Planning a trip to Oahu can be overwhelming with so many incredible attractions to choose from. The Oahu Explorer Pass offers a flexible and cost-effective way to experience the island’s top destinations without breaking your vacation budget. With the Oahu Explorer Pass by Go City, you can save up to 50% on admission to 3 to 7 popular attractions while enjoying the freedom to explore at your own pace over a 60-day period.
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The pass includes access to some of Oahu’s most sought-after experiences, including Pearl Harbor historic sites, water activities, cultural tours, and adventure excursions. Instead of paying full price at each location, you simply present your digital pass for entry. This flexible sightseeing option eliminates the stress of rigid itineraries, allowing you to visit attractions when it’s most convenient for you.
Key Takeaways
- The Oahu Explorer Pass saves visitors up to 50% on admission to 3-7 attractions with 60 days to use your selections.
- Popular attractions include Pearl Harbor sites, cultural experiences, and adventure activities across the island.
- The digital pass format provides skip-the-line access at many locations, making it easy to maximize your vacation time.
What Is the Oahu Explorer Pass?
The Oahu Explorer Pass is a flexible sightseeing card that gives travelers access to multiple attractions in Oahu at a discounted rate. It allows visitors to choose from top activities across the island while saving money on admission fees.
Benefits of the Explorer Pass
The Oahu Explorer Pass can help you save up to 50% on attraction entry fees compared to buying individual tickets. This makes exploring Hawaii’s most popular island much more affordable for tourists and families.
The pass offers great flexibility since you can select 3 to 7 attractions from a list of very popular options. You don’t need to decide everything in advance – just choose as you go.
Another key benefit is time-saving. Many attractions offer skip-the-line privileges to pass holders, reducing wait times at busy locations.
The pass remains valid for 60 days after first use, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace without feeling rushed. This extended validity makes it perfect for longer stays.
How the Explorer Pass Works
Purchasing the Explorer Pass is straightforward through Go City’s website. After buying, you’ll receive a digital pass to download to your smartphone or print if you prefer.
When you visit your first attraction, your pass is activated and remains valid for 60 days. This gives you flexibility to space out your activities over your vacation.
To use the pass, simply show it at each attraction’s entrance. The staff will scan or check your pass, and you’ll gain entry without additional payment.
You can choose from numerous attractions including Pearl Harbor tours, snorkeling experiences, cultural sites like the Polynesian Cultural Center, and various beach activities. The selection includes over 35 options throughout Oahu.
The pass operates on a credit system – each attraction counts as one credit, regardless of its regular admission price. This makes it easy to track how many attractions you have left.
Key Attractions Included
The Oahu Explorer Pass gives you access to some of Hawaii’s most iconic attractions. With options to choose 3 to 7 attractions from over 40 possibilities, visitors can customize their experience while saving up to 50% on admission fees.
Waimea Valley
Known as the “Valley of the Priests,” Waimea Valley offers a perfect blend of cultural significance and natural beauty. This lush 1,875-acre park features beautiful hiking trails and botanical gardens with over 5,000 plant species.
The Oahu Explorer Pass includes admission to Waimea Valley, where visitors can explore ancient Hawaiian archaeological sites including heiau (temples) and living history exhibits. Cultural demonstrations offer insights into traditional Hawaiian practices.
The highlight for many visitors is the 45-foot Waimea Falls. During safe conditions, swimming is permitted in the natural pool beneath the waterfall. Life jackets are provided free of charge.
The valley’s botanical collection includes rare and endangered Hawaiian plants. Guided tours are available for those interested in learning about indigenous flora and conservation efforts.
Diamond Head
This iconic volcanic crater serves as Oahu’s most recognizable landmark. Known as Lē’ahi in Hawaiian, Diamond Head offers panoramic views that make the moderate hike worthwhile.
The Diamond Head State Monument trail included with the Explorer Pass is a 0.8-mile hike from trailhead to summit. Though relatively short, the trail includes steep sections and stairs, gaining 560 feet in elevation.
