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Byodo In Temple & Waimea Botanical Garden and Waterfall Day Tour

Recommended by 97% of travelersBadge of ExcellenceHonolulu, USA

Enjoy an Amazing Island Adventure with Byodo In Temple and Waimea Falls Waterfall

8 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
Pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English

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Overview

See many of Oahu's most interesting attractions in a single day on this island circle tour. Stops along the way include Diamond Head State Monument, Halona Blowhole, a macadamia farm, and the Dole Plantation, with time left over to sample treats such as banana lumpia and malasada. You'll also spend time at the lovely Byodo-In Temple, modeled after an ancient temple in Japan.

Travel in an air-conditioned bus with free Wi-Fi
Stop along the way to try out local treats (at your own expense)
Pick-up from select hotels is included
Byodo-In Temple admission is included

What's Included

Air-conditioned vehicle
Entrance Fee to Byodo-In Temple is Covered with Booking..
Entrance Fee into Waimea and Byodo-In Covered with Booking.

Gratuities
Lunch
Haliewa Food Trucks or Nico's on the Pier.
No Large Motorized Scooters.

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup points

Select a pickup point

Pickup details

Tripadvisor "Travelers Choice" Award Winner 2023 & 2024. *The Owner will send out a Group Text the day before every Tour to notify all Guests of all Details of the Tour. Please be advised the Waimea Valley Botanical Garden and Waterfall will be Closed on Mondays. Here are the Monday Closures: January 6, 13, 20, 27. 2025. February 3, 10, 17, 24, 2025. October 6, 13, 20, 27, 2025. November 3, 10, 17, 24, 2025. Hotel Pick Up starts at 6:40am to 6:55am to ensure a 7:00am Start. The Company receives your Booking from Viator as soon as you Book so there is no need to Text or Call to Confirm your Booking unless you do not get Pick Up Details on the day before your scheduled Tour around 5:30pm daily. Please be Patient and await a very detailed Text. Owner is also a Driver so your Call and Text will be delayed! Direct Hotel Pick Up from all Waikiki Hotel's Only! Hilton Hawaiian Village Guests, Your Pick up will be at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Bus Terminal below the Grand Islander at 6:45am ALL "Outside" of Waikiki Pick Up's: Please call with any pick up's outside of the Waikiki area so we can discuss your transportation options to get into Waikiki and which location to meet the Shuttle or Transit. Koolina, West and North Shore will have to make transportation arrangements. Call the Owner to discuss. All HOTEL PICK UP'S: Start at 6:45am through 6:55am. Tour Starts at 7:00am and Usually ends around 4 to 4:30pm. Cruise Ship Pick Up Times are determined by the time Guests Embark. Drivers cannot lift any Motorized Wheelchair. Mahalo Nui Loa. Captain Vince

Start time

Confirm time with the local provider in advance of your experience.

Opening hours

2/22/2022 - 2/8/2026
Monday - Sunday : 07:00 AM - 04:30 PM

What To Expect

Additional Info

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Wheelchair accessible
Stroller accessible
Near public transportation
Infants must sit on laps

Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with back problems
No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
Most travelers can participate
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 25 travelers

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Traveler Photos

Featured review

Veronica_C

Justin was a great tour guide! He shared so much knowledge and history and ensured to show us everything on this beautiful island! 10 out of 10 experience and definitely recommend it to all who want to see as much possible during their time here.

Reviews

4.9

222 reviews

Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews

Reviews by Viator travelers.

We perform checks on reviews

Showing 1-10 of 222 reviews

Fun and informative tour

Tara_K, Dec 2024

Justin was a great guide, very informative. Really liked the trip overall - only thing I would change is to spend and hour vs an hour and a half at the waterfall and botanical gardens. Everything else was perfect!

Response from Host, Dec 2024

Aloha Tara and Thank you for your Review. Yes, The Stop is suppose to be 1 Hour and 45 Minutes. We allow anyone Swimming 1 Hour and all walkers 45 minutes wthout rushing Mahalo, Captain Vince "Owner"

Day tour

GABRIELA_S, Dec 2024

Enjoyed my time in the tour. But wish we stayed longer a a few one stops. Also this was great since I was not able to rent a car and leave the island for the day

Response from Host, Dec 2024

Aloha and many Mahalo's fir your Review. The Circle Island Tour is designed to show everyone things of inrerest and hoping you will rent a car later un ykur vacation or when you return to enjoy more time at any of the Amazing Stops. Unfortunately with all the Stops we make it is still an all day Tour. We bave even started picking up earlier just to get you all back by 4:30pm. Mahalo Nui Loa, Captain Vince

He was friendly and funny...

