THE 10 BEST Island of Hawaii Tours & Excursions
Island of hawaii tours.
- Sightseeing Tours
- Walking Tours
- Helicopter Tours
- Up to 1 hour
- 1 to 4 hours
- 4 hours to 1 day
- 5.0 of 5 bubbles
- 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
- 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
- 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
- Likely to Sell Out
- Special Offers
- The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.
1. Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History
2. Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stars - Hilo Kona Waikoloa Pick Up
3. Big Island Zipline over KoleKole Falls
4. Night Manta Ray Adventure on the Big Island, Hawaii
5. Deluxe Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument
6. Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls
7. Island Breeze Luau on the Big Island
8. Snorkel Tour to Captain Cook Monument Kailua-Kona, Big Island
9. Kona's Deluxe Snorkel - Beat the Crowds to Captain Cook and Place of Refuge
10. Whale Watch Excursion from the Big Island
11. Big Island Zipline Adventure
12. Kauai Waimea Canyon and Forest Tour with Lunch
13. Kealakekua Bay Small-Group Snorkel Experience from Kailua-Kona
14. Cloud Forest Sanctuary Jungle Tour
15. Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour
16. Circle of Fire Helicopter Tour
17. 4 Hour Captain Cook Bay Cruise
18. 6 Passenger Maximum Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua-Kona, HI
19. Keauhou Manta Ray Night Snorkel
20. 9-Line Waterfall Zipline Experience on the Big Island
21. Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour
22. Guaranteed Dolphin and Whale Watch Tour in Kona
23. Mauna Kea Summit Tour with Free Sunset and Star Photo
24. Big Island Active Volcano Adventure Tour
25. Historical Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay
26. Kona-Kohala Coast Sunset Sail by Catamaran
27. Afternoon Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument
28. Afternoon Kealakekua Snorkel Tour
29. Kona: Kohala Coast & Waterfalls Helicopter Tour
30. Morning Kealakekua Snorkel Tour
What travelers are saying.
- Night Manta Ray Adventure on the Big Island, Hawaii
- Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History
- Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stars Free Astro Photos Hilo Kona Waikoloa Pick Up
- Island Breeze Luau on the Big Island
- Keauhou Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua-Kona, HI
- Dolphin Quest
- Anelakai Adventures
- Sea Quest Hawaii
- My Kona Adventures
- Da Whale Boat: Big Island Humpback Adventures
- Makana Charters and Tours
- Fair Wind Big Island Ocean Guides
- Top Shot Spearfishing
- Liquid Hawaii
- Paradise Sailing Hawaii
- Eka Canoe Adventures
Deals of the Week Green Hikes & Treks Up to 50% OFF
Hawaii Tours & Trips 2024/2025
Crystal clear swells create idyllic surfing spots, helicopter rides offer sky-high views of active volcanoes, and crisp-green jungles contrast with some of the best beaches in the world. It's not hard to see why these islands are deservedly named the Paradise of the Pacific. Whether you relax in a 5-star resort in Honolulu or head underwater in search of marine life in Maui, there's no shortage of amazing adventures in Hawaii.
51 Hawaii tour packages with 895 reviews
Hawaiian Explorer (8 Days, Intra Tour Air Hilo To Kahului)
- €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.
Hawaiian Discovery (11 Days, Intra Tour Air Hilo To Kahului)
Hawaii with Oahu & Maui (Classic, With The Big Island, 10 Days, Intra Tour Air Honolulu To Kahului)
- Christmas & New Year
Hawai'i Big Island: Environmental Conservation, Cultural Preservation, and Snorkeling
I cannot recommend GIVE enough! I traveled with a teens group to Hawaii and had the best experience. Not only did I meet new people that I bonded with. I got to experience the Hawaiian culture with language lessons, the locals we met and the food that we ate. Each volunteer project was so unique. We got to work with the land and locals in a respectful way, making connections and getting to see our impact after our work. If you want a travel experience that is not like your normal touristy vacation; GIVE is your answer.
- Island Hopping
- Coach / Bus
Hawaiian Islands
This tour gave us lots of free time to explore and relax. Organization of travel was good and hotels used were nice and in good locations. It would have been nice to have a couple meals as a group included.
Grand Hawaii Vacation
This was an amazing trip. Everything was so well organized and it was wonderful having everything planned. We were able to see all of the things we wanted to see but had plenty of time for relaxing. I recommend this tour if you want to experience all the variety of experiences Hawaii has to offer.
Hawaii – Kauai & Maui Islands Adventure
Best of the Hawaiian Islands
We loved the tour! The hotels/resorts overall were good. We didn’t always get the best view & some of the meals were not great. The Outrigger, in Honolulu, was very nice! Good food, nice room, but we did not have an ocean view. We found out from some of our tour guests, that we could have upgraded, to an ocean view. We were never informed of this! Pearl Harbor was great, however, I wish the tour included the Missouri. Both my husband & I could have spent more time there. Our best accommodation was at the Outrigger, on the Big Island, however the meals (including the Luau) left a lot to be desired. Our room was perfect, along with the pool. Convenient to eat offsite!!! The Volcano National Park tour was perfect!!! My favorite tour! We loved Maui, however our ocean view was ground level, & could not view the pool, or beach, because the cabanas blocked the view. Strange bathroom layout! We like a dressing/vanity area separate from the shower & commode. Food at the Sheraton was excellent!!!, along with other choice restaurants to choose from! Our tour directer, Lisa Beardsley was the best!!!..so kind, knowledgeable & fun to be with!!! She truly went above & beyond to cater to everyone’s needs! The arrangements, island hopping, check-ins, excursion meeting times…All over planning was excellent! Thank you Tour Radar & Globus for a memorable experience!
USA – Hawaii Big Island Volcanoes & Beaches
Hawaiian Adventure
- In-depth Cultural
Honolulu Hawaii Experience 7D/6N
I had a great time in Honolulu. The accommodation was good, rooms were basic but clean. The 4 day trips (mornings, latest return was 2.30pm) were really good, although some left pretty early which meant missing the included breakfast (good pancakes but no other options) 3 out of 6 days. Also worth noting that the Ocean Voyage tour at Kualoa Ranch (beautiful place and really good!) pick up was at 7.15am at a hotel 40mins walk away at the other end of town, then bus back wasn't til 1pm. Long day for a 45min boat ride so might be worth looking into other activities there too. Overall everything went according to plan and I had a great time, but as expected this would be a good bit cheaper to book everything yourself.
- 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.
Honolulu Hawaii Experience 4D/3N
Bamba Travel was the only tour operator which responded and agreed to help me plan my tour in Hawaii. Although I would have liked a more thoroughly organised tour like pick up from the cruise terminal and transport to the Kualoa ranch organised, I had to take the public bus by myself. It was a bit daunting but Bamba gave me some instructions. At Hawaii it quite easy and safe to take public transport during the day. Bamba was helpful at every step. A bit slow with regards to correspondence bec of time differences as they are in the USA but they would respond daily. Thank you Bamba for helping me organise a tailored plan to meet most of my needs. I had a great time in Hawaii.
Hawaii with Oahu & Maui (Small Groups, With The Big Island, 10 Days, Intra Tour Air Honolulu To Kahului)
- Hiking & Trekking
On the Dream Islands in the Pacific
Hawaiian Vacation Escape
Hawaii is amazing. There is so much to see and so many islands it is worth it to go on an organized trip. Plus, doing a tour helps save on the cost.
What people love about Hawaii Tours
I went on the Hawaii GIVE volunteer trip and it was AMAZING. The guides are awesome and truly make your time there more memorable and fun. I met super nice people who I will stay in touch with. The experience is what makes traveling with GIVE the most enjoyable and rewarding. There is so much that I would love to talk about this trip but in summary I would recommend anyone to go, it really is rewarding and life-altering as they immerse you deep into the Hawaiian culture.
The tour had a few bumps. It would have been better if there were some included meals. There was no information about some of the excursions such as where the island tour stopped.
Hawaii Tours starting in:
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- Intl. Flights Included (4)
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- 7 Day Tours (7)
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Other Regions in USA
- Western USA (785)
- Sun Belt (454)
- Southwest USA (444)
- Rocky Mountains (281)
- Eastern USA (233)
- Four Corners (229)
- East Coast USA (189)
- West Coast USA (177)
- California (157)
- Alaska (138)
- Northeast USA (120)
- Pacific Coast USA (108)
- Southern USA (105)
- Southeast USA (89)
- Grand Canyon (86)
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Travel Styles
- Singles and Solo (31)
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International Versions
- Deutsch: Hawaii Rundreisen
- Français: Circuits en Hawaï
- Español: Circuitos por Hawai
- Nederlands: Hawaii Rondreizen
- Hawai’i Island
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Polynesian Adventure Tours By Island
Our Most Popular Activities
Oahu to Kona & Hilo: Hawaii Island Highlights & Volcanoes
A relaxing, scenic excursion around the Big Island of Hawai’i! Experience the historic, scenic and cultural highlights of Hawai’i’s youngest island…
Haleakala Sunrise Tour (Breakfast Included)
This Maui activity is sure to start your day off right. Enjoy the sunrise from Haleakala (The House of the Sun) and experience the beauty and serenity of…
Haleakala Sunset Tour – A Spectacular Show
This one of a kind Maui tour will give you the opportunity to visit majestic Haleakala as the sun descends into the Hawaiian night and creates a magical spectacle in the sky…
Arizona Memorial, Pearl Harbor, and Honolulu City Highlights Tour
Relive history as you visit the USS Arizona Memorial placed above the sunken battleship resting place of heroes. Includes Punchbowl Cemetery and Honolulu City highlights.
Oahu Grand Circle Island Tour – South Shore, Waimea Valley & Dole Plantation
Join us for a 120-mile excursion of wonderful Oahu! Your driver guide will show you the top cultural and scenic sites of the island and…
Premium Pearl Harbor – Small Group Tour
Small group tour with superb guide and special amenities. Features Pearl Harbor’s most iconic sites and lunch…
USS Missouri Tour, Arizona Memorial & Punchbowl National Cemetery
Experience the historic battleships of WWII: USS Arizona and USS Missouri, Plus, Punchbowl Cemetery and City highlights…
Oahu to Hilo: Helicopter & Volcano Adventure
Experience the best of Hawai’i Island by land and helicopter! Visit the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park…
Oahu to Kauai: Waimea Canyon & Koke’e Valley
Journey to the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” the beautiful Waimea Canyon and enjoy the verdant Koke’e Valley…
Hawai’i Island Volcano Adventure Tour (From Hilo)
A volcano adventure you won’t soon forget! View dormant & active volcanoes, craters, steam vents & miles of lava beds. Learn about the Pele, the fire goddess…
Oahu to Kauai: Helicopter & Movie Adventure
Experience the best of Kauai by land and helicopter! Visit famous movie and TV sites…
Paradise Cove Luau
At Paradise Cove Luau, held on the warm sands of the beaches at Lanikuhonua, you will find no better setting. With the Hawaiian Luau Buffet, you’ll be seated on the side and in the wing section with a view of the stage.
