Things to Do in Big Island Hawaii, Hawaii

Maximize your time in Kona with the Kealakekua Bay Snorkel and Coastal Adventure experience. This 2.5-hour cruise brings you on an exciting sightseeing adventure aboard a US Navy Seal boat. Throughout the cruise, you’ll learn about Hawaii’s history, culture, and more. Once at Kealakekua Bay, you’ll hop into the ocean and explore the sea life below you while snorkeling. Such a memorable experience! Details

Soar above Big Island’s Kohala Coast on a breathtaking helicopter tour that reveals stunning sea cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush rainforests. Marvel at the scenery from state-of-the-art aircraft with expert guides who share the island's natural beauty and history for a truly unforgettable experience. Details

Set sail on the Historical Kona Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay with Body Glove Hawaii. Enjoy a sunset voyage down the Kona coast to Captain Cook’s monument, complete with an island-style dinner, live entertainment, and fascinating tales of Hawaii's rich history. This 3-hour Kona sunset cruise includes a complimentary cocktail and stunning ocean views. Details

The family-friendly Kohala Waterfalls Adventure features a scenic drive along the Kona Coast past ancient lava flows and a fun off-road ride to a private nature preserve, followed by a leisurely hike to stunning waterfalls. Finish with a picnic lunch at a scenic overlook with dramatic views of the Pololu Valley. Hiking gear and bug repellent are provided. Details

Discover Hawaii’s volcanic wonders on this full-day Elite Volcano Hike tour from Hilo. Explore Kaumana Caves, hike through lush rainforests, and witness the 2018 Kilauea eruption's impact at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Includes round-trip transportation, a picnic lunch in the park, and dinner at a local favorite in Volcano Village. Details

Join the intimate Big Island Circle Tour and immerse yourself in Kona coffee's rich aroma, savor sweet malasadas, and relax on the unique Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach. Enjoy tastings at the Volcano Winery & Tea Garden and explore Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Treat yourself at Big Island Candies and be captivated by Rainbow Falls. Includes hotel pick-up and meals. Details

Offered by Hawaii Forest & Trail, Maunakea Tour: Maunakea Summit & Stars Adventure offers an exciting experience for guests ages 13 and older to enjoy. The adventure includes a drive to the Mauna Kea summit to find picturesque views ideal for taking photos, a provided picnic-style dinner, a hooded parka and warm gloves, an interpretive guide of Hawaii’s spectacular cultural and geological history. Details

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters' Big Island Spectacular helicopter tour features views of the still-active Kilauea volcano, black sand beaches, volcanic badlands, sea cliffs, the Kohala Mountains, cascading waterfalls, lush rainforests, ancient Hawaiian settlements, and more. The tour includes aviation-grade noise-canceling headsets. Details

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters offers a stunning 50-minute aerial tour over Hilo’s breathtaking landscapes, including Kilauea volcano, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls. Soar above black-sand beaches and volcanic terrain in a state-of-the-art helicopter guided by experienced pilots, capturing unforgettable views of Hawaii’s natural beauty. Details

Lasting about 12 hours (afternoon and evening), the Deluxe Volcano Experience offers a unique way to see some of the best points of interest in Kailua-Kona. Enjoy a high-altitude drive over Saddle Road to Hilo and the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with narration from your knowledgeable driver/guide, bottled water, deli-style lunch, dinner at Kilauea Lodge, and more. Details

Dive in and swim with dolphins in Kona, snorkel with tropical fish in the Kealakekua reserve, and more on this 4-hour Kona Ocean experience. Accessed via a safe US Navy Seal boat, you’ll venture out into the crystal ocean water for an experience unlike any other. Along the way, you’ll learn more about Hawaii’s history and culture from our tour guides. Details

Offered by Body Glove, the Dolphin & Snorkeling Cruise features an exciting 4.5-hour experience for guests of all ages. Cruises include a ride on a 65-foot catamaran, featuring two separate decks and cushioned seating, a full-service bar, a 20-foot waterslide, breakfast, BBQ burger lunch, beverages, and snacks, snorkel gear, underwater masks, flotation toys, plus fresh-water showers for after the experience. Details

