Page 8) Things to Do in North Shore in 2026 – Tours & Activities

Discover Oahu’s North Shore from Waikiki with The Surf Bus - Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Waimea Falls

The best way to see the North Shore

Reviewed by: Gerry

We were looking for a tour to see the North Shore but have the freedom to do what we want to do....we couldn't have picked a better tour. This is the perfect tour for people looking for freedom to do/go where they want. We had Sam as our tour guide, a native from Hawaii. He was informative and very the perfect style of guide for this tour. Knew what he was talking about, laid back but still detail oriented enough to handle everyone's activities and where they were. We went there the day of the Volcom Pipe Pro at the Pipeline. We rented bikes at the North Shore Surf Shop (an included activity with the tour - no extra charge) and that allowed us to go freely around. We rode up to the surf competition to watch live. The nice part was with the bikes, you were stuck in one spot the whole time. Watched the competition, then rode down the coast to Sharks Cove and Waimea Bay. It was great to have no schedule or "planned activities" when we got there. We had 3 hours to do what we want. Some wanted nothing to do with the surf competition and they could do what they want. Everyone had their own agenda and this tour worked great with it. (For a quick bite to eat, hit up Pupukea Grill. Its a food truck in Sharks Cove with a heavenly flatbread.) Met back next to Sharks Cove for the bus and rode to Haleiwa for the afternoon. Again, free time through the town to experience the city itself or do water activities at Surf N Sea. We wanted to experience the town, so we went into the surf shops, stores and walked around the town itself. (For a great sandwich, hit up Waialua Bakery and Juice Bar next to the grocery store...phenomenal.) For being a smaller town, Haleiwa is a very cool town to experience. After the town, we were to a beach to view the sea turtles that come on shore. It was amazing to see the turtles that close.

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Packages:	[From Waikiki] North Shore Tour + Two Fun Adventures
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2014/02/18
Activity Date:	2014/02/03

Circle Island Sightseeing Tour & Full-Day Polynesian Cultural Center Tickets

circle island tour with prime dining

Reviewed by: Phyllis LaForge

excellent. Jason was amazing. His knowledge of the area extensive

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Attended as:	Friends
Posted on:	2014/02/05
Activity Date:	2014/02/01

Discover Oahu’s North Shore from Waikiki with The Surf Bus - Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Waimea Falls

oyamajeo@comcast.net

Reviewed by: oyamajeo@comcast.net

This was an awesome tour. The driver was local and gave lots of information about the area...what it used to be and what it is now. Many changes in 45 years. There was plenty of free time to explore. That was the best!

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Packages:	Standard Tour and One Activity Package
Attended as:	Solo Travelers
Posted on:	2013/11/20
Activity Date:	2013/11/17

Discover Oahu’s North Shore from Waikiki with The Surf Bus - Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Waimea Falls

the surf bus

Reviewed by: toni turnham

Harry is a great guide with plenty of energy, he will make sure you have a good time and show you some of the best places to hang out. You can lay on the beach and chill out of take part in a host of activities.

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Packages:	[From Waikiki] North Shore Tour + Two Fun Adventures
Attended as:	Solo Travelers
Posted on:	2013/11/19
Activity Date:	2013/10/22

Discover Oahu’s North Shore from Waikiki with The Surf Bus - Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Waimea Falls

Tasting the tricks and treats of Oahu

Reviewed by: Dan from Denver

The "Surf Bus" Rocked my world, got timed out and lost my heartfelt compliments. I can't rewrite my praises. It does not do justice. Going to try:
Sam was an amazing guide, the playing, eating, and listening on the North Shore, my taste of heaven. Just visualize; Sea Turtles, tidal pools and an eye to eye with an Eagle Ray, food to die for, and 1000 reasons to keep coming back. An awesome "build your own burger". Surprise yourself and go for it! Not a sit and stare tour, unless your waiting for a set, or focused on sea turtles. You still get to do your driving. Came back exhausted and completed. 50 years in and now I figure out happy. Better late than never.
Mesmerized by the bright smiles, and sense of community that emerged as we talked through our day. 20 people, 5 countries and a bevy of dialects. It was right Kraky, but no worries mate.
@Sam, the Tiki was truly over that rainbow.
Mahalo nui loa!!!