Kauai Movie Adventure
A movie adventure tour for young and old, movie buffs and nature lovers! You’ll visit many famous sites on Kauai where Hollywood Blockbusters and TV shows were filmed. Your backstage pass will take you to…
Road to Hana Adventure Tour
One of our most popular Maui tours, because of the natural wonder and beauty that awaits you on this scenic drive…
Oahu to Maui: Road to Hana Adventure
Explore the secrets of the lush tropical beauty of Maui’s Hana coast. You will tour the old sugar mill town of Paia and along the majestic eastern coast of…
Maui to Oahu: Pearl Harbor & Honolulu Highlights
Kauai to Oahu: Pearl Harbor & Honolulu Highlights
Kauai North Shore Shuttle
Kauai’s North Shore Shuttle is the convenient, & eco-friendly way to visit Hā‘ena State Park & Kaua‘i’s beautiful North Shore. Reserve your seats today!
Why You'll Love Our Tours
Experienced hawai‘i tour provider.
Proudly serving visitors since 1977, sightseeing experiences on 4 major islands
HAWAI‘I’S MOST RESPECTED LOCAL OPERATOR
Family owned and locally operated. Known worldwide for superb quality and excellent value.
TOP QUALITY, COMFORTABLE & RELIABLE FLEET
State-of-the-art fleet of full-sized motor & luxury mini coaches
Our Sustainability Message
Aloha from Polynesian Adventure, your Sustainable Motorcoach Company in Hawai’i!
Embark on a journey of conscious travel with us, as we, Polynesian Adventure Tours, pledge to reduce traffic congestion and preserve the beauty of our island paradise. By choosing our eco-friendly motorcoaches, you’re not just a passenger; you’re a steward of our environment.
Our local drivers/guides, deeply connected to the spirit of the islands, are more than just experts in navigating the stunning landscapes of Hawai’i; they are storytellers of our rich culture and traditions. Immerse yourself in the true essence of the islands while supporting local communities.
Together, we embrace the responsibility to minimize our environmental impact. At Polynesian Adventure, we actively limit single-use plastic onboard, reducing waste that harms our oceans and marine life. Our commitment to cutting down paper usage ensures that we leave a lighter footprint on our journey. And through recycling initiatives on each island, we actively contribute to the preservation of Hawai’i’s natural beauty.
With reduced emissions, our motorcoaches play a crucial role in protecting our fragile ecosystems, while every thoughtful action onboard adds to the larger mission of sustainability.
Join us in the journey towards a greener, more sustainable future, where every mile traveled is a step towards greater harmony with nature. Mahalo for choosing Polynesian Adventure and sustainability together!
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Hawaii Guided Tours & Excursions
Aloha! Welcome to IMI Tours, your top choice for guided tours of Hawaii. Our expertly crafted Hawaii Island tours offer an unparalleled journey through the stunning landscapes and rich culture of the Hawaiian Islands. Whether you’re looking for an immersive Hawaii tour experience or a variety of Hawaii tours and activities, we offer a ‘huaka’i’ (journey) brimming with ‘mana’ (spiritual power) across the Hawaiian Islands.
Embark on a journey with our Hawaiian Islands tours, where each itinerary is carefully designed to showcase the best of Oahu , Kauai , and the Big Island . Our Oahu tours invite you to explore the island’s unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. On our Big Island tours, witness the awe-inspiring power of nature and the island’s diverse ecosystems. And our Kauai tours will take you to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world.
Rooted in our respect for Hawai’i, we are dedicated to sharing its true spirit in a way that respects the land and its history. Our approach is steeped in ‘aloha ‘āina’ (love of the land), ensuring a genuine and non-invasive exploration. By choosing smaller vehicles, we offer a more ‘pilina’ (intimate), comfortable, and safe journey. From the scenic vistas to the rich cultural heritage, our guided tours of Hawaii are designed to offer an authentic and memorable exploration of the islands.
Safety, knowledge, and respect for the local culture are the pillars of our Hawaii tour services. Our team of local guides are passionate about sharing their love for Hawai’i with the warmth of ‘ohana’ (family), making our Hawaiian Islands tours not just vacations, but enriching experiences.
Eco-Friendly Tours
All excursions are responsibly designed for sustainability through partnerships with local farms, ranches, and other venues.
Experienced Guides
Our tours are operated by knowledgeable, local guides with expertise in Hawaiian culture, language, and history.
Small Tour Groups
We believe in delivering authentic Hawaiian experiences that are more relaxing and personalized.
Oahu, Kauai, and the Island of Hawaii
Guided tours, activities, and excursions.
Waimea Canyon and Koke’e Eco Fun Tour
Book the Waimea Canyon Tour on Kauai and explore the Garden Island while enjoying picturesque scenery, lush mountain backdrops, and culturally rich stories.
Kona History and Culture Tour
Rich with Hawaiian folklore, we'll take you on a journey through Kona's historic sites including stops at Puuhonua O Honaunau and Hulihe’e Royal Palace.
Grand Circle Island Tour – From Ko ‘Olina
Book the Oahu Grand Circle Island Tour, an eco-adventure that lets you explore the top historical, scenic, and cultural sites of Oahu including Waimea Valley.
Oahu Circle Island Tour – From Waikiki
Book a Circle Island Tour on Oahu. See Oahu’s top attractions including Dole Pineapple Plantation, North Shore beaches, Waimea Valley with IMI Tours >
WWII: Honor our Heroes & Historic Honolulu
This Pearl Harbor Tour features a stop at the USS Arizona Memorial and a visit to “Mighty Mo” - the USS Missouri Battleship - and a tour of historic Honolulu.
USS Arizona Memorial and Historic Honolulu
Experience the USS Arizona Memorial on a tour of Pearl Harbor in Oahu followed by an afternoon visiting historic sites on a tour of Honolulu.
Explore Our Hawaii Tours and Activities by Island
Hawaii travel guides.
We invite you to search, discover, and explore the islands of Oahu, Kauai, and Big Island on Hawaii tours and excursions led by our local, knowledgeable guides. As a non-invasive tour operator dedicated to sustainability, it is our vision to accurately share and perpetuate Hawaiian culture and history while creating a fun, memorable, and authentic experience for our guests. Use our travel guides and articles from our blog to plan your next trip to Hawaii.
Experience the Best of Oahu with Our Grand Circle Island Tour
2024-02-18T15:34:00+00:00 February 18, 2024 | Activities , Attractions , Oahu |
Essential Hawaiian Words for Your Island Adventure
2024-02-18T15:41:25+00:00 January 2, 2024 | Tips , Travel |
Popular Things to Do in Hawaii
- Dole Pineapple Plantation on Oahu
- Aloha Tower on Oahu
- Iolani Palace on Oahu
- Nu`uanu Pali Lookout on Oahu
- USS Arizona Memorial on Oahu
- Waimea Canyon on Kauai
- Hanapepe Valley Lookout on Kauai
- Russian Fort Elizabeth on Kauai
- Hulihe`e Palace on Big Island
- Hawaiian Heiau-Temples on Big Island
- Hana Town on Maui
- Puohokamoa Falls on Maui
- State Parks on Maui
- Wai‘anapanapa Black Sand Beach on Maui
- Expert Local Guides: Our knowledgeable guides are passionate about sharing the beauty and culture of Hawaii, providing fascinating insights and personalized experiences.
- Comfort and Convenience: IMI Tours ensures your comfort with air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring a pleasant journey between destinations.
- Impeccable Service: We are committed to providing exceptional customer service, assisting you at every step of your journey and ensuring a seamless experience.
- Small Group Tours: Enjoy a more intimate and personalized experience with our small group tours, fostering a deeper connection with your surroundings.
- Sustainability: IMI Tours practices responsible tourism, promoting the conservation of Hawaii’s natural and cultural heritage.
You may also know us by these brands
Why Choose IMI Tours
Our quality starts with the intent to be a completely non-invasive tour company dedicated to revealing the real truths and history of the land and people of our home, Hawai’i. We use smaller vehicles for all of our Hawaii tours to provide a more intimate, relaxing, and safer travel experience. Our passionate, local employees welcome you to our beautiful state of Hawaii and take you back in time to experience the Kingdom Hawai’i once was. Safety and dependability is developed through continuous training and are the cornerstones of our tour service.
- Things to do in Hawaii
- Top Attractions in Hawaii
- IMI Tours FAQs
- IMI Tours Blog
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- holoholo Rideshare
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Get 10% Off All Roberts Hawaii Tours When You Book Online! Click to learn more.
ROBERTS HAWAII
Hawaii guided tours & activities, new tour alert.
- Available Now!
- Our Newest Tour!
- Hour Glass 7 Hours
- Tag Sightseeing
- Map Marker Oahu
North Shore Adventure Tour
Discover Oahu’s North Shore with Roberts Hawaii’s tour. Engage in Camp Erdman’s hiking and reforestation, paddleboard or kayak along Anahulu River at Tsue’s Farm, or opt for shopping and scenic delights in historic Haleiwa Town. A perfect mix of adventure, conservation, and cultural exploration awaits.
North Shore Dole Pineapple Farm Tour
Embark on a thrilling exploration of Oahu’s North Shore, where the Dole Pineapple Farm Tour unveils the secrets of pineapple cultivation, complemented by exotic coffee tastings, local flavors, historic sugar mill visits, and serene beaches, culminating in a captivating Hawaiian cultural experience.
OTHER POPULAR TOURS
- Most Popular Maui Tour!
- Hour Glass 12 Hours
- Map Marker Maui
Heavenly Hana Tour
Discover Hana, the jewel of the Valley Isle, on this breathtaking adventure, as you access the narrow, winding road marked by tiny bridges, wildly gorgeous foliage, and waterfalls.
- Most Popular Tour!
- Hour Glass 9 Hours
Oahu Grand Circle Island Tour
See Oahu’s most awe-inspiring landmarks and destinations including the spouting Blowhole, and the sacred Kualoa Ranch.
- Available Now
Stars & Stripes: Pearl Harbor and Battleship Missouri Tour
Explore the legacy of Pearl Harbor and visit the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri Battleship, and more in this emotionally resonating tour.
- AVAILABLE NOW!
- Most Popular Transportation!
Waikele Outlets Shopping Shuttle
A hassle-free way to go shopping for bargains in more than 50 legendary brand name stores.
- Hour Glass 5 Hours
Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona, Honolulu City Tour
On this popular narrated tour of Pearl Harbor, the USS Arizona Memorial and other historic Honolulu landmarks, you get to explore firsthand what happened on December 7, 1941.
- Most Popular Kauai Tour!
- Hour Glass 8 Hours
- Map Marker Kauai
Hawaii Movie Tour®
With its striking natural beauty, Kauai has long been a destination for Hollywood filmmakers intent on capturing the island’s unspoiled terrain. See famous locations for Pirates of the Caribbean , Jurassic Park , and more!
SHORE EXCURSIONS
Roberts Hawaii has offered a wide variety of shore excursions to guests of Hawaii since 2007. We strive to personalize an amazing experience, ranging from ocean going adventures to scenic Hawaiian views. All of our tours provide the best convenience and value when coming for your island vacation. Once you have chosen your ideal vacation, choose from our shore excursions encompassing the islands of Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii’s Big Island.
