tours from oahu to big island

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One-day Tours to Big Island & Kilauea Volcano

• Big Island Day Tours from Oahu
• Sightseeing

• Round-trip interisland airfare
• Guided tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
• See Kilauea Caldera, steam vents, recent lava flows
• Explore the Thurston Lava Tube

Description

The Hawaiian island chain was born of fire, but it has been at least 35,000 years since there has been an eruption on the island of Oahu. As the Pacific plate drifts west , the hotspot that creates the volcanic activity is now under the eastern end of the Hawaiian chain. All the recent volcanic activity has been on the Big Island of Hawaii. If you want to see an ACTIVE volcano in person ... steaming craters, recent flows, and maybe even a glipse of some red hot lava ... you need to visit the Big Island!

For guests staying on Oahu, we offer one-day tours to fly from Honolulu Airport to the Big Island, with a tour vehicle, guide and park admission included once you arrive. The day starts early; participants are on their own to get to and from the Honolulu Airport and the morning flights are typically around 5:30am-6:30am. The return flight is typically in the early evening. There are two different versions of this tour offered by two different companies.

One-day interisland tours involving airfare are charged at the time the reservation is made, and there are no refunds for canceled / missed tour dates. Due to airline flight rules there are no changes or cancellations allowed once your date is confirmed. We recommend that you purchase travel insurance to cover the cost of a nonrefundable tour in the event of an unexpected change in your travel plans.

Your morning begins with self-checkin at the Honolulu Airport. Following your flight to the Big Island, your tour guide and 20 passenger motorcoach will pick you up at the Kona Airport. This tour is not just a Kilauea Volcano tour ... it is a journey from Kona all the way around the southern tip of the Big Island, with an evening return flight from the Hilo Airport! You will see extensive volcanic landscapes of the Big Island, including historically-recent lava flows from THREE different volcanos! You will drive through idyllic seaside downtown of Kona, pass through coffee farm territory, and further south to the massive lava flows from Mauna Loa. You'll cross the famous 1950 flow that set a record ... once the eruption started high on the slopes of Mauna Loa a massive river of lava surged all the way down the mountain and into the ocean in just 3.5 hours!

About halfway through the drive to Kilauea you will stop for a break at Punalu'u Beach Park , one of the most beautiful and exotic BLACK sand beaches in the world! It is common to see honu ... the Hawaiian gree sea turtles ... hauled out of the ocean and laying in the warm jet black sand. Also enjoy a stop at the Punalu'u Sweet Bread Bakery.

Next stop is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , home of Kilauea Caldera, the world's most ACTIVE volcano . Park admission is included, and see the Kilauea Visitor Center, Halemaumau Crater overlook, Kilauea Iki Overlook, and walk through and explore the Thurston Lava Tube (Nahuku). If time permits, a stop is often made at Rainbow Falls on the Outskirts of Hilo, followed by your dropoff at the Hilo Airport for your flight back to Oahu.

Schedule: This tour is typically offered daily. Exact flight times are provided after your reservation is confirmed.

Check In Location: Honolulu International Airport Interisland Terminal.

Included: Airfare, guide, motorcoach tour around the southern half of the Big Island, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park admission, water,juice, sodas, and snacks. A no-host lunch stop is made at a local restaurant where food is available for purchase.

Reservations: Advanced reservations required ... tours involving interisland airfare are charged at the time your reservation is confirmed.

Minimum Notice for Cancellations / Changes: Tours involving interisland airfare are non-cancellable, non-changeable, and non-refundable. We recommend that you purchase travel insurance to cover the cost in the event you have an unepected change in your vacation plans.

Aloha Sunshine Tours - Big Island from Oahu Rate (AST33O)

$549.00 per Adult, $549.00 per Child (2-11), Infants under 2 FREE    (plus 4.712% Hawaii sales tax)

Explore cascading waterfalls, craters, and the city of Hilo which was inundated by a tsunami in 1960. Bear witness to the 2018 eruption that drastically altered the island's landscape. Peer into the depths of Halemaumau Crater which has remarkably doubled in size and watch steam clouds form as ground water seeps onto hot volcanic rock at the famous Steam Vents.

Gaze at sweeping coastal views at Kealakomo Overlook where older lava flows entered the ocean. Drive down scenic Chain of Craters Road., and explore Nahuku ... also known as Thursdon Lava Tube. Marvel at not one by two spectacular waterfalls – Rainbow Falls just outside of Hilo town, and Akaka Falls - a towering 442 foot tall waterfall accessible by walking a short verdant jungle trail from the parking lot. Your day concludes with an evening flight from Hilo back to Honolulu.

Schedule: This tour is typically offered Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Exact flight times are provided after your reservation is confirmed.

Included: Airfare, guide, motorcoach tour, admission to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. A "to-go" lunch is included with the price of the tour.

Polynesian Adventures - Oahu to Big Island Volcano Tour Rate (POLYH2_HNL)

$550.00 per Adult, $522.00 per Child (2-11), Infants under 2 FREE    (plus 4.712% Hawaii sales tax)

If you have never seen an active volcano up close and personal, a day trip to the Big Island is a MUST for your Oahu vacation! You'll not only SEE the volcano, you'll hear it, smell it, and feel the heat eminating from the ground in places. Even if there is a pause in the eruption on the day of your visit, hissing and steaming cracks are easy to find at the "Steam Banks" area inside the park.

The two tour companies featured here have completely different approaches ... both of them showcase Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Kilauea Volcano, but the distance that is covered during these two tours is very different. Aloha Sunsine Tours has you fly into KONA on tha western side of the island, so it is more of a "Half Circle Island" tour with Hawaii Volcanoes National Park the highlight of the day, with stops at various locations in the summit area of the Kilaeua Caldera. Polynesian Adventures has guests fly in and out of Hilo, which is closer to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You spend more time in the park with them, and they include TWO waterfalls as well. Because they have more time in the park, they also go down "Chain of Craters Road", and area that Aloha Sunshine Tours does not have time to visit because of the longer drive from Kona.

If Aloha Sunshine Tours spends more time driving and less time at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, what are the advantages of going with THEIR tour? Well, for one you get to see more than just Kilauea Volcano ... you land at the Kona Airport which was built on a lava flow from Hualalai Volcano. Hualalai looms over the resorts and condos of the Kona area and if it erupts again in our lifetime, it will be BIG news. You will also drive through impressive, massive lava flows that poured from the summit of Mauna Loa volcano. As you round the southern tip of the Big Island you'll visit Punalu'u black sand beach, which has what I think is the most jet black sand of any volcanic beach anywhere. With green palm trees inland, and the blue Pacific Ocean offshore, the black sand is framed by tropical beauty.

But ... if you don't want to spend as much time driving around, and if waterfalls are your thing ... you'll be happier on the Polynesian Adventures tour. Akaka Falls is a state park, and the 442 foot tall falls is a GEM of a natural attraction.

In reality, unless you are planning months ahead of time (which we recommend), the decision which tour to do may come down to taking the tour that happens to be available on the date you are wanting to go. The Polyynesian Adventures tour is only offered three days a week, so it sells out quicker than the Aloha Sunshine Tour.

Finally, one thing to keep in mind about one day tours that include airfare; Due to airline rules these tours are FINAL once they are booked. There are no cancellations, changes, passenger substitutions, or refund of any kind once a tour has been finalized. Because airfare is involved, these tours must be prepaid and are charged at the time that your reservation is confirmed. We do recommend that you consider purchasing travel insurance that would reimburse you for this tour cost in the event that your vacation plans were suddenly changes due to unforseen circumstances.

Day Trip to the Big Island from Oahu or Maui

Take a hassle free trip to the Big Island, even if you’re staying on Maui or Oahu. On the tour, visit Hawaii’s only active volcano as well as sights like Hilo Town and Rainbow falls. The package includes roundtrip airfare to and from the Big Island plus ground transportation and a guide. So all you have to do is relax and enjoy the tour.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase through my links we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read about our affiliate policies here .

Activity Overview

• Departs From: Maui – Kahului, Maui – Kihei/Wailea (South), Oahu – Waikiki (Greater Honolulu)
• Duration: Full day
• Included in the price: Round trip flights from Oahu or Maui, guided tour on the Big Island

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Tour Highlights

• Roundtrip airfare from Oahu or Maui to the Big Island
• Friendly, expert volcano tour guide
• Hilo Town & Rainbow Falls
• Volcanoes National Park including the visitor’s center, steam vents, and chain of craters road
• Black sand beach

Tour Details

Are you staying on Oahu or Maui but you really want to see the Big Island and Volcanoes National Park? Hawaii Tours offers a done-for-you guided trip so you can make the most of your time. On the tour, visit Hawaii’s only active volcano as well as sights like Hilo Town and Rainbow falls. The package includes roundtrip airfare to and from the Big Island plus ground transportation and a guide. So all you have to do is relax and enjoy the tour.

Tour Description

This tour starts with pickup from your Waikiki hotel and transport to HNL airport. If you are on Maui you will be picked up from your hotel in South or West Maui and transported to the airport in Kahului.  There you’ll catch a flight over to Hilo where your tour guide will meet you at the airport around 8:00 am. From here you’ll journey through Hilo, seeing and stopping at various places until the tour reaches the famed Rainbow Falls State Park on the edge of town.

The highlight of this tour is the many stops within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to see an active volcano and craters of the past along Chain of Craters Road. See the steam vents, check out the destruction of the crater due to the last eruption. See how the landscape changes and get other great information in the learning center or the Visitor Center.

This tour also includes stops at a black sand beach, a lunch stop, scenic viewpoints, gardens, and more. Your guide will return you back to the airport in Hilo for your flight back to Oahu, where your driver will meet you at the airport to transport you back to your hotel.  In all an 8 hour day on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Your guide may change some stops depending on weather and availability*

We are affiliate partners with Hawaii Tours which means we receive a small commission for each completed booking made through this site. This is done without any additional cost to you. You can  read more about our affiliate policies here . Know that we only recommend tour operators that we know and trust. Your positive experience and your trust in us mean more than any affiliate commission. By booking tours through our website you help us to provide free information and videos to help you and other readers plan their perfect Hawaii vacation. Thank you so much for your support — you are amazing!

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Wasabi Tours Hawaii

Experience the Best Big Island Guided Tours

Big Island Grand Circle Island Day Tour from Oahu

We are now offering Big Island Grand Circle Island Tour tour with pick up from Kona Airport. Please book your Hawaiian Airline flight to arrive at Kona Airport by 7 am and depart after 8:30 pm.  We circle the entire Big Island in 11 hours including stops at Volcano National Park, Akaka and Rainbow waterfalls, Waipio Valley, Punalu’u black sand beach, etc. Lunch and beverages are included.

For more information on all the attractions we stop on this tour, visit our grand circle island tour link.

https://www.wasabitourshawaii.com/grand-circle-island/

Give us a call at 808-238-5222 to book this tour!

• next post: Waipio Valley

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One Day Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Experience departing from Oahu

*Prices subject to change based on Airline availability

Take our one day tours from Oahu to the Big Island of Hawaii and experience the world’s most active volcano. Round trip inter-island airfare gets you to the Big Island for a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Kilauea volcano and the volcanic sites of Hawaii.

