Oahu Scenic Photo Tour

Guided Photography Excursion

Experience the best of Kailua with our unique combination tour featuring ocean kayaking to Popoia Island and electric bike exploration of scenic coastal routes. This adventure perfectly blends water sports with land exploration, offering comprehensive views of Kailua’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and hidden gems accessible only through this dual-activity experience.

Activity Price

89.95 USD

Duration

5 Hours

Age

All ages

Location

Waikiki

Amenities

Professional camera equipment available for rent and photography editing software access
Printed photo portfolio and digital image collection of your best shots

Special Instruction

Picture-Perfect Paradise Moments

Professional Photography Instruction

Learn from award-winning local photographers who specialize in capturing Hawaii’s natural beauty. Receive personalized instruction on camera settings, composition techniques, and lighting conditions specific to tropical environments. Whether you’re using a smartphone, DSLR, or mirrorless camera, our experts adapt their teaching to your equipment and skill level. Master techniques for photographing waterfalls, ocean waves, tropical flowers, and golden hour landscapes while building confidence in manual camera controls.

Exclusive Access to Hidden Photo Locations

Discover secret viewpoints and pristine locations known only to local photographers and rarely visited by tourists. These carefully selected spots offer unique perspectives of iconic landmarks, intimate wildlife encounters, and untouched natural beauty. Access private properties, secluded beaches, and elevated viewpoints that provide magazine-quality backdrops for your photography portfolio. Each location is chosen for optimal lighting conditions and diverse photographic opportunities throughout different times of day.

Comprehensive Photo Editing Workshop

Enhance your images with hands-on editing instruction using professional software and mobile apps. Learn color correction techniques specific to tropical photography, understand how to enhance Hawaii’s vibrant natural colors, and master composition adjustments that make your photos stand out. Our post-processing workshop covers everything from basic adjustments to advanced techniques, ensuring you leave with both stunning raw images and the skills to perfect them.

Photography Tour Equipment & Instruction Details

About
Additional information
Pricing
Cancellations

Overview

Duration: 5 Hours
Meeting Point: Selected Waikiki Hotels
Cancellations: 72-Hour cancellation policy
Group Size: 7
Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible

East Island Adventure: Nature, History, and Scenic Beauty

Ideal for those who prefer a relaxed start or shorter walks, this 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM East Island tour offers a leisurely exploration through some of Oahu’s most stunning natural attractions and significant historical landmarks.

Your adventure kicks off with panoramic views of the Waikiki and Honolulu skyline from the Tantalus Lookout, followed by a step back in time at the Pali Lookout, where King Kamehameha famously united Oahu during a legendary battle.

Marvel at the majestic Ko’olau Mountains and unwind on the soft white sands of Waimanalo Beach. Enjoy a delicious local meal to fuel your journey before continuing to the breathtaking Makapu’u Beach Lookout and the dramatic Halona Blowhole.

Along the way, you’ll have ample opportunities to take incredible photos and create unforgettable memories of Oahu’s eastern shores. Bring your camera and immerse yourself in the beauty and history of the island!

What’s Included:

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off

  • Narrated tour with a knowledgeable guide

  • Comfortable, air-conditioned van

  • 1 Leonard’s Bakery malasada per guest

  • Photos taken by your guide throughout the tour

  • Photography tips and guidance from your expert guide

  • Visits to iconic and scenic locations around Oahu

What’s Not Included:

  • Lunch (food stop at Ono Steak and Shrimp available, but not included)

  • Gratuity for the guide (optional but appreciated)

  • Additional snacks or drinks beyond the included malasada

  • Photography equipment

Itinerary for East Island Adventure:

  • 9:30 AM Pickup: Begin your adventure with pickup from your Waikiki hotel.

  • Tantalus Lookout: Enjoy panoramic views of Waikiki and the Honolulu skyline.

  • Pali Lookout: Take in the breathtaking views of the Windward side and hear about its historical significance.

  • Secret Spot: Get an exclusive view of the majestic Ko’olau Mountain Range from a hidden lookout.

  • Lunch in Waimanalo: Stop at Ono Steak and Shrimp for a delicious local meal (not included).

  • Waimanalo Beach: Relax and walk off your lunch on the soft white sands of this beautiful beach.

  • Makapu’u Lookout: Capture stunning views of the southeastern coastline.

  • Halona Blowhole: Witness the dramatic eruption of the blowhole as the ocean crashes into the rocky shore.

  • Lanai Lookout: Snap stunning photos of dramatic cliffs and scenic ocean views.

  • Malasadas Stop: End your tour with a sweet treat at Leonard’s Bakery.

  • Return to Waikiki: Arrive back at your hotel with unforgettable memories and photos.

Highlights

East Island Adventure: Discover Oahu’s Hidden Gems and Iconic Views in a Relaxed, Mid-Day Journey

The East Island Adventure stands out as a unique and laid-back way to experience Oahu. This tour balances natural beauty, historical significance, and hidden gems in a relaxed mid-day journey, making it perfect for those who want to avoid early starts or long hikes.

Unlike typical tours, this experience offers access to lesser-known spots such as the Tantalus Lookout, providing peaceful, panoramic views of Waikiki and Honolulu. The tour continues to the historically rich Pali Lookout, where you’ll learn about King Kamehameha’s unification of Oahu, deepening your connection to the island’s past.