AIRPORT TRANSFER SERVICES
Start your island visit in style! We can provide private transportation to and from the airport with exceptional customer service provided by our highly trained, experienced drivers. Roberts Hawaii Airport Transfer Services provides quality and reliable airport transportation to and from major Hawaii Airports. Servicing the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), Kahului Airport (OGG), Kona International Airport (KOA) and Lihue Airport (LIH).
EXPLORE TOURS & ACTIVITIES BY ISLAND
Click on an image below to explore all of the activities & excursions on that island!
ABOUT ROBERTS HAWAII
We are Hawaii’s largest employee-owned tours and transportation company, providing the highest quality transportation services and a wide variety of sightseeing tours, entertainment, and excursions in a safe and service-focused manner delivered by employees who perpetuate the unique culture of Hawaii. Our core values are lokahi, kina’ole, and ha’aheo, which translate to teamwork, flawless, and pride.
BUILDING BACK STRONG: MAUI’S RESILIENCE STARTS WITH YOU
Empower Maui’s Recovery Efforts by Donating through Roberts Hawaii Foundation
RATED "EXCELLENT" BY 860+ TRAVELERS!
We had friends book us on this island tour & it was amazing!! Not one bad thing to say & our driver & tour guide (Wes) was not only a great driver, he was also very funny & extremely knowledgeable on the island history. This tour stopped at so many great locations that included Kualoa Ranch, where we were treated to an excellent buffet style lunch after our tour of the ranch, as well as we stopped at a Macadamia farm, the Dole plantation & several amazing lookout points. Along our stops we were lucky enough to see 2 whales & even some sea turtles.
Roberts Hawaii is the tour company I used to set up my time on the Big Island. EVERYONE I dealt with from the Honolulu airport, to the Hilo airport, to the cars and tour guides…they were ALL exceptional!!!! Most of my readers know I do NOT use any guide without checking with TA first and this group came highly recommended and I’ll vouch for that authenticity!!! Knowledgeable, nice, and fun and boy did I get my money’s worth with this trip to the Big Island!!! Thanks to all of you on the Roberts Hawaii Team!!!! You were the best!!!
Our driver Fred was bang on time at the pick up, he is extremely knowledgeable with regards to the island history and Polynesian culture and relays all this throughout the day. The coach was very comfortable and during the tour there are plenty of stops to stretch your legs. Pretty much everything was covered during our tour, and the highlights for me were the Macadamia nut farm and the Dole Pineapple plantation.
Everything you need in an airport shuttle, prompt, attentive, driver safe and calm, helped with my luggage and most importantly got me to the airport on time. Easy to book online (although i did have to alter my departure time as i prefer to be at the airport with plenty of time). Not the cheapest but definitely not expensive, and i prefer to pay for reliability. Thanks for minimising the stress levels.
We booked two shore tours with Roberts Hawaii when cruising around the islands; a day trip including Pearl Harbour in Honolulu and Historic Kona on the big island. We highly recommend them! The website booking process was very easy to use and the transaction very smooth, with an email confirmation and reminder the day before. Once on shore, the tour representatives were easy to identify and friendly. The tour buses were clean and air conditioned. The drivers were friendly, approachable and knowledgeable with a pleasant dialogue on the tour. Mahalo John and Chuck! We enjoyed our time with you.
Our Hawaiian package included airport to hotel and hotel to airport shuttle service. This company was perfect both ways. Once we got our luggage from baggage claim we didn't have to touch it again until we got to our room. The driver and his assistants were so very nice. We got a lot of the local flavor on our ride. The driver on the return trip was just as helpful. He was punctual which put our minds at ease. Great company.
Protect Your Trip »
The 23 Best Hawaii Tours
Make the most of your visit to the Aloha State with one of these top-rated excursions.
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With so much to explore in Hawaii, it's best to start your trip with a knowledgeable guide.
Note: Nonessential travel to Maui is discouraged at this time, due to the wildfire damage Lahaina, Kihei and Upcountry Maui sustained in August 2023. For more information and updates on Maui, visit the Hawaii Tourism Authority website .
When you're not relaxing on Hawaii's golden beaches, you'll want to explore its distinct natural wonders by land, sea and air. After all, the state is home to the tallest mountain in the world (Mauna Kea – when measured from its submarine base, it surpasses Mount Everest), the world's highest sea cliffs (the Kalaupapa Cliffs) and two of the world's most active volcanoes (Kilauea and Maunaloa). The best way to see these jaw-dropping sights is with a guided tour. Led by in-the-know locals, these tours will help you experience all of the state's incredible wildlife, scenery, culture and food. Relying on both expert opinion and traveler input, U.S. News determined these to be the best tours in Hawaii.
Wasabi Tours Hawaii – Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing, History
Enjoy a jam-packed day exploring the Big Island 's top sights on this 11- to 12-hour tour. You'll start your day with a stop at a Kona coffee farm where you'll learn about the harvesting and milling process. Then, you'll continue on to Punalu'u Beach (famous for its black sand) and Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park . You'll also visit some of the island's most magnificent waterfalls, including Akaka Falls , Rainbow Falls and the Waipio Valley . According to reviewers, this tour is a great way to see a lot of the island in a short amount of time. Many tourgoers say the day flies by thanks to the engaging guides. Tours are capped at 12 participants and are generally available daily starting at 7 a.m. Tickets, which include a picnic-style lunch, snacks and bottled water, cost about $195 per adult and $175 per child ages 12 and younger. The company runs a variety of tours around the island, including a waterfall tour of the Waipio Valley and Hamakua Coast.
[View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3 .]
North Shore Beach Bus – Tour of North Shore
If you're visiting Oahu and want to explore beyond popular Waikiki , consider this daylong bus tour. Among the sights featured are the island's famous North Shore , where surfers from around the world congregate to ride the massive waves. You'll also visit the Dole Plantation, where the island's pineapples are grown. Reviewers give the guide and driver high marks thanks to their friendly attitudes and wealth of knowledge. Others say the tour is well-paced and is a great introduction if this is your first visit to Hawaii. Tours are generally available Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Buses begin picking up passengers at 7:20 a.m.; expect to be back in Waikiki by 5 to 6 p.m. Tickets cost about $130 per adult ages 13 and older, and $120 per child ages 3 to 12; infants 2 and younger can ride for free.
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Hang Loose Boat Tours – Manta Ray Night Snorkel
The waters surrounding the Big Island are feeding grounds for manta rays, which are known for their impressive wingspans and gentle demeanor (manta rays have tails but not stingers or barbs). The best way to see these magnificent creatures up close is on an evening snorkel tour, when boats use bright lights to attract plankton, which in turn draws manta rays in search of food. On this 2 1/2-hour tour, you'll get the chance to snorkel among these gentle giants and may even spot bottlenose dolphins. Tourgoers describe this as a bucket list experience and applaud the attentive, safety-conscious crew. Tours are available daily; departure times vary by month, but tours usually begin between 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $110 per participant ages 12 and older; $90 per child ages 5 to 11 and $35 for infants ages 1 to 4. Ride-along tourgoers who do not want to swim can join for $80 per person. Prices also include snacks and water. Hang Loose Boat Tours also offers whale-watching excursions and snorkeling tours of Kealakekua Bay , among other options.
Royal Star Hawaii Trans & Tours – Grand Circle Island & Haleiwa Town Tour
See all of Oahu's top sights in a day on this nine-hour coach bus tour. Among the stops are the Nuuanu Pali Lookout, the Byodo-In Temple, the Dole Plantation and the surfing town of Haleiwa, which sits on Oahu's majestic North Shore. Reviewers praise the energetic, educational guides and rave about the gorgeous views. Others say this is a great option if you have limited time on the island and want to see the top spots. Tours run Sunday through Friday from approximately 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets cost approximately $110 per adult and $75 per child ages 2 to 11. This company also offers private tours.
Koloa Zipline
Fly across Kauai 's longest zip line course on this exhilarating 3 1/2-hour tour. You'll begin the tour with a lesson on the basics of zip lining before traversing the course's eight lines, which offer incredible views of verdant forests and the Waita Reservoir. In between each zip line, you'll enjoy some light hiking. Those who want an extra thrill can also try zip lining upside down, backward or head first. Tourgoers are equally impressed with the stunning scenery and well-versed guides. Reviewers say you'll enjoy an incredible thrill riding on the zip lines, but also learn a fair amount of Hawaiian history from the personable guides. Many travelers suggest wearing mosquito repellent. You can book a tour Monday through Saturday; tours are available as early as 7:30 a.m. and as late as 3 p.m. Tickets cost about $150 per person ages 7 and older.
Haleakala National Park boasts unforgettable sunrises.
Bike Maui – Haleakala Sunrise Best Self-Guided Bike Tour with Bike Maui
According to reviewers, this sunrise tour is worth the early wake-up call. Depending on the month, you may check in as early as 3 a.m. The tour starts with a van ride up to the summit of Haleakala National Park where you'll be able to enjoy the sunrise – a particular highlight for travelers. Just outside the park at an elevation of 6,500 feet is where you'll begin your self-guided, 23-mile downhill journey, which you can enjoy at your own pace. Reviewers suggest wearing layers as it can get chilly at the summit, but quickly warms up once you're biking. Tours are generally available Monday through Saturday year-round. Check-in times vary by month in accordance with the sunrise. Tour tickets cost around $200, which covers all taxes and associated park fees. You'll also have complimentary use of mountain bikes, helmets, rain gear and backpacks. What's more, Bike Maui offers a guided version of this tour, which reviewers recommend if you don't consider yourself an experienced cyclist.
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Hawaii Turtle Tours – Turtle Circle Island Tour
Ideal for travelers short on time, this approximately nine-hour bus tour takes visitors to some of Oahu's top sights, including the Halona Blowhole, Mokolii, the Dole Plantation and the Diamond Head Lookout . Plus, it includes 90 minutes at a beach to swim and snorkel alongside green sea turtles. Travelers give both the driver and the guide two thumbs up and say this is an efficient way to see the island if you don't have a car. Reviewers say this is a great experience to book on one of your first days on the island as the guides will share tips and suggestions that you can apply to the rest of your vacation. Tours are available daily beginning at 7:20 a.m. Tickets cost about $130 for adults and approximately $110 for children ages 4 to 12. Infants 3 and younger ride for free. The use of snorkeling gear is included in the tour cost, but it's suggested that you bring cash for the food stops along the tour. Hawaii Turtle Tours also offers private custom tours.
Redline Rafting Co. – Molokini Crater and South Maui Coast
Visit Molokini Crater – one of only three volcanic calderas in the world – on this five-hour tour with Redline Rafting Co. Home to approximately 250 marine species, Molokini is a snorkeler's paradise. You'll also get the chance to snorkel the famous back wall of Molokini, a well-known dive spot. Additionally, your tour will include a stop at La Perouse Bay, which is home to spinner dolphins. If you're visiting between December and March, you may spot humpback whales. Reviewers praise the informative, fun crew, and report seeing a variety of wildlife, including manta rays, whale sharks and sea turtles. Tours generally depart daily at 7 a.m. from Kihei. Tickets start at $160 for participants ages 8 and older. Breakfast and lunch are included in the ticket price. The company also runs an abbreviated, two-hour Molokini snorkel tour, as well as whale watching excursions .