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Packages:	[From Waikiki] North Shore Tour + Two Fun Adventures
Attended as:	Solo Travelers
Posted on:	2013/10/27
Activity Date:	2013/10/23

Discover Oahu’s North Shore from Waikiki with The Surf Bus - Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Waimea Falls

Enjoyable tour with lots to do

Reviewed by: loveoahu13

Best way to visit the North Shore Area. There is so much to do on this tour I only wished it had lasted longer. We snorkeled at sharks cove where we saw beautiful fish and sea turtles, swam under a waterfall at Waimea Valley, visited sunset beach and turtle beach. We then hung out and ate in Haleiwa town. There are different options to choose from depending on your package. We missed Waimea bay - could not fit into schedule. Maybe next time. Highly recommend if you are NOT renting a car.

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Packages:	[From Waikiki] North Shore Tour + Two Fun Adventures
Attended as:	Families with Young Children
Posted on:	2013/09/14
Activity Date:	2013/08/25

Circle Island Sightseeing Tour & Full-Day Polynesian Cultural Center Tickets

Circle Island Tour & PCC Luau & show

Reviewed by: TizLV

The circle island tour (1 star) was too much a rush, it is literally a drive half way around the island to get to PCC, only a couple stops that barely has time to get off the bus and take photos, and no where states that the famous Hanauma Bay is closed on Tuesday for cleanup.

The PCC operates like the cruise ship, put a lei on you just to have photographer take pictures to sell you later, and then take the lei back. The so called guides in the PCC are students where some of them are not well trained to handle the group; you can do everything by yourself using the schedule of programs.

The Luau was mediocre, no whole pig roasting, just a huge dinning hall with lots of people, eating the buffet, and some show on stage. Sorry, I live in Vegas, this cannot compare.

"HA: Breath of Life" Show definitely 5 star, very well done and great performers, if you are willing to pay high price for shows in Vegas, this one is on par.

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Packages:	Ambassador Luau - Premium Show Seating & Guided Group Park Tour
Attended as:	Friends
Posted on:	2013/08/31
Activity Date:	2013/08/06

All-Inclusive Oahu Island Tour with Lunch & Waimea Valley Waterfall Nature Walk

One of the best yours I have ever taken!

Reviewed by: Melanie

The tour guide was the most personable, knowledgable tour guides I have ever had. She took the time to explain where we were, what was special about it and answered any and all questions. Would definitely use their services again!

Reply from activity provider

Thank you so much for the good review.

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Rating:
Packages:	Standard
Attended as:	Friends
Posted on:	2013/07/20
Activity Date:	2013/06/30

Circle Island Sightseeing Tour & Full-Day Polynesian Cultural Center Tickets

Luau and tour

Reviewed by: Chin Wang

The tour guide and tour of the island was outstanding. The show at the Cultural Center was very well done and enjoyable. The food was okay, but not what was expected.

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Packages:	Alii Luau Dinner Buffet Package & All Day Admission (Self-Guided)
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2013/07/10
Activity Date:	2013/07/02

Circle Island Sightseeing Tour & Full-Day Polynesian Cultural Center Tickets

Circle Island Tour & Polynensian cultural center

Reviewed by: Sergio Delgadillo

Nice event! So much to learn!! The day goes by fast with all the fun. They have a lot of activities for all the family. The dinner was awesome, prime rib buffet. Can't wait to go back!!

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Attended as:	Families with Young Children
Posted on:	2013/06/30
Activity Date:	2013/06/22

Discover Oahu’s North Shore from Waikiki with The Surf Bus - Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Waimea Falls

fantastic experience of the north shore

Reviewed by: susan

Sam was a wonderful friendly tour guide. I liked the flexibility of the tour, being able to do various activities and see many different things. The sea turtles were a highlight. I also enjoyed the history and personal anecdotes of the tour. It was the best part of my trip to Oahu.

