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Hawaii Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Beaches & Hilo Highlights Day Tour

Recommended by 100% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Big Island of Hawaii, USA
Popular pick
Booked 10+ times last week!
  • 6 to 7 hours (approx.)
  • Pickup offered
  • Mobile ticket
  • Offered in: English

Why travelers loved this

5.0
·
· Sharon_K ·
Feb 2026
When you are in Hilo, I highly recommend taking a tour with Justin of Makaio Tours (he is the owner/operator.) As a true Hawaiian, he brings a unique perspective to your tour experience. We were especially impressed with his knowledge of all things “nature”. We were VERY fortunate to arrange this tour. Don’t miss it!
· Chad_A ·
Jan 2026
What is there to say!!!!!?!?!?!? Justin is AMAZNG and kicks an already top tier destination into orbit! His knowledge and ability to make everyone in the tour instantly feel like family made us ultra comfortable. Even with an all day tour by the end we were looking for the next activity! Justin does like no other 5-start all-day ALL THE WAY!!!!!

Overview

    What's Included

    • Port of Hilo/Hotel/Hilo Airport pickup & drop-off
    • Professional Native Guide
    • Luxurious reclining 15 passenger seating
    • National Park fee's
    • Bottled water
    • Umbrella's
    • Lunch
      Guests are responsible for their lunch cost
    • Gratuities

    Meeting and Pickup

    You can head directly to your preferred meeting point, or request pickup.

    Pickup points

    Select a pickup point

    Pickup details

    GUESTS DRIVING OVER FROM KONA & WAIKALOA, please select meeting point: Liliuokalani Gardens Hilo, there is a small parking lot next to Hilo Bay Cafe on the bay side of the park where your vehicle can be parked for free during the tour. Look for a black 15 passenger van with the decals "Makaio Tours."

    or

    Meeting points

    Select a meeting point

    End point

    This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    Itinerary

    1

    Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

    2 hours Admission Ticket Free

    2

    Hilo Farmers Market

    1 hour Admission Ticket Free

    3

    Rainbow Falls

    20 minutesAdmission Ticket Free

    4

    Liliʻuokalani Gardens

    15 minutesAdmission Ticket Free

    5

    Big Island Candies

    15 minutesAdmission Ticket Free

    6

    Richardson Ocean Park

    30 minutesAdmission Ticket Free

    Additional Info

    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
    • Not wheelchair accessible
    • Stroller accessible
    • Service animals allowed
    • Near public transportation
    • Infant seats available
    • No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
    • Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers

    Cancellation Policy

    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

    Traveler Photos

    Gallery picture 1 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 2 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 3 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 4 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 5 (from a traveler's review)

    Featured review

    Dennis_W
    From start to finish, the tour felt thoughtfully curated to showcase the Big Island’s remarkable diversity, natural beauty, and cultural depth. Each stop flowed seamlessly into the next, creating an experience that was both immersive and unforgettable. Seeing the volcanoes up close was truly awe-inspiring. Standing on ancient lava fields and learning about the island’s powerful geological forces gave us a deeper appreciation for Hawaiʻi’s origins and its ever-changing landscape. The waterfalls were equally captivating—dramatic, serene, and a beautiful contrast to the rugged volcanic terrain. The visit to the black sand beach was a standout moment. The striking contrast between the jet-black sand and the turquoise ocean was surreal, made even more special by the chance to see sea turtles resting along the shoreline. Observing them in their natural habitat added a sense of wonder and connection to the island’s wildlife that made the experience feel truly special. The tour also delighted our taste buds with stops that highlighted the island’s agricultural traditions. Sampling locally made chocolate and macadamia nut ice cream was a delicious surprise and a perfect complement to the day’s adventures. The tour was owned and led by Justin, a native Hawaiian, whose passion for the Big Island was evident in every story he shared. His deep knowledge of history and culture was enriched by the personal way he tied in stories about his family, sharing how generations before him shaped his connection to the land and traditions. His love for his family and pride in his heritage added warmth, authenticity, and heart to the experience, making each stop feel personal rather than scripted. Everything was well-paced, comfortable, and thoughtfully planned, allowing time to fully take in each location without feeling rushed. If you want to experience the true heart of the Big Island—its volcanoes, waterfalls, black sand beaches, sea turtles, and incredible local flavors—this tour is an absolute must. I would do it again in a heartbeat. 🌋🌴🍫🍦

