by Oahu, as one of the most important islands in the Hawaiian archipelago, is not only the cultural and historical hub of Hawaii but also a place where natural beauty and modern cities coexist perfectly. Whether you’re basking in the sun at the world-renowned Waikiki Beach or wandering through rich cultural and historical sites, Oahu offers something for everyone. As someone who enjoys road trips, I decided to take a self-drive tour around Oahu’s Circle Island, an experience that provides access to all the must-see spots on the island.
From the early morning sun to the setting evening glow, this circle island route offered me moments that were truly breathtaking and unforgettable.
1. Dole Plantation: The Home of Pineapples and a Treat for Your Taste Buds
My first stop of the day was the Dole Plantation, located in the northern part of Oahu. As one of the most famous agricultural sites in Hawaii, Dole Plantation is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Hawaii’s agricultural heritage.
Dole Plantation’s Unique Activities
My visit started with a walk through the gardens, where a wide variety of tropical plants are on display. The vibrant flowers and lush greenery made me feel like I had stepped into a tropical paradise. The pineapple maze was a highlight of my visit, a maze made from the pineapple fields where you can challenge your sense of direction while appreciating the stunning scenery.
Afterward, I tasted the plantation’s famous pineapple juice, which was refreshingly sweet and packed with the natural flavor of pineapples. I also had a scoop of pineapple ice cream, a perfect treat to cool down in the Hawaiian heat.
The Train Ride
Another feature of Dole Plantation is the train ride, which takes you around the plantation while explaining the history of pineapple farming. It was fascinating to learn about how pineapples are grown, harvested, and the significance of pineapples to Hawaii’s agricultural history. The train ride offered an insightful and enjoyable look at the plantation.
2. North Shore: A Paradise for Surfing, Snorkeling, and Shrimp Trucks
After leaving the Dole Plantation, I made my way toward Oahu’s North Shore, known for its pristine beaches and some of the best surfing spots in the world. North Shore is famous for its giant waves in winter and calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling in the summer.
Surfing and Snorkeling
I arrived at the famous Waimea Bay, a spot renowned for its gigantic waves in winter, attracting professional surfers from around the world. Watching these surfers conquer the massive waves left me in awe. If you visit in the summer, the waves are much calmer, making it a great spot for beginner surfers.
For those more interested in underwater exploration, Hanauma Bay offers incredible snorkeling opportunities. The water is crystal-clear, and the vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish make it an unforgettable experience for anyone wanting to get up close with marine life.
Shrimp Trucks
The North Shore is also famous for its shrimp trucks. Driving along the scenic beach road, I stopped at Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, one of the most well-known food trucks on the island. They serve up delicious garlic shrimp, which is aromatic and flavorful, paired with steamed rice – a classic Hawaiian street food treat.
3. Kualoa Ranch: Movie Sets, ATV Rides, and Horseback Riding
Next on my itinerary was Kualoa Ranch, one of Oahu’s most iconic landmarks and a favorite spot for Hollywood filmmakers. Kualoa Ranch is the filming location for several blockbuster movies such as Jurassic Park and Lost World.
Movie Set Tours
I joined a movie set tour at the ranch and had the chance to visit iconic filming locations from films like Jurassic Park. Walking through the filming spots, I felt like I was part of the movie, especially in the areas where scenes with dinosaurs were shot. The views of the lush green landscapes and towering mountains added an extra touch of excitement to the experience.
Adventure Activities
In addition to the movie set tours, Kualoa Ranch also offers a wide range of outdoor activities. I chose to go on a horseback riding tour across the ranch, where I was able to enjoy the stunning vistas of the valley and ocean from the back of a horse. The serene surroundings combined with the thrilling horseback ride made this one of the most memorable experiences of my trip. For those seeking more adventure, the ranch offers ATV rides and off-road jeep tours, allowing visitors to explore the ranch’s vast and rugged terrain.
4. Polynesian Cultural Center: A Journey into Pacific Island Cultures
No trip to Oahu would be complete without a visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center, a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the divers e cultures of the Pacific Islands. This cultural park showcases traditional crafts, music, dance, and food from several Polynesian islands.
Cultural Exhibits
I particularly enjoyed the cultural villages, where I was able to explore the traditions of various Pacific Islands such as Hawaii, Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga. Each village features unique cultural demonstrations, including traditional dance, music performances, and handcrafts. It was a great way to gain insight into the traditions and lifestyles of these fascinating cultures.
Evening Performance
The highlight of the Polynesian Cultural Center was the “Ha: Breath of Life” evening show. This powerful performance, which combines music, dance, and storytelling, tells the tale of a young Polynesian boy’s coming-of-age journey. The dramatic, vibrant performance was a fantastic showcase of Polynesian culture, and it left me with a deeper appreciation for the Pacific Islands’ rich traditions.
5. Byodo-In Temple: A Japanese Buddhist Temple in the Heart of Hawaii
My next stop was the Byodo-In Temple, a beautiful Japanese Buddhist temple located in the Valley of the Temples. The temple is a replica of the Byodo-In Temple in Uji, Japan, and offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the island.
Temple Visit
The temple features a large, golden statue of Buddha and a serene pond with koi fish. I took some time to meditate in the peaceful atmosphere, reflecting on my journey. The surrounding lush greenery and peaceful surroundings made it a perfect place to relax and center myself.
Fortune Telling and Animal Feeding
The temple also has a small fortune-telling booth, where you can draw a fortune slip, which was a fun and insightful experience. Additionally, the temple grounds are home to some friendly swans and deer, and I enjoyed feeding them while walking around the peaceful grounds.
6. Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden: A Paradise for Nature Lovers
Finally, I made my way to the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, a stunning botanical garden showcasing the natural beauty of Oahu’s tropical plants. The garden is home to over 2,000 species of tropical plants, including rare orchids and vibrant flowering trees.
Perfect Photo Opportunities
The lush surroundings, colorful flowers, and unique plants made this garden an ideal spot for photos. I spent a few hours walking through the garden, capturing its beauty and marveling at the diversity of flora. For nature lovers and photographers, this botanical garden is a must-see.
Circle Island Drive – A Complete Oahu Experience
From the Dole Plantation to Kualoa Ranch, from the North Shore’s beaches to the Polynesian Cultural Center, Oahu’s Circle Island route offers a diverse array of attractions that showcase the island’s natural beauty, rich culture, and exciting adventure opportunities. This self-driving tour allowed me to truly experience the essence of Oahu, and I highly recommend it to anyone planning to visit this stunning island. If you’re heading to Hawaii, be sure to take a road trip around Oahu’s Circle Island to capture the island’s unique charm and beauty.