Judy_U, Dec 2024

He was friendly and funny and always kept us entertained. He knew so much about Oahu. He helped us with questions we had about our other excursions.

Response from Host, Dec 2024

Judy, We really appreciate your Review. Thank you for choosing 1 Epic. We look forward in your return to the Island.

Full Island tour

David_D, Dec 2024

There are a lot of stops, scenic and gifts along with the Temple, Waimea Falls and Dole Plantation stops. All together our guide Justin provided a lot of insight about the island, culture and areas we travelled through. Unfortunately the Waimea falls was about a mile up hike to a bit of a let down as a lack of rain turned the water fall to a water drip... But again, Justin was very happy to share experiences and provide "insider" information on best beaches and restaurants.

Response from Host, Dec 2024

David, We are excited you enjoyed your Amazing Tour. Justin really enjoys sharing the Island he was born on. The walk through the Botanical Garden to get to the Waterfall is a 3/25 of a mile walk. We always remind guests that Gokf Carts or Motorized Wheel Chairs are available for rent. The low flow at the Waterfall certainly is an act of God. We need more Rain on the Island sadly. Mahalo, Captain Vince "Owner"

Highly recommended fantastic trip

Johnny_C, Dec 2024

I was travelling solo but felt well included and into the trip, thanks to the hospitality and very interactive sessions introduced by Uncle Smiley. I made good friends and understood Hawaii's history and geography better. Recommend this trip to first time traveler to Hawaii!

Response from Host, Dec 2024

On behalf of Uncle Smiley and tge 1 Epic Team, i'd like to Thank you for your 5 Star Review. We look forward in your return to the Island. Mahalo Nui Lia, Captain Vince

Fabulous Circle Island Tour!

Sarah_L, Dec 2024

My sister and I had a wonderful experience on our circle island tour! In addition to visiting beautiful locations, our guide Justin shared his knowledge of Hawaiian culture and history. We learned so much about local and Hawaiian culture. We would definitely recommend :)

Response from Host, Dec 2024

Aloha and the 1 Epic Team wants to send our heartfelt Thanks. Justin really embraces the Hawaiian culture and sharing the History of Hawaii as we all do. It was our pleasure. Mahalo, Captain Vince

Justin’s Circle Island Tour

Michael_K, Dec 2024

The Temple, the ride with Justin was very informative and fun. I’m a movie buff and he was able to tell us about different movies filmed and where they were filmed.

Response from Host, Dec 2024

Justin is the Man. He takes pride in always staying sharp on his History of Hawaii. He enjoys sharing with everyone and I could not be prouder of him. Mahalo Nui Loa, Captain Vince

Exploring and welcoming the island in one day

Gilbert_G, Nov 2024

Three of us participated in this experience, and all of us felt that the time we spent on the excursion, the driver/tour guide, the information received, and the stops we made, were perfect and amazing. Even though we had some rain, and did not have the chance to go into the water falls, we still highly recommend this trip.

Response from Host, Nov 2024

Aliha Gilbert and we want to say Mahalo for your Amazing Review. Justin the driver is Awesome. He also explained to me the Swimming at the Waterfall was closed due to bad Rain and Wind. Very rare that happens. When you return back to the Island please be sure to reach out and I will make sure you get back to the Waimea Botanical Garden and Waterfall. Mahalo, Captain Vince

A very full and informative day!

Dawn_C, Nov 2024

I appreciated the small group and the timeliness throughout the day. We were ahead of the crowds all day!

Response from Host, Dec 2024

Dawn, Everything we specialize in you have noticed and for that we send an Huge "Mahalo". We look forward in your return and again Mahalo Nui Loa for the kind words.

Just Do It!

