Overview
For cruise ship guests arriving at Kona Port or travelers from Kona International Airport (KOA), our Private History & Market Excursion offers an unparalleled, hassle-free adventure. Forget rigid schedules and crowded buses; your dedicated guide ensures direct port/airport pickups and seamless returns, adapting to your ship's timing. This exclusive 6-hour tour is meticulously crafted to immerse your group in the Big Island's rich history and vibrant local charm. Explore sacred historical sites, uncover ancient petroglyphs, and feel the enchanting energy of a bustling local market. Delight in sampling island flavors and discover unique treasures with your private guide sharing authentic insights. This personalized journey transforms your time in Kona into an unforgettable, deeply personal encounter with Hawaii's heritage, perfectly tailored for your group.
Packages & Options
Kona Private History(Up to 12)
Kona Private History (Up to 8)
Kona Private History (Up to 4)
Itinerary
- Begin your journey into Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, a profoundly sacred landscape where Hawaii's ancient past comes alive. Walk amidst meticulously preserved fishponds and intricate fishtraps, marvel at mysterious petroglyphs carved into lava, and gain deep understanding of the island's rich cultural legacy. Your expert guide will share captivating stories of early Hawaiian life and ingenuity. Keep watch for graceful Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), frequently observed resting on warm sands or navigating the coastal waters. Conclude your visit at the traditional canoe hale, offering unique insights into Polynesian seafaring heritage. This stop provides a tranquil connection to ancestral Hawaii. (50 mins)
- Step back in time on the King's Trail Petroglyph Walk, an enlightening stroll through the Waikoloa Petroglyph Preserve. Here, you'll encounter hundreds of enigmatic figures etched into the volcanic rock, depicting the narratives, customs, and daily existence of Hawaii's earliest residents. Your knowledgeable private guide will interpret these timeless symbols, bringing generations of island history into clear focus. Following this immersive historical exploration, enjoy leisure time at the King's Shops, where you may browse various boutiques or acquire refreshments, meals, and mementos as you wish. (50 mins)
- Step onto hallowed ground at Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historical Park, site of one of Hawaii's most consequential ancient temples. Traverse a brief, paved path to absorb the immense scale of this sacred structure. Your Wayfind Hawaii expert will powerfully narrate its pivotal role in King Kamehameha I's rise to power and the unification of the Hawaiian Islands, illuminating a defining moment in the archipelago's story. This stop offers a profound engagement with Hawaii's heroic past. (30 mins)
- Treat your senses at the Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company visitor center on the verdant Hamakua Coast. Learn the story of the macadamia nut, from its origins to its delectable finished products. You can observe the processing operations and enjoy abundant opportunities for complimentary samples of various flavored nuts. The retail shop offers a wide selection of freshly prepared macadamia nut items and other local treats, ideal for souvenirs or gifts. This delightful stop provides a true taste of Hawaii's agricultural abundance. (20 mins)
- Our final stop invites you to experience a vibrant local Farmers Market in the Waimea area, a true hub of community and island commerce. The specific market visited will depend on your tour day: Wednesdays: You'll visit the Waimea Midweek Farmers Market, bustling with unique handmade crafts, gifts, and freshly picked local produce. Saturdays & Sundays: Your tour will visit a different engaging market within the Waimea vicinity, also offering a rich selection of island goods. At either market, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as you explore stalls, a fantastic opportunity to find authentic Hawaiian treasures and interact with local vendors. Numerous lunch options are available for purchase, allowing you to savor a range of island flavors before returning to your accommodations. (55 mins)
What’s Included
Inclusions
- Soda/Pop
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Scenic/Historic Stops For Photos
- Parking Fees
- Experienced and Knowledgable Guide Who Speaks English
- Round-Trip Private Transportation From Location of Choice
- Sunscreen
- Umbrellas
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Macadamia Nut Tasting at Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company
- Coffee Samples at Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company
- Bug Spray
- Half-Day Guided Tour
Exclusions
- Gratuities
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Personal Expenses (Gift Shops, Souvenirs, etc.)
Additional Info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
