'Akaka Falls will leave you spell-bound
Peaceful creatures that are real treat to see up close in their natural habitat (but don't touch or disturb!)
Sea turtes' paradise! We know the best spots to, well, spot 'em!
Black sand beaches abound on the windward side of Hawai'i
Sand, cove, sky ... PARADISE!
We'll look but never touch or disturb these magnificent, peaceful sea creatures
Hawaiin Sunrises and Sunsets are always AWE.....some!
Have you ever seen a Sunset in Hawaii?
Aloha and welcome to Big Hawai'i Tours!
These little spinner dolphins are frequent visitors, so always keep one eye on the ocean horizon
Safe, smooth tropical stroll to 'Akaka Falls
Fresh water springs meet salt water (turtle heaven)
Tasty treats in fanciful facility: Big Island Candies
Big Island Candies offer scrumptious treats in a well run facility
Lovin' Paradise
That isn't a rock, that's a massive turtle (a regular in this cove)
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PM: Tropical Escape (3 Hours)

3 hours

Easy

'Akaka Falls, Black Sand Beaches & Turtle Watching

Enjoy this 3-hour, late afternoon tour with BIG HAWAI'I TOURS, where our van and service are premium-level but not our prices. We flexibly adapt your experiences on a daily basis to minimize the impact of inclement weather while maximizing the natural wonders of the lush, windward side of the Big Island.  We typically pass through a sea-side Japanese garden, reveal hidden beaches and waterfalls enjoyed by island locals, drive through a picturesque jungle, stop for a leisurely walk through a tropical rainforest to world-renowned 'Akaka Falls, enjoy Hilo's own Big Island Candies, and then have some fun in the sun on the Big Island's unique black sand beaches.  

Time permitting, you can take a quick dip amongst the most colorful sea life on the planet, while we guide less adventurers guests to nearby coves often teeming with sea turtles.  Bring your towel, swimsuit, and underwater camera if you packed them, our premium-level van has plenty of storage space. 

The entire afternoon tour is one continuous photo-op, with the last stop only 5 minutes from the harbor, assuring cruisers a timely "All Aboard" return (i.e., more than 30 minutes before departure).  Please Note: There are some initial steps down to begin the leisurely stroll to 'Akaka Falls.

Bundle & Save: Consider bundling this afternoon experience with our 5.5-hour morning tour that brings Hilo cruisers and visitors to a fiery volcano (when there are active eruptions), lava formations and cavernous caves, additional tropical waterfalls, and locally raised confectionaries.  In between these tours cruise passengers will have the opportunity to enjoy their ship's complimentary on-board meal, while Hilo vacationers can enjoy the many culinary options available in Hilo Town.  

What's included?
  • National park entrance fee
  • Parking fees
  • Entry or admission fee

We provide complimentary water bottles

Exclusions
  • Tip or gratuity
Please note
  • Accessible for those with limited mobility
  • Animals or pets allowed

Whether you're a toddler or a senior or in between, this afternoon tour will be stress and strenuous free, with opportunities for more adventurous types to get off the beaten path.  For example, there are two alternative walks to 'Akaka Falls -- the lower and longer path more challenging but providing a glimpse of a second towering waterfall and additional picturesque tropical foliage.

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.P

What to bring

    The lush windward side of the Big Island can be occasionally rainy, so a poncho and/or light rain coat is advisable.  Comfortable walking shoes and if time permits be sure to pack beach stuff (swim suit and water equipment, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, towel, etc.).  We guarantee our cruise guests will be back on the ship in time for their on-board dinner and "all aboard" call, so you may have to admire the water and sea life from the black sand shores rather than swimming among them.