Tour Highlights

• Round trip Inter-Island Airfare from Oahu
• Friendly, Expert Volcano Tour Guide
• Visit to Kona Town
• Punalu’u sweet bread bakery
• Punalu’u black sand beach
• Kilauea Iki Rainforest Overlook
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
• Kilauea Visitors Center
• Active Volcanic Steam Vents
• Thurston lava tube
• National Park Admission
• Halema’uma’u Crater Overlook

Water, juice, soda, and snacks provided No-host lunch stop at local restaurant

What to bring: comfortable clothes, walking shoes, light jacket, sunscreen.

Duration: aprox. 10hrs.

• Description

About Your Tour

Here is your chance to visit Hawaii’s only active volcano and see the youngest of the Hawaiian Islands. On this one day tour, you’ll visit the town of Kona, sites like Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Punalu’u black sand beach and discover the life of the Hawaii’s most active volcano.

This exciting tour to Hawaii’s most distinct feature is sure to highlight your vacation. Book your tour today and witness the power of Kilauea volcano and the Big Island.

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Big Island Circle Tour

• Additional Info
• Family Friendly
• Island Tours

 Big Island Circle Tour

This tour is designed as a sightseeing tour and is very low impact.

Duration: 11 hours

What to Expect: Experience the different districts and microclimates of Hawaii Island in one day, all from the comfort of our upscale luxury vehicles. This tour showcases the best of the island, with views of Kona, Ka’u and Hamakua coastlines, complete with our favorite stops in between. Catered meals, park fees, and private access to some of the island’s treasures are included. Our National Park-certified guides will invite you to relax, put away your GPS, and enjoy the scenery of the Big Island.

A light continental breakfast and a gourmet lunch are provided. Vegetarian and vegan options are available.

For their comfort, this tour is not suitable for children under the age of 5.

Recommendations: This tour is for guests 5 years and older. It is designed as a sightseeing tour and is very low impact. Passengers traveling with a wheelchair or walker are more than welcome to join our tour. Spacious Mercedes passenger vans provide the ultimate in comfort for guests  and want a more personal and authentic Hawaiian Experience. The Big Island Circle Tour is designed to give our guests an affordable first-class tour while experiencing all that the Big Island has to offer!

Points of Interest: Premium Kona Coffee Farm, Punalu’u Bake Shop, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, Volcano Winery and Tea Farm, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Kilauea Caldera Overlook, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Visitor’s Center, steam vents, Thurston Lava Tube, Rainbow Falls, Hamakua Coast.

An English-speaking driver/guide, Mercedes 15-passenger mini-coach, a gourmet snack basket, bottled water, a variety of sodas and juices, hot beverages, lavender scented hot & cold towel service, umbrellas and lightweight jackets in the event of rain, a continental breakfast, and a gourmet picnic lunch. This tour has a maximum of 13 passengers to provide plenty of headroom in the cabin and comes with a state-of-the-art audio and visual public address package.

What to Bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, camera. We recommend bringing a small backpack or tote bag for your personal items as there is plenty of room in our spacious cabin.

What to Wear: Although Hawaii is home to the endless summer, there are places and times where the temperature can drop substantially. Weather can change dramatically from hot and humid to cool and wet conditions. Sunscreen and/or bug spray should be applied well before joining the tour. We require wearing comfortable closed-toe footwear. A hat and sunglasses are optional but highly recommended. Most guests bring a light jacket and/or long pants. You can see the 10-day forecast for Volcanoes National Park here.

What is Served: BREAKFAST: A light continental breakfast will be served with your freshly brewed Kona coffee between 8:30-9am.

LUNCH: Gourmet picnic lunch served in an outdoor setting just before noon. A typical menu might include grilled chicken served on a bed of quinoa salad, a dinner roll, and a brownie lava bar. Seasonal menu is subject to change.

Disclosures : Tour description and itinerary are subject to change. Due to the topographical and weather changes that have recently affected the tour area, some attractions, and sites may be unreachable or unsafe to visit. Park officials have recently reopened Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with several restrictions as they continue to make repairs. Park officials have been known to restrict entry without notice. Will not issue refunds caused by park restrictions.

• Punalu’u Black Sand Beach – Discovering native wildlife is always a Hawaii highlight. This stretch of black sand beach is not only beautiful and unique but is a popular basking spot for the Hawaiian turtle or “honu.”
• Kona Joe Coffee – Enjoy a delicious catered lunch at this unique local favorite. Taste local coffee and browse at the gift shop.
• Hawaii Volcanos National Park – See Big Island volcanoes!
• The massive park is consistently listed as a must-see for visitors. Our tour highlights all the park’s best including Chain of Craters Road, natural steam vents, and views of the new Halemau’mau Crater.
• Rainbow Falls – One of “The Best Waterfalls in Hawaii” in  every  guidebook and blog. Witness one of the most famous Big Island waterfalls up close and personal!
• Kona Coffee Tour & Tasting – Coffee tours are rated one of the “Top 5 Things to Do on the Big Island” by the Hawaii Guide. Take your own Kona coffee tour, and sample a variety of locally grown, premium coffees and teas.
• Waipio Valley Lookout – Take in a spectacular view of the Hamakua Coast on the way to the most famous lookout on the island.
• Punalu’u Bake Shop –The Southernmost bakery in the United States! But that’s not the only reason it’s a favorite. .try the “ono” (delicious) malasadas to find out why they’re a must-visit

will not refund tour price due to weather-related reasons. We will promise an incredible volcano experience but unfortunately cannot control the weather. Guests will be charged 100% of the tour price for cancellations made within 48 hours of the scheduled tour.

A combined minimum of 4 guests is required for a tour to operate. Should a tour not meet the tour minimum, customers will have the option to reschedule or receive a full refund. Advance notice will be provided at least 12 hours before the start time.

How large will my tour be? We operate Mercedes Sprinter mini-coaches with a maximum capacity of 14 passengers.

How comfy are the vehicles? Very! Our guides want to work for us because we pamper the guests AND the guides! Having driven low-roof, hard-seated, worn-out vans in the past, we understand the importance of being comfortable on the ride to the volcano (or around the island!)

Maintaining a fleet of Mercedes Benz passenger vans is more expensive than using inferior vehicles, but we never cut corners on safety or customer service – ever.

Our brand new vehicle even has reclining leather seats! Our vans have high roofs to maneuver through the cabin, adjustable air conditioning, seatbelt extensions, cup holders, and large windows for the best views. Our audio/visual package is top-of-the-line with a large flip-down monitor and separate speakers for video and guide headset. This technology allows for the driver/guide to show video while narrating; it’s the ultimate way to cruise the Big Island!

Where do the tours start? Offers free front door pick-ups at all major West Hawaii hotels and resorts. We also offer the option to meet at a central meeting point to accommodate a busy vacation schedule, if you prefer. For bed and breakfasts or smaller resorts, we’re happy to work with you. Leave the driving to us!

Can you accommodate wheelchairs? Our vans are equipped to handle the easy storage of a collapsible wheelchair or other medical equipment. We do not have a wheelchair lift, however. We have also installed an extra hydraulic side step for extra easy on and off for all riders.

How much walking or hiking will I be doing? Nearly all tours include the opportunity for a few short walks. However, none of them include any walking longer than 20 minutes with the exemption of the Kona Coffee, Cloud Forest, and Brewery Experience. Should guests choose to skip any of our short walks, guides are happy to make further accommodations.

For guests wanting to do extensive hiking, we are glad to customize a private tour to cover as much as much ground as you like. Our hiking guides are in excellent shape and will be excited to show off some of the many beautiful hiking trails here on the Big Island.

Passengers traveling with a collapsible wheelchair or walker are more than welcome. Please note, our mini-coaches are equipped to handle easy storage of a wheelchair or other medical equipment. We do not have a wheelchair lift on our vehicles at this time.

What should I wear? What should I bring? Although Hawaii is home to the endless summer, there are places and times where the temperature can drop substantially. Temperatures at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park can range from 50 to 75 degrees F. Saddle Road temperatures can get even chillier, to perhaps 40 degrees F. recommends wearing comfortable footwear, a hat and sunglasses, and shorts or long pants. Most guests wear a light jacket or bring long pants for after sunset. You have plenty of opportunities to change as the weather changes frequently. Oh, don’t forget your camera!

Are snacks, meals, and tips included in tour prices? We’ve chosen to work with the best restaurants and caterers on the Big Island to bring our guests an experience of all five senses. We like to eat well and our guests do too!

Tipping is, of course, at the discretion of the tour guest but is customary when great service has been provided. We think our professional tour guides are the very best on the planet and we know they appreciate receiving acknowledgments for their expertise, humor, and ability to make your tour memorable!

Will my cell phone work during my tour? Although some cell phone carriers have spotty coverage on the Big Island, we’ll be within cell phone range for most of the tours. Private or charter tours to Waipio Valley will have very limited cell phone coverage. Locals seem to prefer it that way, too. We have a charger on board in case your battery runs low, but some guests bring their own mobile battery charger. Then again, it might actually be nice to set down your phone for a while, too. We also rely on “The Coconut Wireless” or shouting across canyons to communicate.

Do you operate tours on holidays? On most holidays, we do operate. However, we do not operate our regular tour on the Ironman World Championships in October, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Our suppliers don’t operate on those days, so we’ve elected to do the same. Our guides have to get to the beach sometimes, right? If you or your group do wish to tour on a holiday, call us and we will be happy to make arrangements with other restaurants that may be operating that day.

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5 Easy Day Trip Big Island Volcano Tours From Oahu Hawaii

Looking for Big Island volcano tours from Oahu but intimidated at the prospect? Look no further!

I lived on the Big Island for a year and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (HVNP) was one of my favorite places to go hiking. If you have the opportunity to visit, even from a different island, I highly recommend it!

I have a list of Big Island volcano tours from Oahu to meet different needs! Whether a group or private van tour, a helicopter tour, or self guided tour, you have options.

Short on time? Get to the point with my top choice tour:

Aloha Sunshine Tours

I love how they take care of all the logistics from inter-island air tickets to loading you onto your air-conditioned van on the Big Island to take you to the volcano, so all you have to do is show up!

Best Hawaii Volcano Tours from Oahu

Because there is no active volcano on Oahu and Kilauea is not in Honolulu, you’ll have to fly to the Big Island to see it.

These tours will make it easy for you to get from Oahu to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park in a day.

1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Experience from Oahu with Aloha Sunshine Tours

⭐ Rating : 5 out of 5 stars 🕑 Start Time : 8:00am ⏳ Tour Length : 12 hrs

>> Check Rates & Availability Here! <<

Aloha Sunshine Tour includes:

• Round trip interisland flight from Honolulu to Kona
• Expert volcano tour guide & air-conditioned vehicle
• Snacks & drinks
• Visit a Kona coffee farm, Punalu’u Bake Shop, and Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Admission: Kilauea Visitors Center, Kilauea Iki Rainforest Overlook, Volcanic Steam Vents, Thurston lava tube , Halema’uma’u Crater Overlook
• Duration : 9hr tour + flight time

Take the quick 45-min flight from Oahu to the Big Island and get picked up by your tour guide. Make a stop at a coffee farm for some delicious Kona coffee.

Stop at Punalu’u Bake Shop for some of the best malasadas on the island (lilikoi is a favorite!).

Count turtles on Punalu’u Black Sand Beach . 

Enter Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , meeting a park ranger at the visitor center , getting blasted by warm steam vents , taking in the view of the ginormous Kilauea Crater (hopefully she’s smoking!), walking through Thurston Lava Tube , and enjoying the Kilauea Iki rainforest view. 

