Top Big Island of Hawaii How to Get Around

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.

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.

Taste some of the world's best coffee, and follow its journey from tree to cup, on this immersive Kona coffee farm tour. In a small group of no more than 15, learn about the various species of coffee trees and about the challenges facing Kona coffee producers. See the wet processing method during harvest season, and gain insights into the drying and grading processes. Finish up with a tasting of freshly brewed Kona coffees.

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.

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.

Experience the Big Island of Hawaii through a local's perspective on a small-group tour led by a Native Hawaiian guide. Check off all the highlights of Volcanoes National Park, including Kilauea, the most active volcano in the world; visit Hilo Farmers Market, Rainbow Falls, and Lili'uokalani Gardens; marvel at a stunning black-sand beach; and learn all about local life from your guide.

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.

Journey back in time — when ancient, powerful Kings ruled the rugged, fertile land of the Hawaiian Islands — on this half-day dinner cruise to Kealakekua Bay. Travel 12 miles (19 kilometers) down the Kona Coast to the Captain Cook monument. Learn the many secrets of the Big Island as a local historian points out numerous points of interest along the way, and enjoy dinner and live entertainment onboard.

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.

Sail up the scenic Kona coastline, getting views of ancient lava flows and verdant cliffs, and stopping at the Captain Cook Monument, on this afternoon sail in Kealakekua Bay. Slip into the water using the provided snorkeling gear to see vibrant schools of fish, living coral, and even pods of spinner dolphins. Learn about the area's underwater flora, fauna, and ecosystem through guided commentary.

Experience the sun-soaked Kona Coast from a different perspective on this thrilling helicopter tour. Soar over Kona Town, Kua Bay, and the Captain Cook monuments; admire aerial views of the beaches and bays, and perhaps even spot migrating humpback whales along the coast. With up to 30 minutes in the air, this tour lets you cover far more sights than you could on the ground.

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.

Experience the magical Hawaiian sunset from the water on this evening catamaran cruise from Anaehoomalu Bay. Set sail along the scenic Waikoloa and Kohala-Kona coastline, sip a glass of wine as you gaze out across the Pacific, then relax on deck as you watch the sunset over the Big Island.

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.

Kealakekua Bay was famously the spot where Captain James Cook was killed and lies along Hawaii’s scenic Kona Coast. On this afternoon tour, discover the bay’s historic sites and natural wonders on a thrilling boat cruise. See the Captain Cook Monument, explore the sea caves and lava tubes around the bay, and dive in to swim and snorkel amid colorful marine life.

Escape the crowds and embark on a nighttime snorkeling excursion in search of manta rays. Cruise out on a fast Navy Seal Zodiac speedboat with just you and a small group. Sail along the Kona Coast and then dive in for a snorkeling adventure in search of the majestic creatures.

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.

See the best of the Big Island of Hawaii in just one day on this comprehensive tour of the island’s landscapes. Travel in a luxury van with a small group and a local expert who shares insight about Hawaiian history and culture—and takes care of navigation and logistics. You’ll visit Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and Rainbow Falls to see black sand beaches, waterfalls, and more.

You already know about the coffee—now it’s time to dive into Kona’s full culinary scene. The city is a true foodie paradise, from mixing craft cocktails to plating some of the world’s freshest seafood. Follow your guide for a little bit of Hawaiian history, too, adding depth to your deliciously whirlwind 7-stop tour.

Take a journey to the youngest Hawaiian Island and witness firsthand the amazing power of Hawaii’s fiery goddess of fire, Madame Pele. Learn the ancient legends about just how these magnificent islands formed … as well as see for your self the amazing landscapes and wonder of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii. This exciting tour visits the Hawaii’s most active volcano, Kilauea volcano, and spends the day at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Take in the diverse scenery of the island of Hawaii, where you’ll discover black sand beaches, Thurston lava tube and the natural formations of Hawaii volcanoes. Experience the town of Kona, travel to Kilauea volcano and explore the natural wonders of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with our expert tour guides. Fill your Hawaiian vacation with excitement and educational fun while exploring the only active volcano in Hawaii!

Discover Kona’s underwater paradise on this snorkeling cruise and dolphin watch. Cruise through protected marine sanctuaries, home to hundreds of species of enchanting ocean wildlife. After a safety briefing, jump in the water for a snorkel, then relax with a cocktail from the premium cash bar and enjoy the timeless beauty of the Kona coastline on the return trip.

Explore the waters off the coast of Hawaii during this private snorkeling excursion from Kailua-Kona. Board an inflatable boat and enjoy easy transportation to Captain Cook's Monument at Kealakekua Bay for around 30 minutes of snorkeling time. View sea caves and lava tubes along the scenic Kona coast and catch sight of dolphins and humpback whales, depending on the season.