Big Island Highlights Tour From Kona and Waikoloa
Active
10h - 11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
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Island Circle Island Adventure – All in One Epic Day
See the best of Hawaiʻi’s largest island in just one unforgettable day!
Journey through lush valleys, towering waterfalls, active volcanic landscapes, and sun-soaked beaches on this full-day Circle Island tour. From the first sip of fresh island coffee to the last golden sunset along the Kona Coast, every moment is a postcard.
Perfect balance of photo stops, cultural insight, and tasty treats.
Walkability: Mostly easy, with some moderate walks at ʻAkaka Falls & Thurston Lava Tube.
Inclusions: Pick up/Drop Off Transportation
Knowledgeable guide, entry to parks, tastings at select stops.
Duration: ~10–11 hours roundtrip
Available options
Big Island Highlights Tour From Kona and Waikoloa
What's included
Private transportation
Soda/Pop
Bottled water
Entrance fee
Snacks
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Kick off the morning sampling sweet and savory macadamia nut varieties and sipping regional coffee while learning how the nuts are harvested and processed.
Walkability: Easy – Indoors, flat floors.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
Drive by one of the largest and oldest operating cattle ranches in the country.
3
Overlook one of the most stunning and largest valleys in Hawaii the “Valley of the Kings,” where Hawaiian royalty once lived. Rolling taro fields, towering cliffs, and a black sand beach stretch below.
Walkability: Easy/Moderate – Short steep paved walk from parking area to lookout.
4
Stop 4
A paved 20-minute loop through lush rainforest to a spectacular 442-foot waterfall, passing bamboo groves and tropical flowers.
Walkability: Moderate – Fully paved but includes stairs and mild slopes.
5
Stop 5
Colorful open-air market offering exotic fruits, fresh flowers, handmade crafts, and local treats. perfect time to pick up some lunch, local treats or find some unique tropical fruits.
Walkability: Easy – Flat streets and stalls.
6
Stop 6
An iconic 80-foot waterfall where rainbows often appear in the mist during the morning hours.
Walkability: Easy – Short paved walk from parking.
7
Famous for chocolate-dipped shortbread cookies and Kona coffee confections, all handmade on site. and last clean restroom stop before the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Walkability: Easy – Indoors with flat surfaces.
8
Stop 8
Witness the raw power and beauty of an active volcanic landscape.
Thurston Lava Tube – Walk through a naturally formed tunnel created by ancient lava flows.
Walkability: Moderate – Paved path with stairs and low-light areas.
Steam Vents – See plumes rising from deep cracks in the earth, a reminder of the heat below.
Walkability: Easy – Short flat walk from parking.
Kīlauea Overlook – Sweeping views into the massive caldera; a prime spot for photos.
Walkability: Easy – Short approach.
Volcano House – Historic lodge with views of Halemaʻumaʻu Crater. Perfect for a quick snack or gift shop stop.
Walkability: Easy – Indoors and flat.
PLEASE NOTE: RED HOT LAVA IS NOT ALWAYS VISIBLE OR ABLE TO PLAN TO SEE
9
Stop 9
taste award-winning Kaʻū coffee, and browse local treats.
Walkability: Easy – Flat, accessible facility.
10
Stop 10
Famous for its jet-black volcanic sand and frequent sightings of Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on shore.
Walkability: Easy – Flat beach access, but walking on sand may be challenging for some.
What's not included
Meal is not provided but we have snacks and drinks provided throughout the tour
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
We will pick you up at longs drugs and we will arrive in black ford shuttle bus.
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
