドのみの日でしたが、ホテルへの送迎を頼んでいたところ日本語スタッフの方が迎えに来てくださいました。
その方に乗船までの準備を手伝っていただいたり、乗船後の注意点も教えていただいたり、下船後のサポートもしていただきました。
ハワイとはいえ12月末の海ということで寒さが不安でしたが、スタッフの方のお勧めに従いウェットスーツを借りたところ、寒さを感じることはなく快適に過ごせました。
アクティビティ中も、参加者に対して十分な人数のスタッフが見守ってサポートしてくれます。
おかげさまでたくさんのマンタと綺麗な夕日を見るという素晴らしい体験ができましたが、もしマンタと遭遇できなかったとしても、ハワイの海でシュノーケリングするというだけでも十分に素敵な経験だったと思います。
とてもおすすめです！