Hawaii is truly a paradise for nature lovers, with its remote location allowing for the development of some of the world's most unique and fascinating ecosystems. These extraordinary conditions have ensured the evolution of a wide variety of wildlife, from vibrant birds to marine life, that cannot be found anywhere else on Earth. Much of this wildlife can be found on Oahu, where the beaches, forests, and waters provide habitats for some of Hawaii’s most iconic and endangered species. Enjoy an exhilarating day trip to the North Shore in an off-road vehicle to get a closer look at the local wildlife, learn about their immense importance to Hawaiian culture, and the extensive conservation efforts to make sure they will thrive for years to come.
On this private 5-hour off-road excursion, you will:
- Enjoy comfortable round-trip transportation to and from your hotel in Waikiki;
- Traverse the rugged North Shore in an off-road vehicle;
- Delve into Hawaiian history in the charming town of Haleiwa;
- Gain access to local Wildlife Sanctuaries;
- See a wide range of animals in their natural habitats;
- Experience the best Hawaiian agriculture has to offer with a visit to a coffee farm and a pineapple plantation;
- Soak in the stunning scenery;
- Discover the filming locations of the iconic TV show "Lost";
Your thrilling exploration of Oahu’s wildlife will begin at your hotel in Waikiki, where your driver-guide will pick you up and commence the picturesque drive to the North Shore. Their powerful off-road vehicle will allow you to traverse the wild terrain, passing through lush landscapes and hidden valleys that few visitors ever get to see.
Whilst our itinerary is somewhat flexible and your guide will be attentive to your needs and preferences throughout the day, our first port of call is usually historic Haleiwa Town. Known as the gateway to the North Shore, you will discover its rich cultural heritage, including ties to the sugarcane and pineapple industries, and enjoy the laid-back vibe of this surfing mecca. You will then proceed to a local wildlife sanctuary where you will witness a diverse range of animals in their natural habitats. Spot native birds, endangered species, and perhaps even the elusive Hawaiian monk seal as you learn about local conservation efforts.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of Oahu’s coastline, towering cliffs, and the azure Pacific Ocean. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture these amazing sights. If your visit takes place from December to April, keep an eye out for majestic humpback whales as they migrate through Hawaiian waters. These magnificent creatures can often be spotted along Oahu’s North Shore, adding an unforgettable wildlife encounter to your adventure.
Beyond the nature reserve, you will also have the opportunity to experience some of the best products of Hawaii’s fertile ecosystems and savour the flavours of Oahu. You will visit a local coffee farm and learn about the cultivation of world-renowned Hawaiian coffee followed by a pineapple plantation to see how this emblematic fruit is grown.
As you venture across the island in the off-road vehicle, it is plain to see why Oahu has captured the attention of generations of filmmakers. The stunning island scenery has been used for a whole host of Hollywood films and TV shows, from Blue Crush to Hawaii Five-O. Perhaps the most famous program to be shot in the area is the ABC smash hit series Lost. This complex thriller about a group of plane crash survivors on a mysterious deserted island quickly gained a cult following when it first aired in 2004 and has sparked renewed interest having recently been made available on Netflix. Many of the most recognizable scenes from Lost were filmed on location on the North Shore, and your guide will be able to take you to the main set.
Once your action-packed excursion comes to an end, you can sit back and relax as your driver-guide returns you to your hotel in Waikiki. You will end your day with plenty of photos, a deep understanding and appreciation of Oahu’s wildlife and ecosystems, and memories that will last a lifetime.