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Packages:	[From Waikiki] North Shore Tour + Two Fun Adventures
Attended as:	Solo Travelers
Posted on:	2013/05/13
Activity Date:	2013/05/06

Discover Oahu’s North Shore from Waikiki with The Surf Bus - Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Waimea Falls

Harry is the man!

Reviewed by: Dallas John

Had a great time. We go to Hawaii once a year, and have gone on almost every tour. The best thing about this was the tremendous flexibility to do and swap activities. Not a "tourist" tour. Little fubar on scheduling, but the drive Harry made up for that. Time with Harry was as good or better than seeing the falls!!

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Rating:
Packages:	Standard Tour and One Activity Package
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2013/04/12
Activity Date:	2013/03/14

Discover Oahu’s North Shore from Waikiki with The Surf Bus - Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Waimea Falls

Mrs

Reviewed by: Glenda

Had great day. My grandsons and self really enjoyed it. Lots of time to wander around. Sam was great. Very knowledgable .answered lots of questions.really appreciated his friendly attitude.

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Attended as:	Families with Young Children
Posted on:	2013/01/26

Discover Oahu’s North Shore from Waikiki with The Surf Bus - Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Waimea Falls

Surf's up

Reviewed by: Mr. Anonymous

Great time, great guide, lots to see and a ton of information!

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Attended as:	Families with Young Children
Posted on:	2012/09/30

Discover Oahu’s North Shore from Waikiki with The Surf Bus - Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Waimea Falls

Best Time!!

Reviewed by: Dianna

I chose to go to the Waimea Falls and Botanical Garden and on the Kayak ride...also got to lay around on Waimea Beach and jump off the rock! I had a total blast. The driver/guide was knowledgable and friendly and made sure we all had a great time. I would recommend this to anyone.

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Attended as:	Friends
Posted on:	2012/08/31

Discover Oahu’s North Shore from Waikiki with The Surf Bus - Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Waimea Falls

Surf Bus great!

Reviewed by: Lisa H

First time on surf bus, me(45), niece(25), son(9), daughter(4). Only paid for 1 activity each because we didnt know the time schedule or what would work best. Pick up 8:15am. Nice tour of different beaches at north shore. Finally arrived at 1st activity spot at 10:30 me/daughter went to waimea beach, niece/son waimea falls and walked to us. Others did snorkeling. Picked up at 1pm. Next stop haleiwa where we got 1 paddle board and 1 double kayak. Son loved padded boarding by himself! We switched off and met back at 3. Others walked through town and ate. We did great with just one activity eac (2 waimea waterfall entrance, 1 paddle board, 1 kayak). Others did th snorkel then th paddle board the 2nd half. The falls walk was hot and long but my son still enjoyed. Beach was nice for me and my 4 year old to float in the calmer waves. Definitely enjoyed our trip! Nice ending was a couple days later I realized I had left my daughter's life jacket (brought a good one for my entir vaca

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Attended as:	Families with Young Children
Posted on:	2012/06/14

Circle Island Sightseeing Tour & Full-Day Polynesian Cultural Center Tickets

EXCEPTIONAL!

Reviewed by: Courtney

I HIGHLY recommend this tour to all!!!

I took this tour with my family about a year ago, and my brother and I told ourselves we must come back with our friends to enjoy it again!

Our tour guide, Mr. (Insert Several Incredibly Long Names Here) Polamalu was incredible! Personable, hilarious, engaging, knowledgeable...pure awesome-ness!! He made the tour so much fun, and on behalf of my group I'd like to say "MAHALO" to him for his service! Side Note: During the Circle Island Tour, I recommend everyone try Dole Whip Ice Cream at the Dole Plantation stop. It is truly some of the best ice cream I've ever had.

The second leg of our tour included an activity-filled rollick through the Polynesian Culture Center! The Center is so clean, everyone is so accommodating and nice, and the activities were very enjoyable! I loved watching the coconut slicing and juicing presentation! It was so informative...and very funny, I might add! Every student and staff member working there is a physica

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Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2012/06/14

Discover Oahu’s North Shore from Waikiki with The Surf Bus - Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Waimea Falls

Should have rented a car instead

Reviewed by: Mr. Anonymous

Not much of a tour. Driver OK - very little information given during ride, made a few recommendations. Driver dropped everyone off then went surfing for both the morning and afternoon sessions.
Other folks in group disappointed in the amount of walking, lack of bike helmets and places where the road had no bike trail.

