Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing and History
About Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing and History
This full-day small-group tour circles Hawaii’s largest island, taking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the Nahuku lava tube, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach and the waterfalls of the Hilo side. With more than 7,100 reviews and a 4.9 rating, it is one of the most booked tours on the Big Island.
The tour lasts about 11 hours and includes pickup and drop-off at Kona and Kohala Coast area hotels in a Mercedes Sprinter van. A picnic-style lunch, snacks, drinks and park entrance fees are covered, and the walking is easy throughout.
Itinerary
- Kohala Coast
- Kailua Pier
- Bay View Farm (40 minutes)
- Punalu'u Black Sand Beach (35 minutes)
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (1.3 hours)
- Nahuku – Lava Tube (20 minutes)
- Hilo
- Rainbow Falls (20 minutes)
- Akaka Falls State Park (35 minutes)
- Waipi'o Valley (20 minutes)
- Parker Ranch
What’s included
- Bottled Water and Hawaiian Juice
- Luxury Mercedes Sprinter Van Transportation
- Kona/ Kohala Coast area hotel pickup and drop-off
- Small Group Tour
- All Fees and Taxes
- Professional Guide
- Picnic Style Lunch and Snacks
What to expect on the day
After pickup on the Kohala Coast or in Kailua-Kona, the route heads south to Bay View Farm for about 40 minutes, then on to Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, where you can scan the shore for green sea turtles. Next come about 1.3 hours in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and a short walk through the Nahuku lava tube.
The tour then continues through Hilo to Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls State Park, stops at Waipi’o Valley and passes Parker Ranch on the way back to the west side. The itinerary can change and the tour runs rain or shine.
Prices and extra costs
- Included: Kona and Kohala Coast hotel pickup and drop-off, professional guide, small-group van transport, picnic-style lunch, snacks, bottled water and Hawaiian juice, and all fees and taxes.
- Not included: Guide gratuities and personal purchases.
What to bring
- Comfortable shoes for short walks to the waterfalls and through the lava tube.
- A light rain jacket or extra layer, as the tour operates in all weather.
- Sun protection for the beach and lookout stops.
Tips for a better day
- Dietary needs: Vegetarian and gluten-free lunches are available if you ask when booking.
- Where you stay: The tour only departs from Kailua-Kona and Waikoloa, so it suits visitors based on the Kona side.
- Plan around it: It is a long day on the road, so keep the evening and next morning light.
Who it’s best for
Best for: First-time visitors staying in Kona or on the Kohala Coast who want to see the volcano, black sand beach and Hilo waterfalls in one day without driving.
Consider another option if: You would rather spend time on the water. The Captain Cook snorkel catamaran is a four-hour trip from Kona.
Restrictions
Children under 5 are not allowed. The tour is not possible for travelers who need walkers or wheelchairs. It is suitable for all fitness levels. Refunds are not given for closures or itinerary changes outside the operator’s control.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
FAQ about Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing and History
How long is the Big Island in a Day tour?
The tour lasts about 11 hours, including pickup and drop-off.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes. Pickup and drop-off are included at hotels in the Kona and Kohala Coast areas. The tour only departs from Kailua-Kona and Waikoloa.
Is lunch included?
Yes. A picnic-style lunch, snacks, bottled water and Hawaiian juice are included.
Are national park entrance fees included?
Yes. All fees and taxes are included in the price.
Which places does the tour visit?
Stops include Bay View Farm, Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the Nahuku lava tube, Rainbow Falls, Akaka Falls State Park and Waipi'o Valley.
Can young children join?
Children under 5 years old are not allowed on this tour.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No. The operator states it is not possible for travelers who require walkers or wheelchairs.
Does the tour run in bad weather?
Yes. It runs rain or shine, so dress for changing conditions.
Can I get a vegetarian or gluten-free lunch?
Yes. Vegetarian and gluten-free meals are available if you request them when booking.
What is the cancellation policy?
You get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
