Hilo , United States

5 Hour Custom Private Tour of Hawaii

Active

(9 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This is a custom, private tour starting on the east side of the Big Island of Hawaii. Some of the suggested sights include: Rainbow Falls, drive thru a rainforest, Akaka Falls, lava tube exploration (flashlights provided), black sand beach and Coconut Island. Time permitting, we could even drive to Pahoa to see the 2018 lava flow.

Being a private tour means there is no set itinerary. It is my goal to send you home with a sense of wonder after visiting this gorgeous island.

We drive around in a 2025 F150 Tremor.

Available options

5 Hour Custom Private Tour of Hawaii

Pickup included

What's included

Hilo Port pickup and drop-off

Local guide

Bottled water

Hilo Hotel pickup and drop-off

Transport by private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Take as much time as you like at Rainbow Falls.

Stop 2

Take the 4 mile scenic drive with views of Onomea Bay. We can even hike to see where a river enters the ocean.

Stop 3

A beautiful walk thru the rainforest ends with a stunning view of a waterfalls standing over 400 feet tall.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum age is 13 years

At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• If you have not already specified, you MUST advise supplier as soon as possible your Ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and departure time so that appropriate arrangements can be made
• Minimum age is 13 years
• Not recommended for participants with back problems
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for pregnant women

About Hilo

Hilo, located on the eastern side of the Big Island of Hawaii, is known for its lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and vibrant culture. The city offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and authentic Hawaiian hospitality.

Top Attractions

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

This national park is home to Kīlauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes. Visitors can explore lava tubes, craters, and scenic overlooks.

Nature Full day $30 per vehicle (7-day pass)

Rainbow Falls

A beautiful waterfall located in a lush, tropical setting. The falls are especially stunning in the early morning light.

Nature 30-60 minutes Free

Liliuokalani Gardens

A beautiful, historic park with Japanese-inspired gardens, ponds, and bridges. It's a peaceful retreat in the heart of Hilo.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Poke

A traditional Hawaiian dish made with raw fish, soy sauce, and sesame oil. It's often served over rice.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, gluten (soy sauce)

Loco Moco

A Hawaiian comfort food dish made with rice, hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy.

Lunch/Dinner Contains beef, eggs, gluten (gravy)

Shave Ice

A popular Hawaiian treat made with finely shaved ice and flavored syrups. It's often topped with sweetened condensed milk or ice cream.

Dessert Vegan options available (ask for no condensed milk or ice cream)

Popular Activities

Hiking Volcano exploration Stargazing Beach lounging Spas Scenic drives Museum visits Historical sites

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This period offers the most pleasant weather with lower rainfall and ideal temperatures for outdoor activities.

22-30°C 72-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Japanese, Tagalog
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST, GMT-10)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hilo is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strong currents and rip tides when swimming or engaging in water activities

Getting there

By air

Hilo International Airport • 3 miles (5 km) from city center

By bus

Hilo Transit Center

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around Hilo, but schedules may be limited.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Hilo Pana'ewa

Day trips

Mauna Kea Summit

30 miles (48 km) north of Hilo • Full day

The Mauna Kea summit offers stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a unique alpine environment.

Akaka Falls State Park

11 miles (18 km) north of Hilo • Half day

This state park is home to the stunning Akaka Falls, a 442-foot waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest.

Hawai'i Tropical Bioreserve & Garden

25 miles (40 km) south of Hilo • Half day

This private garden and reserve offers a variety of tropical plants, exotic birds, and scenic views.

Festivals

Hilo International Festival • Late September to early November Merrie Monarch Festival • April

Pro tips

Visit the Hilo Farmers Market for fresh produce, local crafts, and Hawaiian souvenirs
Explore the city's historic sites and museums to learn about Hilo's rich cultural heritage
Take a guided tour of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park to learn about the park's geology and history
Try local foods and support local businesses to get a taste of authentic Hawaiian cuisine
Be prepared for rain and bring a rain jacket or umbrella, especially during the wet season