Top Big Island of Hawaii How to Get Around

Fly away from Hilo Airport and into a world of volcanoes, rainbows, and waterfalls. With this family-run helicopter company—the longest-running on the island—you’ll meet your captain, get debriefed on safety protocol, and hop into your helicopter for a wild aerial adventure. With your captain doubling as guide, you’ll explore the volcanoes of the national park, lava flows, orchid farms, lush forests, and so much more.

Have a unique Big Island experience snorkeling with manta rays on this tour. Take a short cruise out to the snorkeling site before dipping into the water to watch the manta rays up close. All necessary equipment will be provided for your excursion, as well as light refreshments and snacks. If you don't see manta rays on this excursion, book again for another night, free of charge.

Visit a working farm in the Kona coffee region on the Big Island for a guided tour of local production. Learn how coffee beans are grown, harvested, and processed, with tastings included to understand flavor differences. This structured experience offers a clear introduction to Hawaiian coffee, with educational guidance and the option to purchase directly from the source.

Discover a side of the Big Island of Hawaii that very few other travelers get to see on this one-of-a-kind submarine tour. Choose from multiple start times, head to the Kona coastline, and board the submarine. As you descend towards the colorful reef, peer through the portholes and spot fish and other marine life. Along the way, your on-board naturalist guide provides in-depth commentary about the aquatic sights.

Escape the hustle and bustle of Kona and round-out your day on the Big Island of Hawaii in style with a relaxing sunset cruise. Aboard a comfortable and spacious catamaran, take in the views as you sail along the Kona coastline and toast the sunset with an included beverage or two.

Head out to Kealakekua Bay for a snorkeling and cruising adventure from Kona, ideal for travelers who want to get up close to some of the Big Island’s most interesting marine species. Keep an eye out for dolphins as you head along the coast to the bay, then hop into the waters to swim and snorkel among coral and fish before climbing back on board for an included lunch.

Cruise the Big Island coastline aboard a fast Zodiac RIB boat on this adventure that takes you to hidden sea caves, lava tubes, and scenic spots that you wouldn't be able to access on your own. Snorkel pristine coral reefs at Kealakekua Bay, a protected marine sanctuary and site of the historic Captain Cook Monument, and keep an eye out for dolphins, whales, and other marine life.

We are a unique Hop on Hop off experience as the first five stops are escorted with ample time to explore, Lili Uokulani Gardens, The King Kamehameha Statue, Big Island Candies, Wailoa River State Park and Rainbow Falls without waiting for another bus, your seat is saved. You will then have ample time to explore the historic old town Hilo with its famous farmer's market, shops restaurants and museums as well as two beautiful beach parks for swimming relaxing and a chance to see our Honu green sea turtles sunning themselves all included in your Hoppa on Hoppa off day pass. Rainbow Falls entry fee is not included but can be purchased in advance. Rainbow Falls stop is optional and can be bypassed with a stop to Old Town Hilo and skipping the falls.

Experience the rainbow-colored fish and bright coral beneath the waves without ever getting wet during this glass-bottom boat trip from Kona. Climb aboard a specially designed 36-foot (10-meter) vessel with an expert naturalist and explore the incredible marine landscape of Hawaii. As you cruise, observe Hawaii’s underwater coastline and aquatic life, including colorful fish and—if you’re lucky—turtles or dolphins.

If you are looking for a unique experience on the Big Island of Hawaii, different to the typical sightseeing tours, visit the Hawaiian Islands' only salt farm, which hand harvests Hawaiian salt from the ocean. At the farm's beautiful seven-acre oceanfront site you'll be guided through the salt-making process and learn about the water source and history of the area then sample some of the different salts.

Spend an evening immersed in Hawaiian culture with this luau experience at the Royal Kona Resort. Choose your ideal time for the outing — the luau occurs four nights a week⁠ — then sip tropical drinks while admiring beautiful views of Kailua Bay. Savor a delicious buffet with traditional island food while watching a Polynesian stage production.