Follow a certified park service guide on this adventurous Hawaiian hiking tour off the beaten path. This 4-mile hike includes a walk through the Thurston Lava Tube, down into the Kilauea Iki crater, and exploration in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The tour includes a picnic lunch in the park and a hearty dinner at a local-favorite restaurant in Volcano Village. Details

Explore the natural beauty of Hawaii’s volcanoes with a sunset background in this epic hiking adventure. Offered by KapohoKine Adventures, your narrated tour includes stops at recent lava flows, a lava viewing area in Kalapana, and the historic Painted Church. Next, discover the wonder of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, enjoy dinner, and watch the sunset in the park before heading back to Hilo. Details

A unique way to experience Kilauea Volcano at sunset, Evening Volcano Explorer offers an exciting experience for guests of many ages to enjoy. Each fully narrated adventure begins with a picnic-style lunch, then proceeds with a visit to the renowned Punalu’u black-sand beach. Guests can also enjoy a delicious dinner at the Volcano House, as well as volcanic activity as the sun sets in the evening. Details

Hit the backroads on this Hawaii Forest and Trail exclusive bird watching tour! Explore restricted lands at the Hakalau National Forest Reserve with a naturalist guide. Spend the day exploring the Hakalau Forest sighting endangered birds like the Akepa and Elepaio, native plants and rare animal species including carnivorous caterpillars and happy-faced spiders. Details

Get ready for an excursion unlike any other on the Hidden Craters Hike through Kona. Your tour brings you behind 3 locked gates to discover Hualalai, Kona’s infamous volcano. Throughout your tour, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the island’s volcanic eruptions in the 1800s, climb through a segment of a lava tube, and embark on a 3-4 mile hike you’ll never forget. Details

Set off on a remarkable kayak tour in Hilo Bay to unravel its historical treasures. Paddle through turquoise waters, amid lush greenery, and discover concealed waterfalls. Interact with friendly sea turtles, while a knowledgeable guide shares stories of Hilo and Moku Ola. Don’t miss this chance to explore the Historic Hilo Bay Waterfalls by kayak! Details

One of the top zipline tours on Hawaii's Big Island, Kohala Zipline offers a full-canopy experience that combines eight ziplines perched among the trees of Halawa with sky bridges and rappels. Soar through the trees of the Halawa Gulch at up to 45mph led by certified canopy guides. Perfect for first-time and seasoned zipliners alike. Details

Set off on an exhilarating Kona snorkeling adventure on the high-speed snorkel raft with ample shade, cushioned seats, and an onboard bathroom. Dip in Kailua-Kona’s pristine waters and swim with diverse marine life and friendly in-water guides. Stay hydrated and energized throughout the morning trip with refreshments, snacks, and a delicious picnic lunch. Details

Enjoy a boat cruise along the sea cliffs and sandy sceneries of the Kona Coast. Kona is known for its beautiful seaside views, pristine crystal clear blue waters, fresh sea breeze and abundance of aquatic wildlife for you to spot! Six back and relax as you set sail for the morning, sunbathing under the Hawaiian sun or taking in the natural beauty of Kona! Details

Embark on a 2.5-hour Kona Sunset Cruise with Body Glove Cruises aboard Kona Explorer, a high-speed super raft. Enjoy stunning views of The Big Island’s west coast while savoring a light dinner as the sun sets over the tranquil waters of Kailua Kona. Relax while the experienced crew provides insightful commentary about coastal landmarks and local marine life. Details

Explore the Big Island's top attractions and even get the chance to go on a Hawaii Stargazing adventure! Hilo Island has a wide variety of stunning natural attractions, including twin volcanoes, towering waterfalls, lava tube systems, and historic waterfronts. Take this tour to view all of these locations as well as a glimpse of Hilo's stunning night sky with Kapohokine Adventures! Details

