Best of Big Island: Volcanoes, Waterfall, Blacksand Beach & Lunch

Overview

If your time is limited and you want to see the best of the Big Island of Hawaiʻi, this tour is for you! Join us to explore some of our island's must-see places. Our tour is a unique experience including old artifacts, historical insights, and the cultural significance of the places we visit. We'll take you through Downtown Hilo to see the picture-perfect scenery of Rainbow Falls, followed by an unforgettable trip through Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. You'll meet the world's most active volcano, Kīlauea, visit steaming volcanic vents, and walk inside an ancient lava tube. Enjoy an island-inspired lunch on us at a local restaurant. Later, we'll show you Punaluʻu black sand beach—a landscape shaped by volcanic activity and frequently visited by sea turtles.

PLEASE NOTE:

We provide pick-up and drop-off in the Hilo area only.

This tour is not wheelchair accessible and includes moderate walking, including climbing roughly 15 stairs during the lava tube tour.

Itinerary

  • Rainbow Falls is named after the colorful rainbows that appear in the mists of its waters. Signs in the viewing area relate some interesting historical facts about the waterfall, as well as the legend of the “Battle of the Wailuku River”. (20 mins)
  • Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park starting at the visitor center and exhibit hall, followed by breathtaking views of Kilauea caldera and Kilauea Iki, the volcanic steam vents, and sulfur banks. Walk through the ancient Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube), a 600-foot cave created by underground lava flows. After exploring the park, enjoy lunch on us at a local restaurant with island-infused cuisine. (180 mins)
  • Discover a beautiful black sand beach created by volcanic activity. Fed by an underground fresh water spring, Punaluʻu is frequently visited by green sea turtles. (30 mins)
  • Drive through the largest Edo-style ornamental garden outside of Japan. Liliʻuokalani Gardens is a peaceful park of towering Banyan trees, ponds, bridges, and pagodas.

What’s Included

Inclusions

  • Fresh fruit samples
  • Cultural artifacts
  • Entrance fee
  • Pick-up/drop-off in Hilo area only
  • Guide
  • Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free dishes available.

Exclusions

  • Alcoholic Beverages

Meeting & Logistics

Meet at the Bus Station at Moʻoheau County Park in Downtown Hilo across the street from the Hilo Farmer's Market.

Meeting Point

Hawaii

Additional Info

  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • This tour includes about 2.5 hours of drive time between destinations.
  • Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free meal options

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Why Book With Us

  • ✔ Free Cancellation on Most Activities
  • ⚡ Instant Confirmation
  • 🔒 Secure Online Booking
  • 🌴 Trusted Hawaii Site Since 2006
  • 🤝 Official Viator Partner (est. 1995)