All Reviews for Top Places to Visit in Hawaii

I had an amazing experience that far exceeded my expectations. I was simply overwhelmed by the majestic nature, and it was definitely worth the experience. The staff who guided us were all very fun (I think it would be even more enjoyable if you understand English). Driving the buggy through the great outdoors was also fun, and the two hours flew by. It takes about an hour from Waikiki, so having transportation included is definitely more convenient.

期待をはるかに超える最高の経験ができました。雄大な自然にただ圧倒されるばかり、体験する価値ありです。引率してくれるスタッフも非常に楽しい方ばかり（英語が分かると相当楽しいと思います）。大自然を走るバギーの運転も楽しくあっという間の2時間です。ワイキキから小一時間ほどかかるので、送迎付きの方が何かと楽です。

The shuttle bus was almost full, mostly with Japanese people. There were also Japanese crew members on the boat who provided guidance in both English and Japanese, which made me feel at ease.

When standing on the sandbar, the water was up to my waist. They lend various items like stand-up paddleboards, floaties, and beach balls. First, we played with the equipment, and then we all went snorkeling over the coral reef. There was a note that said you should be able to swim, but I personally can't swim, yet it was fine because I floated with a life jacket. I think those who can swim will be okay with the flotation assistance, but it's at your own risk.

However, it was quite difficult to move forward since there were no fins. I was paddling like a dog, but my husband, who can swim, said, "I can't move at all..."

I was able to see a lot of sea turtles that I wanted to see, and it was so much fun! There were times when they were right in front of me, and since I couldn't move smoothly, I was flustered (laughs).

Including what I saw from the boat, I spotted about five or six turtles! The sea was incredibly beautiful, and even though it was expensive due to the weak yen, I’m really glad I participated.

送迎バスはほぼ満席で日本人がほとんどでした。船のクルーは日本人の人もいて英語と日本語でも案内してくれたので安心できました。
サンドバーの上に立つと腰あたりまで水がありました。sup、浮き輪、ビーチボールなど色んなものを貸してくれます。最初遊具で遊んでその後みんなで珊瑚礁の上をシュノーケリングしに行きます。注意事項に泳げる方とありますが実際私は泳げないのですが、ライフジャケットで浮くので問題ありませんでした。浮く補助があれば泳げる方は大丈夫かと思いますが自己責任で。
ただフィンがないので進むのは結構大変でした。私は犬かきで動き回ってましたが主人は泳げるのに「全然進めない…」と言ってました。
見たかった海亀を沢山見れてすっごく楽しかったです！触れたらいけないのにすぐ目の前にいた時もありスムーズに動けない私はワタワタしました（笑）
船の上から見たのも含めて5、6匹は見れました！
海もめちゃくちゃ綺麗で円安で高かったけど参加して本当に良かったです。

The tsunami stirred up the sand, making the water very murky, but I was able to swim alongside the honu when they surfaced! I saw more than ten of them from the cruise as well. Additionally, due to the murky conditions caused by the tsunami, they even guided us to a free tour that we could join during our stay. Although I couldn't participate this time, the staff's response was excellent, and I would love to join again. They also offered alternative options to participate in a sunset cruise tour besides the honu, showing their flexibility in accommodating us.

津波の影響で砂を舞い上げ、海中はとても濁っていたが、ホヌが顔を出すタイミングで一緒に泳ぐことができた！
クルーズ上からも10匹以上見ることができた。
また、今回は津波の影響で濁っていたこともあり、滞在中に無料で参加できるツアーまで案内してくださった。今回は参加することができなかったが、この件も含めスタッフの対応がとても良く、また参加したいと思いました。
ホヌ以外にも、サンセットクルーズのツアーにも参加可能の代替案を提案してくださり、臨機応変に対応してくださる。

The staff who can speak Japanese will mainly be in charge. At the sandbar, you can have fun with activities like stand-up paddleboarding and taking photos, and you can also return to the boat to enjoy juice, snacks, fruits, and spam onigiri. In the second half, we went snorkeling in deeper waters, where we were able to see sea turtles and many fish! It's one of the recommended activities!