Experience big skies and incredible nighttime views on this Mauna Kea stargazing trip with a small group. Enjoy a pre-trip picnic, then embark on a ride in a 4x4 luxury van to the summit of the Big Island's tallest peak. After admiring a sunset view, continue down to 9,000 feet (2,743 meters) for a stargazing session, complete with a telescope, hot chocolate, and dessert.

You don't have to go scuba diving or snorkeling to see Hawaii's underwater world from Waikoloa. This glass-bottom boat ride lets you spot tropical fish, sea turtles, and coral while staying dry aboard a 26-foot (7.9-meter) boat. Expert guides join you on board to discuss the reefs of Anaeho'omalu Bay and answer any questions.

Enjoy a sunset and stargazing experience like no other on this small-group trip to Mauna Kea—the highest point in the Hawaiian islands. Following afternoon pickup, travel in a 4x4 van to the summit—you can change into the provided warm jacket and pair of gloves, and sip a hot beverage, as the sun starts to set. Then, learn why so many research telescopes are located here during a brilliant celestial show.

Sport fishing fanatics and those who want to learn won't want to miss this four-hour, family-friendly fishing boat excursion off the coast of Kona. You'll not only get a chance to learn fishing techniques and try your hand at catching local fish, but you'll also learn about local history and culture.

Sample a cross-section of outdoor sights on the Big Island during this shore excursion exploring Volcanoes National Park, Black Sand Beach and more. Visiting the amazing volcanic steam vents and unique geology around Kilauea Volcano. Before your day is done, check out a local macadamia nut farm and visit a gorgeous black sand beach. A guide, park entrance fees, and round-trip port transport are included.

As a Native Hawaiian from Hawaiʻi Island, these aren’t just tour stops — they’re part of my home. From walking the grounds of Kīlauea to exploring through a Lava Tube, I blend local knowledge, cultural insight, and real island-style fun. You’ll leave not just entertained — but educated and connected to Hawaiʻi in a meaningful way.

Night snorkeling with manta rays is one of the Big Island’s most popular experiences, you’ll set out from Honokohau Harbor heading for “Manta Heaven.” The boat’s light board attracts the gentle creatures (via lighting up plankton) and makes the water glow, an unforgettable underwater experience.

Enjoy superior snorkeling on an afternoon cruise to the crystal-clear waters of Kealakekua Bay. Cruise along the Kona coastline in search of dolphins, sea turtles, and—during winter months—whales, before receiving expert instruction and gear onboard. Then dive in to experience some of the Big Island’s best snorkeling, far beyond what’s accessible from shore.

The South Kona Coast is dotted with sandy beaches, lava-formed sea caves, and colorful fishing villages. On this tour, set sail on a morning cruise around Kealakekua Bay and Honaunau Bay, and admire the scenic coastline from the water. Along the way, spot landmarks such as the Captain Cook Monument, relax onboard the shaded deck, and dive in to swim and snorkel in the Pacific.

Experience the lush beauty of Big Island’s Hamakua Coast on our tour to ʻAkaka Falls State Park, where the Island’s tropical splendor is on full display. Akaka Falls is a towering waterfall, cascading 442 feet (135 meters) down into a lush gorge. Your all inclusive tour includes the Hilo Discovery and Volcanoes National Park Explorer packages. As a locally owned and operated tour company based on Hawaiʻi Island, we offer immersive, guided experiences while sharing not just the breathtaking beauty of volcanoes, waterfalls, and valleys – but the stories, language, and spirit that make these places sacred. Our expertly guided tours highlight the island’s natural beauty, rich history, and volcanic landscapes. We also offer custom and private tours!

Explore volcanoes, waterfalls, beaches, and more on a full-day, small-group tour of Hawaii with a chance to see local marine life. Visiting the island with a Native Hawaiian guide adds additional insight to the experience, with the chance to learn about local culture that many visitors miss out on. Included national park fees at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park also saves time—so you can focus on the awe-inspiring scenery.

Hawaii is renowned for its coffee and chocolate, and this tour takes you behind the scenes of a traditional plantation. Learn how coffee is grown and produced, discover the chocolate-making journey from bean to bar, and have a chance to sample both delicacies. At the end of the tour, spend as much time as you like in the gift shop, where you can purchase homemade soaps and other products.