About Big Island Highlights Volcano Day Tour
See how dramatically the Big Island changes in a single day, from Kona coffee country and the black sands of Punalu'u to volcanic terrain, Hilo waterfalls and the island's greener east side. With a maximum of 12 guests, the tour keeps the group small while your guide handles the long drive, hotel transportation and timing between stops.
The day begins with local flavor, including a Kona coffee farm visit with tastings of island-grown coffee and tea. You’ll also stop at Punalu'u Bake Shop before continuing to Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, where Hawaiian green sea turtles are sometimes seen resting near the shoreline.
At Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the focus turns to the island’s volcanic story. Depending on current access and conditions, you’ll visit caldera viewpoints, steam vents, Thurston Lava Tube and overlooks near Halema'uma'u Crater. Later, the route continues through Hilo with time at Big Island Candies, local stops around town and a visit to Rainbow Falls before the return drive.
Tour Highlights
- Visit a Kona coffee farm and sample locally grown coffees and teas
- Stop at Punalu'u Bake Shop for malasadas and island treats
- Walk along Punalu'u Black Sand Beach and look for resting green sea turtles
- Explore highlights of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- See caldera viewpoints, natural steam vents and Thurston Lava Tube
- Visit Big Island Candies and explore stops around Hilo Town
- See Rainbow Falls before returning to your hotel
Tour Inclusions
- Grab-and-go breakfast basket
- Restaurant lunch at The Rim, located in the iconic Volcano House
- Malasadas from an iconic Hawaiian bakery
- Bottled water and a variety of sodas and juices
- Refreshing hot towel service
- Umbrellas in the event of rain
- Binoculars to use at your leisure
- National Park entry fees
Breakfast
A light continental breakfast will be served.
Lunch
Enjoy a gourmet restaurant lunch at The Rim, located in the iconic Volcano House. You'll have a choice of Seared Mahi Mahi (fish), Crispy Big Island Tofu, Slow Roasted Kalua Pork or Grilled Teriyaki Chicken.
*Please note any dietary restrictions next to the guest's name when booking.
Special Instructions
Meeting details, important notes and helpful information for your experience.
Where & When
Pick-up is available from all major Kona and Waikoloa hotels. The exact hotel pick-up time depends on your location and will be specified on your voucher.
Approximate pick-up time: 6:55 am - 7:00 am (Waikoloa), 7:30 am - 8:25 am (Kailua-Kona)
Approximate return time: 6:25 pm - 6:45 pm (Waikoloa), 7:00 pm (Kailua-Kona)
Restrictions
Participants must be at least 5 years of age.
Tour does not include lengthy hikes.
Participants traveling with a wheelchair or walker are more than welcome to join the tour, but will need to be able to go up and down the van steps. Wheelchairs will need to be collapsible. There is no ADA lift.
Special Notes
On the return trip from the Hilo side back to the Kona side, guests will be taken back the most convenient, timely and safest route. Routing will be determined by location of drop offs, road conditions and timing to determine if going over Saddle Road or the Hamakua Coast are best on that day.
Operation Days
Daily
Duration
11 hours
Capacity
Max. of 12 guests in group
Equipment
The spacious Mercedes passenger van provides the ultimate in comfort for guests hoping to avoid the large 50 passenger vehicles and who want a more personal and authentic Hawaiian experience.
Vendor
This activity is operated by Kailani Tours Hawaii.
Questions about this activity?
We’re happy to help with your choices, booking details or an existing reservation.
