More than double the size of all the other major Hawaiian Islands combined, Hawaiʻi – also known as ‘The Big Island’ – is also the youngest of the tropical island chain. Home to almost a dozen distinct climate zones, the longest continually erupting volcano in the world and one of only four green sand beaches on Earth, there’s plenty to keep your sense of adventure stoked on your next trip to the Big Island, especially with these Hawaii Island tours.
While still somewhat overlooked as one of the top travel destinations in the Aloha State, with most travelers opting for the bustling shores of Oahu, the romantic beauty of Maui, or the lush greenery of Kauai, most visitors are thrilled to find plenty of opportunities to escape the crowds while touring the island’s dramatic, serene landscapes and participating in the most intriguing Hawaii Island tours:
- Volcano Unveiled – Easy to Moderate; 12 hours
- Kohala Waterfalls Adventure – Easy; 8 hours
- Maunakea Summit & Stars Adventure – Easy to Moderate; 8 hours
- Kohala Canopy Adventure – Easy to Moderate; 3 hours
- Hawaii Island Volcano Adventure – Easy to Moderate; Full Day
Volcano Unveiled
One of the most unique areas in the world, this in-depth Volcano Unveiled Hawaii Island tour takes you to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where a certified guide will share fascinating information about the island’s culture, history, formation, landscapes, and stories of the area.
During this immersive full-day tour, guests will hike 2-3 miles around the park’s surreal terrain before heading on an off-road driving adventure to a lava tube well known for its golden and yellow microbial mats around the cave walls, open only to tour guests. Finally, sit back and enjoy afternoon pupus on a scenic farm surrounding the lava tube.
Gear such as walking sticks, day packs, warm clothing, helmets, ponchos, and flashlights will be provided, but guests should remember to wear comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket, and long pants. Tour inclusions like breakfast snacks, beverages, lunch, pupus, water, and all National Park entrance fees are also included.
Know Before You Go:
- Available Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday
- Maximum of 14 guests
- The tour begins at 6:50 am and ends at approximately 7 pm
- Departs from Kona, with pick-ups in Waikoloa
- Active lava viewing is dependent on current conditions
Kohala Waterfalls Adventure
If freshwater streams, private waterfalls, dramatic coastlines, and rugged valleys sound like your personal heaven, the Kohala Waterfalls Adventure is an unforgettable experience. Beginning with an off-road drive to a private nature reserve, you’ll take a guided walk through the grounds before arriving at a gorgeous cascading waterfall, where you’re invited to swim under one of the site’s seven falls.
Continue your tour with a walk through an ancient restored Hawaiian agricultural site, and take in the views during a private lunch with direct views of ocean cliffs, remote valleys, and gorgeous lookouts. Discover the charm of historic Hawi Town, shop the boutiques, or grab some local ice cream for an afternoon treat.
While walking sticks, warm clothing, day packs, rain ponchos, sunscreen, and bug spray are provided, as well as a deli-style lunch with assorted beverages, guests should remember to wear appropriate walking shoes, a bathing suit, hat, and light jacket.
Know Before You Go:
- Available Daily
- Maximum of 12 guests
- The tour begins at 6:50 am and ends at approximately 3 pm
- Departs from Hawaii Forest & Trail Headquarters & Queen’s Marketplace in Waikoloa Beach Resort
- Approximately 1.5 miles of hiking
Maunakea Summit & Stars Adventure
Well known as one of the world’s top stargazing destinations, thanks in large part to its remote location, elevation, and lack of air pollution, this tour takes you from sea level to the almost 14,000-foot summit of Maunakea to marvel at the wonders of the night sky during the unique Maunakea Summit & Stars Adventure.
Start your experience by feasting on a warm picnic dinner on the mountain while learning more about Hawaiian star navigation, including historic tales of Hawaii’s early travelers through the mountainous landscapes. Hop into a custom off-road motor coach for a ride to the top of Maunakea, the highest point in the Pacific, for a stunning sunset and witness the world’s largest collection of research telescopes.
Warm up with a cup of hot chocolate, and stargaze at 9,000 feet with the help of an 11’ Celestron telescope. In addition to dinner, warm clothing such as hooded parkas and gloves will be provided, although guests should wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and a sweatshirt or sweater.
Know Before You Go:
- Available Daily
- Guests must be 16+
- Maximum of 14 guests
- The tour begins at 2:25 pm and ends at approximately 10:30 pm
- Departs from Hawaii Forest & Trail Headquarters & Queen’s Marketplace in Waikoloa Beach Resort
- The average temperature at the summit is 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius)
- Cannot guarantee favorable conditions or summit access
- Not advised for those with respiratory, circulatory, heart conditions, pregnancy, or poor health due to high altitude
Kohala Canopy Adventure
Hawaii Island’s only full canopy tour, guests will have the opportunity to experience ziplines, rappelling, and trekking through a sustainable aerial trekking course on the Kohala Canopy Adventure. Located on a private nature reserve in a stunning forest setting, certified guides will be there throughout the tour to ensure your safety and comfort, as well as share facts about the area’s culture, nature, and history.
Zipline at speeds up to 45mph through Hawaii’s forest canopy, and document your tour with a GoPro camera rental while guides snap photos of you throughout the day. Guests must be at least 8 years of age, weigh between 70 and 270 pounds, and be able to walk over uneven terrain and up about 25 stairs. Snacks and water are included, as are rain gear and safety gear such as helmets, gloves, and harnesses.
Enjoy 9 thrilling ziplines, 5 sky bridges, and a rappelling experience, and take in the views from one of Hawaii’s lesser-seen areas during this exciting, family-friendly tour.
Know Before You Go:
- Available Multiple Times/Day
- Guests must be 8+
- Maximum of 9 guests
- Tours begin at 8 am, 8:30 am, 10 am, 12:30 pm, 1 pm, & 1:30 pm and end approximately 3 hours later
Hawaii Island Volcano Adventure
Rather than guessing (and driving) your way through Hilo and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, hop aboard for a magical Hawaii Island Volcano Adventure by bus. Guests will stop to taste, explore, and admire sites such as Halemaʻumaʻu Crater, the 80-foot cascading waterfall of Rainbow Falls State Park, hot spots in Hilo Town, and the Nahuku Lava Tube.
Also, while inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you will have the opportunity to see Steam Vents, Kilauea Iki Overlook, Chain of Craters Road, Kealakomo Overlook, and the breathtaking Akaka Falls.
Lunch is included on your tour, and it’s advised to wear comfortable closed-toe walking shoes and bring a light jacket. Because volcanic fumes can be hazardous, this tour is not recommended for those with heart or respiratory issues, as well as young children and pregnant women.
Know Before You Go:
- Available Daily
- The tour begins at 7:30 am and ends at approximately 6:00 pm
- Adult Pricing – 12+
- Child Pricing – 3 to 11
- Infants 2 and under are free
- Active lava viewing is dependent on current conditions