Sea Maui – Original Sunset Cocktail Cruise
Marvel at views of Molokai, Lanai , Maui and Kahoolawe with a cocktail in hand on this two-hour sunset cruise with Sea Maui. As you take in the view, you'll enjoy chef-prepared appetizers and handcrafted drinks from the open bar. Reviewers rave about the cruise, complimenting the friendly, attentive crew and spectacular views. Others praise the delicious food and drinks. If you time your trip from mid-December to mid-April, you may spot migrating whales. Boat tours depart around 4:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. On Tuesday and Thursday, Sea Maui offers a version of this cruise with musicians performing on board. Tickets for the Original Sunset Cocktail Cruise cost about $80 for adults 21 and older, $60 for teens ages 13 to 20 and $50 for children ages 3 to 12. In addition to sunset cruises, Sea Maui also runs snorkel tours.
Air Maui Helicopter Tours – West Maui and Molokai Special
Enjoy a bird's-eye view of Maui and Molokai on this 45-minute helicopter flight. You'll fly over the West Maui Mountains, hidden waterfalls and lush valleys, as well as Molokai, which is home to the world's tallest sea cliffs. Along the way, your pilot will share information about all the sights, as well as Maui history. Reviewers say it's impossible to see these spectacular views from land, and applaud the personable, informative pilots. Others say the price is reasonable for the once-in-a-lifetime experience. Tours are available daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets start at $229 per person. If you'd prefer more time in the air, you can sign up for the company's hourlong version of this tour. Air Maui also offers tours of the entire island, as well as the option to fly with the doors off.
PacWhale Eco-Adventures – Classic Whalewatch
During the winter breeding season, humpback whales are drawn to Maui's warm, temperate waters. Your best chance of spotting these magnificent creatures is aboard a whale watching tour with PacWhale Eco-Adventures. On this two-hour cruise, you'll head out to the 'Au'au Channel between Maui, Molokai and Lanai with a certified marine naturalist on board. In addition to whale sightings, you may also get to hear the whales using the boat's underwater hydrophone. Tourgoers report seeing many whales and praise the crew for their wealth of knowledge. Others say the boat is clean and spacious. Tours are available multiple times daily December through April from two departure points in Maui (Lahaina and Maalaea). Tickets cost about $45 for participants ages 13 and older, and $25 for kids ages 5 to 12; children 4 and younger ride for free. PacWhale Eco-Adventures also offers a variety of snorkeling tours and sunset dinner cruises around Maui.
Spinner dolphins are one of many sea creatures you could see during a Hawaiian vacation.
Kona Snorkel Tours – Wild Hawaiian Spinner Dolphin Snorkel Boat Adventure
Snorkel among wild dolphins on this up to four-hour tour. You'll zip along the Kona Coast in a rigid inflatable boat with up to 13 other passengers in search of wild dolphins. Though the boat is fast and can make for a choppy ride, it allows everyone on board to quickly slide into the water at the first dolphin sighting. Note that during the tour you'll be swimming by the dolphins, not with them. Kona Snorkel Tours also does not allow travelers to touch, harass, ride, feed or swim with the dolphins. Many travelers express amazement at the amount of dolphins spotted, and say floating near them is a magical experience. Others applaud the crew for being respectful of the wildlife. Tours are available daily at 7 and 10 a.m. Tickets cost about $120 per person. Snacks, water and use of snorkel gear and flotation devices are covered in the ticket cost. This tour is not recommended for children younger than 5, adults older than 60 or pregnant women. Kona Snorkel Tours also offers snorkeling excursions to the Kealakekua Bay.
Hawaii Forest & Trail – Mauna Kea Summit & Stars Adventure
The Big Island is home to the world's tallest sea mountain, Mauna Kea. A dormant volcano, Mauna Kea sits at nearly 14,000 feet above sea level and more than 30,000 feet from the ocean floor. To visit Mauna Kea's summit, learn more about the volcano's role in Hawaiian legend and its importance to the world of astronomy (it is home to 13 of the world's largest telescopes), consider joining this guided tour from Hawaii Forest & Trail. On the seven- to eight-hour journey, you and up to 11 other participants will journey to the summit at sunset before descending to a lower elevation to admire the stars using the company's Celestron telescope. Reviewers compliment the tour guides for their attention to safety, their passion for astronomy and their cultural knowledge. Many travelers advise dressing warm as the temperatures at the summit are frigid (as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit). Tickets, which include a picnic-style dinner, dessert, hot chocolate and tea, cost about $235 per participant ages 16 and older. Note that children younger than 16 are not permitted due to the possibility of altitude sickness. Tour availability and departure times can vary by month, with some tours departing as early as 1:25 p.m. Check the website to view the full schedule. Hawaii Forest & Trail also offers guided tours through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, among other options.
Kauai Sea Tours – Na Pali Snorkel Tour
Snorkel along the Napali Coast on this 5 1/2-hour adventure with Kauai Sea Tours. You'll zip around the coast on a rigid inflatable raft as the crew shares information about Kauai's history and the animals that inhabit these waters. As you cruise, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, sea turtles and humpback whales (from December to March). Reviewers warn that the raft ride can get bumpy at times, but thanks to the boat's size and easy maneuverability, the snorkeling portion of the experience is memorable, with many calling this the highlight of their time in Kauai. Tours are typically available daily at 7:15 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Tickets cost around $175 for adults and $155 for kids ages 3 to 12. Kauai Sea Tours also offers whale watching excursions and sunset sails, among other options.
Blue Hawaiian – Kauai ECO Adventure Helicopter Tour
Did you know that 90% of Kauai is inaccessible by car? To marvel at the island's hard-to-reach natural wonders, consider signing up for a helicopter tour from Blue Hawaiian. On this 50-minute flight, you'll soar over Manawaiopuna Falls (where the opening scenes of "Jurassic Park" were filmed), the Olokele and Waimea canyons, and the Napali Coast. If time allows, you may also fly over Mount Waialeale, a dormant shield volcano. Reviewers say the tour is worth the money thanks to the unparalleled views and informative pilots. Flights are available Monday through Saturday beginning at 8 a.m. The last flight of the day departs at 4:15 p.m., though departures may be earlier depending on the month. Tickets start at $314 per person. Blue Hawaiian also offers helicopter tours of other islands, including Oahu and Maui.
X-Treme Parasail
Enjoy a bird's-eye view of Waikiki, Diamond Head and more as you fly up to 1,000 feet in the air via parasail on this hourlong tour. Tourgoers hail the crew for their attention to safety and ability to create a fun atmosphere. Many describe it as a bucket list activity that's worth the expense. Tours are available on the hour from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Tickets for parasailers start at around $65; observers who do not want to parasail, but still want to ride on the boat pay about $45. The company also offers Jet Ski rentals and flyboarding experiences.
Kailua Beach Adventures – 2-Hour Guided Kayak Excursion
This beginner-friendly kayak tour is jam-packed with activity. You'll kayak in Oahu's Kailua Bay to Popoia Island, where nesting sea birds live. You'll have time to hike around the island, explore tide pools and enjoy a snack. Tourgoers offer glowing reviews for the guides, who they describe as full of energy and very knowledgeable. Reviewers also say they captured amazing photos on this trip. You can opt for a self-guided version of this tour, but reviewers only recommend that if you consider yourself an experienced kayaker as you'll have to navigate some choppy waters. Guided tours are available Monday through Saturday as early as 7:30 a.m., with multiple departures per day. Tickets cost about $180 per adult and approximately $160 for children between the ages of 8 and 12. The tour cost covers the use of kayaking and snorkeling gear, lunch and free parking. The company also operates kayak tours suited for advanced kayakers that explores hidden tide pools and the Mokulua Islands.
The Napali Coast is well-known for its staggering cliffs.
Holo Holo Charters – Napali Sunset Dinner Tour
Enjoy a memorable sunset dinner cruise aboard Holo Holo Charters' 65-foot catamaran as you admire the stunning Napali Coast. The 3 1/2-hour tour includes appetizers, dinner, dessert and drinks (including alcoholic beverages), as well as a sparkling wine toast at sunset. Reviewers gush about the stunning views and attentive crew, with many calling this tour a "can't-miss" experience. Cruises are generally available daily; departures vary by season. Tickets for adults cost around $160; tickets for children ages 5 to 12 cost about $140. For safety reasons, pregnant women and children younger than 5 are not allowed to tour. Holo Holo Charters also offers snorkeling tours, among other options.
Temptation Tours – Hana Ultimate Tour
If you're hoping to drive the legendary Road to Hana , but don't want to maneuver the 54-mile winding highway on your own, consider booking this van tour. You'll start your day with breakfast in Kahului or Pa'ia before hitting up some of the top sights along the highway, including Waikani Falls and Ho'okipa – a world-renowned windsurfing spot. You'll also enjoy a three-course lunch and have the option to swim at a black sand beach or in a pool beneath a waterfall. Tourgoers call guides knowledgeable and passionate, and say breakfast and lunch are delicious. Many reviewers recommend opting for this tour instead of trying to drive the road yourself to be able to fully enjoy the experience. Tours are limited to eight participants and include round-trip hotel transportation. Trips depart daily starting at 7 a.m. and return at approximately 6 p.m. Tickets cost about $250 per person. You can also add on a helicopter flight to this tour, or to save some money by opting for the "meet your guide" option, which does not include round-trip hotel transportation or any meals.
Kayak Kauai – Wailua River Sacred Falls Tour
Enjoy a leisurely paddle on Kauai's Wailua River followed by a hike to a tropical waterfall on this five-hour tour. Along the way, you'll enjoy plenty of wildlife-watching opportunities, and learn about the history of the river, which is considered one of Hawaii's most sacred places. Tourgoers call this experience a must-do in Kauai and applaud the courteous, knowledgeable guides, who reviewers say provide a wealth of information about Hawaiian history and culture. However, a few warn of heavy tourist crowds at the waterfall. Tickets cost approximately $110 for adults and $95 for children ages 6 to 12. Note that the tour is not suited for kids 5 and younger. Tours depart several times daily beginning at 7:45 a.m. The company operates a variety of other kayaking and hiking tours around Kauai. Prefer to explore solo? Kayak Kauai also rents gear.
Body Glove Cruises – Captain Cook Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay
Cruise 12 miles down the Kona Coast to the Captain Cook Monument on this three-hour boat tour. Along the way, an onboard historian will share information about Hawaiian history and culture. Once you arrive in the Kealakekua Bay, you'll enjoy a Hawaiian-style dinner and live entertainment as you marvel at the sunset. Travelers give the crew kudos for their attentiveness and say the music is fantastic. Others rave about the sunset views and many say they spotted dolphins. Tours are available Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday at 4 p.m. Tickets cost about $150 for adults ages 18 and older and approximately $90 for kids ages 6 to 17. Children 5 and younger can cruise for free. Dinner and one complimentary cocktail are included in the ticket price; additional cocktails are available for purchase. Body Glove also offers lunch cruises, as well as whale watching excursions.
