5 Best Tours & Things To Do In Waikiki (With Reviews & Prices)

Waikiki isn’t just famous for its stunning beaches and lively atmosphere—it’s also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Hawaiian islands in unique ways. Whether you’re craving heart-pumping adventures, scenic helicopter rides, or family-friendly water parks, Waikiki offers a variety of memorable activities.

Our favorite experiences include soaring over volcanic landscapes and snorkeling with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, providing authentic glimpses into Hawaii’s natural beauty.

If you’re wondering which tour suits your style, read on to find detailed insights into each top-rated option, all designed to help you make the most of your visit.

Quick Overview

This guide features a diverse selection of tours and activities: from a helicopter flight over the Big Island’s active volcanoes to a thrilling day at Wet ‘n’ Wild Waterpark, and even a bird’s-eye view of Kauai’s Na Pali Coast. For those seeking aquatic adventures, snorkel trips with green sea turtles are also included.

Each offers a different way to explore Hawaii’s landscape and marine life, with options suitable for thrill-seekers, families, or relaxed travelers. Now, let’s dive into each experience to see what makes them special.

1. Oahu to Big Island Volcano Helicopter and Sightseeing Tour

Exploring Hawaii’s most geologically active environment from Waikiki is a bucket-list experience. This full-day tour includes hotel transfers and a helicopter flight that reveals lava flows, rainforests, and waterfalls. You’ll fly over Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and see the black sands of volcanic beaches.

After the helicopter ride, a bus tour takes you closer to other highlights like lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls.

What sets this tour apart is its comprehensive approach—combining aerial views with ground visits—and the chance to learn about Hawaii’s volcanic history and culture firsthand. The helicopter itself is a big part of the thrill, offering a bird’s-eye perspective on the most active volcanic environment on earth. The views of flowing lava and black sand beaches are truly unforgettable.

This tour is perfect for anyone fascinated by volcanoes, geology, or just wanting a once-in-a-lifetime view of Hawaii’s raw power. The price is on the high side at $1,400 per person, but the experience is intense and highly immersive.

Bottom line: If you’re eager to see Hawaii’s volcanic landscape from above and learn about its geological past, this tour offers unmatched value. Keep in mind, it’s a full-day commitment, so plan accordingly.

2. Oahu: Wet ‘n’ Wild Waterpark Ticket with Waikiki Transfer

For a fun-filled family day, the Wet ‘n’ Wild Waterpark is a top pick. Located on Oahu, it’s the island’s most visited attraction, featuring over 25 attractions suited for all ages. The package includes round-trip transportation from Waikiki, making it easy to enjoy without the hassle of parking or navigating.

Highlights include Shaka’s 36-foot vertical drop, which is perfect for thrill-seekers, as well as Lil Kahuna Beach’s slides and tipping buckets for younger kids. The park’s diverse rides ensure everyone gets their adrenaline fix or a place to relax in the sun. Rated as the “Best Family Attraction” by Honolulu Magazine, Wet ‘n’ Wild offers a safe and exhilarating escape from the beach heat.

What makes this tour appealing is its convenience and variety—no need to plan multiple attractions or worry about transportation. The $99 ticket provides good value, especially since it covers admission and transport.

Bottom line: If you’re traveling with kids or just want a day of water-based fun, Wet ‘n’ Wild is a hassle-free, cost-effective choice.

3. Oahu to Kauai: Napali Coast Helicopter Tour & Waimea Canyon

This helicopter tour from Oahu to Kauai promises spectacular views of some of the most iconic Hawaiian scenery. The tour includes a flight over the Na Pali Coast, famous for its towering sea cliffs and rugged coastline.

You’ll also see Jurassic Falls, made famous by the movie Jurassic Park, and panoramic vistas of Kauai’s lush interior, including Waimea Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”

While reviews are not listed, the tour’s focus on scenery makes it a top choice for landscape lovers and those wanting a comprehensive aerial overview of Kauai’s natural wonders. The helicopter ride offers a unique vantage point, revealing details impossible to see from land, like hidden waterfalls and secluded beaches.

This experience costs $1,249, which reflects its exclusivity and the breathtaking views. It’s ideal for travelers who want a quick but rich introduction to Kauai’s terrain, especially if hiking or driving seems too time-consuming.

Bottom line: For those who want a stunning bird’s-eye view of Kauai’s most famous sights, this helicopter tour blends adventure and sightseeing beautifully. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time who still want a big impact.

4. Oahu to Maui Helicopter & Surrounding Area Ground Tour

Explore Maui’s coastline and interior from the sky with this combined helicopter and ground tour. The flight offers a complete circle island experience, providing views of Maui’s breathtaking shoreline, the Hana Rainforest, and tall cliffs. During the helicopter ride you’ll get a narrated commentary on the island’s geography and history, making the views even richer.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of aerial and land experiences, giving a more rounded understanding of Maui’s diverse landscapes. The one-hour helicopter flight is exhilarating, and the tour is suitable for those looking to see key sights without a full day commitment.

At $1,299 per person, it’s a premium experience but offers incredible value for the variety and quality of sights seen. The tour is best suited for travelers who want a quick, rundown of Maui’s most striking features with minimal planning.

Bottom line: If you’re after a bird’s-eye tour that covers Maui’s dramatic coastlines and waterfalls in a short time, this is an excellent choice.

5. Waikiki: Snorkel Tour with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles

For marine life lovers, this snorkel tour offers the chance to swim with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles and explore vibrant coral reefs just off Waikiki. The tour lasts around 2 hours and includes all the necessary gear, with an expert crew guiding the way.

What makes this tour appealing is the opportunity to get close to Hawaii’s endemic turtles and colorful fish. You can choose to hop in the water or stay onboard and spot marine creatures from above. The experience is relaxed but offers plenty of underwater encounters, making it suitable for all ages and experience levels.

Priced at $85 per person, it provides good value for a memorable, hands-on experience with Hawaii’s marine ecosystem. Many reviews highlight the friendly crew and the chance to see turtles up close as a highlight.

Bottom line: If you want a low-stress, up-close encounter with marine life, this snorkel tour is a perfect way to connect with Hawaii’s underwater world.

How to Choose the Right Tour

Choosing between these options depends on your interests, time, and budget. For a once-in-a-lifetime view of Hawaii’s volcanic activity, the Big Island helicopter tour is unmatched, but it’s a full-day adventure. If you’re traveling with family or prefer a more relaxed day, the Wet ‘n’ Wild Waterpark offers great value and fun for everyone.

For those wanting scenic vistas of Kauai, the Na Pali Coast helicopter combines jaw-dropping cliffs with lush landscapes. If your focus is on exploring Maui’s landscapes quickly, the Maui helicopter and ground tour provides an efficient overview.

Lastly, marine lovers and families who want a close-up experience with Hawaii’s sea turtles should consider the snorkel tour, which offers a relaxed way to enjoy Hawaii’s underwater beauty.

Final Thoughts

Waikiki’s diverse options mean there’s something for every traveler. From soaring over volcanoes to splashing at waterparks and snorkeling alongside turtles, the range of experiences can turn your Hawaiian trip into a collection of unforgettable moments.

For those seeking adventure, the Big Island helicopter tour delivers awe-inspiring landscapes, while families will love the ease and fun of Wet ‘n’ Wild. If you’re pressed for time but want a big visual impact, Maui’s helicopter tour is hard to beat.

Remember, these tours fill up quickly, especially in peak seasons, so booking early will ensure you secure your preferred date. Whether you’re after natural wonders, marine encounters, or family fun, Waikiki’s variety of tours makes it easy to craft your perfect Hawaiian adventure.