A vibrant night scene at a luau in Hawaii with guests participating on stage. A man in the foreground performs a gesture resembling a call, while two other groups of guests engage with performers under lush palm trees and colorful lighting that highlights the rocky backdrop.

Our Favorite Five Tours on Oahu

ByKody B

Are you planning a trip to Oahu and wondering which tours are genuinely worth your time and money? As someone who has explored the island extensively, I’ve tried numerous tours and found a few gems that I love so much. 

In this post, I’ll share the top five Oahu tours that provide entertainment and the best value for your money. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or unique local experiences, we’ve got you covered!

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    1. Attending a Luau

    I will be the first to admit that it took four trips to Hawaii before I finally attended a luau. I was one of those people who believed that luaus are touristy and overrated. However, I was pleasantly surprised by my experience at the Polynesian Cultural Center and the other luaus I have attended. 

    The Polynesian Cultural Center is our favorite luau on Oahu because it’s not just a dinner and show but an immersive cultural experience. The center showcases the culture of six Polynesian islands through interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and performances. 

    No matter which luau you choose, it’s a great way to learn about the history and traditions of the Polynesian islands while enjoying a delicious dinner and traditional performances. 

    Luaus are also great because they are fun for all ages, making it a perfect activity for families or groups with varying interests. Plus, where else can you learn to hula dance and try traditional Hawaiian dishes?

    You can purchase tickets for the Polynesian Cultural Center here!

    Evening luau performance at Paradise Cove with dancers in grass skirts and flower lei under a thatched roof stage, illuminated by red stage lights that cast a warm glow on the tropical backdrop.
    Woman posing with a group of nine performers in traditional Polynesian attire posing at a nighttime luau in Hawaii. The performers are smiling and include both men and women, with the men wearing tribal tattoos and red, yellow, and green clothing, while the women are adorned with floral headdresses and leis. Lush palm trees and a dark sky form the backdrop for this vibrant cultural event.

    2. Kualoa Ranch UTV Raptor Tour

    The Kualoa Ranch UTV Raptor Tour is an adrenaline-pumping adventure you cannot miss when visiting Oahu. Imagine driving a UTV through the lush landscapes that have been the backdrop for Hollywood blockbusters like Jurassic Park, Lost, and Hawaii Five-0. 

    This tour isn’t just about the thrill of off-roading; it’s your ticket to seeing some of the most stunning scenery on the island up close and personal.

    Kualoa Ranch has immense natural beauty and cultural significance, sprawling over 4,000 acres of land. It’s one of the most beautiful places on Oahu and one of our top favorites.

    During our visit, our guide shared fascinating stories and facts about the ranch’s history and the movies filmed there, which was very informative.

    Kualoa Ranch offers multiple tours, but this is the most popular one. We opted for this one, and we were not disappointed. 

    You can purchase tickets for the Kualoa Ranch UTV Raptor Tour here!

    Scenic view of the lush green cliffs of Kualoa Ranch under a bright blue sky dotted with clouds.
    Two people in outdoor gear give peace signs while standing in a vast green field at Kualoa Ranch, with foggy mountains in the backdrop.

    3. Star Casual Sunset Cruise

    Set sail into the Pacific sunset on the Star of Honolulu and experience the magic of Oahu from the sea. This is by far one of the best sunset cruises we have ever been on, offering breathtaking views of the Waikiki skyline and Diamond Head Crater. 

    Aboard the catamaran, we experienced genuine island hospitality. We had a delicious three-course dinner featuring crab, steak, and chicken and a complimentary mai tai. They also had live entertainment, including hula dancers and live music, making the whole experience even more fun. 

    We went into this thinking that the highlight of the evening would be the sunset, but we were pleasantly surprised by how much fun we were having on the cruise and the entertainment. 

    Dinner was also good, and it was nice to have a break from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki. 

    While we didn’t have the perfect sunset due to the weather, it was still a beautiful and romantic experience. We highly recommend this cruise for couples, families, or anyone looking for a unique way to enjoy the beauty of Oahu.

    You can purchase tickets for the Star of Honolulu Cruise here!

    The Star of Honolulu cruise ship docked at night, illuminated with vibrant lights under a clear sky, featuring a lit-up Statue of Liberty replica on the adjacent building.
    A series of colorful maritime signal flags fluttering on a cable above a the Star of Honolulu Cruise deck at sunset, with a calm ocean and a cloudy sky in the background.
    A dinner plate filled with crab legs, sliced meats, zucchini, and other vegetables, served with lemon and butter, set on a tropical-themed table on the Star of Honolulu tour.

    4. Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise

    If you want a cheaper and more casual option than the Star of Honolulu Cruise, the Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise is a great alternative.

    The ticket price included two alcoholic drinks, unlimited nonalcoholic drinks, and pupu appetizers. The staff was friendly and made sure everyone had a great time. 

    You also get the same spectacular views of the Waikiki skyline and Diamond Head Crater but in a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for those looking for a fun and affordable way to enjoy a Hawaiian sunset.

    Whether you choose the Star of Honolulu or the laid-back Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise, both options offer unique experiences that will leave you with unforgettable memories. 

    You can purchase tickets for the Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise here!

    A man with raised arms standing on the front deck of the Waikiki Sunset Cruise celebrating under a colorful sail with the ocean and a cloudy sunrise in the background.
    A man holding a drink and smiling on the deck of the Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise tour, with a colorful sail and ocean waves around him during a sunny day.

    5. Whale-Watching Tour

    If you are lucky enough to visit Hawaii during the peak season for humpback whales, don’t miss out on a whale-watching tour. From December to April, these majestic creatures come to the Hawaiian waters to breed and give birth. 

    Various tour companies offer whale-watching tours, but we recommend booking with experienced guides who prioritize the safety of both the whales and their passengers. 

    Why take a tour? While you might be able to see whales easily from land on Maui, it’s much harder to spot them from the shores of Oahu. Plus, being out on a boat and seeing these massive creatures up close is an experience you will never forget.

    We took a tour with Hawaii Nautical and were not disappointed. In the distance, we spotted a few humpback whales, including a mother and calf, swimming and breaching. 

    Note: While we were able to see whales, sightings are not guaranteed as these are wild animals, and their movements cannot be predicted. We have taken several whale-watching tours over the years and have had varying levels of success in spotting whales. 

    However, the overall experience is still worth it for the breathtaking views and the chance to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

    You can purchase tickets for the Hawaii Nautical Tour here!

    Tail fin of a humpback whale splashing into the sea during a whale watching tour in Maui's blue waters.

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