Fair Wind Cruises – Morning Kealakekua Snorkeling Tour
Snorkel around the Big Island's Kealakekua Bay – known for its calm, pool-like waters – on this 4 1/2-hour tour. As you cruise along the Kona coast, the crew will share stories of Hawaii's history, including King Kamehameha III – Hawaii's longest reigning monarch. A plant-based breakfast and lunch are served on board, and soda, juice, wine and beer are available to purchase from the cash bar. According to travelers, the boat is well-equipped with a diving platform, snorkeling gear, waterslides and plenty of flotation devices. Reviewers also commend the attentive, friendly crew. However, a few travelers express disappointment with the plant-based meals offered. Tours are generally available daily at 9 a.m., though availability may vary by month. Tickets cost approximately $160 for participants ages 13 and older and $100 for kids ages 4 to 12; children 3 and younger can join for about $30. Fair Wind Cruises offers an afternoon version of this tour, as well as a variety of other snorkeling excursions around the island.
Living Ocean Tours – Turtle Canyons Snorkel Excursion
The appropriately titled Turtle Canyons is known as a sea turtle hangout spot. It's at this area along the Waikiki coast that green sea turtles congregate as reef fish swim around them and clean their shells. It's also the perfect place to go snorkeling if you're interested in getting up close to the majestic creatures. On this two-hour snorkel trip, you'll cruise along the coast before having time to get in the water in search of the marine life at Turtle Canyons. Depending on the season, you may also spot dolphins and humpback whales during the tour. Reviewers admire the passionate crew, and say they are especially helpful with kids. Others plan to book this same tour on future visits to the island. Tours are available daily beginning at 7 a.m., with multiple departure times per day. Tickets cost about $75 per person ages 3 and older. Juices, water, light snacks and the use of snorkeling gear are all included in the cost of the tour. Living Ocean also offers private charters.
You may also be interested in:
- The Best Oahu Helicopter Tours
- The Best Maui Tours
- Pearl Harbor Tours: Tickets and Tips for Visiting
- The Best Hawaiian Islands
- The Best Hotels in Hawaii
- The Best Cruises to Hawaii
- Top Hawaii Beaches to Visit
- All-Inclusive Resorts in Hawaii: Hotels With Awesome Amenities
Tags: Travel , Vacations , Tours , Hawaii
World's Best Places To Visit
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Explore the golden beaches of Waikiki
Home of the perfect wave, Waikiki is one of the best-loved places in Hawaii to soak up the sun and sea. Head down to Waikiki Beach, a two-mile strip of powdery white sand, where you can take a dip in the turquoise waters and admire the gorgeous Hawaiian sunset.
Tour the lively seaside village of Kailua-Kona
Set on the west coast of the Big Island (Hawaii Island), Kailua-Kona was once the playground of Hawaiian royalty. Today, it’s a vibrant village and our Local Specialists will show you the dazzling white Kona Hawaii Temple and introduce you to Kona’s coffee culture with a visit to a local coffee plantation.
Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
We’ll reveal the thrilling beauty of Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii’s Big Island with a walk through a real lava tube and a visit to an interpretive museum to learn about these incredible active volcanoes. We’ll also take you for lunch at a restaurant with the steaming Halema'uma'u Crater as the backdrop.
Meet conservation naturalists of the Maui Ocean Center
Dive to the depths of Maui’s underwater world with a visit to the Maui Ocean Centre. We’ll introduce you to the passionate conservation naturalists who will show you around the largest tropical reef aquarium in the Western Hemisphere, filled with sharks, Hawaiian green sea turtles, live Pacific coral and thousands of tropical fish.
Learn about bio-dynamic farming in Hawaii
Make a Difference with a visit to a local farm in Maui, where you’ll discover the island’s sustainable agricultural practices and support the farm-to-table movement. After learning about bio-dynamic farming, you’ll enjoy a gourmet lunch made with ingredients freshly picked from the farm’s gardens and orchards.
Our top 5 things to do in Hawaii
From the sustainable farms of Maui, to the sugary beaches of Waikiki and the volcanoes of Big Island, our Hawaii holiday packages reveal every side of this beautiful state.
Pearl Harbor
USS Missouri
The USS Missouri memorial is dedicated to preserving the famous ship and her story, documenting the ship from the first launch in 1944 until today. As the site where WWII formally ended, the USS Missouri is one of the most important artifacts of the war.
Bishop Museum
The Bishop Museum is the largest museum in Hawaii and houses the world’s largest collection of Polynesian cultural artifacts and over 24 million natural history specimens. There’s also a number of interactive displays, with planetarium shows and a Science Adventure Center.
Iolani Palaca
Built in 1882 in Honolulu, the grand Iolani Palace was once the home of Hawaii’s reigning monarchs. Today it’s a Natural Historic Landmark and a living restoration of Hawaiian culture where you’ll discover the royal histories of King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani.
Best museums in Hawaii
Our Hawaii tour packages show you the vibrant history and culture of Hawaii through the country’s top museums, from indigenous cultures to the history of Pearl Harbor.
A traditional dish of Native Hawaiian cuisine, poke is a dish of diced raw fish (traditionally tuna or octopus), seasoned with green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, seaweed or wasabi. You can find popular modern versions served with additions like avocado, mushrooms, pineapple and jalapeños.
Pork Lau Lau
Pork Lau Lau is a delicious Native Hawaiian dish, made of chunks of pork wrapped in taro (luau) leaf and cooked in a traditional imu oven (an underground pit). Today, pork lau lau is commonly steamed on the stove and served as a lunch dish with a side of rice.
Lomi Lomi Salmon
A traditional Hawaiian dish, lomi lomi salmon is a cold salad of shredded salmon, tomatoes and sweet Maui onions. The name comes from the preparation method, as lomi lomi means ‘to massage’ in Hawaiian, and the salmon is traditionally rubbed with salt by hand before serving.
Best food in Hawaii
Hawaiian cuisine is a tasty blend of native, Asian and European influences, featuring fresh fish, fruit, vegetables and spices. We’ll show you the best spots to taste the classic Hawaiian dishes.
What to pack for Hawaii
With hundreds of beautiful beaches and some of the world’s best surf, you’ll need to pack your swimsuit for your Hawaii trip.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protect yourself from the sun and protect the coral from Oxybenzone or Octinoxate. Both of these chemicals (commonly found in sunscreen) will be banned in Hawaii from 2021.
Waterproof day bag
Whether you’re trekking to a waterfall or venturing out on a snorkelling trip, you’ll need a waterproof day bag to protect your phones and cameras.
Adaptor plug
In Hawaii, the standard voltage is 120 V and the power plugs and sockets are of type A and B. The standard frequency is 60 Hz.
Hiking shoes
Hawaii is famed for its towering mountains, hidden waterfalls and phenomenal viewpoints, so bring a sturdy pair of shoes for your hiking adventures.
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Groups & Corporate Travel
We can handle all sizes of groups from 2 people to 2000. Our teams of guides and agents can organize conferences, events, parades, school bands, sports teams, and even support military exercises. We look forward to serving our client companies’ needs with retreats, team building space, or simply some great activities that everyone can bond over. We can make it happen!
Select an Island and Explore the Circle Island Routes
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Circle Island Tour Reviews
We loved our day exploring coffee farms, an active volcano, rainforest waterfalls and like everything about it. I had my head on a swivel, there was always something more to see!
We went down the road to Hana and then kept going. It was the best day we had on Maui. The stuff past Hana is absolutely awesome. The Best waterfalls, roadside cliff views, historic buildings and big open areas. It was cool.
The island has a lot of people but that means they have lots of great little places to eat at and check out. That is what we did all day long. New places, new tastes, new everything. Each part of the island is different. Going all the way around allowed us to see it all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are circle island tours, what are the vacation packages, why are helicopter tours included, why are some tours referred to as being “grand”, the best guides & customer service.
We create opportunities for wonderful memories with your family and friends at a great value. Each day is an important time investment. You won’t waste your time or money choosing us.
Stress-Free Bookings & Changes
Book your tour now and make changes at no cost. Our team is here to make your trip exceptional. We will make sure you are taking the right tour on the right day (on the right island!).
We Provide Custom Island Tours
We are a full-service tour operator and travel agency based here in Hawaii. We provide small group shared and private sightseeing tours. Check out our tours or book a private to customize your day even more.
Tour Experience Full Of Aloha
We will never forget our roots and that is to deliver wonderful island experiences every day. Please reach out to us at any time by email, chat, and text. Or call us between 8 AM and 5 PM daily, Hawaiian time.
- 378 Aliiolani St., Pukalani, HI 96768
- 1-808-900-7253
- [email protected]
- Open Daily 5:00am to 9:00pm, HST
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Hawaii: Oahu, the Big Island & Maui
4.5 out of 5 stars
You have up to 60 days to get a full refund
Feel good about putting a tour on the calendar today: Enroll in AutoPay or pay in full when you book, and if you change your mind, you’ll get your money back .†
Find paradise on Earth amid Hawaii’s natural and cultural splendor.
Cross the Pacific to discover a state unlike any other. From the pristine beaches to the towering volcanoes, Hawaii’s natural beauty is spellbinding. Set foot on the shores of Oahu to pay tribute to those lost in Pearl Harbor, sip local coffee near historic craters in Kona, and discover Maui’s colorful aquatic life.
Your tour package includes
- 9 nights in handpicked hotels
- 9 breakfasts
- 3 dinners with beer and wine
Included highlights
- Pearl Harbor
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- Pu‘uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park
- Kona coffee tasting
- Halekala National Park
An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Hawaii! Arrive in Honolulu and transfer to your hotel in Waikiki.
Tonight, sit down to a welcome dinner with your group.
This morning, explore Polynesian culture and visit Pearl Harbor, the site of the surprise military attack that led to the United States’ entry to WWII.
- Stop by the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum to learn about Hawaiian culture
- View a short film on the site’s tragic history at the Pearl Harbor Memorial Theater
- Take a short boat ride to the USS Arizona memorial site for a one-hour guided tour (weather permitting)
Head toward Oahu’s eastern shore for a guided sightseeing of the island.
- Stop at Nu‘uanu Pali, where Kamehameha I fought to conquer Oahu
- Try to spot the island of Molokai in the distance from Makapu‘u Point
- Pass by beautiful Hanauma Bay to see Halona Blowhole and the surrounding natural rock formations
- Take in views of Diamond Head, the island’s towering volcanic ash cone
Please note: The order of activities is subject to change. Due to dock damage and other on-site restrictions the boat taxi to the USS Arizona is not guaranteed.
Spend a free day on Oahu or add excursions.
Honolulu Sunset Cruise & Dinner
From $175 per person
Outrigger Canoe Experience
From $75 per person
This morning, board your flight to Hilo, the largest city on the Big Island.
Then, join your Tour Director to explore the city.
- See Waianuenue Falls, a roaring waterfall where visitors can often spot a rainbow in the surrounding mist
- Walk through Liliuokalani Park and Gardens to see the Japanese style architectural elements
- View Coconut Island
- Walk through the local marketplace where you’ll have free time to visit some of the shops
Enjoy a free afternoon to explore Hilo.
En route to Kona, head south to discover some of the island’s most beautiful parks.
- Peer into the Kilauea Caldera, the island’s most active volcano and is said to be the home of Pele, the Hawaiian Goddess of Fire
- Enjoy an included lunch at a local restaurant
- Stop at Punalu‘u Beach to try to spot turtles sunning themselves on the black, sandy shores
- Step into a local coffee shop for a tasting of the island’s famous coffee
- Enter the Pu‘uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, one of the most sacred heiau (places of worship) on the islands
Spend a free day in Kona or add an excursion.
