Afternoon at McGarret – Hawaii 5-0 TV Tour

Introduction

If you’re a fan of the iconic TV series Hawaii Five-0, this tour promises to bring your favorite island scenes to life. It’s a guided journey through Oahu’s most memorable filming spots, with opportunities to meet cast members and get behind-the-scenes stories you won’t find online. While it’s tailored for Hawaii Five-0 enthusiasts, the scenic drives and local insights make it appealing even to casual travelers interested in Hollywood’s footprint on Hawaii.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the quality of the guides—they’re knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate—and the chance to visit the famous McGarrett house, a site that many fans dream of seeing in person. On the downside, some reviews mention that the tour can feel a little commercial or overpriced, especially if you’re not a hardcore fan. Still, for those who love the show or want a compact look at Honolulu’s filming history, this tour can be a real highlight.

This experience suits Hawaii Five-0 fans, TV enthusiasts, and travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic sightseeing, storytelling, and a bit of celebrity magic. It’s a well-organized way to explore some of Honolulu’s most recognizable locations without the hassle of planning your own route.

Key Points

• Fan-Focused Experience: Perfect for Hawaii Five-0 fans eager to see filming locations and meet cast members.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their storytelling and local knowledge, making the tour both fun and educational.
• Scenic & Convenient: Includes seamless hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you time and effort.
• Inside Access: Visit the McGarrett house and enjoy a special lunch at the estate, with chances to take photos and ask questions.
• Limited Group Size: Max of 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Good Value for Fans: While priced at $239, reviews suggest the personal stories, insider access, and scenery justify the cost for devotees.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Diamond Head State Monument

The tour kicks off at the Diamond Head lookout, a well-known Hawaii landmark offering sweeping views of Honolulu. It’s a quick stop—about 15 minutes—but enough to snap some photos of the volcano’s crater and the stunning coastline. This spot is not only scenic but also symbolic of Oahu’s volcanic origins, adding a layer of natural beauty to your Hollywood-focused day.

Visiting the Filming Locations

As you move along, your guide will point out various sites where Hawaii Five-0 scenes were shot, weaving in behind-the-scenes stories and fun facts. Though some reviews mention that the commentary could be more lively or detailed, most agree that the guides’ local expertise makes the experience worthwhile. Expect to see streets, buildings, and outdoor locations that appear in multiple episodes, giving you a real sense of the show’s setting.

The McGarrett House

Arguably the highlight is visiting McGarrett’s house, an iconic property that has become a shrine for fans. The tour includes inside access—something many say is a rare treat—and plenty of photo opportunities. Visitors have described sitting in the backyard where many scenes were filmed, feeling like they’re part of the action. The owner, Mrs. Bayer, sometimes joins the lunch, adding to the atmosphere of authenticity.

Lunch at McGarrett’s

A standout feature is the lunch on the estate, which is included with the tour. The menu offers a choice of sandwiches—The Beefy McGarrett, McGarrett Chicken, or Veggie McGarrett—and is generally described as tasty and fresh. It’s served on the porch, with beautiful views and a relaxed vibe, making it a memorable way to connect with the show’s universe. Some reviews mention that even a simple sandwich can be surprisingly good when enjoyed in such a setting.

Additional filming sites and scenery

Beyond McGarrett’s house, the guide may show additional filming locations, giving you a broader sense of Honolulu’s cinematic landscape. The tour is about four hours long, including transportation, and is perfect for those wanting a manageable yet immersive experience. The van is described as comfortable and small-group size, which helps foster conversation and allows for questions.

The Value of the Experience

At $239 per person, this tour is an investment, but many reviewers feel it offers good value—especially for fans of the series who appreciate the insider stories and access. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide, transportation, and a unique lunch experience makes it more than just a sightseeing drive; it’s a curated glimpse into the Hawaii Five-0 universe.

Some reviews highlight that the tour might seem pricey compared to other Honolulu excursions, but most agree that the personalized attention, insider access, and fun stories justify the cost. The small group size (max 10 people) ensures you won’t be just another face in a crowd, making for a more intimate, engaging experience.