    Reviews

    5.0
    based on 439 reviews
    Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

    Must do, Justin is amazing

    Linda_K, Mar 2026
    Encompasses all the important elements of the side of the island. Justin is absolutely amazing, fun, knowledgeable, caring. I can’t say enough about him and this tour. I’ve travel all over the world and he and this excursion was the best. Kudos to Justin for all he does to make this the best for the island and his guests. ALOHA

    Above and Beyond THE BEST!!!

    Ann_S, Mar 2026
    If I could give more than 5 stars, I would!!!! Justin is an owner/operator run tour and he went above and beyond to give us the BEST experience. We were blessed to be there when the volcano was erupting, and he tried to do all he could to give us the best views. He even provided N-95 masks, so we wouldn’t get any of the volcanic dust in our lungs. The 14 passenger bus was VERY well kept too. Skip the big charter bus experience and book with Makaio Tours!!!!!

    Hawaii Big Island Volcano and Hilo Area Tour

    Mike_H, Mar 2026
    What a dynamite tour we received from Mr. Justin Gray! There are many tour guides available on the big island, however if you want a first class experience with detailed information/ history and a healthy dose of humor, Makaio Tours is your place to book a tour. We had an absolute blast visiting the volcano, downtown Hilo and surrounding area. Justin knows his stuff. We have done many tours worldwide, this one from Makaio Tours is above and beyond.

    Great tour Worth every penny

    Duane_P, Mar 2026
    This may have been the best tour I have had. Justin is a great guide and human being. Very informative and interesting.

    Make sure to take this tour!

    SARA_K, Mar 2026
    The BEST way to see iconic spots around Hilo and by a top notch, personable guide, Justin. The tour delivers everything it promises, starting with terrific coordination in advance regarding pickup and great storytelling about not only the sites we visited but historic events around Hilo all along the way. My husband and I loved every minute and we greatly appreciated Justin making sure we found Honu to wrap the day.

    Volcano National Park with Justin from Makaio Tours

    Mike_L, Mar 2026
    Justin is the best, most knowledgeable tour guide, and he went above and beyond, sharing so much more throughout. Do yourselves a big favor, and ask for him if you plan to tour Volcano Nat Park, etc!

    Awesome

    Kimberly_C, Mar 2026
    Justin is the best. He is knowledgeable and hilarious making this tour educational and enjoyable. This is the best tour my husband and I did in Hawaii.

    Hilo- Amazing experience!!!

    Crystal_T, Feb 2026
    Justin was kind, knowledgeable, friendly and made the trip so wonderful. He makes an effort to answer questions and get to his passengers. It was a fantastic experience!

    Great Tour

    Douglas_S, Feb 2026
    The best tour I have ever had in the Hilo area. Justin was both informative and funny. We traveled in a very clean 14 passenger van. I would recommend this tour to anyone visiting the Hilo area.

    Justin Rocks!

    Hal_M, Feb 2026
    Great experience. Must do. Justin give so much information and fun. Great job! Everyone should try this tour.

    The Best!!

    David_L, Feb 2026
    Professional, knowledgeable, tour guide that gives you his all to make your experience exceptional!!!

    Awesome tour!

    Nyles_D, Feb 2026
    Justin was cool and knowledgeable on all things! The tour was fun and insightful. It was an awesome and chill way to spend my last day on the big island and I recommend it to anyone who is staying on the big island!

    Make reservations with Makaio Tours for the best experience!

