PRIVATE Shore Excursion - 'Best of Hilo and Hamakua coast
Active
4h
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 Private tour. Just me and your small group.
I will make sure you see the best things on this side of the island. Being in a small group, and private vehicle allows us to do the stuff the big vans and busses don't do.
The itinerary listed is only some of what we can or might do. It's all up to you!
Take home the best souvenir. . . These amazing, once in a lifetime
experiences.
Available options
PRIVATE Shore Excursion - 'Best of Hilo and Hamakua coast
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Snacks
Detailed itinerary
1
This tour is totally customizable. We will spend the time on the attractions you want to see. We have an extensive list of great attractions on the Hilo side.
Beyond the potential list below there are many other potential stops.
More Waterfalls
Botanical Garden
Queen Liliuokalani Gardens
Downtown Shops and Dining
Black Sand Beach (Richardson)
Hilo Zoo and Gardens
Chocolate Farms
Still more. . .
(We can't do all of this!! This is a list of ideas.)
Maybe you know of something new. I would Love to take you there!
2
Stop 2
Between 9 and 10:00 is the best time to see the rainbow. This waterfall is the most visited of all the falls on all the islands. A short Walk for an amazing place.
3
Stop 3
This coastline is the route for most of the stops on this tour. It feels a little like stepping back in time with one lane roads, old bridges, and amazing scenery around every corner.
4
Meaning “leaf of lava,”Laupahoehoe, refers to the angular lava peninsula formed by ancient pāhoehoe (smooth lava) flowing to create the area where the village of Laupahoehoe was built. This Beach Park has breathtaking ocean panoramas, crashing surf and craggy lava rocks. The Mana here is amazing.
5
Stop 5
Onomea Bay was carved by the waters of Onomea and Alakahi streams, which originate all the way up in Mauna Kea, and by the wind and waves which cut into the lava cliffs of the coast line. Earthquakes, tsunamis and tropical storms have also caused radical changes to the landscape. This historic place is Amazing!
6
Stop 6
An outdoor market with over 200 local farmers and vendors. It’s a great way to get out and walk around historic downtown Hilo plus there are usually plenty of food trucks around.
7
Visit the actual Facility and see them hand making gourmet Hawaiian chocolates, cookies and candies, including our world-renowned Macadamia Nut Chocolate Dipped Shortbread.
8
Stop 8
This amazing free-falling ‘Akaka Falls, plunges 442 feet into a stream-eroded gorge. A roughly half mile loop walk to and from the falls is full of lush landscaping and one other smaller fall.
What's not included
Lunch
Botanical Garden Entrance fee of $32 per person is not included (This is an optinal stop, and we may not do this)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
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3★
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2★
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1★
0
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