Transportation and Timing

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a major convenience—especially if you’re staying in Waikiki or downtown Honolulu. The four-hour duration strikes a balance between seeing key locations and not feeling rushed. Expect to spend some time cruising through neighborhoods, with commentary along the way.

Guides and Personal Touch

Guides like Shawn Mokuahi Garnett, aka Cousin Flippa, are often praised for their warmth, humor, and storytelling skills. One reviewer notes, “He was very interesting to talk to,” making the experience engaging rather than just a scripted drive. The guide’s ability to share behind-the-scenes stories adds depth, especially for fans who want to relive their favorite moments.

The Social Aspect

Most travelers find the small group setting a plus—there’s plenty of time for questions, photos, and casual conversation. Many reviews mention how friendly and approachable the guides are, often staying longer at sites to satisfy fans’ curiosity.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

While the main draw is the McGarrett house, the tour also provides a broader sense of Honolulu’s landscape and film industry. Some reviews remark that they were able to visit additional filming sites, making this a comprehensive peek into the city’s movie magic.

The stops are thoughtfully chosen to combine scenic views with Hollywood lore. For example, the Diamond Head stop offers natural beauty, while the inside look at the McGarrett estate immerses you directly into the series’ setting.

Final Thoughts on the Tour

This tour is a well-organized, friendly introduction to Hawaii’s filming history, wrapped in a scenic, manageable package. Whether you’re a die-hard Hawaii Five-0 fan or simply curious about how TV shows get made in Hawaii, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. The guides’ local expertise and insider stories make it more than just a sightseeing trip—they’re storytellers who help transform familiar scenes into a vivid experience.

For those who value personalized access, scenic drives, and a chance to meet cast members, this tour delivers on all counts. The lunch at McGarrett’s house, coupled with the insider knowledge, makes it feel like a genuine peek behind the scenes rather than a tourist trap.

Who Should Consider This Tour

If you’re a Hawaii Five-0 fan, this is a no-brainer—your favorite locations, stories, and cast interactions await. The small group size and guide expertise elevate the experience beyond a basic sightseeing ride. If you love Hawaii’s scenery and are interested in the local film industry, you’ll enjoy the added context and beautiful views.

However, if you’re not a TV enthusiast or are seeking a more extensive or polished Hollywood tour, you might find this experience a bit niche or limited. The price tag might feel high if you’re not deeply invested in the show, but for dedicated fans, it’s a memorable, worthwhile outing.

The Sum Up

In the end, the Afternoon at McGarrett – Hawaii 5-0 TV Tour offers a fun and engaging way to explore Oahu through the lens of its most famous TV series. With knowledgeable guides, insider stories, and exclusive access to the McGarrett house, it transforms familiar scenes into a tangible experience. The scenic stops and personalized touch make it stand out as a good value for fans eager to connect with the show and the island.

While the cost may seem steep for some, most reviews suggest the experience’s intimacy, storytelling, and access justify the price. It’s best suited for Hawaii Five-0 aficionados or TV fans who want a unique, behind-the-scenes look at Honolulu’s film locations.

If you’re seeking a blend of sightseeing, storytelling, and celebrity magic, this tour could be the highlight of your Honolulu trip. It’s a chance to see the city through a TV series lens, making the island’s landscapes and landmarks even more memorable.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient way to start and end your day without extra planning.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately four hours long, including transportation, sightseeing stops, and lunch.

What’s included in the lunch?
You can choose from three sandwich options—The Beefy McGarrett, McGarrett Chicken, or Veggie McGarrett—and the meal is served at McGarrett’s house with scenic views.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a small-group atmosphere that allows for questions and personalized attention.

Can I see filming locations outside of McGarrett’s house?
Yes, the tour visits multiple filming sites around Honolulu, with guides sharing stories about the shows filmed here, including Hawaii Five-0.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, but if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just curious about Hawaii’s filming history, this tour offers a fun, authentic glimpse into both the show and the city’s cinematic charm.