Skip the Crowds: Secret Oahu Half Circle Tour with a Local

As we begin, we'll cruise along Kalakaua Ave for approx. 15 minutes, first passing Kapiolani Park. This large public park offers a variety of recreational activities, including tennis courts, and a large grassy area for picnics. An interesting fact about Kapiolani Park is that it is the site of the first ironman triathlon, which took place in 1978 and has since become a world-renowned annual event. We'll also pass by Queen's Beach, the Waikiki Aquarium, and Kaimana Beach before arriving at the Diamond Head Crater Lookout.

For our first stop, we'll visit The Diamond Head Crater Lookout, which is a must-see destination for its history and breathtaking panoramic views, perfect for photography and sightseeing. You'll learn about the volcano's origin and its role in Hawaiian history while enjoying the perfect spot to capture some beautiful photos. (20 mins)

Once we get back on the road, we'll take an approx. 15 minute cruise through The Kahala neighborhood along Kahala Ave, which is located on the south shore of Oahu and is a prestigious area known for its luxurious homes, exclusive beaches, top-rated schools, and upscale amenities, making it one of the most sought-after neighborhoods on the island.

As we depart the Kahala neighborhood and hele (go) on, we'll cruise along Kalanianaole Hwy for approx. 15 minutes, heading east toward the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Located on the windward side of Oahu, this must-see destination features a crystal-clear lagoon with an array of marine life including over 400 species of fish. Along the way we'll have breathtaking views of Maunalua Bay, as well as cruise past the Aina Haina, Niu Valley, and Hawaii Kai neighborhoods.

Approx. 5 minutes past Hanauma Bay we'll visit the Halona Blowhole, where you'll be treated to this natural attraction on Oahu's Ka Iwi coast, where waves create a stunning spray of water up to 30 feet high. It is a popular spot for photography and is easily accessible, located next to the Halona Beach Cove. (20 mins)

Once we depart the Halona Blowhole area, we'll cruise by Sandy Beach Park approx. 5 minutes further down Kalanianaole Hwy. This public beach is known for its wide sandy beach and strong waves, popular for bodyboarding and bodysurfing.

Our next stop, Makapuu Lookout is approx. 5 minutes up the road from Sandy Beach Park and offers panoramic views of the eastern coast of Oahu, including Makapuu Beach and Makapuu Point. It's also home to the Makapuu Lighthouse, a historic lighthouse that offers even more breathtaking views of the coast. (20 mins)

As we continue our adventure and head toward the Pali Hwy, we'll cruise by Waimanalo Beach, which boasts crystal clear waters and white sand. Waimanalo has many charming local businesses, it's a must-visit destination for those looking to take in the natural beauty of Hawaii. The drive from the Makapuu Lookout to The Pali is approx. 20 minutes.

Next, as we leave Waimanalo Town, we'll cruise down the Pali Hwy for approx. 30 minutes back toward town. "The Pali" connects the windward side of the island to the leeward side, passing through the Nuuanu Pali Lookout. It was the site of the Battle of Nuuanu in 1795, where Kamehameha I defeated the army of Oahu and solidified his control over the island, eventually leading to the unification of the Hawaiian Islands under his rule.

As we arrive back into town, we'll spend approx. 1 hour and 30 minutes in downtown Honolulu, which is the central business district and governmental center of Honolulu. It is home to many iconic landmarks, including the Aloha Tower, Hawaii State Capitol, and Iolani Palace. An interesting fact is that the King Kamehameha statue located in front of Aliiolani Hale, is the only statue of a monarch within the United States.

We'll cruise past The Hawaii State Capitol, which is the official state house of Hawaii and home to the Hawaii State Legislature. This modernist building was completed in 1969.

Next up is Iolani Palace. We'll cruise past this historical palace located in the heart of Honolulu, that served as the official residence of the Kingdom of Hawaii's monarchy. It is the only royal palace in the United States and was completed in 1882. Interesting fact: King Kalakaua, who was known as the "Merrie Monarch," is said to have hosted extravagant parties and events at the palace, including a luau for King Edward VII of the United Kingdom.

Built in the 1870s, just across the street from Iolani Palace is Aliiolani Hale, a historic building in the heart of Honolulu. As we cruise by, you'll catch a glimpse into the history and culture of Hawaii and the building's past, as well as its current function as the Hawaii State Supreme Court.

Just past Aliiolani Hale is the Kawaiahao Church, which is a historic Christian church that is considered one of the oldest and most significant churches in the state. It is also a National Historic Landmark, with an impressive New England architectural style, beautiful stained glass windows, and historic pipe organ

Before we say a hui hou (until we meet again), we'll cruise past the Honolulu Hale (City Hall), known for its Mediterranean Revival architecture with red tile roof and white stucco exterior. It's a government building housing the offices of the mayor and city council, housing and several other agencies.