At the summit, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of Waikiki, Honolulu, and the turquoise Pacific Ocean. The crater’s military history is evident through bunkers and observation points built in the early 1900s.
The trail typically takes 1-2 hours to complete round-trip. Early morning hikes are recommended to avoid both heat and crowds. Visitors should bring water, sun protection, and wear appropriate footwear.
Take the Diamond Head Shuttle and Hike, usually $45
Polynesian Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Center ranks as one of Oahu’s most popular attractions. This immersive experience showcases the cultures of six Pacific Island nations: Hawaii, Fiji, Samoa, Tahiti, Tonga, and New Zealand.
With the Explorer Pass, visitors gain access to the center’s six authentic island villages. Each village features traditional architecture, demonstrations, and interactive activities led by natives from each island.
Guests can learn to throw Tahitian spears, play Tongan drums, or dance the Hawaiian hula. The center offers hands-on experiences rather than passive exhibits, making it engaging for visitors of all ages.
The Ali’i Luau experience (available at an additional cost) provides authentic Hawaiian cuisine and traditional entertainment. The day typically concludes with “Hā: Breath of Life,” a spectacular evening show featuring over 100 performers.
The usual price for the PCC is over $100
Pearl Harbor Historic Sites
Pearl Harbor is one of Hawaii’s most significant historical locations. Visitors can explore this solemn memorial that commemorates the December 7, 1941 attack that propelled the United States into World War II.
The Oahu Explorer Pass includes Pearl Harbor as one of its premium attractions. Guests can tour the visitor center and view authentic artifacts from the attack.
The USS Arizona Memorial, accessible by boat, sits directly above the sunken battleship where 1,177 sailors and Marines lost their lives. The memorial features a marble wall inscribed with the names of those who perished.
Choose the Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour and get picked up near your hotel. The tour is usually about $70.
Battleship Missouri Memorial
The “Mighty Mo” stands as a powerful symbol of peace and victory. This historic battleship witnessed the formal surrender of Japan, effectively ending World War II on September 2, 1945.
With the Oahu Explorer Pass, visitors gain access to guided tours of the USS Missouri. These tours explore various areas of the ship including the surrender deck, captain’s quarters, and massive 16-inch guns.
The Battleship Missouri spans nearly three football fields in length and towers 20 stories above the water. Its impressive size gives visitors perspective on naval warfare during the mid-20th century.
On board, guests can see the exact spot marked with a brass plaque where Japanese officials signed the surrender documents. The ship also features various exhibits detailing its service during three wars: World War II, the Korean War, and Operation Desert Storm.
Normal gate price is about $40.
Planning Your Visit
The Oahu Explorer Pass offers flexibility with a 60-day validity period after your first attraction visit. Planning ahead ensures you maximize your savings and experience the best of what Oahu has to offer.
Making Reservations
Some popular attractions included in the Oahu Explorer Pass require reservations in advance. Pearl Harbor Memorial, in particular, often books up weeks ahead due to its limited daily capacity.
Attractions requiring reservations:
- Pearl Harbor National Memorial
- Premium luau experiences
- Guided tours with limited space
- Seasonal whale watching tours
Reserve these activities as soon as you download your pass. The Go City app provides reservation links and contact information for each attraction. Some locations allow same-day bookings, but this isn’t guaranteed during peak tourist seasons.
Keep confirmation emails and reservation codes handy on your phone. Many attractions now accept digital confirmations, reducing the need for printed tickets.
Best Time to Visit Attractions
Morning visits (8-10am) typically offer smaller crowds and cooler temperatures for outdoor activities. Popular attractions like Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay are best experienced early.
Crowd levels by season:
- Lowest: Mid-September to mid-December
- Moderate: April to May
- Highest: June to August, late December to Early January
Island weather remains pleasant year-round, but brief rain showers are common. Pack accordingly, especially for outdoor adventures.
The Oahu Explorer Pass gives you 60 days to use your selected attractions, so you can space out visits to avoid consecutive rainy days.
Transportation Tips
Navigating Oahu efficiently saves time and money when using your Explorer Pass. Public transportation via TheBus covers most major attractions for $5.50 daily.