Stop at a local restaurant for a no-host lunch (pay at own expense). 

After a full day of exploring the world’s longest continuously erupting volcano, catch your flight back to Oahu.

What a great and fun filled day! We really enjoyed this tour! The day was setup well and the transportation from start to finish was easy and well put together. Mel was a great guide and kept people engaged. John – read more reviews

2. Volcanoes National Park Safari Helicopters Tour

⭐ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 stars 🕑 Start Time : 8:00am-3:30pm ⏳ Tour Length : 55 min ⚠️ Likely to Sell Out!

Safari Helicopters Tour includes:

• Flight in an ASTAR B2 helicopter (doors on)
• Pilot narration of terrain and history
• Flight tour over Kilauea volcano, Leilani Estates, Hilo, and waterfalls.
• Maximum 6 passengers
• No Minimum age; lap child allowed
• Weight sensitive tour – individual weight not to exceed 249lbs or extra seat purchase may be necessary
• Not included : gratuities, snacks
• Duration : 55 minutes

Fly yourself from Honolulu, Oahu and catch a helicopter tour right from Hilo International Airport

Take off on an unforgettable 55 min , doors-on helicopter flight around Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, checking out three distinct rift zones :

• Upper East Rift Zone ( Napau, Mauna Ulu, and Halemaumau Craters)
• Middle East Rift Zone (Pu’u O’o Vent)
• Lower East Rift Zone (site of 2018 eruption: Leilani Estates and Isaac Hale Park )

Get a bird’s eye view of the incredible power that Kilauea has to simultaneously destroy and create.

Your pilot will talk about the history and science of what you are looking at as well as offer opportunities for any questions you might have through the two way headset .

You’ll also have views flying over lush forests and gushing waterfalls . 

A helicopter ride over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will not be an experience you’ll soon forget.

“This was my first experience in a helicopter and it did not disappoint! The views of the volcanoes were spectacular even on a cloudy day. Seeing the waterfalls and landscapes was breathtaking. Our pilot was incredible and I felt completely safe the entire time. “ Jessica – read more reviews

3. Private Sprinter Van Tour: Kona Coast to Volcanoes National Park

⭐ Rating : 5 out of 5 stars 🕑 Start Time : varies ⏳ Tour Length : 9.5 hrs

Big Island VIP Private Tour from Kona includes:

• Private tour in air-conditioned 10 passenger Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van
• National Park Certified Interpretive Guide 
• Informational videos between stops
• Fully customizable itinerary to fit your preferences 
• Items provided for use: sunscreen, bug repellent, trekking poles, binoculars, raincoats, and umbrellas; booster seats for smaller children 
• Bottled water and snacks 
• Free photos of you and your family 
• Not included : gratuities, brunch & lunch, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park entrance fee $15 Per Person
• Duration : 9.5hrs
• Operated by Big Island VIP

First, fly yourself to Kona from Honolulu . Then take a 5 minute cab ride from the airport to meet your private tour guide at Kona Mountain Coffee.

The tour company can drop you off at the airport, but not pick you up due to regulations.

Be sure to grab a cup of 100% Kona coffee before heading out on your private island adventure.

Drive over Saddle Road between volcanoes Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Stop and see Rainbow Falls cascading over a lava cave, drive through Liliuokalani Park and Gardens , and see black sand beach (and maybe turtles!) at Richardson Ocean Park .

Informative videos play in the van in between stops to update your knowledge on upcoming stops.

Head to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to see Kilauea up close and personal. Get blasted by volcanic steam vents, take in a panoramic crater view, walk through a 400yr old lava tube, and more! The “must see” park sites take about 3-4hours to enjoy.

Complimentary photos are included to help commemorate the day!

Optional sites to add to your tour could include (but not limited to) 1-3 of these:

• The Painted Church
• Punalu’u Black sand beach
• Volcano House for souvenir/art shopping
• Lunch at the Rim Restaurant
• Akatsuka Orchid Gardens
• Volcano Winery
• Or take advantage of the extra time to hike a trail in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

“Outstanding Tour Gide Rob. Perfect. Extremely knowledgeable and friendly. A real gentleman. AND his tour was professionally done down to the minuets detail. Thoroughly enjoyed and valued this all day trip. Rob took the time to acquaint us with items of interest that I doubt other guides would have.” john – read more reviews

4. Private Sprinter Van Tour: Hilo to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

⭐ Rating : 5 out of 5 stars 🕑 Start Time : 8:00am, 9:00am ⏳ Tour Length : 6 hrs

Big Island VIP Private Tour from Hilo includes:

• Private tour in air-conditioned 11 passenger Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van
• Vans have professionally wired headsets so everyone can hear
• Items provided for use: binoculars, ponchos; booster seats for smaller children 
• Not included : gratuities, lunch, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park entrance fee $15 Per Person
• Duration : 6hrs

For another private volcano Big Island tour from Oahu, start in Hilo for different scenery.

First, fly yourself to Hilo from Honolulu . Take a few minute cab ride from the airport to meet your private tour guide at Big Island Candies.

Be sure to stop inside for some free shortbread cookie samples before heading out!

Commence on your island tour through Liliuokalani Park , a historical Japanese garden, then down Banyan Drive , a road laden with banyan trees planted by famous people like Babe Ruth and Amelia Earhart.

Drive up the road to view crashing Rainbow Falls , 80ft of falling water.

Informative videos play in the van so you can appreciate upcoming sites.

Then take off for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , stopping at the visitor center, steam vents, Uekahuna Overlook, and Thurston Lava Tube.

Have lunch and/or coffee at the Volcano House with a beautiful view of smoking Halemaumau crater.

Your tour will end with a stop at Richardson Ocean Park to see black sand beach and likely a sea turtle or two!

Optional sites to add to your tour could include (but not limited to) 1-4 of these:

• Coffee Farm
• Scenic drive including sea cliffs
• Hilo Farmer’s Market
• Akaka Falls (this pick will not allow time to eat lunch)

“What a great experience with Big Island VIP! Our guide Skylar was courteous, engaging and very knowledgeable about the park’s geology, flora and fauna. He even customized our trip based on our preferences, spending time in parts of the park that most tours don’t explore.” lorrie – read more reviews

5. Self-Guided Big Island Volcano Tour from Oahu – with Shaka Guide

Check Rates & Download the Shaka Guide app and tour here: 🌋 Volcanoes National Park Shaka Guide Tour 🌋

You can always DIY a Big Island volcano tour from Oahu as well. This gives you the flexibility of spending as much (or as little) time as you want at each site. 

First, book a flight and car rental from Honolulu to Hilo. 

Hilo is only about 30mins from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park compared to Kona which is 2.5hrs away. For maximum island time take the first flight out to Hilo and the last flight back to Honolulu.

You won’t be offroading so you can get rent a regular car vs a 4×4 . Get the car size that best suits your needs.

If the timing is right, I highly recommend stopping in Mountain View for breakfast (or second breakfast?) before entering the park. 

I love the deliciously squishy mochi donuts from Mt View Bakery . They have rotating flavors so you’ll never know what to expect. Grab one or two per person then take them next door for what I consider to be the best served coffee on the island . 

Koana serves “slow coffee”. Brian only serves pourover Big Island coffee which he roasts himself.

Get a full experience by smelling the bean varieties and watch as he meticulously and skillfully pours hot water over the freshly ground beans. This silky, fresh cup of coffee will undoubtedly blow your mind!

He also serves his own drinking chocolate concoction!

Enjoy your donuts and caffeine in the little garden before getting back on the road for the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park entrance. 

Entry fee for the park is $30 per vehicle.

While you can drive through the park sans guide, I highly suggest downloading the Shaka Guide’s audio guide Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour . I love the quirky voice that narrates sites as you drive along throughout the park with Hawaiian musical interludes. It will be like having an actual guided tour in your own car.

The main highlights you’ll want to hit are the Steam Vents , Uekahuna Overlook , Kilauea Iki Crater Lookout , and Thurston Lava Tube .

To see the active lava you’ll hike Crater Rim Trail from the Devastation Trail parking lot. The 1 mile hike is on a paved path until you divert to the right down a short gravel path to the viewing point. There you will get to see actual lava coming out of the caldera (if it’s “turned on”). 

Keeping track of time, take Chain of Craters Road all the way to the end, passing many craters you can stop at (including Devil’s Throat which is not marked on the map), a petroglyph field (a must hike if you have the time), and finally to the water’s edge to glimpse Holelei Sea Arch .

For a fancy lunch, I would make reservations at the Volcano House restaurant , with panoramic views looking into the steaming crater. Out of the park in Volcano Village are other options like Tuk-Tuk Thai Food Truck or Kilauea Lodge Restaurant .

The beauty of having your own car is being able to tour at your own pace. You might have time for other stops before your flight back to Oahu, like a wine tasting at Volcano Winery , a peak at Rainbow Falls , a climb through Kaumana Caves , or shopping in historic Hilo .

See? That wasn’t so hard to do a self-guided day trip from Honolulu to Volcanoes National Park, was it?

Know Before You Go 

If you are flying over from Oahu to the Big Island just for the day you are not going to be able to see the lava glowing and flowing in the dark; flight times are not going to accommodate that. Your only way of seeing lava in the dark is if you take a self-guided tour and stay the night on the Big Island.

Also, the Big Island guided volcano tours from Oahu do not include the 2-mile roundtrip hike to see the lava flow from the Crater Rim Road overlook. You will be able to see smoke fluming out of the caldera from the Uekahuna overlook, but no lava flow. 

If you take a helicopter tour you will fly over the caldera and also see the lava from above if it’s flowing.

Check current lava conditions here .

How to get from Oahu to the Big Island for a Volcano Tour?

The only way to get from Oahu to the Big Island for a volcano tour is to fly over. Oahu is 200 miles from the Big Island with lots of water in between. If you’re an avid swimmer, maaaayybbbee you could breaststroke your way across 😛

Otherwise, it’s a quick 45min flight from Honolulu to Kona or Hilo. Hawaiian Airlines or Southwest fly direct from Oahu to the Big Island. 

You’ll likely be taking the first flight of the morning to the Big Island and the last flight out (which isn’t very late). The trip will be a whirlwind, but if this is your only opportunity to come see the volcano then it’s the price that you’ll have to pay.

✈️ Book your Oahu to Big Island flights here! ✈️

What To Bring on A Big Island Volcano Tour From Oahu?

You’ll only be gone for the day so you won’t need to pack much on your volcano tour from Oahu to the Big Island, but you’ll want to be prepared for bipolar weather.

Kilauea is at 4,000ft elevation so some days it can get a little chilly, especially if it’s cloudy. Highs are usually mid 70s while the evenings often dip down to the 50s. The temperature warms up the further down Chain of Craters road you go. Thus, layers are highly recommended when visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. 

What to wear : Tank/tshirt Pants or shorts (depending how easily you overheat) Good walking shoes/sandals Light/rain jacket (which can double for warmth if it’s chilly) Hat (the desert sun can sometimes get brutal) Sunglasses 

Items to bring : Small daypack (to carry clothing layers and misc items) Camera Battery charger  

When is the Best Time for a Big Island Volcano Tour from Oahu?

Anytime is the best time to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and take a tour from Oahu to the Big Island. Temperature and weather vary little throughout the year. 

However, while Kilauea is an active volcano, the volcanic activity is too sporadic to predict. It could be spewing lava in the morning but by evening it can go to sleep.

