About Twilight Volcano & Stargazing Tour (from Kona)
Spend a full Big Island day with Wasabi Tours, from Kona coffee country and Punalu'u Black Sand Beach to Volcanoes National Park and stargazing after dark.
Follow the Big Island from Kona coffee country to black sand shores, volcanic landscapes and a clear night sky filled with stars. Departing from the Kohala/Kona side of the island, this sightseeing adventure begins south of Kona at a coffee farm, where you'll walk through the orchards, learn about the harvesting and milling process, and sample world-famous Kona coffee.
The journey continues past the scenic view of Kealakekua Bay and South Point, the southernmost point in the United States, before arriving at Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, a favorite place to look for Hawaiian green sea turtles. You will also have the chance to taste local treats at Punalu'u Bake Shop, the famous southernmost bakery in the USA.
In the afternoon, explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park along the Chain of Craters Road. Stops may include past flow sites, steam vents, scenic lookout points and the Nahuku lava tube. After a sit-down dinner at a local restaurant near the park, your guide will lead you to a stargazing location where a portable but powerful telescope is used to observe stars and planets, depending on weather conditions. The experience is similar and comparable to stargazing at the Mauna Kea Visitor Center.
Tour Highlights
- Visit a Kona coffee farm and sample Kona coffee
- Taste delicious local treats at Punalu'u Bake Shop, the famous southernmost bakery in the USA
- Punalu'u Black Sand Beach - jet black sand and green sea turtles
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park - visit popular lookout points and see the Thurston Lava Tube
- Observe stars, planets and galaxies under the pristine night sky near Mauna Kea (weather permitting)
- Learn about the history, culture, geography and ecology of Hawaii's Big Island from your knowledgeable, certified guide
Tour Inclusions
- Picnic-style lunch: teriyaki chicken, panko-crusted fish, white rice and purple sweet potatoes (vegetarian alternative: tofu, steamed vegetable, purple sweet potatoes and white rice). If requesting a vegetarian meal, please notate next to guest's name when making your reservation.*
- Dinner at a restaurant near the park (menu provided at restaurant)
- Assorted juices, snacks and bottled water
*Note: We do not use dairy products, fruit, pork, beef, shellfish, MSG, or nuts in our meals.
Activity Notes
Where & When
Pick-up is available from all resorts and hotels in Waikoloa, Kohala, Kona and Keauhou area between 9:30 am to 11 am. The exact pick-up time depends on where you are staying and will be emailed with your confirmation. Tour duration is around 12 hours.
Restrictions
Easy hiking over short distances (no more than 1 mile in total). Ages 5 and older are recommended.
Requirements
All guests age 5 years and older are required to wear a face mask while in the vehicle. Face masks are not required while outside the vehicle.
Special Notes
Please note that any and all active lava sightings are subject to the current volcanic activity the day you are on the tour.
Operation Days
Monday - Saturday
Duration
12 hours
Capacity
Small group size - 13 guests max.
Equipment
Mercedes Sprinter Van or Minivan
Vendor
This activity is operated by Wasabi Tours Hawaii.