Transportation options:
- TheBus: Comprehensive network, affordable ($2.75 single ride)
- Waikiki Trolley: Convenient for tourists (separate fee)
- Rideshare: Available island-wide
- Rental cars: Best for North Shore and eastern or western Oahu visits
Parking at popular attractions can be limited and expensive. If renting a car, research parking options beforehand. Some attractions like Hanauma Bay require early arrival to secure parking.
The Go City app includes transportation information for each attraction. Consider grouping attractions by location to minimize travel time and maximize your experience.
Maximizing Your Explorer Pass
The Oahu Explorer Pass offers excellent value for visitors who plan strategically. Smart scheduling and attraction selection can help travelers get the most out of their investment while enjoying Oahu’s top experiences.
Tips for Saving Time and Money
Start your day early to get the best weather and fewest crowds.
Book popular attractions in advance when possible to avoid disappointment. Many locations offer exclusive discountsfor pass holders on additional experiences or dining options.
The pass provides free cancellation options, giving travelers flexibility if plans change. This feature is especially valuable during peak tourist seasons when weather can be unpredictable.
Choose attractions with higher individual admission prices to maximize savings. Pearl Harbor attractions, premium luaus, and adventure activities typically offer the best value through the pass. Be careful of the attractions on the Explorer Pass that don’t cost much. Purchase admission to these but cash or card. Example of less expensive attractions are Queen Emma Summer Palace or the free beer at Kona Brewing.
Remember that the pass remains valid for 60 days after first use, allowing visitors to spread out activities during longer stays.
Recommended Explorer Pass Itineraries
For a three-attraction pass, consider combining Pearl Harbor historical sites with a nature adventure and cultural experience. This balanced approach provides trip inspiration while showcasing Oahu’s diverse offerings.
Adventure seekers should group active experiences like snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, hiking diamond head, and participating in water sports on the North Shore. These can be scheduled on alternate days to avoid exhaustion.
Families often benefit from mixing educational attractions with fun activities. The Polynesian Cultural Center, Sea Life Park, and a catamaran sail create memorable experiences for all ages.
For those with five-attraction passes, consider organizing by geographical location. North Shore attractions can be visited on one day, while Honolulu-based experiences can be grouped to minimize travel time and transportation costs.
Planning ahead helps visitors make informed decisions about which attractions deliver the best value and align with personal interests.
Purchasing and Using the Explorer Pass
Getting your Oahu Explorer Pass is simple and gives you flexible access to multiple attractions. The digital pass remains valid for 60 days from first use, so you can explore at your own pace.
Where to Buy the Pass
The Oahu Explorer Pass is available directly through the Go City website. When purchasing, you’ll need to select how many attractions you want to visit – options include 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 attractions. This flexibility lets you customize your sightseeing experience based on your interests and time on the island.
The pass offers significant savings compared to buying individual tickets. You can save up to 46% on attraction costs when using the Explorer Pass. Popular attractions included in the pass are Pearl Harbor, Polynesian Cultural Center, and many more Oahu highlights.
After booking online, you’ll receive a confirmation email with instructions for accessing your digital pass. No need to print anything – everything is handled electronically.
Download the Go City App
The Go City App is essential for using your Explorer Pass. Download it from your device’s app store before your trip begins.
Once installed, log in using the same credentials you created during the booking process. Your purchased Explorer Pass will appear in the “My Passes” section of the app.
The app provides valuable features beyond just storing your pass. It offers:
- Attraction details and operating hours
- Maps to help navigate between sites
- Offline access to your pass (after initial activation)
- Real-time updates about attractions
When arriving at each attraction, simply open the app and present your digital pass to staff for scanning. The app will track which attractions you’ve visited and how many choices remain on your pass.
Additional Services and Support
The Oahu Explorer Pass comes with several customer support options and clear policies to help travelers make the most of their Hawaiian adventure. These services ensure visitors can get assistance when needed and understand their purchase protections.