Epilogue: Easy Day Trip Oahu Volcano Tour to the Big Island

An Oahu volcano tour to the Big Island is totally doable and something to seriously consider on your Hawaiian vacation. 

You have many choices like a Big Island in one day volcanoes, waterfalls, sightseeing, and history small group tour. Or a scenic helicopter tour over the volcano. Or even a self-guided tour with the help of a GPS audio guide.

Don’t let that little body of water called the Pacific Ocean keep you from experiencing an active volcano just because it’s on a different island!

Aloha! I'm Tabitha, an ex-travel agent turned travel blogger. I've lived from fire (Big Island Hawaii) to ice (Alaska) to the lukewarm (Washington State). I've traveled Europe, Scotland and England being my favorite, Costa Rica, Cancun, Canada, various US states, and more. No matter if it's a staycation or international vacation, every trip I take there are things to explore and discover! I'm here to take what I learn and help others think outside the box when composing their own travel itineraries.

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Latest reviews of Day Trips: Volcano Tours from Oahu

If not for the rain.

Our quide, Dexter was excellent. He was very thoughtful and professional. He made an otherwise rainy, gloomy day a fun day. The tour gave us a great overview.

Big Island Tour

Perfectly organised day, from communication prior to the day to everyone involved in sny part of the tour. The guide was great, hugely knowledgeable and interesting. The helicopter trip was perhaps the most incredible ... more thing I have ever done. The ground crew were superb and the pilot made it the best trip ever. After waiting 30 years to do this tour it didn't disappoint. Could not recommend it highly enough.

Good tour, but you can't schedule nature

The timings and organisation of the tour were good. We were picked up from the airport and taken to see the Volcano National Park sites with a good guide who kept us informed and was accommodating of our needs. Unfortuna ... more tely you can't schedule nature and we didn't see any volcanic activity apart from a little steam, but it was still interesting, especially the lava tube. We had a helicopter tour with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters to finish off with, but I will not review that part, I will review their admin however. We really wanted a copy of the video of our flight as it was for a 50th birthday, but due to a technical difficulty could not get it at the time. We were told to just drop them a line, but after several emails and calls, still nothing - very disappointed in them.

Dexter was a great guide with tons of information about not only the specific tour items but also the island and people in general. Rainy morning made volcano viewing tough but that’s Mother Nature. The helo tour of volc ... more anos in the afternoon more than made up for things!

Oahu to Big Island in a day

Glad we did it but it's expensive and a very long day. Up at 3:45 to get a taxi to the airport for a 6:00am flight. The tour said lunch included, neither we nor anyone else on the tour thought it would be a packet of ch ... more ips and a turkey wrap in a box on board the bus. It was. The tour locations were excellent, the volcano, lava tube, waterfalls were all spectacular. The guide was good.

Perfect Trip

This was an awesome tour. It went like clockwork and our tour guide, Ernie, was very knowledgeable of the island and took good care of us. I would highly recommend this tour.

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29 Best Things to Do on the Big Island of Hawaii (2024 Bucket List!)

From the smoldering volcanoes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to the sparkling black sands of Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, the Big Island of Hawai’i offers a rugged beauty that will captivate you.

There are so many things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii that you’ll find it difficult to fit everything you want to see and do into one trip.

The largest, and youngest, of the main Hawaiian islands, the Big Island of Hawaii is also known simply as Hawai’i Island. It’s a little more than 4,000 square miles in area, several times larger than Kauai , Oahu , or Maui .

Featuring all but four of the Koppen climate zones, the Big Island is home to the massive volcanoes of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. There’s often snow at the peak of Mauna Kea!

Kona on the leeward side and Hilo on the windward side are the two main bases for visitors to the island.

Swim at night with manta rays near Kona. Stargaze on Mauna Kea. Marvel at the thundering ‘Akaka Falls. Hike to Papakolea Green Sand Beach. Take a farm tour.

Whether you are looking for a fun-filled family getaway or an adventure-filled couples or solo vacation, the Big Island of Hawaii delivers.

Excited? Let’s get started discovering the best things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii!

Snorkeling Captain Cook at Kealakekua Bay should definitely be on your Big Island itinerary: check out our guide to the best Captain Cook snorkel tours !

Some links on this page may be affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. For more details, refer to our disclosure .

Best Things to Do on the Big Island of Hawaii

1. snorkel with manta rays.

One of the most popular attractions on the Big Island of Hawaii, a night snorkel with manta rays is an experience you don’t want to miss!

Manta rays are a giant species of fish. The wingspan of the manta rays you see in Kona can be as much as eight to fourteen feet, and seeing these gentle giants in the water is a thrilling experience.

Manta rays are docile and harmless, so you don’t need to worry about being bitten or stung. They are filter feeders: they swim with their mouths open to filter plankton.

On this guided excursion from Kona, you will be taken out by boat to the snorkel spot. Watch a colorful Hawaiian sunset before the snorkeling begins!

Once in the water, you will hold on to a flotation device and look down into the ocean.

Bright lights are shone down into the water to draw plankton, on which manta rays feed. And you’ll be right there to see the giant fish swim up to feed! Sometimes they even pass really close to you as they swim gracefully by in search of food.

Wet suits, snorkeling gear, and flotation devices are included. Most tours guarantee manta ray sightings or you get additional time or go again.

This highly-rated 2.5-hour tour offers you an hour in the water with the manta rays. Light refreshments are included, as well as all equipment. Manta sightings are guaranteed or you get to go again.

>> Check pricing and availability for this Big Island manta ray snorkeling tour now!

Tip: Book the excursion for early in your trip so you have the opportunity to reschedule if weather washes out your tour or you don’t see any manta rays at all (very rare!)

2. Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The largest park in the state, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is designated an International Biosphere Reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is without a doubt one of the most exciting things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii.

The park is home to two of the most active volcanoes on the planet: Kilauea, and Mauna Loa. Kilauea last erupted in 2023!

If you are lucky enough to visit during an active eruption, viewing the lava flow safely is a thrilling experience.

There are two scenic drives in the park, with the major sights accessed from one or the other: the Crater Rim Drive Tour and the Chain of Craters Road Tour.

Hiking trails in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park let you get up close to the landscapes. The Kilauea Iki Trail to the solid lava lake on the crater floor is hugely popular, as is a shorter hike to see the petroglyphs at Pu’uloa.

Walking through Nāhuku, the Thurston Lava Tube, is another very popular activity in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

The Chain Of Craters Road Tour is a beautiful drive that runs all the way to the ocean, where you can see the gorgeous Holei Sea Arch. The Pu’uloa petroglyphs hike is also along this road.

While you will want to allow at least a full day to explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, two days will allow you to see the sights at leisure and enjoy some hiking.

3. Enjoy sunset and stargazing at Mauna Kea

At 13,803 feet above sea level, the summit of Mauna Kea is the highest point in Hawaii. The summit of the inactive shield volcano is a coveted spot for both sunrise and sunset on the Big Island of Hawaii.

The summit of Mauna Kea is a world famous astrological viewing site, so if your itinerary allows, opt for a sunset and stargazing excursion!

Driving to the summit is only possible in a 4WD vehicle, so it’s easier to book a guided tour if you want to go up to the top. Tour operators bring portable telescopes and you can stargaze under the guidance of an experienced tour leader.

>> Check pricing and availability for a Mauna Kea summit sunset + stargazing tour!

The elevation of the Mauna Kea summit means that altitude sickness could be an issue, so watch for signs if you choose to go to the top. Kids under 13 are not allowed up to the summit.

You don’t have to go all the way to the summit for an excellent sunset and stargazing experience on Mauna Kea.

The Mauna Kea Visitor Station, which is located at 9,200 feet above sea level, can be accessed with a regular car, so you can drive up yourself if you like, and bring kids as well. It is a popular sunset viewing location, so arrive early to be sure of a parking spot.

4. Gaze in awe at Akaka Falls

Among the most breathtaking sights on the Big Island of Hawaii, the 442-foot Akaka Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in the state.

Must-visit Akaka Falls State Park is located just a few miles north of Hilo. In the park, a paved trail leads from the parking area to the waterfall.

One of the best and most scenic short hikes on the Big Island, the trail to Akaka Falls is classed as moderate rather than easy because there are lots of steps along the way.

And if you’d rather not hike the full loop, you can simply walk up to the first intersection and then take the signed shorter walk to Akaka Falls.

But if you have the time and walking isn’t an issue, do the full loop trail to enjoy the wealth of tropical flora (and fauna, if you are lucky) along the way.

Although Akaka Falls is the main attraction in the park, it’s not the only waterfall you’ll see on the trail.

If you visit after rains and it’s flowing well, you can also catch a profile view of Kahuna Falls on this route.

Akaka Falls State Park is open daily from 8.30 a.m. until 5 p.m. For visitors that are not residents of Hawaii, there is a parking fee of $10 per vehicle and an entrance fee of $5 per person over 3 years of age.

Read our complete guide to Akaka Falls State Park !

Don’t have a rental car? Akaka Falls State Park is a stop on this popular Big Island in a Day tour from Kona. The full day tour also includes Rainbow Falls, which we describe below in #8!

5. Take in the beauty of Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

There are several black sand beaches on the Big Island of Hawaii but perhaps none as well known as Punalu’u Black Sand Beach , easily accessed from Highway 11.

Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is located between Pahala and Naalehu on the southeastern Kaʻu coast.

Fringed with coconut trees, the black sands of Punalu’u Beach are a stunning sight.

But the photo op isn’t the only reason to visit: you may also find Hawaiian green sea turtles, known in Hawaiian as honu, and hawksbill turtles (known as honu’ea), resting on the sands here. You may also see the occasional Hawaiian monk seal.

There are underground freshwater springs here, and the waters mingle with the saltwater in the bay to create a unique aqueous environment.

Punalu’u Beach is lifeguarded, and there are restrooms and showers to wash the sand off your feet.

While Punalu’u isn’t an ideal swimming (or snorkeling) beach, it is worth visiting for the unique scenery. The currents here can be too rough for safe swimming and the waters usually too murky for good visibility.

If you happen to visit on a day when the waters are calm, you may find that the visibility is good for snorkeling.

Get the full scoop on how to visit Punalu’u Black Sand Beach !

6. Visit Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park

One of the top historical sites on the Big Island, Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park on the South Kona Coast makes for a convenient and very interesting visit.

Considered a place of refuge in Old Hawaii, Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau is one of the best preserved places of refuge in the state.

If you had broken kapu , the sacred laws that governed the social order, the punishment was almost always death, unless you evaded your pursuers and made it safely to a puʻuhonua .

In a puʻuhonua , you could stay safe from punishment, and eventually return to your home once an ali’i , a high priest, had absolved you.

Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, one of the four national parks sites on Hawaii Island , is not only historically significant, it also has a lovely setting by the ocean.

Wander the Royal Grounds, admire the Great Wall (much of the original survives even though it was built without mortar), and snap photos of the reconstructed Canoe Hālau.

The Hale o Keawe, a former royal mausoleum, stands by the ocean, guarded by ki’i , wooden statues of Hawaiian gods.

Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park is open daily from 8.15 a.m. until sunset.

Read our full guide to visiting Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park !

7. Spend a beach day at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area

A long and expansive white sand beach with turquoise waters, Hapuna Beach routinely makes lists of the best beaches in the USA and is one of the top places to visit on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Located on the Kohala Coast north of Kailua-Kona, Hapuna Beach offers swimming and snorkeling when conditions are calm, sunbathing, and bodyboarding.