Kailey_E, Oct 2024

This was a very fun and interactive tour. The tour guide Captian Vince was a very upbeat guy that had a lot of passion for teaching the group about the culture of the island. He really took the group under his wing and took care of us throughout the entire tour. Awesome way to spend the day! We finished up the tour with a delicious and memorable group lunch at Nico's Pier 38. If you're thinking about doing this tour, you absolutely should.

Response from Host, Dec 2024

As I said the first thing in the morning in thst day. The moment you all stepped on the Bus with 1 Epic, You all become Family. My Pleasure to have spent rhe day with the Group. Nico's, All I can say is Ughhh Wee. It's Good. Mahalo Nui Loa, Captain Vince

Justin was super awesome, he made our experience well worth it . Very cool dude with cool vibes . And knowledgeable !!

Thalia_R, Oct 2024

The most memorable part of our experience was the overall atmosphere, and scenery of all the places and historic landmarks this tour provided!

Response from Host, Oct 2024

On behalf of Justin we all say Mahalo.for choosing 1 Epic Tour to share the Island. We are grateful for your kind words. Mahalo Nui Loa

Great experience

kenneth_b, Oct 2024

Had a great time with Uncle Smiley. Enjoyed the small group learned a lot about the island and was not rushed.

Response from Host, Oct 2024

Kenneth, On behalf of the entire 1 Epic Tour Team. We appreciate you and your kind Review. We look forward in your return to the Island.

Great Experience

Jennifer_S, Oct 2024

Great experience for the family! Captain Vince is the best! Got to see a lot of the island in just a day.

Response from Host, Oct 2024

Jennifer, You all know how to make a Brother feel Good. Mahalo Nui Loa, Captain Vince

Beautiful Views and Wonderful Historical Reference

Thomas_M, Oct 2024

Waimea Waterfall and Gardens was a beautiful walk with great pictures and the food in Hale’iwa was wonderful. Most important was our guide Justin, who is a native of Oahu and brought a lot of historical reference to make it so much more memorable!

Response from Host, Oct 2024

Thomas, On behalf of Justin and our Team. We want to send a Huge Aloha and say Mahalo Nui Loa for your Amazing Review.

Memorable

Margie_D, Sep 2024

Vince was a great tour guide and also taught us much about Hawaii. I would highly recommend this tour.

Response from Host, Oct 2024

Margie, We had an Amazing day and I am very appreciative of your Review. Mahalo, Captain Vince

Unique experience

Raymond_M, Sep 2024

Definitely a unique uplifting experience. Driver was the owner Captain Vince. I'm not sure where he gets his energy from lol! He gave our tour group a feeling of togetherness that was refreshing, and he was very knowledgeable. Absolutely recommend!

Response from Host, Oct 2024

Raymond, You know if you ride woth me all of it comes from Above. I am grateful to share the Island I have come to Love. Thank You for an Amazinh Day with the "A" Team. A Hui Hou "Until We Meet Again", Captain Vince

Captain Vince will keep you entertained!

Thedarkkatana, Sep 2024

Captain Vince is a REAL down to earth tour guide! He makes everyone feel like family and welcomed. Enjoy!

Response from Host, Oct 2024

Mahalo.Nui Loa and I appreciate your geuine review. Always a Great day when I am sharing Aloha with pur guests. Mahalo, Captain Vince

Aloha, A-Team!