Reach for the stars with the Mauna Kea Stellar Explorer tour! This unique Big Island adventure blends daytime solar viewing and stargazing. Explore Hilo's natural wonders, learn about volcanology, and experience awe-inspiring views of the sun and night sky through expert-led excursions. Details

Avoid touristy areas and travel up the mountain of Mauna Kea to one of the most unique spots in the entire Solar System and gaze upon a show of the constellations and planets combined with our light effects. We will point out constellations, planets, space objects and hopefully some fast moving shooting stars. Details

Set to the glow of underwater lights, the Night Manta Ray Snorkel tour on the Big Island offers a 1-hour experience unlike any other. Watch in awe as manta rays glide within inches of you, attracted by phytoplankton. Departing from Keauhou Harbor, your tour includes snorkel gear, wetsuits, and flotation devices. Details

Plan your own private cruise around Kona! Whether you want to see the dolphins, snorkel, or simply see the sights, you can do that and more when you book your own private boat charter. Kona Ocean Experience’s knowledgeable captains can tailor your experience to your preferences for the perfect vacation. Private charters can accommodate up to six guests. Details

Experience a morning of diving in and exploring Hawaii's pristine waters in this Big Island snorkeling tour! This highly acclaimed Spirit of Aloha catamaran adventure features a leisurely trip out to the open ocean to see marine animals such as dolphins, turtles, exotic fishes – and even whales. Truly a great experience from start to finish! Details

Enjoy a Kona sunset cruise that guarantees a leisurely and romantic experience along the Kohala Coast! Getting a Catamaran Sunset Sail ticket promises you a sunset cocktail cruise that highlights wildlife encounters along the journey and relaxing views of the open ocean horizon. Drinks and snacks are served onboard! Details

Embark on an exciting Hawaii whale watching adventure in Kailua Kona, Hawaii—the perfect spot for up-close encounters with humpback whales in their natural habitat! Enjoy breathtaking views and marine life on a high-speed super-raft with ample shade and comfortable amenities. Stay energized for the adventure with complimentary snacks and soft drinks on board. Details

Zipline over Umauma River and falls, rappel down waterfalls, get down and dirty on an ATV, explore on horseback and more with the entire family! Rain or shine the Umauma Experience will be the highlight of your Big Island visit! Details

Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the Kilauea Volcano in just 8 hours with the Volcano Explorer Daytime tour from Kailua-Kona. Journey through the park's wonders, stopping at Punalu’u Bake Shop and Rainbow Falls. Designed for those with limited time, this stress-free adventure includes park fees, transportation, drinks, snacks, and a meal. Details

Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Kona Volcano Unveiled Tour by Hawaii Forest & Trail. Hike Kilauea’s diverse terrain, get up close to volcanic formations, visit a 1,000-acre chocolate farm, and marvel at the 80-foot Rainbow Falls. This full-day adventure includes a deli-style lunch, picnic dinner, park fees, and expert insights from your guide. Details

Catch the magic of the ocean as you head out for a whale watching adventure in Waikoloa! From December to March, see humpback whales in their natural Hawaiian paradise aboard a fast, open powerboat. Expect thrilling views of whales and playful dolphins—perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. A must-do activity! Details

Experience an unforgettable Big Island whale watching cruise off the Kona coast with Body Glove Hawaii. Witness majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat, guided by expert naturalists. Enjoy ocean views, comfortable shaded seating, and engaging commentary. This incredible wildlife experience is perfect for all ages. Snacks and soft drinks included. Details

Presented at Coconut Grove at Royal Kona Resort, the Voyagers of the Pacific Luau offers an exciting and breathtaking experience for guests of all ages to enjoy. Each luau includes a traditional lei welcoming with photo opportunities, an Imu presentation, an all-you-can-eat Hawaiian buffet, an open bar, and a dynamic Polynesian revue with fire artists, dancers, musicians and more. Details