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Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2012/06/12

Discover Oahu’s North Shore from Waikiki with The Surf Bus - Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Waimea Falls

Way Fun

Reviewed by: Mr. Anonymous

This was a great acivity. We learned all about the island on the drive to the North Shore. Saw all the great surfing beaches, did some snorkeling and kyaking....a very fun day.

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Attended as:	Families with Young Children
Posted on:	2012/06/04

Circle Island Sightseeing Tour & Full-Day Polynesian Cultural Center Tickets

TOURIST

Reviewed by: MARK

THE DRIVER/GUIDE WAS KNOWLEDGEABLE AND KEPT US ENTERTAINING FOR THE MOST PARTS. HE GAVE US CLEAR INSTRUCTIONS AND WAS A GREAT ASSET TO HAVE IN THIS TOUR.

WE COULD HAVE SPENT MORE TIME ON THE ISLAND TOUR INSTEAD OF THE CULTURAL CENTER.

FINALLY THE NIGHT SHOW WAS WELL DONE. SUPRISED TO SEE HOW STUDENTS COULD PUT UP A PROFESSIONAL SHOW LIKE THIS. SOMETIMES I WONDER WHETHER THEY COME HERE TO STUDY FOR A CAREER OR ENTERTAIN THEMSELVES.

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Attended as:	Friends
Posted on:	2012/04/30

Circle Island Sightseeing Tour & Full-Day Polynesian Cultural Center Tickets

tour guide

Reviewed by: Warren

Tour was great and the driver and his narration made it all the better. He should be rewarded - sorry I did not get his name other than, possibly, Mr. Polomalu?

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Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2012/04/26

Circle Island Sightseeing Tour & Full-Day Polynesian Cultural Center Tickets

A great way to see the island

Reviewed by: Mr. Anonymous

This is a great way to see the island. The driver was very knowledgeable, and we visited some beautiful areas. We had about 15 min. at each stop, which was fine, except at the Dole plantation. Honestly, I dont know why they bother. In 15 min we had time to get our ice cream, and that was it. No time to browse the gift shop at all, or browse the grounds at all. Either allow more time at Dole, or skip it altogether. The driver could use a bell of some sort. We often had to wait for people who didnt return when they were supposed to. I dont know if those delays made much difference, we still got to the Polynesian Cultural Center around 1pm, which was plenty of time. The evening show after the luau was fantastic.

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Attended as:	Families with Young Children
Posted on:	2012/04/07

Circle Island Sightseeing Tour & Full-Day Polynesian Cultural Center Tickets

very tiring day but a good day

Reviewed by: Mr. Anonymous

We had a lovely day learnt alot about the island and seeing how the Polynesian lived was very interesting the whole day was very good and we recomend it

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Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2011/09/30

Circle Island Sightseeing Tour & Full-Day Polynesian Cultural Center Tickets

Very interesting, time flew

Reviewed by: Lars D

The activity lasted 14 hours, but we were never bored and the time seemed to fly by. A great guide/bus driver in Henry, an entertaining samoan, helped greatly.

You get to see many of the famous beaches, mountains and other parts of Oahu, as well as the Dole plant (where we spent so little time that it was almost a waste) and the Polynesian cultural center.

The buffet was OK, as expected, but nothing special. The shows before and after though, were very good. A must see for all visiting Oahu.

Good value for the money.

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Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2011/09/28

Circle Island Sightseeing Tour & Full-Day Polynesian Cultural Center Tickets

TOP OF THE LIST! Must Do!

