The Oahu Circle Island Snorkel with Turtles tour is the ultimate way to see the best of the island in just one day. This full-day experience combines scenic sightseeing, cultural stops, and snorkeling with Hawaiian green sea turtles at one of the North Shore’s most famous beaches. With transportation from Waikiki included, it’s a convenient and enriching way to explore Oahu’s diverse landscapes, hidden gems, and marine life.
Perfect for first-time visitors, this tour offers a little bit of everything: panoramic coastal views, legendary beaches, local food stops, and underwater adventure. Whether you’re here for the turtles, the scenery, or the flavors of the island, this tour delivers a well-balanced experience that’s equal parts relaxation and discovery.
What’s Included
- Round-trip transportation from Waikiki hotels
- Full-day narrated island tour
- Snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins) for Turtle Beach
- Local snack and fruit stand visits
- Scenic and cultural stops across the island
- Friendly, knowledgeable tour guide
Meals are not included in the tour, but there are built-in stops at local eateries where you can purchase fresh island specialties. Group size is capped at 40 travelers, giving the experience a more personal and engaging feel without overcrowding.
Why This Tour Stands Out
This tour isn’t just about snorkeling. It’s a complete journey around Oahu that takes you from the south shore to the North Shore and back again, with plenty of photo-worthy stops along the way. You’ll pass iconic locations like Diamond Head, Halona Blowhole, Chinaman’s Hat, and Waimea Bay. Along the route, you’ll get to sample Hawaiian treats like macadamia nuts, fresh fruit, and shaved ice while learning about the island’s culture and history from your guide.
The highlight, of course, is snorkeling at Turtle Beach. This North Shore spot is known for frequent sea turtle sightings and calm, shallow waters. With gear included and help available if needed, it’s an accessible and rewarding experience for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.
What to Expect
The day begins with pickup from your hotel in Waikiki, typically around 7:20 AM. From there, you’ll travel along Oahu’s scenic south shore, making several stops at famous viewpoints and cultural landmarks. The drive is comfortable and fully narrated, so you’ll learn as you go. On the North Shore, you’ll visit a local fruit stand and macadamia nut farm before arriving at Turtle Beach.
At Turtle Beach, you’ll have time to snorkel, relax on the sand, or watch for sea turtles near the shoreline. Snorkel gear is provided, and conditions are generally calm, making it a great location even for first-timers. After the beach stop, the tour continues through more North Shore highlights before heading back toward Waikiki in the late afternoon. It’s a full, satisfying day that gives you a rich overview of what Oahu has to offer.
Snorkeling with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles
Turtle Beach on the North Shore is one of the best places on the island to see Hawaiian green sea turtles in the wild. These protected animals are often spotted resting on the beach or grazing near the reef. The shallow waters make it easy to view them without needing to dive deep, and visibility is typically excellent during the morning hours.
You may also encounter schools of reef fish, native algae beds, and beautiful underwater rock formations. The snorkeling here is relaxed and easy, and with all gear provided, there’s nothing extra to bring except your swimwear and sense of adventure.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This tour is a great fit for visitors who want to explore the island in a single day without renting a car or planning a complex itinerary. It’s especially popular among couples, families, and solo travelers who want to combine sightseeing with light adventure. If you’re interested in Oahu’s natural beauty, local food, and wildlife, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s also ideal for guests who have limited time on the island and want to make the most of one day.
Because the tour includes stops for swimming and snorkeling, participants should be comfortable in water. While the experience is designed for beginners, guests should be able to enter and exit the water without assistance. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
What You’ll See
This tour includes a wide range of scenic and cultural highlights. Expect views of Diamond Head Crater, the Halona Blowhole, Makapu’u Lookout, Chinaman’s Hat, and Waimea Bay. Stops also include local farms and roadside stands where you can taste pineapple, macadamia nuts, and other Hawaiian-grown snacks.
The North Shore portion of the tour showcases Oahu’s wilder side, from lush valleys and big wave beaches to quiet plantation towns and historic surfing spots. It’s an engaging mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and hands-on exploration, all paced for comfort and enjoyment.
Know Before You Go
Travelers should bring reef-safe sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, and a water bottle. Meals are not included, so it’s a good idea to bring cash or a card for food purchases at the designated stops. The tour runs in all weather conditions, so packing a light jacket or rain gear is recommended just in case. Pickup times vary slightly by location, and it’s important to be on time—shuttles will not wait for late arrivals. As with all wildlife tours, turtle sightings are likely but not guaranteed.
Reserve Your Spot
This Circle Island Snorkel and Turtle Beach tour regularly sells out thanks to its value-packed itinerary and high traveler ratings. With round-trip transport, gear provided, and some of Oahu’s best sights included, it’s an ideal way to explore the island without the hassle of planning or driving.
Click here to book your full-day Oahu turtle snorkeling adventure and discover why this tour is one of the island’s most popular experiences.