日本語を話せるスタッフの方がメインで担当してくれます。
サンドバーではSUP等で遊んだり写真を撮ったりしながら、途中船に戻ってジュースやお菓子、フルーツ、スパムおにぎりを食べることもできます。
後半は深場でシュノーケリングでしたが、ウミガメやたくさんの魚達に会えるとこができました！
おすすめのアクティビティの1つですよ！

My wife was initially scared to board, but it wasn't too bumpy, and while receiving explanations in Japanese, we were able to see various mountains, volcanic craters, and waterfalls from the helicopter, which was moving. The price was a bit high, but we created wonderful memories that were worth it.

家内は最初乗車するのが怖がっていましたが、
たいして揺れることもなく、日本語での説明をしてもらいながら
色々な山や火口付近・滝などをヘリコプターから見られて
感動しました。
お値段はちょっと高額ですが、それ以上に良い思い出が出来ました。

I’m not good with the thrill of roller coasters, so I was honestly quite nervous before getting on. However, once I experienced it, there was almost no feeling of weightlessness or fear, and I was able to enjoy it with peace of mind!

Above all, the breathtaking views of Hawaii from the sky were truly amazing!

As others have mentioned, since there is some time spent on the boat, I think it’s a good idea for those who are prone to motion sickness to take some medicine beforehand.

Photos cost $40, but they became a wonderful memory, so I’m really glad I purchased them!

ジェットコースターのようなスリルが苦手なので、正直乗る前はかなりドキドキしていましたが、実際に体験してみると浮遊感や怖さはほとんどなく、安心して楽しめました！
何より、上空から眺めるハワイの絶景は本当に素晴らしかったです！
ほかの方も書かれているように、船に乗っている時間があるので酔いやすい方は酔い止めを飲んでおくと安心だと思います。
写真は40ドルしますが思い出になったので、購入して本当によかったです！

From the wonderful, friendly staff to the delicious family style dinner to the amazing entertainment~ the best luau thus far!

We had a fantastic time on the nighttime stargazing and sunset tour with James! We learned so much and had a memorable night - the sandwiches, sunset and stars were top notch!

A group of three friends who have been close for 40 years. We always dreamed of going to Hawaii together, and this year, we made that dream come true as we celebrated our 60th birthdays! Just as we researched, we were able to fully enjoy the amazing "Heavenly Sea" at low tide. We had a great time with sandbar walks, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding, thanks to the staff's friendly advice! Onboard, there were spam rice balls, snacks, mineral water, and hot drinks provided, making for a truly satisfying experience! We're going again!!

４０年来の仲良し３人組。
いつかは３人で行ってみたいと思っていたハワイ、今年還暦を迎え夢を実現させました！
事前のリサーチ通り、潮が引き最高の「天国の海」を堪能できました。
サンドバーウォーク、シュノーケリング、サップ、スタッフの親切なアドバイスで楽しく過ごせました！
船内では、スパムおにぎり、スナック菓子、ミネラルウォーター、温かい飲み物も用意されていて至れり尽くせりで大満足です！
また行くぞー！！

A group of three close friends for 40 years. We had always wanted to visit Hawaii together, and this year, we celebrated our 60th birthdays and made that dream come true! We were moved by the beauty of Waikiki from the summit of Diamond Head. The journey to the top was not as tough as we expected, and even after turning 60, we were able to enjoy the scenery while climbing.

４０年来の仲良し３人組。
いつかは３人で行ってみたいと思っていたハワイ、今年還暦を迎え夢を実現させました！
ダイヤモンドヘッド山頂から見るワイキキの美しさに感動しました。
山頂までの道のりは思ったよりもキツくなく、還暦過ぎでも景色を楽しみながら登ることができました。

A trio of close friends for 40 years. We always dreamed of going to Hawaii together, and this year, we celebrated our 60th birthdays and made that dream come true! There were moments of emotion, laughter, and of course, drinks, drinks, drinks (laughs). On the sunset cruise, we enjoyed unlimited beer and Mai Tais, the crew really got us excited, and seeing Diamond Head from the sea against the backdrop of the setting sun was breathtaking! Next time, we decided to bring our husbands along and come as a group of six!