Sunset is a spectacular time to be at Hapuna Beach!

If you enjoy oceanfront hiking, the Ala Kahakai Trail can be accessed from Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area. The full trail is a 15.4-mile loop, but you can easily hike a part of it when you visit Hapuna Beach.

There’s a picnic pavilion and picnic tables at Hapuna Beach, as well as shade from trees that fringe the beach at the back. Great if you want to have a family beach day!

Three Frogs Cafe, on the beach, has food and offers gear rentals. The beach has restrooms and showers.

Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area is open daily from 7 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. If you are not a Hawaii resident, there is an entrance fee of $5.00 per person and a parking fee of $10.00 per vehicle.

Read our full guide to Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area .

8. Admire Rainbow Falls in Hilo

Rainbow Falls is part of Wailuku River State Park, one of 14 state parks on the Big Island that protect its many sightseeing treasures.

Among the most-visited waterfalls on the Big Island, Rainbow Falls is a darling of landscape photographers for its lush setting.

And everyone can appreciate the ease of access: Rainbow Falls is right in downtown Hilo and can be seen from a viewing area right by the parking area.

No need to lace up your hiking shoes to view the falls, but a short hike, if you choose to do it, takes you also to the top of the falls. The short walk takes you past several mature banyan trees.

Rainbow Falls is a relatively wide waterfall that cascades about 80 feet down into a plunge pool. The cave over which it drops is considered the home of Hina, a Hawaiian goddess.

Want to see the rainbows for which the waterfall is named? You have to visit early in the day on a sunny morning. A sunny day is not very common in rainy Hilo, so you are lucky if you do catch a rainbow here.

Rainbow Falls is open daily during daylight hours and there is no fee to visit.

9. Snorkel at the Captain Cook Monument in Kealakekua Bay

The Captain Cook Monument is part of Kealakekua Bay State Historcal Park. It’s located on the South Kona Coast, an easy drive from Kailua-Kona.

With a very picturesque backdrop and calm turquoise waters, Kealaekekua Bay is a must-visit snorkeling destination on the Big Island.

So rich is the coral reef here that the bay is the location of a Marine Life Conservation District. You may even see spinner dolphins in the bay.

The most easy to visit part of the park is Nopoʻopoʻo Beach Park, a pebbly beach that offers good snorkeling, and the Hikiau Heiau, an important ancient Hawaiian temple. You can get to this part of the park by car.

But the best snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay is to be found in the waters by the Captain Cook Monument, a white obelisk-shaped memorial to the English explorer that stands at the shore of the bay.

Captain Cook died in this area in 1779 after a skirmish with local Hawaiians.

A steep hike takes you down to the monument, or you can arrive by kayak or on a boat tour. There are several companies that run boat tours to Kealakekua Bay .

By far the most popular means to get to this amazing snorkel spot is on a guided boat tour from Kona .

This 4-hour snorkeling cruise from Kona allows you to snorkel in the waters at the Captain Cook Monument, look for dolphins along the way, and enjoy lunch after snorkeling.

>> Check pricing and availability for this Captain Cook snorkeling cruise now!

10. Tour the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

Touring the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is one of the best things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii, and even visitors with only a casual interest in plants will love wandering the paths here.

Located just a few miles north of Hilo along the scenic Old Mamalahoa Highway, the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is home to an impressive collection of tropical plants.

The garden was originally established by Dan Lutkenhouse, who bought a 17-acre parcel of land here in the late 1970s and set about clearing it, with an assistant, of all the overgrowth. Then plants were collected and planted over the course of the following decades.

Onomea Falls is a lovey waterfall that was discovered when the land was cleared. Today, Onomea Falls and a second waterfall, Boulder Creek Falls, are showcased in the garden.

Walk the paths to admire the extensive collection of orchids, palms, heliconias, bromeliads, and other tropical and sub-tropical species. The garden also features views of Onomea Bay.

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is open daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Entrance is $30.00 per adult visitor that’s not a resident of Hawaii, with discounts for residents, active military personnel, and kids.

Read our detailed guide to the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden !

11. Take in the views at the Pololu Valley Lookout

One of the most stunning viewpoints on the Big Island of Hawaii, the Pololu Valley Lookout is located on the northeastern coast of the island.

The Pololu Valley Lookout is well worth the 80-minute drive up the Kohala Coast from Kailua-Kona, or a must-stop spot if you are taking the northern route to get from Kona to Hilo or vice versa.

There is a small parking area at the end of the road. Usually volunteers are present to guide traffic and offer trail information.

Park and enjoy the astounding views of the cliffs of Pololu Valley, and the coastline. It’s one of the most photographed views on the Big Island.

If you are up for the challenge of the steep descent and ascent, you can hike the trail down to the black sand beach at the bottom, although the beach is not safe for swimming.

If you choose to hike down, stay on the beach and do not cross into roped off areas. Pololu Valley is a sacred site for Hawaiians and contains a historic burial site.

12. Hike the Kilauea Iki Trail

Hiking the Kilauea Iki Trail is without a doubt one of the best things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii. You’ll find the trail inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

At 4 miles total length, the out and back Kilauea Iki Trail is classed as a moderately challenging hike and is doable for families with active kids that are not very young.

Kilauea Iki is our favorite Big Island hike: the views are spectacular.

The trailhead for the Kilauea Iki Trail is on Crater Rim Drive, just a 5-minute drive from the Kilauea Visitor Center. Since the trail is hugely popular, parking tends to fill up early, so plan or arriving first thing in the morning.

The trail starts by going through a forest of ohia lehua trees (when in bloom, their red flowers are gorgeous!) and hapuu ferns, and then descends to the barren crater floor for a complete change of scenery.

In the forested areas, look for native Hawaiian honeycreepers like the i’iwi and the ‘apapane.

13. Visit the Papakōlea Green Sand Beach

For adventure loving visitors, one of the best things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii is visit the Papakōlea Green Sand Beach .

There are just a handful of green sand beaches on the entire planet, so it’s not surprising that Papakolea Beach is on the bucket list of many visitors to Hawaii Island.

Created by deposits of olivine, a component of lava on the Big Island, Papakolea Green Sand Beach can be found at the very southern tip of the island. It is a picturesque beach, carved in an old cinder cone.

There is only one legal way to visit this remote and beautiful Big Island beach: hiking. Drive to the parking lot at the end of South Point Road, where you can park in the parking lot.

Take the road to the water and then follow the road until you get to the cliffs above Papakolea Beach. Here you can choose to carefully climb down the cliff to the beach or view it from above.

Swimming at Papakolea Beach is iffy because the surf is often too rough. There is no lifeguard, and no other amenities.

The green sand beach hike is 2.5 miles each way and exposed, so it tends to get very hot. Plan to start as early in the day as you can, and use sun protection.

Note: You may find locals offering 4X4 Jeep rides from the public parking lot to the cliffs above Papakolea Beach, but the activity is not legal. And rental car companies forbid you from driving this road in your rental car. So the only legal way to visit is by hiking.

14. Tour a Coffee Farm

Trying Kona coffee in the place where it’s grown is one of the top things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Kona Coffee, considered among the best coffee in the world, gets its name from the fact that it’s grown on the slopes of Hualalai and Mauna Loa in the North and South Kona Districts of the Big Island.

Because production is limited, 100 percent Kona coffee is very expensive.

You can order a cup of Kona coffee at a restaurant when you visit the Big Island but for a more immersive experience, you can also visit one of the many farms in the region that offer tours.

On a typical visit, you will walk through the coffee orchards and learn about the cultivation and harvesting process. Then you will visit the mill, where the beans are processed.

And of course you will taste the coffee! You can usually buy some to bring back, or order coffee to be shipped to your home.

Many Big Island tours include a stop at a local coffee farm. This highly rated tour , for example, combines a visit from Kona to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with a stop at a local coffee farm.

As coffee aficionados, we loved this dedicated 90-minute coffee farm experience led by the farm owners. The farm, on the Hualalai volcano, can be accessed via taxi or Uber if you do not have a rental car.

15. Visit the Waipi’o Valley Lookout

The Waipi’o Valley Lookout is a stunning viewpoint on the northeast side of the Big Island, a few miles north of Hilo.

The valley is historically significant as the childhood home of King Kamehameha I, the first ruler of the Kingdom of Hawaii. It’s called “the Valley of the Kings.”

The lush Waipio Valley is surrounded by towering volcanic cliffs and a place of breathtaking beauty. Once a valley where many Hawaiians lived, today Waipio Valley is home to under 100 people.

The Waipio Valley Overlook offers a great view down into the valley and the coastline with its black sand beach. It is one of the top photo spots on the Big Island.

There is a small parking lot where you can park your car for free and then walk down to the vista point. It’s a rather steep walk down, but there are handrails on either side to assist.

There are restrooms and some shade if you want to enjoy a meal here, and boards with information about historic Waipio Valley.

You cannot drive or hike down into the valley at this time: the steep road leading down is currently closed to visitors.

16. Take a helicopter tour over the Big Island

All the Hawaiian islands look gorgeous from the air, and the Big Island of Hawaii is no exception. No wonder a helicopter tour is on the bucket list for so many visitors to Hawaii!

If an eruption is in progress when you visit a helicopter tour is a fantastic way to take in the action from above. And Kilauea eruptions happen quite frequently, so it isn’t farfetched to think one might occur when you plan to visit.

But even otherwise, a helicopter tour is worthy of your Big Island bucket list, to see its diverse landscapes spread out beneath you, juxtaposed with the blue of the surrounding Pacific Ocean.

This highly-rated deluxe Big Island helicopter tour has a flight time of one hour and 45 minutes and covers the entire island.

You will see the steam vents of Kilauea, the massive forms of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, waterfalls on the Kohala Coast, and the lush rainforest of the Hamakua Coast.

>>> Check pricing and availability for this Big Island helicopter tour now!

17. Drive the Scenic Hamakua Coast

There are a number of very scenic drives on the Big Island of Hawaii, and the Hamakua Coast drive is right there among the best.

The Hamakua Heritage Corridor stretches from the town of Hilo, on the Big Island’s east coast, to the historic Waipio Valley Overlook (see #14 above!)

This super scenic 40-mile stretch of coast is replete with lush rainforest, waterfalls, and jaw-dropping views of the coastline, with many must-stop spots along the route.

Be sure to include the Pepe’ekeo Scenic Drive, four miles of spectacular scenery just north of Hilo. You will enjoy beautiful views of Onomea Bay as you traverse the narrow winding road with moss-covered bridges and creeks.

Stop to explore the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden and Akaka Falls State Park. Each is a Big Island attraction in its own right.

Further north, Laupahoehoe Point is a must-stop spot for a stunning view over the coastline.

Kalopa State Recreation Area features a lovely hike through a forest of ohia lehua trees, and if you enjoy farm tours, be sure to stop at the Hawaiian Vanilla Company.

The little town of Honoka’a is another worthwhile stop on this beautiful drive, before you arrive at the Waipio Valley Overlook, the end point of your drive.

18. Attend a Big Island luau

Although other Hawaiian islands like Maui are more known for their luau offerings, that does not mean that you cannot enjoy a luau on the Big Island of Hawaii.

A luau is a traditional Hawaiian celebration that usually combines a feast of local delicacies with entertainment that includes Hawaiian or Polynesian music and dance.