Reviewed by: TheHills

We had a BALL with Henry (our tour guide) and ALL of the employees we came across was sooooo friendly, funny and quick with jokes! This is a MUST DO! in Hawaii and booking thru Hawaii activities was easy and they call to confirm my pick up time and gave all the details again. From the time we got on the bus it was laughter from Everyone! Polynesian CC was just way beyond our expectations - we could not get enough. By the end of the day we were pooped! If you really want to get your $$'s worth and see Hawaii for what it is...DO THIS TOUR! you will not regret it. (Then again who regret anything in Hawaii?) I say BIG THANKS! to Henry and Hawaii Activities!! Mahalo again!

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Attended as:	Families with Young Children
Posted on:	2011/05/28

Discover Oahu’s North Shore from Waikiki with The Surf Bus - Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Waimea Falls

Not a cater to you activity

Reviewed by: Mr. Anonymous

We thought we could hike to the waterfall and then go snorkeling. From what I had read that would be a possibility. Both were morning options. He parked centrally then we walked to meet him. For the price I should not have expected to be taken to each destination I suppose, but I did. Still we had a good time and swimming in the waterfall was GREAT

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Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2011/04/07

Discover Oahu’s North Shore from Waikiki with The Surf Bus - Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Waimea Falls

Surf Bus

Reviewed by: Sharon

I have been to the North Shore before and enjoyed this trip the most. We enjoyed the Waimia Falls park more due to the guides suggestions. he was very knowledgeable and interesting. I especially enjoyed the turtles. I would recommend it for the young and hardy or an old folk like me. Great fun!

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Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2011/02/02

Circle Island Sightseeing Tour & Full-Day Polynesian Cultural Center Tickets

Good tour to join for 1 full day

Reviewed by: Mr. Anonymous

Overall the tour was very good with visits to many points of interest around Honolulu in the morning and then tour the PCC in the afternoon. Dinner was quite nice and the "breath of life" show as wonderful!

However, we wish that the driver would let us know that there would not be any time for lunch once inside the PCC as the activities inside the PCC would be jam packed. The bus driver should gave us 15 to 30 more minutes inside the Dole Plantation Center so that we could get a light lunch before we head off to the PCC.

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Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2010/12/03

Discover Oahu’s North Shore from Waikiki with The Surf Bus - Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Waimea Falls

Lots of fun

Reviewed by: Mr. Anonymous

Had a great time. Sam made the trip very enjoyable. Would highly recommend!

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Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2010/11/16

Discover Oahu’s North Shore from Waikiki with The Surf Bus - Snorkel, Kayak, SUP & Waimea Falls

Highly Recommended!

Reviewed by: Nat C

My husband and I took this tour recently while in Hawaii and it rocked! Our driver was Sam and he was great. Very knowledgable about Hawaii and offered some really interesting tidbits of info. He was laid back, friendly and very engaging. This tour is great because you have the freedom to choose your activities and even traveling in a group you are not forced to select the same options. You can add activities on site which was also a plus. We were dropped in each location for about two hours and were free to eat, wander and otherwise do as we chose. There was a lady in our group that was by herself and she really enjoyed herself as well. Hailewa town was cool to wander around in and my husband even had time to kayak there and join me at the shops. Free water and juice was also a nice bonus. I highly recommend this tour if you are headed to Oahu!

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Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2010/10/28

Things to Do in North Shore in 2026 – Tours & Activities | HawaiiActivities.com

All Reviews for Oahu Guided Island Sightseeing Tour in North Shore

Overall Rating

Reviews

The best way to see the North Shore

circle island tour with prime dining

oyamajeo@comcast.net

the surf bus

Tasting the tricks and treats of Oahu

Enjoyable tour with lots to do

Circle Island Tour & PCC Luau & show

One of the best yours I have ever taken!

Luau and tour

Circle Island Tour & Polynensian cultural center

fantastic experience of the north shore

Harry is the man!

Mrs

Surf's up

Best Time!!

Surf Bus great!

EXCEPTIONAL!

Should have rented a car instead

Way Fun

TOURIST

tour guide

A great way to see the island

very tiring day but a good day

Very interesting, time flew

TOP OF THE LIST! Must Do!

Not a cater to you activity

Surf Bus

Good tour to join for 1 full day

Lots of fun

Highly Recommended!

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