Customer Service Offerings
The Oahu Explorer Pass includes access to dedicated customer service representatives who can assist with any questions or issues. Go City® provides support through multiple channels including phone, email, and live chat options on their website.
Travelers can get help with:
- Attraction selection guidance
- Technical support with digital passes
- Booking assistance for attractions requiring reservations
- Lost pass replacement
Customer service is available daily during extended business hours to accommodate visitors from different time zones. Many attractions also offer on-site support for Explorer Pass holders.
The Go City® mobile app provides additional assistance with features like GPS directions to attractions, up-to-date hours of operation, and instant access to your digital pass.
Refund Policies
The Explorer Pass offers flexible refund options for travelers whose plans may change. Unused passes can typically be refunded within 90 days of purchase if they haven’t been activated.
Once activated, passes are generally non-refundable, but Go City® may make exceptions for special circumstances at their discretion. Partial refunds aren’t typically available for unused attractions on an activated pass.
Key refund policy details:
- 90-day refund window for unused passes
- Cancellation fees may apply to some refunds
- Force majeure provisions for natural disasters or attraction closures
- Extended validity during exceptional circumstances like attraction closures
Passes remain valid for 60 days after first use, giving travelers flexibility to spread out their attraction visits. This extended validity period reduces the need for refunds due to scheduling changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Oahu Explorer Pass offers flexibility for tourists visiting Hawaii’s most populous island. Below are answers to common questions about attractions, pricing, validity periods, and how this pass compares to other options.
What attractions are included with the purchase of an Oahu Explorer Pass?
The Oahu Explorer Pass includes access to over 40 attractions across the island. Visitors can choose 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 attractions from the available options based on their selected pass level.
Pearl Harbor attractions are included with the pass, making it a popular choice for history enthusiasts. Other notable attractions include ocean activities, cultural sites, and adventure experiences.
Tourists can select from a variety of experiences that showcase Hawaii’s natural beauty, history, and culture. The pass allows visitors to curate their own personalized itinerary from the available options.
How does the pricing for the Oahu Explorer Pass compare to individual ticket costs?
The Oahu Explorer Pass starts from approximately $149 per person, with prices varying based on how many attractions are selected. This represents significant savings compared to purchasing individual tickets.
Travelers typically save between 20-40% on attraction costs when using the Explorer Pass. The exact savings depend on which specific attractions are visited and their regular admission prices.
The more expensive attractions selected, the greater the potential savings with the pass. Many visitors find the pass most economical when choosing premium-priced activities.
Are there any limitations or exclusions with the Oahu Explorer Pass that travelers should be aware of?
The Oahu Explorer Pass does not include transportation between attractions. Visitors must arrange their own transportation via rental car, public transit, or rideshare services.
Some popular attractions may require advance reservations, even with the pass. This is especially important during peak tourist seasons when availability might be limited.
Certain attractions may have restrictions on operating days or hours. Travelers should check the specific details for each attraction before planning their itinerary.
What is the validity period of an Oahu Explorer Pass once activated?
The Oahu Explorer Pass is valid for 60 days from the first use. This extended timeframe gives visitors flexibility to spread out the 3-7 admissions over multiple days or weeks.
The pass must be activated within one year of purchase. After buying the pass, travelers have 12 months to begin using it before it expires.
Once activated by visiting the first attraction, the 60-day countdown begins. This generous window allows for a relaxed pace of exploration rather than rushing to fit everything into consecutive days.
How do the benefits of an Oahu Explorer Pass differ from those of the All-Inclusive Pass?
The Explorer Pass allows visitors to select a specific number of attractions (3-7) to visit over a 60-day period. This makes it ideal for travelers who plan to visit Oahu at a relaxed pace.
The All-Inclusive Pass, in contrast, works on a consecutive calendar day basis. With this pass, visitors can experience unlimited attractions, but only within a set number of days purchased. It’s great if you want to see a lot of things in a shorted timespan.
The Explorer Pass counts visits, while the All-Inclusive Pass counts days. For those who want to see just a few attractions or are staying longer, the Explorer Pass often offers better value.