４０年来の仲良し３人組。
いつかは３人で行ってみたいと思っていたハワイ、今年還暦を迎え夢を実現させました！
感動あり、笑いあり、そして何と言っても酒、酒、酒（笑）
サンセットクルーズでもビール、マイタイ飲み放題、クルーの皆さんの盛り上げ、海から見るダイヤモンドヘッド、沈む夕日に感動！
今度は、お互いの旦那様も一緒に６人で来ようと決めました！！

This was one of our favorite activities in Hawaii! The expert crew was awesome, friendly, and very helpful. We will definitely book this tour again on our next trip to O'ahu!

Jenny was very patient and kind with my 10 year old who had anxiety. This was a good beginner snorkel lesson!

Yoshi was so sweet and kind. He provided snacks, water, cold weather gear, chairs, hot chocolate. The ride felt safe. He knew all the spots to be away from crowds and with perfect views. Super knowledgeable to get fabulous pictures. Highly recommend.

The crew was amazing and the sandbar was a cool experience. A fun way to spend an afternoon!

We had a great time kayaking down the river, and then a brief ocean kayak before snorkeling on the beach.
Highly recommend!

Since I hadn't booked many activities for this trip, I asked a local acquaintance for recommendations, and they mentioned that Cirque du Soleil, which just opened last year, is very popular. Although I hesitated a bit due to the cost, I decided to seize the opportunity and booked the best seats. From start to finish, this was the first show that truly engaged and entertained the audience. Most importantly, seeing the children leaning forward, their eyes sparkling, and sometimes bursting into laughter made me feel that the price was absolutely worth it. I highly recommend it!

今回の旅行ではあまりアクティビティを予約していなかったので現地で知り合いの方にお勧めを伺ったところ、シルクドソレイユは去年できたばかりでとても人気とのことで少し金銭面で迷いはありましたが、せっかくの機会なので1番いい席を予約しました。初めから最後まで、こんなにも観客を巻き込んで楽しませてくれるショーは初めてです。何より子供達が身体を乗り出し、目をキラキラさせ時には声をあげて爆笑している姿を見て、この金額は惜しくないと本心からそう思えました。お勧めです！

My wife & I took our 3 daughters (17, 13, 9) on this excursion and it was amazing. The music was great, and the crew was awesome. Our youngest got a little chilly at times, but plenty of space to chill right off the back of the boat. Snorkeling, paddle boarding, kayaking, etc. lots of fun.

I was really looking forward to the horseback riding experience. However, the horse assigned to me seemed to be in a bad mood from the start, and my bad feeling turned out to be true. The horse wouldn't listen to me and kept wandering off, and in the end, the instructor even clicked their tongue at me. Huh? Is it my fault?? The scenery was wonderful, though.

とても楽しみにしていた乗馬体験。しかしながら私にあてがわれた馬は最初からご機嫌ななめな感じで、嫌な予感がしたのが的中。なかなか言う事を聞いてくれず道草ばかりで、挙句の果てにインストラクターから舌打ちされる始末。え？私のせい？？
景色は素晴らしかったです。

The crew explained things to me in broken Japanese, which made me feel at ease while flying. Even while waiting in line on the boat, they entertained us in various ways, easing our fears and making it a truly enjoyable experience.
Challenging myself at a height of 150m, the view from the top of Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and the deep blue ocean was incredibly beautiful!