    Sandy_M, Feb 2026
    Makaio Tours Exploring Hawaii was the absolute best tour experience!! Justin, the tour guide, is very knowledgeable, a people person: and went the extra mile several times through out the day to make our day special!!! Totally recommend taking the tour, so fun!! Sandy and Greg Morton

    It was great experience....

    Sviatlana_E, Feb 2026
    It was great experience. Our driver Justine is very knowledgeable and kind . Volcano park is high elevated.

    Volcano tour with Justin

    James_B, Feb 2026
    Well organized and attentive to needs of members. Several of us are senior citizens and appreciated concern.

    Five Stars isn’t Enough

    Sharon_K, Feb 2026
    When you are in Hilo, I highly recommend taking a tour with Justin of Makaio Tours (he is the owner/operator.) As a true Hawaiian, he brings a unique perspective to your tour experience. We were especially impressed with his knowledge of all things “nature”. We were VERY fortunate to arrange this tour. Don’t miss it!

    The Best

    Melvin_J, Jan 2026
    Very informative and time efficient. If you're looking for inspirational ways yo revisit or expand your experience here in Hilo this is a great place to start!

    Island secrets disclosed by a true native son.

    Michael_H, Jan 2026
    Justin revealed the island’s secrets, immersing us into the area history, the flora, fauna and people. Lots of laughs, with a sprinkle of humanity interjected. A man I could grow to love. Did I mention the amazing knowledge and insight into each of our stops - sharing amazing photos. The new super-comfy van was just the right bonus!

    Amazing tour

    Olga_V, Jan 2026
    We have an amazing tour guide. Justin was very informative. We enjoy his tour and He treated everyone as a family

    Just Right

    MinSook_R, Jan 2026
    This tour had just the right combination of Hawaiian culture enrichment, adventure, beach stop, snack and lunch break. At each stop, we were free to do our own thing. Justin was a fantastic guide. Since the lava tube at the park was closed, Justin took us to different lava tube which was cool.

    good Hilo area tour

    Linda_G, Jan 2026
    very attentive to the entire group, lots of information during the drive to the volcano. several vantage points to view the crater and steam vents.

    Life Changing

    Jenny_B, Jan 2026
    We had the experience of a lifetime with Makaio Tours! The owner Justin is the best tour guide in Hawaii. Mt. Kilauea erupted during our visit on January 24, 2026 and Justin let us change up the day so we could extend our experience. The van was immaculate. We had lunch at Wyatt’s, the food was great and they had gluten free options. We end the day with a black sand beach, turtle’s, and tide pools full of sea life. I will remember this day forever. 🌋 Mahalo nui loa

    The Top Tour Guide on Hilo

    Vincent_M, Jan 2026
    Justin is the guide you want for a native's view, insight, history & ability to make your tour informative, educational & entertaining! I could go on about each of the things we saw from the inspirational volcano to the humbling and serene waterfall, but it's Justin's manner and inner desire to give everyone in the group what they're looking for. First off, Justin keeps in touch with every guest in advance of your tour - and if you have a question, his responseis near immediate. Know how you're always a little anxious about the meet up? Well, worry no more - his signage is literally head & shoulders above everyone else, not just guy with a clip board. Always working to build camaraderie among his tour group is part of his gift to al. His motor coach holds a perfectly sized 15 people and his speakers & microphone 🎤 are first rate, so you'll hear each and every word. Want that special view of the volcano 🌋, not to worry, Justin's got more than a few others dont. Headed to the waterfalls and a walk up a steep hill? Nope...Justin's not playing that, he's driving you to the top and guiding you to walk DOWN the path and save those tired legs. Halfway thru your tour, you've cone to learn not just done unknown Hawaiian tidbits, but how Justin diverse background from working, but most importantly as a parent of 12 (yes, a dozen!) children is becoming as much a friend as a guide. Hey, about that meet up...Justin picked most of us up at our cruise terminal, but also some at the airport and still another at his hotel. That's the level of service I'm takin about! Lemme be clear, I'm no shill and not easily impressed, but one thing I know when I see it, is excellence and execution. Add to those two personality and I don't know why anyone would choose someone else to enjoy their volcano, waterfall & etc day with.