Michelle_L, Sep 2024

Booked on Viator (TripAdvisor) this "Free Byodo-In Temple and Waimea Waterfall Circle Island Day Tour" for $139. The tour company sent out a group text the night before the tour of all hotel pick-up locations and times, tight schedule for pickups to ensure we were ahead of the crowds, first bus out for better picture-taking at sights. I appreciated not being stuck with all the other tours (larger buses). It was a van and our group was 8 people total, not huge at all. We were visiting from California, but we had others from New York, Canada, and Australia! The air-conditioning was struggling a tiny bit but still tolerable and much better than the humidity outside. Did not verify if the bush had wi-fi. We were supposed to have Captain Justin, but he was sick and we actually got the owner himself, Captain "Vincenzo" Vince! It's an all-day excursion, allow approximately 8.5 hours. Included was pickup/dropoff from select Waikiki hotels, entrance fee to the Byodo-In Temple, but not the Botanical Garden/Waimea Waterfall ($20 cash preferred), and lunch, other local treats along the way at your own expense. A great way to see many Oahu attractions in a single day, including North Shore. Waikiki Beach (pass by), Diamond Head State Monument (pass by), Halona Blowhole (15 mins) lookout point and photo op, Makapu'u Point (pass by), also saw Koko Crater and the lighthouse, Waimanalo (20 mins) stop at Hawaii Treasure Shop for souvenirs, restroom break, coffee. The pineapple/coconut guy outside wasn't open when we stopped. Extra stop at Leonard's Malasadamobile (driver's discretion) was yummy! I tried the haupia-filled malasada. The Byodo-In Temple (30 mins) was beautiful and peaceful, where you could ring the bell, spend a moment with the Buddha statue inside, and enjoy the koi pond and flora. Next stop was the Tropical Farms Macadamia Nut Farm Outlet (25 mins) where you could sample Macadamia Nut Coffee, macadamia nuts, local bottled sauces/dressings, and purchase other treats. Mokoli'i Island (a.k.a. Chinaman's Hat) was supposed to be a pass-by, but we did a quick stop for photos. Waimea Botanical Garden (Waterfall) was a 1hr 45min stop! Skipped the line at entrance, and the trail to the waterfall was about 3/4 of a mile and takes approximately 30 minutes. It is paved the entire way, with gentle hills. There are several gravel paths off the main corridor, for more adventurous walkers to explore all the botanical garden collections. Changing rooms, showers, lifeguards and life vests for those who want to swim in the waterfall. Loved all the foliage, and the falls itself is 45' with a large pool. This is also close to Shark's Cove and Turtle Bay. Next stop was Dole Plantation, where you could try Dole Whip soft serve. Also stopped at Kahuku Farms/Virgil's Farm Fruit Stand to try fresh fruit (I got papaya) and turon (banana lumpia). The last photo-ops were Iolani Palace and King Kamehameha Statue. Lunch usually stops at a Shrimp Stop on North Shore, but we had the Late Lunch option at Nico's Pier 38 due to a few folks' dietary restrictions. I had the crab cake sandwich, and the seared ahi was also recommended! Captain Vince was a fun character! He was enthusiastic every moment of the drive, even taking photos of pairs/whole group and sharing via WhatsApp for my Android self. So many facts and even personal stories, I learned a lot! When you're going to spend an entire day with a group, it helps that the drive is lively. Mahalo nui loa! Salamat po!

Response from Host, Oct 2024

Michelle, Wow. What a Review. This is a testament of what I have poured into this Company to set it at the Top. I am very Thankful that you nptices the communication of pick ups and details of the Tour the day before it starts. We try to give the Best we have with every group on every day. Sorry about the Air. When it is extremely hot outside the Air Condition works Overtime. Trust me I have spent alot of time and money at the A.C Shop. I cannot Thank you enough personally and "A Hui Hou", Until we meet Again! Mahalo, The Captain

Waterfall

Debra_J, Sep 2024

The Waimea waterfall was great! Enjoyable experience. Captain Vince our tour guide was awesome! The temple was interesting.

Response from Host, Oct 2024

We are glad you enjoyed your Tour and look forward to your return to our Beautiful Island. Mahalo, Captain Vince

Awesome & Well Executed Tour!

Ashira_J, Sep 2024

This tour was awesome!!! We had the opportunity to see all of the sites advertised: beaches, the Temple, The Shrimp Restaurant (which was delicious!!!), The Waterfall, Dole & the Macadamia Nut sure. The tour guide Pi’ilani was an amazing tour guide. She is extremely knowledgeable, very kind, strategic in coordinating the tour visits, seeing as how there are multiple companies conducting the tours. She made sure to get us to multiple sites prior to them being inundated by tourists. Lastly, the smaller number of tourists was wonderful as opposed to huge charter buses with huge numbers. The group that I was with was great, and I made some connections with awesome people. I would absolutely go on this tour again!

Response from Host, Sep 2024

Ashira, It was our pleasure. On behalf of the driver "Pi" and 1 Epic we send a huge Mahalo Nui Loa. We look forward in your return and cannot thank you enough for your kind words. Thank You Mahalo, Captain Vince

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