クルーの方が片言の日本語で説明してくれたから安心して飛ぶ事が出来ました。
船上で順番待ちしている時も色々楽しませてくれて恐怖心も和らげてくれ本当に楽しませてもらいました。
高さ１５０mに挑戦
頂点からのワイキキビール、ダイヤモンドベッドそして真っ青な海がめっちゃ綺麗〜

I was able to see a lot of fish, and it was a wonderful experience. My son really remembers how delicious the chips we had on the boat were, to the point that he wanted seconds.

Just as we were returning to the port, there was a tsunami due to an earthquake in the Kamchatka Peninsula, which made us a bit anxious, but they safely returned us without any issues. I feel like I want to participate again.

魚もたくさん見られて、とても良い体験をせて頂きました。
息子は、船上で頂いたチップスが美味しくてお代わりしてしまうほどだったことがすごく記憶に残っているようです。

丁度港に帰る頃にカムチャッカ半島の地震の影響で津波が来たタイミングで、多少慌てましたが、問題なく送り返して頂きました。
また参加したいと感じています。

This was my second time, following last year, and since I was familiar with the meeting place and the content, I enjoyed it as I expected. I went with my first grader, a second-year middle schooler, and my grandparents who are over 75, and I think it’s a suitable activity for both children and older adults. It seems that they group Japanese participants together. Last time was in the morning, so this time I chose a time just before noon when the scenery was nice, but the cobalt blue sea was still intimidating (150m). Last time, perhaps because my children were small, there wasn’t the usual pattern of dipping into the sea before going down, but this time that happened, and I was submerged more than I expected. My grandparents were submerged even more. So, those holding cameras need to be careful.

昨年に引き続き2回目で、集合場所も内容も把握していたので思った通り楽しめました。
小1、中2、75才を超えた祖父母とのぞみましたが、子どもにもご年配の方にもちょうどよいアクティビティだと思います。
どうやらこちらは、日本人は日本人のグループでまとめてくれるようです。
前回は朝だったので、今回は景色の良いお昼前を選んだのですが、コバルトブルーの海が相変わらず怖かったです(150m)
前回は子どもが小さいと思ったからか、降りる前に一回海にジャブンとつけるお決まりのパターンはなかったのですが、今回はそれがあり、思った以上に沈められました。
祖父母はさらに沈められていました。
なのでカメラを手に持つ方は注意が必要です。

We took turns driving as a couple and had a great experience! Surrounded by nature, it was the best! Our guide was friendly and provided excellent guidance.

夫婦それぞれ運転交代して体験しました！
自然に囲まれて最高でした！
ガイドさんも気さくな方で案内も素晴らしかったです。

I participated in the 6:30 AM tour. I was more worried about seasickness than the sharks, as I had read in reviews that it could be severe. In the end, the boat and the cage did sway, but perhaps because it was morning, I managed to cope with the slight rocking. On the way back, I dozed off, but my child said they saw dolphins.

Regarding the number of sharks, I thought I wouldn't see many, but it seems there is a way to attract them, and we were able to see quite a few. The moment I first saw the silhouette glowing in fluorescent colors from the sunrise above the boat was the scariest, but since the sharks weren't charging at the cage, I was reasonably satisfied.

Additionally, I brought my own snorkeling set, as mentioned in the reviews. I also got to see the beautiful morning scenery of the North and saw plenty of sharks, so I was very satisfied with this experience.

朝6:30のツアーに参加しました。
口コミより、船酔いがひどいとあったので鮫よりもそちらの心配ばかりしていました。
結果、船もゲージも確かに揺れはしましたが朝だったおかげか多少の揺れで乗り切れました。帰りは居眠りしていたのですが、子どもが言うにはイルカも見えたようです。
鮫の量については、なんだかんだそんなに見られないかと思っていましたが、呼び寄せ方があるようでたくさん見ることができました。
先に船の上から朝日で蛍光色に浮かび上がるシルエットを見た時が1番怖さを感じたのですが、ゲージにガシガシ突進してくる鮫ではなかったので、程よく満足。
加えて、口コミにもあったのでシュノーケルセットは持ち込みました。
ノースの綺麗な朝の景色も見られ、鮫もたくさん見たのでこの1回で大満足です。

On July 29, there was a tsunami warning, and on July 30, the warning was lifted. However, on the morning of July 30, I received an email about the cancellation of the Hanauma Bay snorkeling shuttle. I imagine the tour company needed to gather information, but the details were unclear.