Today’s luaus are large events, so expect your luau experience to be a shared experience with several dozen other visitors.

The Voyagers of the Pacific Luau at the Royal Kona Resort in Kona is held in an oceanfront setting. It is one of the most popular luaus on the Big Island, with an imu ceremony, a buffet feast, and a Polynesian show.

>>> Check pricing and availability for the Voyagers of the Pacific Luau now!

Island Breeze Luau is held in downtown Kona, making it a breeze to attend. The oceanfront luau features a Hawaiian buffet and open bar and a Polynesian show that ends with Samoan fire dancing.

>>> Check pricing and availability for the Island Breeze Luau now!

19. Tour the Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park

For visitors that enjoy taking in some local history on vacations, a visit to the Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park can be both educational and fun.

One of the Big Island national parks sites that’s located an easy drive from Kona, Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park is home to traditional Hawaiian fishponds that offer insight into how Hawaiians used ingenuity to make the most of the resources available to them.

Several types of fishponds were used by the Hawaiians to capture or raise fish, one of the major food sources on the islands.

The Aimakapa Fishpond in the park used to be a loko pu’uone, a type of fishpond along the shore that made use of seawater and freshwater sources to raise fish.

If you enjoy birdwatching, be sure to bring your binoculars: the Aimakapa Fishpond is habitat for many different species of birds, many of them migratory.

Honokohau Beach is a lovely white coral sand beach in the park. There are tidepools to explore, and the beach makes for a nice stroll. You may see honu , Hawaiian green sea turtles, or a Hawaiian monk seal on the beach.

Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park is open daily all through the year. The Hale Ho’okipa Visitor Center and the parking area are open from 8.30 a.m. until 4 p.m.

20. Go ziplining

When our kids were in their teens, we always included a zipline adventure when we visited any Hawaiian island. They loved soaring above the forests and past waterfalls!

If you love the idea of a zipline adventure, you will find lots of zipline tours on the Big Island from which to choose, but we especially like the ones that include waterfalls.

This highly-rated zipline adventure over Kolekole Falls starts at Honomu, just a short drive north of Hilo. It’s an amazing ride because you zip right past the waterfall!

The 7-line adventure starts off small and gradually increases in length and height per zipline, making for an amazing ride.

>>> Check pricing and availability for the Kolekole Falls zipline adventure now!

Or consider this 9-line, 2-hour zipline adventure over Umauma Falls , also near Hilo. The experience features four dual lines, so you can even zip along beside a friend or family member.

With views of the Pacific Ocean from every platform, and views over forests, rivers, and waterfalls as you ride, this is one of the most scenic zipline adventures on the Big Island!

>>> Check pricing and availability for the Umauma Falls zipline adventure now!

21. Tour the Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site

If you enjoy local history, Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site makes for an interesting visit on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii.

An easy drive north of Kona Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site is located just off Hghway 19 and is home to the largest heiau (sacred temple) in Hawaii.

The restored stone temple was built by King Kamehameha I, credited with unifying the islands into the Kingdom of Hawaii. He was reportedly told by his high priest to build the temple in order to gain the spiritual power to control the island of Hawaii.

The rocks used to build the original temple were brought in from Pololu Valley, with people forming a line end to end to pass the rocks by hand.

With walls on three sides (the side facing the sea was left open), the heiau was built without mortar.

A 0.5-mile loop trail takes you through the park. Active visitors can also hike south from the park along the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail.

Other than viewing the historic sites, look for marine life in the ocean: sightings of dolphins, sea birds, and whales (in season) are common. The park is also a birders’ paradise, with many species.

Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site is open daily from 7.30 a.m. until 5 p.m. and entrance is free.

22. Explore Kona

Kona is a delightful town to explore on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Also known as Kailua-Kona, the town is a popular start point for excursions along the north and south Kona coast, but also allow some time to stroll the town itself.

Visit the Hulihe‘e Palace, located on Ali’i Drive. It used to be a summer palace for Hawaiian royalty and today it’s a museum you can tour. Take the docent-led tour if you can, for a more immersive experience!

If you are a craft beer enthusiast, tour the Kona Brewing Company! You will get an engaging lesson in how the beer is brewed, followed by a tasting of samples.

There are boutique shops and art galleries in town if you enjoy retail therapy. Some of the galleries feature the works of local artists if you want to browse for souvenirs to bring back home while supporting the local economy.

Quilting enthusiasts will want to make a stop at the small Kona Hawaiian Quilt Museum and Gallery. We thought the quilts on display were gorgeous.

23. Take a farm tour

A coffee plantation is only one of the types of farm tours you can experience on the Big Island of Hawaii, and one of our favorite things to do is find a new farm to tour every time we visit.

On a tour of the Hawaiian Salt Farm in Kona , you will learn how Hawaiian salt is harvested by hand from the ocean. Walk the lovely grounds by the ocean and sample a variety of Hawaiian salts.

At the Vanillerie , a small vanilla farm in Kona, you can see vanilla growing on the vine. The tour is very informational, and you can sample some vanilla ice cream, made with in-house vanilla. And you can shop for vanilla products to bring home!

Just one hour from Hilo, you can take a guided tour of an edible hibiscus farm and learn how it is used in syrups, teas, and other products. The farm offers great ocean views as well!

Also near Hilo you can visit a coffee and chocolate plantation , to learn about coffee is grown and produced, and to discover the chocolate-making journey from bean to bar. Sample both treats after your tour!

24. Hike the Lava Trees Loop Trail

Lava trees are a unique feature that you have to see when you visit the Big Island of Hawaii!

Protected at the Lava Tree State Monument a little south of Hilo, lava trees are molds left behind after a lava flow has swept through a forest. They look like sculptures, only carved by nature.

An easy family-friendly 0.7-mile loop trail winds through the forest, allowing you to see the lava tree molds up close and snap photos. The trail is paved but it has some rough patches, so watch your step as you walk.

Along the trail, you can also see where new forest growth is coming up.

You will find the trailhead right next to the parking area. If you bring a picnic meal, this is a nice park in which to relax and enjoy a meal.

There are restrooms in the park but no drinking water, so be sure to bring your own.

Lava Tree State Monument is open daily during daylight hours and is free to visit.

25. Enjoy the white sand beach of Kua Bay

From Kona, drive up the coast to Maniniʻōwali Beach, a gorgeous white sand beach that’s also known as Kua Bay, after the body of water on which it is located.

Part of the Kekaha Kai State Park, Maniniʻōwali Beach is the perfect place to enjoy beach time on the leeward side of the Big Island.

You’ll find the water crystal clear here, and the beach is a little more secluded than other white sand beaches nearby that are easier to access.

Fringed with lava rocks, Maniniʻōwali Beach is a picture postcard beach. Even if you do not set foot in the water, it makes for a wonderful place to sunbathe or stroll.

If you plan to visit in the winter, Maniniʻōwali Beach is a spectacular sunset viewing spot. But note that the waves can be strong here in the winter, so it’s not the best time of year to get into the water.

When the waters are calm, though, you can snorkel or swim at Maniniʻōwali Beach. There is a reef to look for marine life, and you may see dolphins or whales (in season) out in the ocean. There is a lifeguard.

Maniniʻōwali Beach offers restrooms and showers. There is no shade, so bring your own. You may find a food truck here, but if you want to eat, bring a picnic lunch.

26. Explore the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail

The Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is a 175-mile series of trails that seeks to preserve stunning coastal landscapes and ancient Hawaiian sites. It literally means “path by the sea.”

The trail runs from Upolu Point in the northwest of the island, all along the west side, and up the eastern side to Puna.

You can access the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail at many points along its length, but the most popular stretch lies between Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area and Spencer Beach Park on the Kohala Coast.

This stretch of the trail offers spectacular ocean views as it winds through some waterfront residential areas with upscale homes and a golf course.

En route, you will find lots of little beaches and lava rock areas to explore. You can even stop to snorkel or swim if conditions are calm.

Use sun protection, since most of this stretch of trail is exposed. Morning is a wonderful time to enjoy this walk: you may even have the trail all to yourself on a weekday morning.

Wear water sandals that are suitable for hiking on uneven terrain and carry drinking water.

27. Visit the Hilo Farmers Market

Held daily, year round, the Hilo Farmers Market is as much a local attraction as it is a place to shop for fresh fruit or souvenirs.

You’ll find the market in downtown Hilo, at the corner of Mamo Street and Kamehameha Avenue.

Wednesdays and Saturdays are the “big” market days, with over 200 vendors. The market is open 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. on these days. On other days of the week, a smaller market is open from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Vendors run the gamut from local farmers to artisans, retailers, restaurants, and food trucks.

Look for fresh produce, a variety of fresh tropical fruit, local honey, coffee, tropical flowers, and arts and crafts. Enjoy fresh poke and other prepared foods and treat yourself to refreshing shave ice.

Prices are usually reasonable, and if you are lucky, you may find a unique locally-handcrafted souvenir to bring home!

28. Visit the Kaumana Caves

Near downtown Hilo on Kaumana Drive you can explore the Kaumana Caves, a network of underground lava formations. It’s one of the coolest things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii!

Formed during the Mauna Loa lava flows of 1881 that threatened the town of Hilo, the Kaumana Caves feature many interesting lava formations.

There is no entrance fee, and you can explore as much or as little of the public areas of the underground caves as you like. Some of the site is on private property.

The area right near the entrance has some natural light that you can augment with the light from your phone. The cascading plants are gorgeous!

But to explore beyond the immediate entrance area, wear a headlamp or bring a flashlight, and wear proper footwear, long pants, and a long-sleeved top. And explore with a buddy!

The park offers restrooms, and there are picnic tables. There is a small parking lot across the street where you can park for free.

29. Snorkel at Two Step Beach at Honaunau Bay!

Love snorkeling from shore? Two Step Beach on the South Kona Coast is one of the best places to snorkel on the Big Island.

Two Step at Honaunau Bay is a short drive south from Kona, and you can combine snorkeling at two Step with visiting Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historic Park next door.

There’s no real beach here, but Two Step has a stunning setting with lots of lava rock shelves and an expansive coral reef. The turquoise waters of Honaunau Bay beckon invitingly.

It’s called “Two Step” because of the two-step entry into the water.

While the nearshore waters offer impressive snorkeling, with schools of colorful tropical fish and the occasional sea turtle, also keep an eye out for dolphins cavorting in the deeper waters of the bay.

Two Step Beach is also a popular diving location, and you may see classes for beginners in progress at the northern end of the bay. More advanced divers also set on scuba diving excursions from the beach.

Parking nearby comes with a small fee, but you can also park along the road to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historic Park if there is a spot and then walk to Two Step.

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10 Jaw-Dropping Big Island Volcano Tours

A re you planning a trip to the big island and want to know some fun big island activities to add to your itinerary find out the best big island volcano tours worth booking to see hawaii volcanoes national park ..

The Big Island , known as Hawaii, is an incredible place to take a relaxing vacation where you can swim with dolphins , go snorkeling, ride through caves, and even zipline over the tropical rainforest.

It’s an area with so much to do, see, and enjoy while you’re with your loved ones, whether traveling with a group of friends or your family. The vast island is the perfect place to travel to when you’d like to enjoy a learning experience while spending lots of time in the sun and by the water. 

During your visit to Hawaii Island, be sure to check out the Hawaiian volcano tours. If you love learning about volcanoes, this is an excellent time to see dormant ones on the island that are large, unique, and worth visiting.