Sit down for an included dinner at an authentic Hawaiian luau this evening.
Kealakekua Catamaran Cruise & Snorkeling
From $185 per person
After a quick flight to Maui, transfer to Ka`anapali. Enjoy a free time for the rest of the day to explore the island at your leisure.
Please note: Depending on flight availability, the flight to Maui may take place in either the morning or afternoon.
Experience the culture and customs of Maui’s southeastern side.
- Stop at the Haleakalā National Park Visitor Center, located 9,740 feet above sea level, to view the impressive crater
- Enjoy an included barbecue lunch
- Visit a farm on the slopes of Haleakala, where the higher elevation allows for a wider variety of crops and spectacular views of Maui and the ocean
- Sample fresh goat cheese and learn about it’s production
Enjoy a full free day on Maui or add an excursion.
This evening, rejoin your group to celebrate your trip with a farewell dinner.
Maui Chocolate Tour & Tasting
From $139 per person
Enjoy a free morning in Maui. Then, transfer to the airport for your flight home or continue your tour in Kauai.
Arrive home this morning.
Fly to Kauai this morning and settle in to your hotel.
Enjoy a free day to soak in the sun on Kauai's stunning beaches or explore the island at your leisure.
Learn the incredible natural history of Kauai, Hawaii’s oldest and greenest island.
- Visit Waimea Canyon, the “Grand Canyon of Hawaii,” and see its incredible valleys from multiple vantage points
- Stop in the historic town of Koloa where commercial sugar production got its start before spreading to the other islands
- View the Spouting Horn blowhole and enjoy an included lunch in Poipu
- After an included lunch, head to Hanapepe Valley Lookout for incredible views the lush valley and dramatic mountains
Enjoy a free morning in Kauai before transferring to the airport for your flight home.
Arrive home today.
Book for just $99 down
That’s all it takes to secure your spot on tour with AutoPay. Then, pay for your trip in interest-free, monthly installments.†
Overall rating 4.5 out of 5
5 out of 5 stars
Ehitu is the best tour guide ever and highly recommended. Our group learn so much and he was very professional and helpful and available at all times.... Mahalo my friend for life.
Traveler photos
Hotels, flights & FAQ
This beachside hotel is located in the heart of Honolulu. Guests enjoy the outdoor pool, on-site cafe and market, and fitness center. Nearby you'll fi...
This oceanfront hotel is located in quaint Hilo Town. Guests enjoy a freshwater pool, views of the Pacific, and on-site restaurant and lounge. Nearby,...
This beachfront hotel is located on Kamakahonu Beach on Kona. Guests enjoy the outdoor infinity pool, private balconies and beachside cabanas. Nearby ...
This tropical themed hotel is located overlooking Ka'anapali Beach on the island of Maui. Guests enjoy on-site water facilities, several on-site resta...
This oceanfront hotel is located in Kauai Wailua Bay in the town of Hana. Guests enjoy an outdoor pool, private beach access, and on-site restaurant. ...
- Round-trip flight for your tour
- Airport transfers at your destination
- A great price locked in today
- 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
- Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
- Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
- Find out more about flights
- U.S. citizens need valid government-issued identification for air travel within the United States. If you plan to use a state-issued ID or driver's license on or after May 7, 2025, it will need to meet Real ID requirements. Real ID compliant versions of these IDs will have either a yellow or black star, white star inside a yellow or black circle, or a white star inside a bear in the top righthand corner. Please visit dhs.gov for more information.
- In order to enter the United States, Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
- If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each destination country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
- You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code HAI.
- You will walk for about 1.5 hours daily across mostly even terrain, including paved roads and paths, with some hills and stairs.
- Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance. Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.
- You should feel comfortable managing your own baggage at times, as well as getting in and out of boats.
- Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special, individual mobility assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group as a whole enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing, individualized assistance to any one traveler.
- If you have any mobility concerns or physical restrictions, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
- Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Honolulu, Hawaii and depart from Maui, Hawaii (or Kauai, Hawaii on the tour extension). A representative from Go Ahead Tours will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Please remain in the arrival lounge, as the representative might be escorting one of your fellow travelers to the bus at the time of your arrival.
- Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost.
- The airport transfers are shared and will make stops along the way. In addition, the roads on the Hawaiian islands are often congested due to traffic. Travelers should be prepared for longer transfers.
- Flights from Honolulu to Hilo and from Kona to Maui are included in the price of your tour. (The tour extension also includes a flight from Maui to Kauai.)
- All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
- Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and other transfers, which may include train connections or flights.
- Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights, which may include on-tour flights in addition to your round-trip flights to and from tour. Please note that your included on-tour flights may have more restrictive baggage limits.
- Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage or exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
- Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
- We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
- A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
- You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
- At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov.
- Please be aware that you will be traveling to altitudes as high as 8,000 feet above sea level. These high altitudes can sometimes cause breathing difficulties for travelers who have heart problems or respiratory ailments. If you suffer from any of these conditions, please speak to your doctor regarding any potential health risks.
- During the summer months, take proper care with sun exposure and heat.
- If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
- If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please call our Customer Experience Team.
- You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code HAI
- Hawaiian cuisine reflects the islands’ diverse history and population, combining influence from Polynesian voyagers, European explorers, American missionaries, and plantation workers from Asia. Taro, pineapple, coconut, macadamia nut, and fish are the islands’ most famous ingredients. Spam, which was brought over by GIs during World War II, also shows up on many menus. Popular dishes include chicken with rice, pulled pork, poi (mashed taro root), and ahi poke (raw ahi tuna).
- North America operates on 110-120 volts and uses Type A or B plugs with two flat pins or two flat pins and one round pin, respectively.
- The majority of the hotels on this tour will have air conditioning.
- Your hotels may provide hairdryers, irons, and other small appliances. However, these amenities cannot be guaranteed.
- Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
- There is no Wi-Fi on any of the motor coaches.
- Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
- Hawaii is on Hawaiian-Aleutian Time (HAT), which is six hours behind Eastern Time (ET) and three hours behind Pacific Time (PT). Hawaii does not observe daylight saving time.
- From April through October, when it is noon in Hawaii, it is 6pm in New York City and 3pm in Los Angeles. From November through March, when it is noon in Hawaii, it is 5pm in New York City and 2pm in Los Angeles.
- You will use the U.S. dollar on tour.
- We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
- You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
- Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
- International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
- At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in USD.
- We recommend tipping $10USD to $12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and $3USD per person per day for your driver.
- If applicable, we also recommend $2USD per local guide.
- Tips can only be paid in cash.
- Most optional excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour.
- Your Tour Director will only accept cash (in USD only), Visa, or MasterCard as payment for excursions.
- Please be advised that if you pay for an excursion by credit card while on tour, it may take up to three months for your card to be charged.
- Some optional excursions may only be purchased in advance. See page four of your tour itinerary for more information. International travel is, by its very nature, unpredictable. We must therefore reserve the right to change this itinerary, without advance notice, to meet with local conditions at the time of travel. We appreciate your understanding. Please refer to our website for Terms & Conditions, dates, and prices.
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Hawaii's air-tour leader for 35 years.
- All Islands
The Big Island Experience
The Big Island of Hawaii is the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago—almost as large as all the other islands combined—and bursting with life. Within 4,000 square miles of land, you’ll experience dense tropical rainforests, black-sand beaches, snow-capped peaks, remnants of ancient Hawaiian settlements, and the incredible Kilauea volcano.
Discover the Big Island's magnificent beauty and its volcanic fury on this all-in-one Big Island helicopter tour. Get an up-close look at the famous Kilauea volcano, which has been continuously erupting since 1983; the results of its historic 2018 eruption provide phenomenal views. From t...
Experience Kilauea and Hawaii Volcano National Park! The massive eruptions of the world’s most active and unpredictable volcano have changed the face of the Big Island in spectacular ways. On the Circle of Fire helicopter tour, you’ll embark on a breathtaking adventure, seeking out the isl...
Witness the stunning Kohala coast of Big Island’s North Shore, where the towering sea cliffs of Waipi’o Valley open into the dramatically deep and meandering valleys of the Kohala Mountains. On this helicopter ride, you’ll experience beautiful waterfalls cascade thousands of feet into t...
Pele, the Hawaiian volcano deity is said to embody the lava and natural forces of the volcano. She has made her home on Hawaii Island (the Big Island) and continues to make her majesty known from mountain to sea. Embark on a breathtaking adventure seeking out the island’s unique and newly formed l...
The Maui Experience
Maui is renowned for its unimaginable beauty. Alpine-like forests cover the upcountry slopes of Mt. Haleakala, the world’s largest dormant volcano. The famed “Road to Hana” hugs the coast, white sandy beaches line the shores, and magnificent sea cliffs hover over the blue Pacific. An aerial tour of Maui will quickly reveal why it’s continually been voted “The World’s Best Island.”
Want the best of both worlds? This unique helicopter tour unites the best of East and West Maui to create an action-packed aerial view of the whole island. From the lush valleys of the West Maui Mountains to the rugged shoreline of Northeast Maui, you’ll have a panoramic view of it all....
Discover some of East Maui’s most unique sights on the Hana and Haleakala helicopter tour. Soar thousands of feet above the immense, moon-like crater of Mt. Haleakala—the world's largest dormant volcano! Gaze down at the beautiful Hana Rainforest Preserve on your way to the famous Seven...
A combination of our West Maui and Hana/Haleakala helicopter tours, featuring an exciting bonus! This comprehensive tour of the island begins with a flight exploration of the most magnificent West Maui valleys, rainforest, and waterfalls. Then comes the bonus: we land at the our exclusive...
The West Maui and Molokai helicopter tour takes you on an aerial adventure into some of the most remote and beautiful places in the world. Soar above 88 miles of untouched coastline, where towering waterfalls plunge from sea cliffs into the turquoise sea on Molokai’s north shore. Explore...
Explore deep, meandering valleys set in the rainforest of the ancient West Maui Mountains. Knife-edged ridges with mist-shrouded peaks separate the spectacular valleys that give Maui its nickname, "The Valley Isle." See the famous Iao valley and learn about the history and culture of the sights fro...
The Oahu Experience
Oahu is the cultural heart of the Hawaiian Islands, offering an eclectic mix of tradition, Hawaiian history, and stunning natural beauty. Beyond Waikiki Beach, the historic sights of Pearl Harbor and the cosmopolitan city of Honolulu, you’ll discover gorgeous shorelines, hidden valleys, cascading waterfalls, and the famed North Shore.
Oahu is full of so much surprising beauty, the only way to experience it all is from the air! In this one amazing tour, you'll see the phenomenal scenery of this Island's hidden rainforests, lush valleys, and stunning historic sights. You'll glide over the vivid turquoise coral reefs of W...
On this 65-minute Complete Island tour of Oahu, you’ll experience all the spectacular sights that make Oahu so unique. You’ll take off from Honolulu airport and fly above the the powerful historic sights of Pearl Harbor and the Arizona Memorial. Then, just beyond the modern metropolis o...
