ALOHA!
If you’re short on time and looking to circle the island of Oahu for a day as part of a self-guided driving tour, there are definitely enough places to visit and things to do on Oahu to fill up your whole day!
Scenic driving on Oahu
This is an abbreviated version of things to do in Oahu for your Oahu tour.
If you won’t be renting a car, here’s one of the best circle island tours on Oahu.
All the planning is done for you, and you will learn a lot!
Side note!
If you'll be snorkeling on your next vacation, consider wearing these types of UV swim shirts. Also see about what to pack for Hawaii for hiking, snorkeling, and more essentials! And for Hawaii vacation ideas, see the best things to do in Oahu that will give you Hawaii vibes!
Island driving = slow driving
Keep in mind that driving around the island takes time.
The time can be due to traffic, and it can also just generally be due to maximum speed on the island.
The highest speed limit you’ll find anywhere on Oahu is 55mph, and often you will be going below that.
So take it slow and take it all in!
And the earlier in the day you start, the more you can experience!
Your GPS device can also be cause for delay.
You can use the GPS on your phone as a guide, but it’s not definitive. Sometimes it might get confused and send you in the wrong direction.
But don’t get stressed!
You’re in Hawaii!
It’s all in the experience!
Just another reason to make sure you aren’t on a specific time table when you’re planning for an island road trip!
Now here first is a quick list.
Oahu circle island tour driving map
- Diamond Head Crater
- Hanauma Bay
- Koko Head Hike
- Makapuu Lighthouse Trail
- Lanikai Pillboxes
- Mokulua Islands
- Pearl Harbor
- Dole Pineapple Plantation
- Waimea Bay
- Laniakea Beach
- Sharks Cove
Paid circle island tours
It’s definitely possible to rent a car and have a great day driving yourself around Oahu!
But if you want to get even more out of your trip around the island, you may also consider taking an organized tour. This can be a good way to learn more about Oahu and Hawaiian culture too.
Interactive map of Oahu
Now here is an interactive Oahu circle island tour map with points of interest.
Do you like maps? Also see the Oahu snorkeling map and Oahu hikes map.
OAHU CIRCLE ISLAND TOUR
OAHU TOUR: Hanauma Bay snorkeling
OAHU TOUR: Makapuu Lighthouse Trail
OAHU TOUR: Lanikai Pillbox Hike
OAHU TOUR: Sharks Cove snorkeling
HAPPY OAHU ISLAND DRIVING!
There are affiliate links on this page. Among other partners, as an Amazon Associate, I may receive a commission.Best shoes for your active vacation
Hit search at the top for any of these items to get more variety on Amazon through these affiliate links!- Walking: These types of hiking sandals. For walking in hot weather, they are more breathable than shoes, while still giving you necessary traction on the trails. Also see more about the best shoes for hiking in Hawaii.
- Beach: These types of beach shoes. For beach walking, wading in the water, and rocky shorelines, they can prevent cuts from hidden rocks or when bumping into coral reef.
Swimwear for snorkeling and beach
- These UV protection shirts are a hit so you don't have to keep re-applying sunscreen and don't have to worry as much about getting sunburn!see more:
- What to wear hiking
- What to wear snorkeling