If you’re not sure which tour to take, check out this list of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tours that will leave you with more knowledge and a new perspective on the Earth!

See the top-rated Hawaii volcano tour HERE!

Popular Big Island Tours/Activities

• Manta Ray Snorkeling Tour (you can ONLY do this on the Big Island)
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour (this is the BEST way to see lava if you aren’t renting a car)
• Mauna Kea Stargazing Tour (this is a cool adventure for teens and adults)
• Swim with Dolphins (this is a unique experience for kids of all ages and adults)
• Kona ATV Tour (we love this one because they also do cultural activities)
• Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)

Favorite Big Island Resorts/Hotels

• Hilton Waikoloa Village (this is a mega resort where you can swim with dolphins or just enjoy their massive pool area)
• Courtyard by Marriott’s King Kamehameha Beach Hotel (this is a moderately-priced Kona hotel right on a little lagoon)
• Fairmont Orchid (this is a swanky resort with an awesome pool area and beach)

Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii?

One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Big Island Itinerary, complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

Incredible Big Island Volcano Tours Worth Booking

Here are some of the top Hawaii volcano tours you can enjoy on the Big Island of Hawaii!

Volcano Circle of Fire Helicopter Flight From Hilo

Go on the exploration of a lifetime with the Volcano Circle of Fire Helicopter Flight From Hilo . You can ride on a helicopter for nearly an hour during the trip while heading out over the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

You may be surprised to see an active volcano on the excursion, but Kilauea Volcano is such a sight to see. People enjoy the experience so much that it’s common for the company to sell out of tickets. So it’s a good idea to buy your tickets in advance for such an unforgettable experience in the air. Check latest rates and more information .

Take Your Family to New Heights to See Amazing Views 

Infants and children under the age of one can ride free with their parents or guardians. There is enough space on the helicopter for a small family to hang together while taking in the views, including the beautiful ocean water, cliffs, waterfalls, and volcanoes.

Unlike outdated helicopters, this technologically advanced aircraft doesn’t make too much noise at all. The pilot provides a safe and comfortable experience for riders while offering valuable information on the area during the trip. It’s one Hawaii lava helicopter tour you won’t forget about taking while you’re on the Big Island.

As one of the Big Island’s top attractions, you will love this small group tour on a helicopter!

Ultimate Circle Island Tour – Volcano, Waterfalls, and Waipio

Do you look forward to heading out early in the morning and spending a full day exploring while seeing volcanoes? If so, the Ultimate Circle Island Tour – Volcano, Waterfalls, and Waipio is a must-do!

While you’re on this Big Island volcano tour, you get the opportunity to see some of the most exciting and popular places on the island.

Some of the stops that you’ll get to make include visits to the Volcanoes National Park, Waipio Valley, and the stunning Rainbow Falls, to name a few. Check latest rates and more information.

Fun for All Ages

The Kona volcano tour is ideal for people of all ages. If you’re traveling with young children, you can still enjoy this incredible full-day adventure that begins with a stop at the Bay View Coffee Farm and a trip to the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. 

While you’re on the excursion, you can expect to visit the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island Candies, and even the KKA Store. It’s a lot to see, do, and experience in one day, but it’s worth it! 

Lunch, Snacks, and Beverages are Included 

The tour is perfect for groups of 14 people or less! Don’t worry about going hungry or thirsty while spending so many hours exploring. Guests receive a picnic-style lunch on the beach. Snacks and beverages are also available throughout the excursion.

It’s a great tour to learn more about the Hawaiian culture and see the volcano national park all in one day!

Big Circle Island Tour to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Check out some of the top attractions with the Big Circle Island Tour which will take you to the Volcanoes National Park in Hawaii. The tour is available daily, takes place for roughly 12 hours, and is ideal for adults and children at least five years old or older.

The trip starts with an incredible breakfast consisting of fresh fruit and homemade delicacies. Next, you can spend time at the famous Punalu’u Bakery, head over to Black Sand Beach, and visit the Volcano Winery and Tea Farm.  Check latest rates and more information .

Witness Impressive Sights

From there, you’ll head over to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to see some of the most impressive sights, including Chain of Craters Road, lava flow depending on lava viewing conditions, and many natural steam vents.

While it already sounds like a lot of fun, there is even more for you to do on this tour. You can stop by Rainbow Falls and enjoy its beauty, along with the fresh and cool breeze that comes from it. 

You can also take a drive along the coast of Hamakua. Expect to have an incredible Hawaiian-style lunch while on the journey. If you look forward to seeing new sights and spending hours outside in the warm sunshine, this volcano tour will leave you satisfied and thoroughly impressed with the experience.

Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour

Discover Hawaii’s most mesmerizing sights on this Big Island twilight volcano tour. Sample Kona-grown coffee from a local Kona coffee farm, keep an eye out for sea turtles at Punaluu Black Sand Beach, and taste Hawaiian sweet bread at Punalu’hu Bakery before exploring Volcanoes National Park with views of the night sky.

Indulge in a Hawaiian dinner as you explore one of the best locations to see stars in all their glory—perfect for taking in amazing vistas of nighttime skies! Check latest rates and more information .

Perfect for Families with Kids Ages 5+

Because of the uneven terrain, this Hawaii Volcanoes National Park night tour is only offered for kids who are at least 5 years old. You’ll also get a picnic lunch and restaurant dinner, plus snacks and drinks.

You can even borrow jackets to stay nice and warm while gazing at the stars. Plus, it is awesome to see the volcanic activity on the active lava during the night!

Paradise Helicopters Volcano Tour

Why not take a thrilling trip while on the Big Island with the Paradise Helicopters Volcano Tour ? It’s the perfect way to see volcanoes from a unique angle that you wouldn’t see any other way.

This Big Island lava tour isn’t too long, lasting for roughly 50 minutes, but it’s worth every minute spent in the air while overlooking these incredible volcanoes in front of you. 

The comfortable and convenient ride gives guests a chance to see the stunning Kilauea volcano and the lava flowing from it. Helicopter tours are some of the best Hawaii volcano tours you can go on!

Along with the volcanoes that you’ll get to see, expect to enjoy views of the beautiful waterfalls on the island. The helicopter pilot will take you over to the Hilo area to see the waterfalls in action! Check latest rates and more information .

Ideal for Smaller Families with Children 2 Years and Older

The unique and unforgettable experience is available for adults and children at least two years old. If you’d like to go on a shorter tour where you’re excitingly experiencing the area from an aerial viewpoint, this tour is perfect.

It’s great for small families looking to do something exhilarating while enjoying the scenery. The sights you’ll see will leave you stunned because of the natural beauty of the island.

I love that the entire family can enjoy this helicopter tour to enjoy the active volcanic landscape and molten lava. The tour operators are so kind and truly try to make this one of the best volcano tours you’ll find!

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Private Tour

Visit the world’s most active volcano on a private tour around Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. These 3- and 6-hour, education-based explorations focus on native flora and fauna, geology, as well as Hawaiian culture that still thrives today.

Learn more about Kilauea’s summit area by hiking or watching an eruption from sunset to sunrise (if the volcano is currently erupting). With your own personal guide for a personalized experience, you will be able to explore this amazing park and get all your questions answered! Check latest rates and more information .

Perfect for Small Groups or Multi-Generational Trips

The main perk of this Big Island Hawaii volcano tour is that it is only your group participating. It’s completely private so you can fully enjoy an in depth volcano experience.

Because this tour is stroller friendly, it’s an easy Big Island tour to do with young kids as well as older people.

Oahu to Big Island – One Day Fly Away to the Volcanoes National Park

Take a trip from Oahu on this Oahu to Big Island – One Day Fly Away excursion. The lengthy trip lasts for a little over 15 hours and is ideal for people of all ages.

Even if you’re traveling with an infant or toddler , you can still go on this tour and have a great time with the family. The sightseeing adventure begins with a quick flight from Oahu to Hilo. 

Once you arrive at the destination, you’ll make one of the first stops at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. While you’re at the park, you can see enormous craters that will leave you in shock and excitement. You can even grab food from the Volcano House Restaurant. Check latest rates and more information.

Check-in at the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nuts Factory 

Once you’ve visited the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and have had time to explore and eat, you can take the trip over to the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nuts Factory. Not only can you taste some of these great nuts, but you’ll also have access to other delicious treats, including fresh cookies baked on the premises. 

Not far from the nut factory, you can take the trip over to the beautiful Akaka Falls . While you’re taking this tour, you’ll also get to check out other spots, including Rainbow Falls and Banyan Drive. Spend a day exploring Hawaii with this fantastic tour for children and adults.

It is one of the top inter-island tours on the Hawaiian islands!

Hawaii Volcano Explorer Tour Adventure

If you’re all about exploring Hawaii and its incredible volcanoes, take advantage of the opportunity to get out there with the Hawaii Volcano Explorer Tour Adventure . The 12-hour trip is perfect for families traveling together and looking to have wonderful experiences.

Even if you’re traveling with a toddler or infant, you can still go on this incredible adventure.  Check latest rates and more information .

Find Out How Coffee is Made 

Expect to stop at the Bay View Farm, where you can learn more about coffee produced in the area and even taste it for yourself! After a trip to the farm, you can make your way over to the Punaluu Black Sand Beach for fun on the sand and in the water. You might even come across some green sea turtles!

Learn Fascinating History

Once you’ve stopped at the beach and have had time to explore, it’s the perfect time to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can spend several hours learning about the history of these impressive volcanoes, and you might even see some lava flowing from the Kilauea Volcano.

Then, enjoy a hike to some of the best spots in the area, including Mauna Ulu and Steaming Bluffs. You’ll also get to enjoy a picnic-style lunch with the family on this fun adventure.

3 Hour Fat Tire E-Bike Activity Volcanoes National Park

If you are looking for a fun adventure while on Big Island’s volcano tours, you will love this Fat Tire E-Bike Activity . Your tour guide will teach you all about Hawaiian history and culture and give you the latest volcano updates and facts as you zoom around the park.

It is one of the best volcano tours if you want to soak in as much of the park as you can while being out in the open air. Check latest rates and more information .

This tour is best for teens and adults who want to see the volcanic activity, see the steam vents, the Kilauea caldera, this incredible Hawaii forest, and so much more.

If you are comfortable riding an E-bike, you will love this small group tour!

Elite Volcano Hiking Tour

If you packed your hiking boots, this is one of the best Big Island tours for you. With the Elite Volcano Hiking Tour , you will get to explore Volcanoes National Park!

From the lava flows to lava tubes, Kilauea Iki Overlook, Mauna Ulu Forest Loop, and so much more! You will see lava up close from the glow of the lava as well as molten lava. Check latest rates and more information .

Not only can you enjoy the hikes at this national park, but you will also get to explore many other places around here. To start off the tour, you will drive along Saddle Road, which is located between Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea.

You will also drive through Hilo Town and see the Kaumana Caves. At the end of your tour, you will have a delicious dinner at Lava Rock Cafe.

This full-day trip tour lasts for 14 hours and is an awesome experience!

Enjoy the Most Incredible Hawaii Volcano Tours on the Big Island

You can see a volcano on television, but have you witnessed one in person? If not, consider booking one of the Big Island Volcano Tours for an adventure of a lifetime.

You’ll get to spend hours outside exploring some of these Hawaii lava tours. However, there are shorter options that allow you to ride on a helicopter to get some of the best views of all time.

