What it is
Roberts Hawaii is a comprehensive tour operator and transportation provider offering a wide array of guided tours, activities, and shuttle services across the Hawaiian islands, including Oahu, Maui, Hawai'i Island (Big Island), and Kaua'i. They offer various experiences, from sightseeing tours to cultural luaus and historical excursions. The company is locally owned and employee-owned, with over eight decades of service in Hawai'i.
Visitor experience
Travelers choose Roberts Hawaii for the convenience and breadth of its offerings, catering to those who prefer organized tours with transportation included. On Oahu, popular tours include the Grand Circle Island Tour, which covers landmarks like the Halona Blowhole, Diamond Head, Dole Plantation, and North Shore surfing beaches. Pearl Harbor tours, such as the "Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona, Honolulu City Tour" and "Stars & Stripes: Pearl Harbor and Battleship Missouri Tour," are also highly sought after, providing historical insights into World War II events.
Roberts Hawaii also facilitates access to cultural experiences like Germaine's Luau and Paradise Cove Luau, which include traditional Hawaiian food, music, and Polynesian entertainment. For those interested in inter-island exploration, they offer one-day tours from Oahu to other islands to visit attractions like Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island or movie locations on Kauai. Additionally, Roberts Hawaii provides airport shuttle services to and from major airports on all serviced islands, offering both shared and private transfer options. Many tours include experienced, knowledgeable drivers who share cultural stories and insights.
Logistics
Roberts Hawaii's main office is located in Honolulu, Oahu. Tours generally include hotel pickup and drop-off, particularly from Waikiki for Oahu tours. For airport transfers, travelers check in with a service agent in the baggage claim area or proceed to designated shuttle pickup stations. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made online.
Tour durations vary; for example, the Oahu Grand Circle Island Tour is approximately 9 hours (excluding pickup/drop-off), while Pearl Harbor tours can range from 5 to 7 hours. Luau experiences typically last around 4-5 hours in the evening. Some tours, like the Grand Circle Island and Hanauma Bay Combo, are serviced over two separate days. Specific pickup times and locations are provided upon booking, and guests are advised to be ready at least 10 minutes prior to scheduled pickup. Parking for events like Chief's Luau is available on-site, sometimes with a fee.
Roberts Hawaii operates daily for many tours, though some, like the Pearl Harbor Circle Island Tour, may be available on specific days (e.g., Tuesday and Thursday). They also offer special discounts and combo packages.
Safety and cautions
Guests on tours should wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately, as moderate walking may be involved. For Pearl Harbor tours, security requirements prohibit bags and purses, and while cameras are permitted, camera bags are not allowed. Strollers are also not permitted on the Navy shuttle boat to the USS Arizona Memorial. Pearl Harbor is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Hanauma Bay is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Tour routes and times may be subject to modification or restriction due to unforeseen circumstances. Tour vehicles typically do not have functional restrooms, but scheduled stops are provided.
Editorial take
Roberts Hawaii is an excellent option for first-time visitors to Oahu, cruise ship passengers, or travelers who prefer a structured, hassle-free way to explore the island's major attractions. Their extensive selection of tours, including historical sites, scenic drives, and cultural performances, caters to a broad audience looking for convenience and comprehensive sightseeing. The included transportation from Waikiki hotels or cruise ports is a significant benefit.
Travelers who prefer independent exploration, have their own transportation, or wish to spend more time at specific locations might find guided tours too restrictive. Those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences or highly customized itineraries might also consider alternatives. It's crucial to differentiate Roberts Hawaii's offerings from other independent tour operators or specific attractions. For example, while they offer packages to places like Hanauma Bay or the Polynesian Cultural Center, visitors can also arrange direct transportation or admission to these sites independently.
Prioritize Roberts Hawaii if you:
- Want convenient, pre-arranged transportation to multiple attractions.
- Are a first-time visitor to Oahu and want an overview of the island.
- Are on a cruise and need shore excursions with reliable pick-up and drop-off.
- Prefer narrated tours with knowledgeable guides.
Skip Roberts Hawaii if you:
- Prefer self-guided exploration and want full control over your itinerary.
- Have your own rental car and want to save on tour costs.
- Are looking for highly specialized, niche, or adventurous activities not typically found on large group tours.
Source notes
- Roberts Hawaii Official Website: https://www.robertshawaii.com/
- Oahu Grand Circle Island Tour: https://www.robertshawaii.com/oahu-grand-circle-island-tour/
- One-Day Oahu Tour: Pearl Harbor & City Tour: https://www.robertshawaii.com/one-day-oahu-tour-pearl-harbor-city-tour/
- Stars & Stripes: Pearl Harbor and Battleship Missouri Tour: https://www.robertshawaii.com/stars-stripes-pearl-harbor-battleship-missouri-tour/
- Hanauma Bay Transportation by Roberts Hawaii: https://www.robertshawaii.com/hanauma-bay-transportation/
- Roberts Hawaii Airport Transfer Services: https://www.robertshawaii.com/airport-shuttle/
- Roberts Hawaii Shore Excursion Offers: https://www.rhshorex.com/shore-excursion-offers/
