Big Island of Hawaii , United States

Private Tour in Hilo Island of Hawaii

Active

6h - 7h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the stunning landscapes of the Big Island on this exclusive day tour. Visit iconic sites like Rainbow Falls, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and Punalu'u Black Sand Beach while learning about the island's rich history. Enjoy a locally inspired lunch, fresh fruit snacks, and insightful commentary from experienced guides. This small-group experience ensures personalized attention and ample time at each location, making it perfect for families and groups who want a private tour experience.

- Duration: 6 to 7 hours, with convenient pick-up in the Hilo area
- Visit Rainbow Falls, lava tubes, and a unique black sand beach
- Enjoy a delicious island-inspired lunch with vegan and gluten-free options
- Accommodates groups of up to 10 people

Available options

Private Tour in Hilo Island of Hawaii

Pickup included

What's included

Fresh fruit samples

Cultural artifacts

All Fees and Taxes

Pick-up and drop-off in the Hilo area only

Guide

Island -Inspired meal at a Locally restaurant located in Volcano Village and vegetarian dishes available

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Rainbow Falls is named after the colorful rainbows that appear in the mists of its waters. Signs in the viewing area relate some interesting historical facts about the waterfall, as well as the legend of the “Battle of the Wailuku River”.

Drive through Downtown Hilo, a charming mix of historic architecture, local shops, and lush greenery set against the backdrop of Hilo Bay.

Stop 3

Drive through the largest Edo-style ornamental garden outside of Japan. Liliʻuokalani Gardens is a peaceful park of towering Banyan trees, ponds, bridges, and pagodas.

Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park starting at the visitor center and exhibit hall, followed by views of Kilauea caldera and Kilauea Iki, the steam vents, and sulfur banks. Walk inside the ancient Nahuku (Thurston Lava Tube) followed by lunch at Kilauea Lodge.

Stop 5

Discover a beautiful black sand beach created by volcanic activity. Fed by an underground fresh water spring, Punaluʻu is frequently visited by green sea turtles.

What's not included

We do not offer pick-up from the Hilo airport at this time

We do not offer pick-up/drop-off outside of Hilo at this time.

Alcoholic Beverages

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet at Hilo Bayfront Beach Park. Please meet us in the parking lot directly next to the main road, Kamehameha Avenue.

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