Evening Volcano Explorer Kona Pick-Up in Hilo, HI

Travelers heading south into Kona coffee country will first stop at Bay View Farm, a working 24-acre coffee farm situated on the slopes of Mauna Loa Volcano above the stunning Kealakekua Bay. Known for producing some of the best Kona coffee since 1984, visitors can observe coffee growing on the trees and learn about the various steps and processes involved in coffee production, all of which take place right on the farm. Guests can sample 100% Kona Coffee while enjoying a beautiful overlook with breathtaking views of Kealakekua Bay and the monument to Captain Cook, which stands on the only piece of British land in the United States.

The adventure continues through the South Kona and Ka’u Districts, with stunning views of stark lava flows and Hawaiian dry forests visible through the large picture windows of the tour vehicle. A brief stop at Punalu’u Bake Shop, the southernmost bakery in America, offers the chance to sample the finest time-honored Hawaiian sweetbreads and an array of breads and cookies. Shortly thereafter, visitors will arrive at the picturesque Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, one of the island's best black sand beaches. Lined with swaying coconut palm trees, the beach offers opportunities to spot honu (Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles) feeding just offshore or basking in the sun. A picnic-style lunch will be served here, weather permitting.

Next, the tour proceeds to the crown jewel of the Big Island, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Guests can visit the Kilauea Visitor’s Center, the Volcano Art Center, and the famed Sulphur Banks. A hike to Keanakako’i Crater reveals sinkholes and cracks in the roads left by the historic 2018 eruption. The journey continues to Mauna Ulu, one of the park’s most culturally significant locations, where visitors can witness a landscape unlike any other on Earth, with numerous photo opportunities featuring unusual and striking shapes and colors. The tour includes a quick break at Volcano House, which has welcomed guests such as Mark Twain and Jack London since 1864. Guests can enjoy the views or browse the gift shop. A deli-style picnic dinner is included.