    5-STAR Forever!!!!!

    Chad_A, Jan 2026
    What is there to say!!!!!?!?!?!? Justin is AMAZNG and kicks an already top tier destination into orbit! His knowledge and ability to make everyone in the tour instantly feel like family made us ultra comfortable. Even with an all day tour by the end we were looking for the next activity! Justin does like no other 5-start all-day ALL THE WAY!!!!!

    Justin is such a...

    Karisha_B, Jan 2026
    Justin is such a personable and cultivated guide. His Makaio Tours of Hilo takes you to the must sees and it’s just overall a fun day with him and your group. Learned more about the Big Island and had a lot of wholesome moments on the east side. Highly recommend 🌺

    Big Island tour, with Makaio Tours Hawaii, was absolutely unforgettable and easily one of the highlights of our trip.

    Dennis_W, Jan 2026
    From start to finish, the tour felt thoughtfully curated to showcase the Big Island’s remarkable diversity, natural beauty, and cultural depth. Each stop flowed seamlessly into the next, creating an experience that was both immersive and unforgettable. Seeing the volcanoes up close was truly awe-inspiring. Standing on ancient lava fields and learning about the island’s powerful geological forces gave us a deeper appreciation for Hawaiʻi’s origins and its ever-changing landscape. The waterfalls were equally captivating—dramatic, serene, and a beautiful contrast to the rugged volcanic terrain. The visit to the black sand beach was a standout moment. The striking contrast between the jet-black sand and the turquoise ocean was surreal, made even more special by the chance to see sea turtles resting along the shoreline. Observing them in their natural habitat added a sense of wonder and connection to the island’s wildlife that made the experience feel truly special. The tour also delighted our taste buds with stops that highlighted the island’s agricultural traditions. Sampling locally made chocolate and macadamia nut ice cream was a delicious surprise and a perfect complement to the day’s adventures. The tour was owned and led by Justin, a native Hawaiian, whose passion for the Big Island was evident in every story he shared. His deep knowledge of history and culture was enriched by the personal way he tied in stories about his family, sharing how generations before him shaped his connection to the land and traditions. His love for his family and pride in his heritage added warmth, authenticity, and heart to the experience, making each stop feel personal rather than scripted. Everything was well-paced, comfortable, and thoughtfully planned, allowing time to fully take in each location without feeling rushed. If you want to experience the true heart of the Big Island—its volcanoes, waterfalls, black sand beaches, sea turtles, and incredible local flavors—this tour is an absolute must. I would do it again in a heartbeat. 🌋🌴🍫🍦

    Excellent Tour

    Brendan_M, Jan 2026
    He was very experienced and very friendly. He could talk for hours about everything about the islands. It really pays to have a guide that has lived almost his entire life on the island and is so passionate about it's history and land.

    Great experience at a reasonable price

    Monica_P, Jan 2026
    Our tour with Justin was awesome! He introduced himself by talking about his background and family while we were driving to Volcano Park. Then he asked us about ourselves. He talked the whole time, giving us interesting information about the island. He was always on time and usually came with us on stops to take pictures. His humour kept us smiling and his driving was excellent. The volcano was predicted to erupt any time now so he made a special effort to take us to all the lookouts. I would definitely recommend his tour.

    Highly recommend Makaio...

    Connie_L, Jan 2026
    Highly recommend Makaio Tours. Jason was absolutely fabulous! From start to finish, he struck the perfect balance between fun and professionalism. His knowledge was impressive, his passion for the job was contagious, and he made the entire experience both informative and enjoyable. You can tell he genuinely loves what he does, and it shows in every detail. Highly recommend!

    Book this tour

    Carol_R, Jan 2026
    Book this tour. Justin is kind, knowledgeable, and fun. Comfortable van and hits all the spots! I give it 10 stars.

    From $186.67

    per person

    up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)

    Book ahead!
    On average, this is booked 75 days in advance.

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