Imagine stepping onto a bus in the heart of Waikiki, slipping on a high-tech headset, and instantly plunging into the depths of Hawaii’s mythical underwater world. Welcome to XPloreRide Hawaii, the revolutionary virtual reality tour bus that’s transforming how you experience Honolulu and Waikiki. If you’re searching for a fresh, immersive, and unforgettable way to explore Oahu, this is the adventure you’ve been waiting for. XPloreRide Hawaii is a collaborative effort between HIS Hawaii, the organizer, NAKED INC. the producer and Synesthesias , the technology provider.
XPloreRide Hawaii’s Virtual Reality Tour Bus
What Is XPloreRide Hawaii?
The new XPloreRide Hawaii is not your typical sightseeing tour. Indeed, this innovative experience blends extended reality (XR) technology with the spirit, culture, and natural beauty of Hawaii. That in itself, is not something you will typically experience on this island paradise. First off, you board a sleek, zero-emission electric bus, don a custom head-mounted display, and embark on a 45-minute journey that fuses real-world views with stunning virtual landscapes. Therefore, whether you’re a first-time visitor, a repeat traveler, or a local looking for a new perspective, XPloreRide Hawaii promises to move your soul and awaken your sense of wonder.
How Does the Experience Work?
From the moment you step aboard, you’re greeted by friendly staff who help you adjust your headset for comfort. The tour begins at DFS Waikiki, (Duty Free Shopping) on Royal Hawaiian Avenue, right in the heart of Waikiki. Next, the tour takes you on a 6.4-mile loop past iconic landmarks like Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. But here’s the twist: as the bus glides quietly through the city, your headset transports you into a mythical underwater city inspired by Hawaiian legends.
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(credit: NAKED INC.)
What You Will See
Guided by “Aumakua,” the mystical guardian spirit of the sea, you’ll encounter shimmering marine life, vibrant coral reefs, and ancient volcanoes. The XR technology seamlessly blends real scenery with virtual elements, so you feel as if you’re diving beneath the waves, soaring above volcanic peaks, and collecting glowing Mana Stones that unlock Hawaii’s deep spiritual energy.
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The Magic of XR Technology
XPloreRide Hawaii uses cutting-edge XR technology called “RideVision,” developed by Tokyo-based Synesthesias, Inc. This system synchronizes location data with physical sensations, creating a truly immersive experience. As you travel, panoramic windows give way to dynamic, location-synced XR animations, archival imagery, and indigenous artwork. The rhythms of hula, chants, and traditional Hawaiian sounds breathe life into the stories you encounter.
An Immersive Experience with XPloreRide Hawaii
You’ll interact with marine creatures, explore coral reefs, and unlock Mana Stones by touching virtual objects in your headset. The experience is available in both English and Japanese, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors. The bus itself is fully electric and zero-emission, reflecting XPloreRide Hawaii’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Honoring Hawaiian Culture
One of the most remarkable aspects of XPloreRide Hawaii is its deep respect for Hawaiian culture. In fact, the tour was developed in close collaboration with Hawaiian cultural advisors, educators, and local artists. Every story, scene, and sound is designed to reflect and protect the spirit of the land. The experience begins with a traditional Hawaiian oli (chant), composed and performed by Kumu Hula Blaine Kamalani Kia, grounding you in the islands’ rich history from the very start.
Continuing Your Journey
Throughout your journey, you’ll learn about the concept of Mālama Hawai‘i—caring for and respecting the islands. The interactive elements, such as collecting Mana Stones, are rooted in Hawaiian mythology and encourage you to connect with the land, its people, and its traditions.
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What Will You See and Do?
Your adventure on XPloreRide Hawaii is packed with highlights:
- Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head: Marvel at these world-famous landmarks, both in real life and through breathtaking virtual recreations.
- Underwater City: Dive into a mythical realm filled with colorful fish, dolphins, and Hawaiian monk seals. The virtual world is inspired by ancient Hawaiian legends and brought to life with stunning graphics.
- Coral Reefs and Volcanoes: Experience the force of nature as you explore coral reefs and witness volcanic eruptions—all from the safety and comfort of your seat.
- Mana Stones: Embark on a quest to collect glowing Mana Stones, unlocking secrets and stories that reveal Hawaii’s spiritual energy.
- Interactive Guide: Meet Uncle Manu, your spiritual guide (aumakua) who leads you through the adventure, sharing wisdom and stories along the way.
Who Is XPloreRide Hawaii For?
This tour is designed for everyone ages 7 and up. In other words, it’s open to the majority of visitors and residents of Oahu. It’s perfect for families, tech lovers, first-time visitors, and anyone seeking a magical Hawaiian adventure. The group size is limited to 40 passengers per ride, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience. The tour is available daily, with six departures per day, so you can easily fit it into your itinerary.
What Do Guests Say?
Customer reviews for XPloreRide Hawaii have been overwhelmingly positive. Travelers rave about the innovative blend of VR and AR, the friendly staff, and the educational value of the tour. Many describe it as “fun,” “immersive,” and “worth every minute.” Families appreciate how the experience engages both kids and adults, making it a standout activity for visitors of all ages.
Additional Comments
Some guests note that the tour does not include physical stops, so you’ll remain on the bus for the entire 45-minute journey. If you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer traditional sightseeing, this is something to consider. However, most reviewers agree that the virtual adventure more than makes up for the lack of stops, offering a unique perspective on Hawaii’s beauty and history.
Practical Details
- Duration: 25 to 45 minutes
- Departure Point: DFS Waikiki, Royal Hawaiian Avenue Entrance
- Languages: English and Japanese
- Age Requirement: 7 years and up
- Price: Starting at $49.99 for children and $68 for adults (discounts available during special campaigns)
- Current Special: Throughout the 2025 holiday season and into the New Year, XploreRide Hawaii is offering significant discounts for both children and adults. In more detail, tickets are being offered for just $9.99 for children and adults, including on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. However, as the website indicates, prices “may increase as seats fill.”
- Booking: Reserve your spot online at XPloreRide Hawaii’s website.
Why Choose XPloreRide Hawaii?
If you want to experience Hawaii in a way that’s educational, entertaining, and environmentally conscious, XPloreRide Hawaii is the tour for you. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the islands’ natural wonders, cultural heritage, and spiritual energy—all while enjoying the comfort and convenience of a modern electric bus. In other words, you’ll be on a tour bus that will operate quieter and with zero tailgate emissions. Taking this a step further, you’ll be on a tour bus that contributes less to climate change compared to other buses running on fossil fuels.
More Than Just a Sightseeing Tour of Waikiki
This is more than a sightseeing tour; it’s a journey where nature, culture, and technology come together to create lasting memories. You’ll leave with a new appreciation for Hawaii’s beauty and a sense of connection to its land and people.
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About The Author
Randy Yagi is an award-winning writer who served as the National Travel Writer for CBS from 2012 to 2019. More than 900 of his stories still appear in syndication across 23 CBS websites, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco. During his peak years with CBS, Randy had a reported digital audience reach of 489 million and 5.5 million monthly visitors. Additionally, his stories have appeared in the Daily Meal, CBS News, CBS Radio, Engadget, NBC.com, NJ.com, and Radio.com. He earned a Media Fellowship from Stanford University and is a Bay Area Travel Writers (BATW) member.