Since I had registered my mobile number at the time of booking, I received the cancellation email one hour prior, but it came on the morning of the day itself. We discussed as a family that it was understandable given it was the day after the tsunami warning.

After that, I took a chance and exchanged messages with the contact person via SMS, and I found out that there were three spots available for snorkeling at Hanauma Bay the next day, July 31. Becca from Kaimana Tours assisted us. Since all the other tour guests were conversing in English, I felt hesitant to express my gratitude in my limited English. I couldn't confirm if the person who provided the shuttle service that day was Becca. I appreciate Becca's assistance and would be grateful if you could convey my thanks.

7月29日に津波警報があり、7月30日は警報解除になりましたが、7月30日午前のハナウマ湾のシューノーケル送迎の中止のメールが当日朝きました。ツアー会社は情報収集する必要があったと想像していますが、詳細は不明でした。
予約時にスマホ番号登録しているので1時間前ですが当日朝に中止メールが来ました。津波警報の翌日でしたので仕方がないねと家族で話していました。
その後にダメ元で担当者様の連絡先にショートメールでやりとりを行ったところ、翌日の7月31日に空き枠が3名分あるとのことで翌日にハナウマ湾シュノーケリングができました。
Kaimana ToursのBecca様に担当していただきました。他のツアー客が全員、英語で会話していたので、拙い英語に気が引けてお礼を伝えることが出来ませんでした。当日の送迎していただいた方がBecca様かも確認できませんでした。Becca様のご対応に感謝しています。有り難うございましたと伝えていただけたら幸いです。

Entering "Dolphin University" and officially becoming a graduate was the biggest event of the summer of 2025. With a courteous pick-up, we quickly arrived at Waianae Harbor from Ko Olina. We boarded right away, and Captain KURT's jokes eased the tension of the 28 new students, bringing smiles to everyone. Next, we held the solemn "Ehomai Ceremony" (a prayer before entering the sacred place). As time flowed leisurely, we cruised through the magnificent nature of the West Coast. Thanks to our prayers, we encountered many dolphins. Even Minako, a Japanese staff member, said, "Such days are rare." Near the harbor, a family of spinner dolphins came close to the boat, showing us their spinning jumps multiple times. We also encountered a rare pod of false killer whales offshore. It was truly moving. Above all, the crew's "dolphin love" was palpable. In the second class, "snorkeling," my wife had her first experience, and with Minako's support, she said, "It was so much fun. It was really great." We thoroughly enjoyed the magnificent nature. We also encountered sea turtles twice. I would love to participate in this tour again. I highly recommend it.

「イルカ大学」に入学し、晴れて卒業生の仲間入りとなったことは2025年夏の最大のイベントでした。丁寧な送迎でコオリナからはあっという間にワイアナエ港に到着。早速乗船しKURT船長のジョークを交えた挨拶で入学生28名の緊張もほぐれて皆笑顔に。続いて厳粛な「エホマイの儀式（聖地に入る前の祈り）」を行いました。ゆったりとした時が流れる中、雄大な自然が広がる西海岸で、大自然の中をクルーズ。お祈りのおかげ？で、私たちはたくさんのイルカ達と遭遇することができました。日本人スタッフのMinakoさんも「こんな日はめったにないです」というくらい。港の近くではハシナガイルカのファミリーが、ボートのすぐ近くまで寄ってきてくれて、回転ジャンプを何度も見せてくれました。沖合では珍しいユメゴンドウ（鯨）の群れにも出会えました。感激しました。何より船長以下クルーの皆さんの“イルカ・ラブ”がひしひしと伝わってきました。２時間目の授業「スノーケリング」は、妻は初体験でしたが、Minakoさんのサポートで「凄く楽しかった。とても良かった」とのことでした。雄大な自然をたっぷりと満喫させて頂きました。ウミガメさんにも２度出会えました。またこのツアーに参加したいと思いました。お勧めします。

I couldn't understand what was being said for the English explanation, but they were very cheerful and it was a lot of fun. They occasionally took photos, which showed their thoughtfulness, and that was nice. Since the sand dust is quite intense, I think it's better for those who are concerned to wear clothes that can get dirty and cover their skin.