What makes this tour truly special is its ability to showcase both well-known attractions and Oahu’s hidden treasures. From a secret viewpoint of the towering Ko’olau Mountains to the serene Waimanalo Beach, this journey offers unique perspectives that most visitors miss. The tour also includes a local lunch stop at Ono Steak and Shrimp, adding a personal touch of authentic Hawaiian cuisine.

With a small group and a well-rounded itinerary, you’ll be able to savor each stop, whether it’s the natural power of Lanai Lookout or enjoying a famous Leonard’s malasada. This tour is designed for those who want more than just the typical tourist experience, giving you the chance to explore Oahu’s hidden gems and iconic spots at a relaxed pace.

Book your spot today for a one-of-a-kind Oahu experience!

Check-in Details

Important Pickup Information:

Please make sure you are at the designated pickup location listed in your confirmation email. It’s essential to have your phone turned on and accessible so we can contact you if there are any issues or changes regarding the pickup.

If we are unable to contact you and cannot locate you at the pickup point, we will proceed with the tour, and you will be marked as a no-show with no refund. Your cooperation helps ensure a smooth experience for everyone. Thank you!

What to Bring:

  • Comfortable, close-toed shoes (recommended but optional)

  • Sunscreen and water for hydration

  • Light clothing suitable for tropical weather (it can get very warm during the day)

  • Only bring what you can carry, as nothing will be left in the van

Health & Safety:

Your safety is our top priority. On this small group tour, you may encounter uneven terrain and occasionally challenging conditions. It’s crucial to follow your guide’s instructions at all times, as they are there to ensure your safety and guide you through the experience. If you have any questions or concerns during the tour, please communicate them with your guide immediately.

While we take every precaution to provide a safe and enjoyable experience, remember that your well-being is your responsibility. We trust you to use good judgment and remain aware of your surroundings throughout the tour.

Pricing for East Island Adventure:

  • US$89.95 – Adults 13 & Up

  • US$69.95 – Children 12 & Under

  • US$79.95 – Kama’aina/Military (13 & Up)

GROUP TOURS

Cancellation Policy
With Trip Protection:

  • Cancel by phone/email 24+ hours before the tour for a refund minus 15% Trip Protection fee.

Without Trip Protection:

  • Cancel 72+ hours before the tour for a full refund.
  • No refunds within 72 hours.
  • Last-minute bookings (within 72 hrs): Cancel within 1 hour of booking for full refund; after that, no refund unless Trip Protection is purchased.

Rescheduling Policy
With Trip Protection:

  • Free reschedule 24+ hours before the tour.
  • No reschedules within 24 hours.
  • No refunds after rescheduling.

Without Trip Protection:

  • Free reschedule 72+ hours before the tour.
  • No reschedules within 72 hours.
  • No refunds after rescheduling.

Trip Protection Benefits:

  • Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a refund (minus 15% fee)
  • Reschedule for free up to 24 hours before start time

PRIVATE TOURS

Cancellation & Refunds:

  • Cancel 7+ days before the tour for a full refund.
  • No refunds within 7 days.

Deposits:

  • 20% deposit due at booking; remaining balance auto-charged 7 days before the tour.
  • Cancel 7+ days out for a full refund (including deposit).
  • No refunds after the remaining balance is charged.

Last-Minute Bookings:

  • Booked within 7 days? Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund. No refunds after 24 hours.

Rescheduling:

  • Free reschedule 7+ days in advance (subject to availability).
  • No reschedules within 7 days.
  • No refunds after rescheduling.

ALL TOURS

Black Friday Policy:

  • No refunds for Black Friday purchases.
  • Existing bookings cannot be canceled/rebooked to use promo codes.
  • All sales final during promotional periods.

Photography Tour - Common Questions & Tips

  • No professional equipment is required! Our instructors work with any camera, from smartphones to professional DSLRs. We provide guidance on maximizing your current equipment’s potential and offer professional camera rentals if you’d like to experiment with advanced gear. The focus is on improving your photography skills and artistic vision regardless of your equipment level.

  • You’ll learn composition fundamentals including rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing techniques specific to landscape and nature photography. We cover exposure settings for different lighting conditions, focusing techniques for macro flower photography, long exposure for waterfall shots, and golden hour optimization. Post-processing basics and color correction for tropical photography are also included in the comprehensive instruction.

  • We typically visit 5-7 diverse locations featuring waterfalls, tropical gardens, volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and cultural landmarks. Subjects include native Hawaiian flowers, dramatic coastlines, traditional architecture, wildlife in natural habitats, and panoramic island vistas. Each location offers multiple photographic opportunities from macro details to sweeping landscapes.

  • Absolutely! Our tours welcome photographers of all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced enthusiasts. Instructors provide personalized attention based on your experience level, starting with camera basics if needed and progressing to more advanced techniques. The small group format ensures everyone receives adequate individual instruction and support throughout the day.

  • Yes, you’ll receive high-resolution digital copies of all your best photos, plus additional shots taken by our professional guides during the tour. We also provide a comprehensive photography guidebook with tips specific to Hawaii, recommended settings for various conditions, and a list of additional photogenic locations to explore independently. Some participants also receive printed portfolios of their finest work.

What Our Guests Say