Regardless of the tour you choose, you can expect the experience of the tour to leave a lasting impression on you and your loved ones.

And if you really want to turn it into an educational experience, try running one of these volcano experiments before your trip!

Hawaii Volcanoes FAQs

As of 2023, there are 6 Hawaii volcanoes that are considered active. And the Big Island of Hawaii is home to 4 out of those 6. The active volcanoes on the Big Island include Kilauea, Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea, and Hualalai. The remaining active volcano is Haleakala on Maui. There is also a volcano off of Big Island’s coast that is underwater too!

Unless the volcanoes are actively erupting, you will not be able to see lava in Hawaii. Kilauea last erupted in December 2020.

While you won’t die if you quickly touch the lava, you will definitely get a horrible burn. I definitely don’t recommend it!

It depends on traffic, but it usually takes about 2 hours if you don’t make any stops. There are a lot of cool places to see along the drive from Kona, so I suggest planning for 3-4 hours to take in some sights along the way.

Usually, the best way to see the volcano in Big Island is to go on a Hawaii volcano tour! You can also enjoy some self-guided tours if you prefer to go at your own pace to view these active volcanoes.

The best volcano tours take you to see the Kilauea volcano and help you to explore Volcanoes National Park. There are even some that take you to some black sand beaches and take you on a day trip all around the island of Hawaii.

If you want to see the red, hot lava glow, then you will want to go very early in the morning or after it gets dark under the night sky. However, there are plenty of other awesome things to explore at the Big Island volcanoes, so you can visit any time you want!

Where to Stay in Volcano Hawaii

Now that you know what to do at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, let’s talk about accommodations. There are tons of options for places to stay in Volcano Hawaii for all price points.

Unless you want to go camping, the only place to stay inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the Volcano House Hotel . It’s a historic Big Island hotel that is super convenient for exploring the park. And it’s great for exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with kids !

Otherwise, your best bet is to stay at a vacation rental in Volcano Village. Some of my top picks include Hale Sweet Hale (featured on HGTV), At the Crater’s Edge , and Volcano Hideaway Hale (also seen on HGTV).

Looking for more things to do on the Big Island? Check out my full guide to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , where to find an affordable Big Island family photographer , how to go skiing at Mauna Kea , best things to do in Kona , coolest Big Island ATV tour , and best things to do in Hilo .

The post 10 Jaw-Dropping Big Island Volcano Tours appeared first on Hawaii Travel with Kids .

Hawaii Trip Report (March 2024)

We visited three islands on the Eagle-Eye Hawaii March 9-20, 2024 tour:  Oahu, Kauai, and Hawaii.

We began on the island of Oahu with a morning hike in the high country above Honolulu where we encountered both of the island’s remaining endemic passerines, the Oahu Amakihi and the endangered Oahu Elepaio. We saw several of the Amakihis, our first Hawaiian honeycreeper of the tour, which eventually gave all great views as.we watched them use their gently curved bills to feed on the lovely red blossoms of the Ohia trees. While most of us were enjoying one particularly cooperative Amakihi, an Oahu Elepaio snuck briefly into view.

We then headed to the coast to seek out waterbirds. After enjoying a delicious fish taco lunch from a food truck on the west shore of the island, we ventured to the edge of an oceanside golf course where we found the Bristle-thighed Curlew that had joined the dozen or so Pacific Golden Plovers spending the winter there. This curlew nests only in Alaska and makes a remarkable migration across the ocean to remote Pacific islands, with just a few wintering in Hawaii.

Bristle-thighed Curlew © Louie Dombroski

Continuing on our trip around the island, we stopped at the Lanai Lookout where we spotted humpback whales and a parade of Sooty Tern flocks winging by, as well as our first boobies, tropicbirds, and albatrosses of the tour!

On our last morning on Oahu we familiarized ourselves with some introduced species at the park across from our hotel, taking in eye candy such as Zebra Doves, Rose-ringed Parakeets, Yellow-fronted Canaries, Red-crested Cardinals and the ubiquitous Warbling White-eyes.

In a rare case of a native Hawaiian bird adapting well to the changes brought about by the arrival of our species to the islands, White Terns have taken to nesting in trees that line the streets between the skyscrapers of Honolulu. The sight of these dainty birds flying over the beach and into the trees in the park was surreal and unforgettable. This iconic species lays a single egg on a horizontal tree branch; the hatchling then uses specially adapted claws to cling to its perch until fledging time.

White Tern nest tree © Louie Dombroski

White Tern chick © Louie Dombroski

On the island of Kauai, we ventured to the Ninini Lighthouse, stopping along the way to view several new species such as Scaly-breasted Munia, Hawaiian Coot, the Hawaiian subspecies of Common Gallinule, and our first “real” Hawaiian Ducks — ones that appeared to be free of traits that would indicate hybridization with Mallards. Numerous Hawaiian Geese or Nenes, an endemic species brought back from the brink of extinction, looked very much at home on the neighboring golf course.

During a picnic lunch at Poipu Beach Park we had a close visit from a Brown Booby and in a nearby pond saw our first (Hawaiian) Black-necked Stilt, but the Hawaiian Monk Seals and Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles on the beach stole the show!  Other highlights along the coastal road included our first Java Sparrows and Chestnut Munias, and we took time to enjoy a Pueo (the native Hawaiian form of Short-eared Owl) perched on a wire along the road.

Kauai beach with Hawaiian Monk Seal © Louie Dombroski

Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle © Louie Dombroski

We spent the better part of one day in the forested high country of Kokee State Park. A thick fog had set in prior to our arrival, but upon reaching the Kalalau Lookout the fog magically cleared, revealing a breathtaking view of cliffs and waterfalls all the way down to the ocean some six thousand feet below. We were all able to get great scope looks at White-tailed Tropicbirds leisurely soaring back and forth along the cliffs. Here we saw our first Apapanes (the commonest of the red-plumaged Hawaiian honeycreepers).

Kalalau Lookout, Kokee State Park © Louie Dombroski

During a hike on a nearby trail we had great views of a number of endemic Kauai Elepaios, which lived up to their reputation for being curious and friendly. A pair of skulky Chinese Hwameis made a brief appearance, but we were treated to great views of a singing Japanese Bush Warbler, every feather quivering as it sang its distinctive explosive song; this common but secretive introduced species is heard far more often than it is seen. On our way back down the mountain we made a stop to soak in the expansive view at a lookout over the Waimea River Valley, a view punctated by over a dozen soaring White-tailed Tropicbirds!

A highlight of the tour was our visit to the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, where we had dreamy looks at both Red-tailed and White-tailed Tropicbirds flying by the lighthouse at close range. Laysan Albatrosses were viewed both in flight and at their nests on a nearby hill. We were treated to the sight of numerous Red-footed Boobies as they flew by, some with branches in their beaks, red feet splayed as they landed in trees where their nests were under construction. We were delighted to find that a few pairs of Wedge-tailed Shearwaters had returned to nest.

We drove through Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge, where planted taro fields in varying stages of rotation have created habitat for all of Hawaii’s marsh-nesting waterbirds. At a picnic lunch stop at Anini Park we enjoyed scope looks at a tame White-rumped Shama, a boldly-patterned passerine introduced from India.

We began our exploration of the big island of Hawaii with a tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide who gave us a thorough introduction to the geological history of the park. We walked through the Thurston Lava Tube, lingering in the forest at either end in hopes of seeing an Omao, a somber-colored yet attractive endemic thrush. We would hear their distinctive calls in the park, but would have to wait a few days to lay eyes on one. While headed to our picnic lunch stop we spotted a pair of Hawaiian Hawks, and fortunately we were able to pull over safely so we could bail out of the van for a closer look. We watched in awe as the pair, one dark morph and one light morph, engaged in an acrobatic aerial courtship display. We hiked a trail through a kipuka (an isolated patch of forest spared by a lava flow, making it an island for native plants and animals), spotting the island’s endemic species of Elepaio, and getting repeated looks at numerous Apapanes, experience that would prove useful as we searched for the two rarer reddish-plumaged honeycreepers that we would see in a few days.

Local guide prepares group for short hike through Thurston Lava Tube © Louie Dombroski

Thurston Lava Tube © Louie Dombroski

After two nights at the Volcano Inn, where the papaya boat and banana bread breakfast was a big hit, we moved to the town of Kona, stopping at a seaside park along the way where we had great views of Black Noddies, and we were able to locate a rare male Harlequin Duck that had been spending the winter there.

From our base in Kona we ventured to Hakalau National Forest with an excellent local guide from Hawaii Forest and Trail, where we added four species of Hawaiian Honeycreepers to our trip list, including the Iiwi, a bright scarlet and black bird with a distinctive sickle-shaped bill it uses to feed on lobelia blossoms, and the orange-hued Hawaii Akepa and its yellow-plumaged relative the Hawaii Creeper. We also were lucky to see two individuals of one of the most sought after and enigmatic of the Hawaiian honeycreepers, the Akiapolaau. We were able to observe its unusual feeding behavior — this species has a uniquely shaped bill with a straight chisel-like lower mandible and a long down-curved upper mandible; it opens its beak wide and hammers like a woodpecker with its lower mandible then reaches into the cavity thus created to gather the beetle larva on which it feeds. We also saw Hawaii Amakihis and more Apapanes, and finally got good looks at two Omaos, the endemic thrush we had previously only heard.

Our final full day of the tour started with a trip to the dry western side of Mauna Kea, where we saw lots of Hawaii Amakihis, but missed out on one of our target birds, the endangered Palila. We saw many singing Eurasian Skylarks and enjoyed seeing Short-eared Owls both in flight and perched. On our way back to Kona we birded a site on the outskirts of the town of Waikoloa and had great looks at Rosy-faced Lovebirds, Gray Francolins, Java Sparrows, Saffron Finches,  African Silverbills, and a highlight for all, a cooperative flock of Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse!

Birding on Mauna Kea © Louie Dombroski

Hawaii birding tour 2024 species list

Louie Dombroski

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About the Business

Big Island Campers is the perfect way to explore the Hawaiian islands in a fun and unique way. We offer a variety of camper vans that are perfectly suited for island life. I, personally, am a full-time camper van resident on the island and I know what is important to make island life in a van comfortable and efficient. I've thought of everything and our camper vans come fully equipped with the amenities you need to make your travels on the islands comfortable and hassle-free. Book your camper van today and let us help you create memories that will last a lifetime. …

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We shopped around campervan companies on the Big Island and we are very happy with our choice! Dug outfits his vans very well, gives renters a nice digital map of spots, and is very generous, flexible, and responsive. We would totally rent from him again!

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May 2, 2024

Thank you for choosing one of my vans. I take pride in building them and trying to make the best experience possible for my guests. See you next time! Aloha!

If you want a VIP experience that's what you can expect with Big Island Campers and Dug. You can tell that the campers are designed with the client in mind. They come equipped with cooking capabilities, running hot water for showers and beach gear. It is the perfect way to tour the island. Great opportunity to find that remote beach and be the only one there in the morning. I highly recommend! Aloha

See all photos from Stacey Y. for Big Island Campers

Thank you Stacey! Such good memories! Much Aloha!

Lil Honu van was fantastic. It has everything one could need. The beautiful wood details made the van feel super unique. Dug was great and had a lot of wonderful recommendations for Big Island sights and camping. Would use again.

Thank you Christina! Next time you will have to try Da Dolphin!

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