When fire meets water paradise is born
One of the prettiest (and private) drives right along the coastline
Rainbow Falls
The colors of Hawai'i's scenery are magical
Next to Kilauea Caldera lies dried-up craters that are walkable (see the well trodden path in the middle?)
Hilo is on the windward GREEN side of The Big
Kilauea has been very active past two years, and the priority when Pele's wrath is erupting!
Banyans are plentiful in Hawai'i
New life begins in fire
The Rainbow State
Local sweets raised and packaged in Hilo
Selfie opportunities abound in Paradise.
Banyan trees seem like Avatar movie sets, unreal!
Life abounds on the lush, windward side of the Big!
Sunrises and Sunsets are awe-inspiring in Hawai'i
Waterfalls feed lush jungles all over the windward side!
Wait, another set of waterfalls? Yep!
Your own private cove (The Big has much fewer people and therefore many more private adventures)
Banyan trees right out of an Avatar movie set, but these aren't CGI
Hilo's waters are teeming with ocean life
Every angle at all times of the day make for great selfies in Paradise
We always yield for pedestrians crossing ... or laying-out
Returning rain to the ocean from whence it came
Hilo Town
Rainbows beckon Hilo cruisers and visitors, alike
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AM: Volcano & Waterfalls (5.5 Hours)

5 hours and 30 minutes

Easy

Fiery Volcanoes, Cavernous Caves, Cascading Waterfalls and Local Sweets

Experience the raw power and beauty of the most diverse island in the world with BIG HAWAI'I TOURS, where our van and service are premium-level but not our prices. Witness the world's most active volcano—the mighty Kīlauea— when she's erupting, along with cavernous lava tubes, thundering tropical waterfalls, lush jungles, and when time permits: delicious local chocolates and macadamia nuts.  No strenuous hikes required—just comfortable walking shoes recommended. 

We truly customize each tour on a daily basis to deliver the best experience for all our travelers.  When Kilauea's angry, her fiery lava ('a Pele) will be our number one priority -- a once in-a-lifetime, awe-inspiring experience.  But unlike other tour companies rooted to the long drive to the crowded park, when the volcano isn't active, we flexibly explore other lava-created landscapes and hidden gems of the windward side of Hawaii's youngest and largest island.  That means less driving and crowds, and more waterfalls, peaceful jungle scenery, volcanic formations and private beach overlooks that most tourists never see, and more time for some locally raised yummies. Cruise passengers will be returned for your ship's complimentary food and time to refresh before heading out for early evening activities (Hilo hotel or AirBnB guests can be dropped off in Hilo Town to enjoy abundant culinary options). 

Maximize your Hilo day: For all our morning guests, including shore excursion cruisers with at least 9 hours in port (which is almost all liners visiting Hilo, e.g., Norwegian's Pride of America, Princess, Celebrity and other cruise lines), consider adding our popular 3-hour 'Akaka Falls & black-sand beach experience (bundle for savings): scenic tropical jungle drive, additional waterfalls, stunning black-sand beaches with crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful fish, and peaceful coves that give respite to graceful sea turtles.  Guaranteed ship return for "All Aboard"

Unforgettable adventure awaits—limited spots!

What's included?
  • National park entrance fee
  • Parking fees
  • Entry or admission fee
Exclusions
  • Tip or gratuity
  • Food & drinks

We do provide water bottles, but no meals (but we'll have you back in time for on-board lunch)

Please note
  • Infants must sit on your lap
  • Accessible for those with limited mobility
  • Animals or pets allowed

Whether you're a toddler or a senior or an active adult, this morning tour will be stress and strenuous free.  However, we will provide plenty of opportunities for more adventurous types to get off the beaten path.  When Kilauea is erupting, we prioritize the trip to the national park for this once in-a-lifetime experience.  When Madame Pele is calm and volcano dormant, we will cover less crowded volcanic sites and black sand viewing that only the locals get to appreciate.

Please Note: All of our trips must have at least 4 passengers; in the unlikely event we do not reach that threshold, your booking may be cancelled with a full/100% refund.

What to bring

    The lush windward side of the Big Island can be occasionally rainy, so a poncho and/or umbrella is advisable. Walking shoes are better than sandals (save the flip-flops for our afternoon tour), but no strenuous hikes are necessary.