The Kauai Experience
Six million years of powerful natural forces have sculpted Kauai into what it is today, a natural masterpiece. The incomparable Na Pali Coast, Waimea Valley (the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”), and stunning Mount Waiʻaleʻale (the second wettest place on earth), are among Kauai’s incredible wonders that are so remote, they are only accessible by helicopter.
On this awe-inspiring helicopter tour of Kauai, you’ll experience the legendary natural views that encompass the Garden Isle. Explore stunning Manawaiopuna Falls, often called “Jurassic Park” falls, surrounded by rich native flora in the gorgeous Hanapepe Valley. Fly over the spectacula...
With over 70% of the island being inaccessible by land, Kauai is truly best seen from the sky. On this incredible helicopter tour of Kauai, you’ll experience views so beautiful they will take your breath away. Explore the stunning Manawaiopuna Falls, also known as “Jurassic...
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The world is talking about Blue Hawaiian Helicopters. See why!
This was a once in a lifetime experience! Well worth every bit! Thank you!!
Awesome experience. David the pilot provided a lot of good history regarding the volcanos and seismic activity and lava. Felt very safe and the pilot made sure that we were able to was able to get lots of pictures and video from all sides. Highly recommend. Definitely a must do on the island.
Very nice one in a lifetime experience
Greg was our amazing pilot who shared Hawaii with us in the most incredible way. There is so much to see in Hawaii that can really only be seen from the air. Just an incredible experience.
This is an amazing tour! The water fall landing is a must!!
Absolutely Stunning Flight with Karl the Best Second Day Pilot ever!!! We’ve flown multiple times with other firms. This was by far the best!
Blue Hawaiian is Hawaii‘s #1 helicopter tour company. Since 1985, it‘s been our mission to offer our guests a truly authentic experience of Aloha. From the moment you book your helicopter tour, we strive to create wonderful memories that will last a lifetime. And for us, good enough is never enough. That‘s the Blue Hawaiian difference.
All Blue Hawaiian pilots are high-time experts, and State of Hawaii Certified Tour Guides
The world's finest fleet of state-of-the-art helicopters
Multiple award-winning customer service, sharing the true spirit of Aloha
The helicopter you fly in has a huge impact on the quality of your air-tour experience. Compare Blue Hawaiian's state-of-the-art Eco-Stars and A-Stars with some other tour helicopters used in Hawaii. Check out these 360° rotatable views of the various helicopter interiors and exteriors.
- Airbus EC130 Eco-Star
- Airbus AS350 A-Star
Every seat offers greater personal space, first-class individual seats, and expansive glass for exceptional visibility. This is the world's newest and most expensive model of touring helicopter, and the first specifically designed for air tours. It is utilized by only three companies in Hawaii: Blue Hawaiian, Sunshine, and Maverick.
The Airbus A-Star AS350B2 offers excellent performance, long-range capabilities, a smooth ride for up to six guests, and an open cabin designed for 180º views from every seat. Featuring a climate-controlled cockpit and great air-conditioning, Blue Hawaiian's A-Stars also provide Bose® noise-cancelling headsets and two-way communication between guests and their pilot.
Big Island Beaches Guide
Hapuna, Kua Bay, Green Sand, ...
Big Island Sights Guide
Kilauea, Waipio, Rainbow Falls, ...
Big Island Hiking Guide
Kilauea Iki, Muliwai, Pololu Valley, ...
Big Island Regions Guide
Kailua-Kona, Hilo, Puna, Kohala, ...
When to Visit Big Island
Learn about the best time to visit →
Big Island Travel Tips
Big Island travel tips & recommendations →
Big Island Top Picks
Explore the Big Island's Must See & Do →
All Hawaii Island Guides →
Big Island Accommodations →
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- When to visit the Big Island →
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Big Island Activities →
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Big Island of Hawaii
Visitor information on where to stay, best things to do, and more....
Big Island of Hawaii Travel Guide
Visitor info & top things to do on the big island, essential tips for the ultimate big island vacation experience.
The Big Island of Hawaii seems determined to break the norm; the stereotype of the average tropical island, that is. Here you'll find the ongoing battle between green forests, black lava fields, the ocean, and the rain almost incomprehensible; the diversity is simply stunning . You may find yourself wondering, "Is this an ancient landscape or a future one?"
We say the Big Island is ‘big’ - and we mean it! It is an island of such proportions that all of the other islands in the main Hawaiian chain could fit inside it nearly twice ! Sitting in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the landmass of the Big Island is approximately the same size as the state of Connecticut, about 4,050 square miles, and is still growing regularly thanks to Kilauea Volcano on the eastern coast of the island.
— article continued below —
Pololu Valley - Kohala
FREE Hawaii Island Summary Guidesheet
Updated with a new summary map of the Big Island with estimated driving times from popular starting points.
Includes the top must-see & do Big Island attractions, best times to visit , where to stay briefing, Big Island airports detail , a monthly weather summary , and where to find the most noteworthy local ono 'grindz' (best eats) on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Download Guidesheet Now
On the Big Island, it's always best to expect the unexpected. Even the beaches don't follow the rules here. It's almost easier to find a black sand beach than a white one, and if you're adventurous enough, you can even sink your toes into one of the world's few green sand beaches .
Snorkeling with Manta Rays * in the Kona area and touring the island's volcanoes are just a few of the tops things you should look into while visiting the Big Island of Hawaii. Ultimately, we'll help you discover all that the Big Island of Hawaii has to offer.
*Sponsored Content
Everything you need to know about the Big Island of Hawaii is here in one convenient place:
- Determine the best time to visit the Big Island
- Discover the perfect Hawaii accommodations or explore our variety of Big Island tours
- Read our Big Island travel tips & advice
- Explore all of the Big Island attractions
Kilauea Iki Trail - Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Summary of Big Island topics covered on this page.
- Big Island Blog, recent news, and current events
- Current Weather, Climate, & Forecast
- Where to Stay on the Big Island - accommodations guide
- Big Island of Hawaii Map Packet
- Best Time to Visit the Big Island - which month is best?
- Big Island Regions & Destinations Guide
- Top 10 Big Island Attractions to See & Do
- Big Island Trip Itineraries for Planning 1-7 Day Trips
- Top Big Island Sights
- Top Big Island Beaches
- Top Big Island Hiking Trails
- Big Island Popular Tours & Activities
- Big Island Visitor Information & Articles
When to Visit the Big Island?
The best months to visit.
Knowing when to visit the Big Island of Hawaii is essential when planning your Big Island trip or vacation. Honestly, there's not a wrong time to visit the island - it has an incredibly wide diversity and geography that suits almost any type of traveler- from outdoor adventurer to poolside fixture.
But, that said, some months are still better when considering things like the weather and your budget. The best times to visit the Big Island of Hawaii, taking into consideration the weather, how crowded or not the island is, and the demand for accommodations, are the month(s) of April, May, August, September, and October. Some call these Hawaii Island's 'off-season periods' or the 'shoulder months.'
There's more to cover on this topic before you make a final decision. In this article, we'll cover visitor arrivals, the Big Island's weather and climate, accommodations, rates, and what to expect on a visit during each season on the Big Island.
When to Visit the Big Island of Hawaii
Big Island Estimated Visitor Arrivals (click to enlarge)
Where to Stay on the Big Island
Knowing where to stay on the Big Island is essential. The island is large (twice the size of all the other islands combined) and diverse. Many visitors find it challenging to decide upon an island accommodation. To assist the process, choose a location on the island that you will enjoy. Our guide will list some essential considerations to help you choose wisely.
Where Do You Stay on The Big Island?
Consider a location that affords you enough time to visit all of the most popular attractions. A week might cut it on smaller islands like Kauai, Maui, or Oahu. But the size of the Big Island requires more time to see all the worthwhile attractions. We suggest one week as a minimum, but two or three weeks are ideal. Plan to divide your time between the two primary halves of the island: the West Side and the East Side.
How to Maximize Your Stay From the West to the East of the Big Island
We suggest splitting your stay between Kailua-Kona on the west side and Hilo (or Volcano) on the east side during your trip. This will ease a lot of extra driving and allow you to experience both sides of the island. If you have only allocated a week to visit the island, four nights in Hilo and three in Kailua-Kona will suffice. Use that same ratio for more extended visits. Most visitors spend longer periods in Kailua-Kona since most hotels, upscale resorts, vacation rentals, and Big Island motels are here. The north of Kailua-Kona on the Kohala 'Gold' Coast hosts lodging options. Yet, since most of the Big Island's best attractions & sights are closer to Hilo, visitors should attempt to book accommodations in Hilo for at least half of their stay on the island.
In this detailed article, we'll look at the pros and cons of each area we've briefly discussed above.
Where to Stay on the Big Island of Hawaii
Big Island Accommodation Rates (click to enlarge)
Big Island Weather
Weather & climate on the big island.
Weather on the Big Island of Hawaii changes as rapidly as the terrain around it. No other island has the same diversity as the Big Island; not even by a long shot!
In some areas, rainfall can be absolutely zero; not a drop falls all year long, and the terrain reflects this- it's dry and barren. In other areas, it can be rainy every day of the year (as in Hilo or Puna), creating a lush paradise for visitors who enjoy that environment.
For the most part, the Big Island is warm and tropical year-round. In winter and summer, the average temperatures near the major resort areas (coastline) range from 75-85°F (23°C-29°C). At higher elevations like Volcano and Waimea, temperatures are often much cooler, especially during the night. Hilo can also have lower temperatures depending on how far mauka (inland) you travel. And, of course, the summit of Mauna Kea and flanks of Mauna Loa or Hualalai can be quite chilly, if not downright frigid. Plan for snow if you'll be visiting those areas.
Our Big Island of Hawaii Weather article has much more to cover.
Big Island of Hawaii Weather
*Climate Notes: Weather and Climate numbers are aggregated from trusted weather sources providing the monthly temperature and precipitation figures for the Big Island's primary airports in Kailua-Kona and Hilo. These climate summaries, specific to the airport location, should therefore not be taken as a "whole-island" forecast. Weather conditions can change dramatically on the Big Island due to the diverse topography, changes in elevation, the trade winds, and other unique island conditions. Temperatures are provided in Fahrenheit and Precipitation in Inches.
Big Island Average Monthly Temperatures
Big Island Average Precipitation
Big Island Weather Forecast
Kailua-kona town and hilo town forecasts.
Halemaumau Crater - Kilauea in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
2024 Big Island Visitor Guides
Download your copy of one of our Big Island Visitor Guides today and take advantage of our destination expert's Big Island of Hawaii insights . We've just updated and released our latest Big Island Essential & Highlights Guides for 2024.
These updated Big Island packets contain nearly 20 visual pages (in the Intro/Highlights Guide) and almost 45 visual pages (in the Essentials Guide) of pertinent Hawaii travel information to assist in planning your perfect Hawaii trip. There's lots of good Big Island information + maps, weather charts, hotel pricing graphics, and more - ideal for those who are just getting started planning their trip to the Big Island of Hawaii.
There are also NO advertisements or paid product placements within these packets.
Hawaii Island Regions
Popular destinations on the big island.
