Kilauea Summit to Shore from Kona: Small Group
Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Kilauea Volcano is a magnificent presence on the Big Island of Hawai'i and this small-group, or exclusive private tour focuses primarily on Kilauea and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Because of Kilauea's diverse landscapes, stunning beauty, and vast, almost unending site seeing potential; we have decided to dedicate an entire day to exploring Kilauea volcano. All the way from her amazing summit, to her ever-growing shores.
Available options
Shared
Our Kilauea Summit to Shore tour for those who don't mind sharing their adventure with up to 4 other people.<br/>Pickup included
Private
Our Kilauea Summit to Shore tour for those who don't want to share their experience with any other party. Fully exclusive and customizable.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel/Airport pickup and drop-off
Picnic lunch
Bottled water
Snacks
Transport by private vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Discover Hawaii's most breathtaking natural sights on a small-group van tour that's brimming with towering volcanoes, lush rainforests, and magnificent coastlines. Experience the islands' many microclimates and environments during a tour that exposes you to a little bit of everything.
After convenient pickup from your hotel, travel to the lush rainforests found in great abundance on the island's east side. Make your way to Hilo via Saddle Road, reaching an elevation of almost 6,800 feet (2,072 m). Along the way, pass through many of the microclimates that make the Big Island among the most exceptional places in the world.
As you approach Hilo, glance inside a once-scorching conduit of molten rock from the Mauna Loa Volcano as your guide enlightens you to the significance of lava tubes to Hawaii's creation. After a quick trip into the nearby Kaumana Caves, check out Waianuenue, also known as Rainbow Falls. This stunning 80-foot (24-m) drop has beckoned generations of visitors to Hilo.
After lunch at Hilo Sharks Coffee, visit the village of Pahoa and drive along the famous Red Road, which follows the Puna Coast on the southeast flank of Kilauea volcano. This beautiful stretch of paradise showcases some of the island's youngest and most scenic coastline. Lush rain forests give way to black cliffs, rocky coastlines, and crashing waves. Your journey along this road ends at Kalapana, a town that was mostly buried by lava in 1990.
Next up is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and the summit of Kilauea volcano. Gaze into Kilauea's vast summit caldera, formed 500 years ago. The drive takes you past pit craters, scorched earth, steaming ground, and lava flows old and new. Enjoy plenty of opportunity to stop, look around, and learn about what's going on both above and beneath the ground.
What's not included
Dinner (Guests are taken to a restaurant of their choice to purchase dinner for themselves)
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
15 reviews
5★
14
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
35 reviews
5★
34
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately. Conditions subject to change.
Please bring along close-toed shoes.
A maximum of 6 people per booking.
A minimum of 2 people per shared and 1 per exclusive is required.
Important notes
• Close-toed walking shoes are recommended
• Please bring a light jacked along
Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.
About Big Island of Hawaii
The Big Island of Hawaii is the largest and youngest of the Hawaiian Islands, known for its diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, active volcanoes, and lush rainforests. It offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.
Top Attractions
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
This national park is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. It offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and the opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
Moderate ($30 per vehicle)
Mauna Kea Summit
Mauna Kea is the highest point in Hawaii and offers stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a unique alpine environment.
Nature/Adventure
Half day to full day
Free (but requires acclimatization)
Waipio Valley
Waipio Valley is a lush, scenic valley known for its taro farms, waterfalls, and black sand beach. It is also a significant cultural site for Native Hawaiians.
Nature/Cultural
Half day
Free (but parking fee applies)
Hapuna Beach State Park
Hapuna Beach is one of the largest white sand beaches on the Big Island, offering swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing opportunities.
Beach
Half day
Free (but parking fee applies)
Akaka Falls State Park
Akaka Falls is a stunning 442-foot waterfall surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The park offers a scenic loop trail leading to the falls.
Nature
1-2 hours
Moderate ($5 per person)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Poke
A raw fish salad marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions, often served with rice.
Appetizer
Contains fish, can be made with various types of seafood
Loco Moco
A hearty dish consisting of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.
Main Course
Contains beef, eggs, and gluten (from the gravy)
Shave Ice
Finely shaved ice flavored with syrups and often topped with sweetened condensed milk or ice cream.
Dessert
Vegetarian, can be made with various toppings
Kona Coffee
A premium coffee grown in the Kona region, known for its rich and smooth flavor.
Drink
Caffeinated, can be decaffeinated
Popular Activities
Hiking
Volcano exploration
Water sports
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Scenic drives
Traditional Hawaiian luaus
Local markets
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
This is the best time to visit the Big Island, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists. The ocean is warm, and the weather is generally dry and sunny.
21-30°C
70-86°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-10:00)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
The Big Island is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware of natural hazards such as volcanic activity and ocean conditions.
Important Precautions:
- • Rent a car with full insurance coverage
- • Be cautious when purchasing souvenirs and tours, and research options in advance
- • Be aware of ocean conditions and currents when swimming and snorkeling
Getting there
By air
- Kona International Airport • 20 km from Kona
- Hilo International Airport • 10 km from Hilo
By bus
Hilo, Kona
Getting around
Public transport
The Hele-On Bus is the public bus system on the Big Island. It is affordable but has limited routes and schedules.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Kona
Hilo
Waimea
Day trips
Mauna Kea Summit
30 km from Waimea • Half day to full day
Mauna Kea is the highest point in Hawaii and offers stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a unique alpine environment.
Waipio Valley
60 km from Hilo • Half day
Waipio Valley is a lush, scenic valley known for its taro farms, waterfalls, and black sand beach. It is also a significant cultural site for Native Hawaiians.
Hapuna Beach State Park
30 km from Waimea • Half day
Hapuna Beach is one of the largest white sand beaches on the Big Island, offering swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing opportunities.
Festivals
Merrie Monarch Festival • April
Kona Coffee Cultural Festival • November
Ironman World Championship • October
Pro tips
- Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace and access remote areas
- Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park early in the day to avoid crowds and see the best views
- Pack layers, as temperatures can vary significantly depending on the elevation and location
- Try local dishes like poke, loco moco, and shave ice for an authentic taste of the Big Island
- Respect the environment and local culture, and follow guidelines for visiting protected areas and sacred sites
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
