Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History
Active
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
This 12 hour nature tour offers an in-depth look at Hawaii’s youngest and largest island. Explore the diverse landscape and natural wonders, including a visit of the Volcanoes National Park, walk through rainforests to soaring waterfalls and stroll black-sand beaches as you scan the horizon for green sea turtles. This family-friendly tour requires easy walking and introduces people of all ages to the island, and includes lunch, snacks, refreshments, and park entrance fees.
Available options
Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing, History
Kona/Waikoloa/Kohala Pickup: Small group tour in a luxury Mercedes Sprinter Van, includes lunch, snacks, drinks, and park admissions. <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Bottled Water and Hawaiian Juice
Small Group Tour Lead by a Professional Guide
Luxury Mercedes Sprinter Van Transportation
Kona/ Kohala Coast area hotel pickup and drop-off
All Fees and Taxes
Picnic Style Lunch and Snacks
Detailed itinerary
1
Pick up guests from resorts along the Kohala Coast while enjoying a narrated tour with unique landscape and scenic view.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
Drive through the historic Downtown Kona, home to the summer palace of Hawaiian royalty and oldest church in Hawaii.
3
Take a tour of this Kona Coffee Farm to learn about the harvesting and milling process while sampling Kona Coffee and Tea.
4
Stop 4
Dip your toes in the sand at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach and scan the horizon for green sea turtles on the shore
5
Stop 5
Explore the wonders of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, including steam vents, the Halema’uma’u and Kilauea Iki crater lookouts, past lava flow sites, and take a short hike along crater rim trail and lava tube.
6
Stop 6
Walk along a bridge that gives you a literal inside look at Hawaii, as you follow it to the eerie Thurston Lava Tube, a 600-foot-long (183-meter) cave formed hundreds of years ago by an underground river of magma.
7
Drive through historical Downtown Hilo, the largest city on the island.
8
Stop 8
This 80-foot falls plunges over a natural lava cave and into the Wailuku River below. On a sunny day, rainbows appear in the mist of the falls, making for a magical view.
9
Stop 9
This towering 442-foot (135-meter) waterfall plummets into a lush ravine at the center of a state park. You’ll enjoy a short walk through the vegetation for an up close view and plenty of photo ops.
10
Stop 10
The views stop you in your tracks at the Waipio Valley lookout, where a dramatic backdrop of lush cliffs drops into the sparkling blue ocean
11
Stop 11
Pass by
Driver through the scenic green pasture of Parker Ranch, home of the Hawaiian cowboys and one of the largest ranches in the US.
What's not included
Tour Guide Gratuities/Tips
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
2,955 reviews
5★
2756
4★
139
3★
37
2★
15
1★
8
Tripadvisor
4.9
3,426 reviews
5★
3272
4★
113
3★
24
2★
8
1★
9
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Operates in all weather conditions; please dress appropriately.
Children under 4 years old are not allowed to participate
This tour only departs from Kailua Kona and Waikoloa on the Big Island of Hawaii
Itineraries may change, and refunds will not be given for closures and itinerary changes out of our control. Tours run rain or shine.
Vegetarian or gluten free meals are available, please advise at time of booking if required
Not possible for travelers require walkers/wheelchairs
Important notes
• Good covered walking shoes required. Bring a light jacket as temperatures vary throughout the day.
• Minimum 4 guests per tour. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
The exact pickup time and location will be advised on reconfirmation.
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
