Private - Hawaii Volcanoes NP and Black Sand Beaches Tour
Active
12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Book an unforgettable private tour that will take you into the heart of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. From all the main highlights within the park to the lesser seen areas, your tour will go far beyond any experience with the bigger companies.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve, this iconic park is a must see while in Hawaii. Experience two of the world’s most active volcanoes, critically endangered wildlife and some of the most unique geological, biological and cultural landscapes on earth.
Your exceptional naturalist will provide guided interpretation during your entire tour experience.
Upon booking your tour, one of our guides will contact you to discuss custom options we have available for your tour. Whether you’d like to spend more time star gazing, enjoy more time at our private waterfall location, or enjoy an extended guided hike, we’re here to make this experience memorable and most importantly – ALL ABOUT YOU!
Available options
7 Guests
7 Guests<br/>Pickup included
6 Guests
6 Guests<br/>Pickup included
5 Guests
5 Guests<br/>Pickup included
4 Guests
4 Guests<br/>Pickup included
Volcanoes, Lava Tubes, and Petroglyphs (Private Tour)
Duration: 12 hours<br/>Pickup included
3 Guests
3 Guests<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Admission into all Parks
trail mix, fruit snacks, granola bars, beef jerky, chips, chocolate
Sit, relax, and enjoy a meal sourced with local ingredients and Hawaiian infused cuisine at a local restaurant in the town of Volcano
Gear - Patagonia Rain Jacket and Nano Puff, Nikon Prostaff binoculars, Black Diamond Hiking Poles
Complementary Photo package: 20-25 professional, edited photos shared via Adobe Cloud
All non-alcoholic beverages: water, juice, soda, hot tea, coffee and hot chocolate
Picnic style lunch from Punalu'u Bakery at either Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or Punalu'u black sand beach.
Detailed itinerary
1
As you begin your tour, you’ll travel south along the Kona coast and absorb the breathtaking views of lush vegetation and coastline. Listen to your guide describe the cultural history of the area as well as the local flora and fauna. Arrive at the southernmost bakery in the United States. World renown for their sweet breads, malasadas (Portuguese fried dough aka “donut”) and other delicious treats. Enjoy a complementary coffee or tea and choose a malasada before heading on to explore the most beautiful black sand beach on the island.
2
Stop 2
One of the prettiest black sand beaches in all of the Hawaiian Islands. The jet-black volcanic glass sand here was formed from the rapid cooling of basaltic lava hitting the ocean water then shattering into tiny fragments. Enjoy the relaxing feeling of black sand under your toes while listening to the wind move through the palms and across the water. Your guide will keep a look out for green sea turtles and endangered hawksbill sea turtles that frequent the beach.
3
Stop 3
This iconic park encompasses the summit of two of the world’s most active volcanoes and extends from sea level up to the summit of Mauna Loa at 13,677 feet. It’s home to critically endangered wildlife and some of the most unique geological, biological and cultural landscapes on earth. You’ll spend the majority of your tour here in the park taking in all the natural wonders. Your tour will explore the main attractions in the park including: Halema'uma'u Crater, the Thurston Lava Tube, Wahinekapu Steam Bluffs.
Explore Chain of Craters Road from top to bottom. There is a lot to do and see at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, our guides' vast knowledge of the Park will help them design a personal itinerary of stops along Chain of Craters to fit your interests!
If there is an active eruption, stay past dark and our guides will lead you to the best observation area to marvel at the incredible views of the “glow” at night.
4
Enjoy a three-course dining experience sourced with local ingredients and Hawaiian infused cuisine at a top of the line Kilauea Lodge just outside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Depart Volcano and head back to your place of lodging feeling happy, full and filled with exciting new memories.
What's not included
Available for purchase with dinner
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
7 reviews
5★
6
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Strollers can be accommodated but a car seat must be provided if needed.
We can accommodate wheelchairs on this tour as long as they are collapsible and guest can enter vehicle on their own.
Tours can be adapted to accommodate all ages and abilities. Please let us know at the time of booking if you have specific needs.
Assuming no modifications to this tour, guests should be able to walk at least 0.5-1 miles with some steps included.
Guests must be able to walk on uneven or rocky terrain and we may encounter cool, wet, or muddy conditions.
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
