Best of the Big Island Tour
Highlights:
Explore the wonders of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park including ancient lava tubes, steam vents, and the world’s most active volcano, Kīlauea.
Take in the scenery and capture stunning photos at various scenic points.
Drive along the Old Mamalahoa Highway passing through Onomea Bay, the Botanical Gardens, and many streams and waterfalls.
Explore Downtown Hilo including vibrant markets, beautiful parks and gardens, and a picture-perfect waterfall on the Wailuku river.
Enjoy island-inspired lunch plates at a local restaurant.
Visit storied landmarks that bring Hawaiʻi’s history to life.
Swim at a black sand beach created by volcanic activity.
How much does this tour cost?
$189/person
What’s included in the tour?
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Cold drinks (bottled water and tropical juices)
- Admission fee to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
- Rain gear/ponchos if needed
Pickup location and time
We pick up anywhere within a three-mile radius of Downtown Hilo including hotels, AirBnBs, Port of Hilo, and the Hilo bus terminal. The pick up time is approximately 8:30 a.m. depending on your location with the tour beginning immediately after.
How long is the tour?
7 hours
What to bring
We recommend bringing the following items. Note that weather conditions can change quickly on the Big Island, so it’s best to come prepared.
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Slippers for beach visits
- Rain jacket or sweater
- Towel and change of clothes if swimming
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
Group Size
Tours are limited to a maximum of 12 guests per vehicle
Tour difficulty
Our tour includes moderate walking and climbing stairs. It is not wheelchair accessible or suitable for persons with limited mobility, back problems, or difficulty walking or standing for extended periods.
Cancellation policy
You may cancel your reservation for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour start time. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.
Is this a private or shared tour?
We offer both shared and private tour experiences. Shared tours are available for groups of up to 12 people. You also have the option to book a private tour for groups of 1 – 13 people. Choose the option you prefer during checkout.
Are there age restrictions?
Children must be 5 years or older to participate in this tour.
Is alcohol allowed?
We allow alcohol and beer on our tours if you wish to bring your own. If you choose to, please be respectful of the group and drink responsibly.
Destinations (in order):
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park (2 hrs)
- Thurston lava tube (30 min)
- Kilauea Visitor Center (30 min)
- Kilauea Caldera lookout (30 min)
- Volcanic steam vents (30 min)
Lunch at Piʻilani’s Kitchen (30 min)
Onomea scenic drive (15 min)
Scenic point lookout (5-10 min)
Rainbow Falls (30 min)
Downtown Hilo (40 min)
- Hilo Farmer’s Market (30 min)
- King Kamehameha statue (10 min)
Liliʻuokalani Park and Coconut Island (30 min)
Richardson’s black sand beach (30 min)
Tour Route
Destinations
Kīlauea Caldera
Kīlauea Caldera is a massive crater and the heart of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. From the rim, you can see steaming vents, rugged cliffs, and the vast pit left by powerful eruptions. If you’re lucky, you might catch an eruption.
Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is a stunning 80-foot waterfall located in Hilo. On sunny mornings, you might see a rainbow in the mist of the cascading falls fed by the Wailuku River. Surrounded by lush rainforest, it’s an easy stop with picture-perfect views.
Downtown Hilo
Downtown Hilo is full of charm with historic buildings and classic Hawaiian architecture. Our main stop is the Hilo Farmer’s Market—a vibrant local marketplace visited by locals and tourists alike, It is known for its fresh produce, local treats, and handmade crafts.
Onomea Scenic Drive
Onomea scenic drive takes you along the winding Old Māmalahoa Highway—a hidden gem surrounded by lush forests on the Hāmākua Coast. Lined with towering trees and ocean views, this peaceful road offers a glimpse of Hawaiʻi’s natural beauty at every turn.
Liliʻuokalani Park
Liliʻuokalani Park is the largest authentic Edo-style garden outside of Japan. With koi ponds and arched footbridges, the park is a tranquil place to take a stroll and sit in the shade of towering banyan trees.
Richardson’s Beach
Richardson’s Beach is a tranquil seaside spot known for its black sands and scenic views of Hilo Bay and the Hāmākua Coast. Green sea turtles can often be found lounging in the beach’s many tide pools. It’s also a decent place to snorkel and see native fish and coral reef.
King Kamehameha Statue
The King Kamehameha statue in Hilo honors the great Hawaiian chief who united the islands. Standing tall near bayfront, the statue is a symbol of strength and Hawaiian pride. It’s a quick but meaningful stop to learn about Hawaiʻi’s history.
Moku Ola
Moku Ola aka Coconut Island is a small, peaceful island just off the Hilo waterfront, connected by a footbridge. It’s a favorite spot for picnics, parties, swimming, fishing, and just relaxing with a full view of Hilo’s bayfront and the break wall.
Thurston Lava Tube
Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube) is a 500‑year‑old cave under a rainforest in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. You walk a short trail through ferns and native trees before entering a cool, lit tunnel once filled with flowing lava. It’s an easy yet exciting step into the Big Island’s volcanic past.