英語の説明のため、何をいっているかはわかりませんでしたが
明るく振る舞ってくれていて、非常に楽しかったです。
時折、写真を撮ってくれて気遣いもあり良かったです。
砂埃がすごいので、気になる方は、汚れても良い服装で肌を覆うもののほうがいいかと思います。

It was my first time at the sandbar, and although I felt a bit anxious with the slight wind, the sun peeked through, and I got to see a honu. I was also fortunate to have the best crew, including the captain, which made for an unforgettable experience.

Thanks to the crew member who provided detailed explanations in Japanese and showed great consideration, I was able to enjoy myself with peace of mind.

This was a tour I definitely want to join again when I come to Hawaii. Thank you very much.

初めてのサンドバーで、風が少し吹いていたので、少し不安もありましたが、晴れ間も見え、ホヌにも会えて、また、キャプテン含め、最高のクルーの方々にも恵まれ、最高の思い出となりました。
特に日本語で丁寧に説明や、気遣いいただいたクルーの方のおかげで、安心して楽しむことができました。
また、ハワイに来た際には、絶対に参加したいと思うツアーでした。
ありがとうございました。

I had a wonderful time enjoying the beautiful natural environment and the easy-to-access buggy activities! It was a precious time where I could strongly feel the power of nature!

素晴らしい自然環境と、バギーのアクティビティが手軽に楽しめました！自然の力を力強く感じることの出来る貴重な時間を過ごせました！

In Hawaii, there are no bus stops due to the landscape, so if you're not used to traveling by bus, I think taking a taxi is the safest option. Regular taxis are very expensive, so I recommend using Uber. Just enter the address, and you're good to go!

I made a few wrong turns, but since Uber has fixed pricing, the fare doesn't increase even if the time or distance exceeds the estimate! Maybe it's Hawaiian time, but they handled everything smoothly even with a slight delay. Thank you to the staff.

Since I wanted to propose in a helicopter, I secretly consulted with the staff while my partner went to the restroom. You can manage even with limited English! There are a good number of proposals happening, and the staff are professionals, so I think they can understand even with just a few words. Before boarding, we quickly discussed with the pilot and staff, saying, "I'll say this here, and this will be the signal!"

I definitely recommend going without a door instead of with one! I had requested a doorless option in advance, but they also confirm it on the day. There are seatbelts, so you can feel secure!

ハワイは景観面からバス停が存在していないとか、バス移動が不慣れな方はこちらへのアクセスはタクシーが無難かと思います。
正規のタクシーはとても高いため、Uberタクシーをおすすめします。
住所を打ち込むだけでOkay!
道を何回か間違われましたが、(Uberタクシーは金額が決まっているため時間や距離の超過でも増額されません！)ハワイアンタイムなのか、多少遅れても問題なく手続きしてくださいました。
スタッフさんありがとうございます。

折角ならとプロポーズはヘリコプターで上空でと、、サプライズ！と決めていたためパートナーがお手洗いに行った隙にスタッフの方にこっそり相談。
英語力がなくとも多少話せればイケます！一定数プロポーズされる方やあちらもプロフェッショナルですので手慣れており、単語でも伝わると思います。
乗る前にパイロット、スタッフの方と"ここでこう言うからこれが合図だから！"
そんな打ち合わせをさくっと交わし、いざ。

ドア有りよりもドア無しが断然おすすめです！事前にドアなしを申し込みしておりましたが、当日現地でも確認されます。シートベルトがあるためしっかり安心！