The Big Island of Hawaii, of course, is the largest landmass in the Hawaiian island chain- which consists of eight major islands and 124 islets. The archipelago is made up of numerous volcanic islands in the central Pacific Ocean stretching in a 1,500-mile crescent from Kure Island in the northwest to the Big Island of Hawaii in the east, encompassing an area of 6,459 square miles. The eight major islands at the eastern end of the chain are, from west to east, Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and the Big Island of Hawaii .
With so many different climate zones and vastly different landscapes to explore, it can be hard to decide which part of the island to visit. Browse the Big Island of Hawaii regions below and learn about the many things to do, what to expect, and the diverse attractions of the island.
Kailua-Kona Region | Kohala Region | North Hamakua Region | Hilo Region | Puna Region | Volcano Region | South Kau Region | Saddle Rd Region
Kona (West) Side Big Island Destinations
Kona coast region, kailua-kona town, kealakekua, captain cook, honaunau, and more.
If you're heading to the Big Island there's certainly one area you cannot miss... the Kona (West) Coast . This warm and sunny leeward area has become the resort hotspot of the island. In total, the Kona Coast stretches some 40 miles along the rugged west coast of the Big Island.
You'll find a vast array of ocean-side restaurants, grocery stores, shops, and activity huts promoting various water activities in the nearby Kailua Bay. Accommodations in Kailua-Kona are generally less expensive than along the Kohala gold coast (Waikoloa), and many resorts/condos are located along Ali'i Drive.
Many historical sites, beautiful beaches (some well-hidden), pristine bays, and lava fields (with prominent petroglyphs) criss-cross and line the coast of this area. North Kona has some of the most gorgeous white sand beaches on the island, like Makalawena Beach and Mahai'ula Beach located at Kekaha Kai / Kona Coast State Park .
Kailua-Kona
Kohala 'Gold Coast' Region
Including waikoloa, waimea, and hawi.
On the far northwest tip of the Big Island is Kohala , one of the most diverse areas on the island. This part of the Big Island started forming around 460,000 years ago and today includes the Kohala Mountains and the Kohala Ridge Road which straddles the mountain as it makes its way northwestward. Here you'll also discover the towns of Waimea (Kamuela) and Hawi.
The distinction between the windward (wet) side of the island and the leeward (dry) side couldn't be more clear here. Northeast Kohala is green and lush, while the southwest side of the peninsula is dry and sometimes even barren. At one time this part of the Kohala Coast, fittingly called 'North Kohala,' was a area of flourishing sugar cane plantations. Today it has become dominated by one of North America's largest privately owned ranches - the Parker Ranch .
The Kohala Coast region also includes an area called Waikoloa in 'South Kohala.' Some call this area the gold coast because of the many luxury resorts that have been engraved into ancient lava flows in this area. One of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Hapuna Beach , is also located along this stretch.
Kohala Region
North coast & east big island destinations, north hamakua region, including waipi'o, honoka'a, laupahoehoe, and honomu.
On the North Coast of the Big Island lies the Hamakua coast , one of the most beautiful stretches on the entire island. The North (Hamakua) Coast begins at the entrance to Waipio Valley , at the end of the Kohala region, a once flourishing indigenous Hawaiian community, and ends at the outskirts of the Hilo region on the east side of the island.
Rainwater from the northern flanks of Mauna Kea along with snow from the summit of the great mountain flows down in countless streams along this part of the Big Island. The result is a mecca of stunning waterfalls and valleys. One such amazing falls are Akaka Falls and its surrounding State Park.
The main belt Highway (Highway 19) runs along the coast as the fastest route between Hilo and Kailua-Kona. Highway 19 often flirts with its predecessor, the Old Mamalahoa Highway, on which some amazing places and views can be found. The popular Four Mile Scenic Route is one such route off the main highway.
Hilo Region
The most notable location on the northeast side of the Big Island of Hawai'i is undoubtedly Hilo town. Hilo is the island's largest city (second largest in the state - population-wise) and also takes the title for the wettest city in the United States (70+ inches yearly).
Hilo is an especially lush city with several gorgeous orchid gardens, interesting parks (the most prominent being Liliu'okalani Garden ), museums, and other various attractions. Hilo borders a beautiful bay and is often cooled by sea breezes and tradewind showers.
Hilo town remains the 'back door' of sorts for access to the central part of the island and its famous Saddle Road . Rainbow Falls State Park and Wailuku River State Park , featuring the Boiling Pots area and Pe'epe'e Falls , are some of the larger natural attractions in town. Both parks are located on the same river just a few miles separate from one another.
Puna Region
Including Kea'au & Pahoa
East and south of Hilo is the Puna district and the funky little town of Pahoa (often called Hawai'i's outlaw town). This region is a diverse area of rain forests, lava fields, and rugged coastline.
One of the major attractions in Puna is the Lava Tree State Park . In 1790 a lava flow passed through a forest of ohia trees, and today the molds of these trees are all that remain; it's a unique attraction to visit. In 2018, several other attractions in this region were destroyed by one of Kilauea's most recent eruptions.
Volcano Region
Including hawaii volcanoes national park, volcano village, and mountain view.
If there's one single hot-spot on the island (no pun intended) for visitors then it's definitely the Volcano area. The area, is of course, most famous for Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park (HVNP).
The most commonly asked question is always... "Will I get to see lava?" You might and you might not, it's really just the luck of the draw. Most of the lava traverses from Kilauea into the ocean via underground lava tubes (see Nahuku Thurston Lava tube for a look into an ancient tube). When surface flows do break out, you can usually get pretty close to them, safety permitting.
We honestly believe one of the biggest mistakes visitors make is that they do not devote enough time to the HVNP area. We highly encourage you to allow at least two whole days to this area, preferably starting from Hilo or another nearby town (like Volcano Village) each day.
South Coast Big Island Destinations
South Kau Region
Including Pahala, Punalu'u, South Point, and more
South Hawai'i is one of the quietest areas of the Big Island. Here you'll find no large hotels or resorts, no major golf courses, and no real push for tourism. It's wild country out here. So what makes it worth exploring? How about some unique beaches for starters.
The southern portion of the Big Island is home to two of the most unique beaches in the state, Papakolea (Green Sand) Beach to the northeast of South Point , and Punalu'u (Black Sand) Beach Park off the Hawai'i Belt Road (Highway 11).
Central Big Island Destinations
Saddle road region guide, including mauna kea & mauna loa access.
A visit from the Hilo region to the Kona region (or Kona to Hilo) of the Big Island is a must on your visit. To do so you must drive the Saddle, a road that connects the east and west sides of the island passing between the island's two largest mountains, Mauna Loa (13,680 feet) and Mauna Kea (13,796 feet). The past few years there have been tremendous improvements to this entire area.
Today Saddle Road provides the only access to the Army Base, residential areas of Waikiki Ranch, Mauna Kea State Recreation Area, portions of Parker Ranch (mostly located in the Kohala Region), Kilohana Girl Scout Camp, Kaumana City, and Kaumana Caves County Park.
Saddle Road Region
Makalawena Beach
Big Island Travel Map Packet
Updated to include beaches map.
Updated Hawaii Island Travel Map Packet
Updated with a new high-resolution printable map of the Big Island. Includes most major attractions, all major routes, airports, and a chart with estimated driving times.
PDF packet now additionally includes a Beaches Map.
-File is a print-ready PDF document
Big Island Blog & Travel News
Timely big island headlines, events, and announcements.
Akaka Falls State Park
Big Island Top Attractions
Top 10 big island of hawaii things to do.
All of the Big Island of Hawaii is fascinating and worth a visit. However, some Big Island attractions are significantly more popular because they offer an experience that truly captures the magical essence of the state's largest island. Most Inspirational, Must-See, Top Picks, Best of the Big Island... no matter what you label them, you absolutely must witness these attractions for yourself.
Top 10 Attractions on the Big Island
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park including Kilauea Volcano
- Akaka Falls State Park - North Hamakua Coast
- Pololu Valley Overlook - North Kohala
- Pu'uhonua o Honaunau - South Kona
- Makalawena Beach - North Kona
- Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden - North Hamakua Coast
- Hapuna Beach State Park - Kohala
- Manini'owali Beach at Kua Bay - North Kona
- Waipio Valley Overlook - Kohala & North Hamakua Coast
- Kilauea Iki Trail - Volcano area
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
#1 Rated in Sights to See on the Big Island
Originally founded in 1916, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (HVNP) is a living, breathing testament to the awesome power of Mother Nature. HVNP is located 30 miles southwest of Hilo and 96 miles southeast of Kona. It's open year-round, 24 hours a day.
HVNP is home to Kilauea Volcano, the most continuously active volcano in the world, and the park offers the unique experience of walking on land that is younger than you are. In recognition of its outstanding natural values, Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park has been honored as an International Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage Site.
The park encompasses 333,000 acres of natural wonders and is situated at 4,000 feet above sea level. With its wealth of trails, drives, and activities you will likely need at least two days to fully experience all the park has to offer.
#2 Rated in Sights to See on the Big Island
Akaka Falls State Park, along the northeastern Hamakua Coast, is home to two gorgeous waterfalls and an abundance of lush tropical greenery to delight visitors.
The stroll to reach Akaka Falls is almost as beautiful as the falls itself. After taking a short set of stairs, turn left and follow the paved pathway through amazing greenery and small waterfalls flowing into babbling streams.
You will hear the dull roar of the waterfall before you see it. Just as you round a corner, you'll catch a glimpse of Akaka Falls free-falling 442 ft. through a green-lined gorge.
Pololu Valley Overlook
#3 Rated in Sights to See on the Big Island
As you pass the 28-mile marker on Highway 270 past Hawi, the coast will open up and you will suddenly be treated to a breathtaking view of the lovely Pololu Valley.
On a sunny day, you will see the vibrant blue and green ocean crashing into the rugged sea cliffs and the deep green carpet of vegetation lining the sides of the valley.
A short walk to the lookout reveals the many folds and creases of the inner part of the valley which drop into a rich, green floor. Lines of ironwood trees divide the lush valley from the grainy black sand beach that meets the ocean.
Puuhonua o Honaunau Historical Park
Kailua-Kona Region
#4 rated in sights to see on the big island.
Pu'uhonua o Honaunau (poo-oo-ho-noo-ah o hoe-now-now), formerly known as Place of Refuge at Honaunau, is an incredibly beautiful and educational experience that no trip to the Big Island should be without.
After paying your vehicle entrance fee and walking past the educational displays, you round a corner and are transplanted into the world of the ancient Hawaiians. On this scorched land of sand and lava rock, the ali'i (ruling class) of Hawaii made their home.
Visitors can explore how the Hawaiians worked and played underneath the shade of Honaunau's stately palms. Great snorkeling is available nearby at Two Step at Keone'ele Cove.
#1 Rated Beach on the Big Island
Like anything worthwhile, Makalawena, or Mak, Beach makes you work a little bit to enjoy it. It's about a 20-minute walk across the lava to the beach, but don't worry, the path is well worn through the a'a flow.
This secluded white sand beach is a crescent broken up by rocky lumps of lava. Palms and other trees rim the dunes near the northern end where you are greeted with picnic tables and some wild chickens.
It's not likely that you will run into many people here and thus you'll likely be able to enjoy the most scenic beach on the island in solitude.
Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
#5 rated in sights to see on the big island.
This isn't a free attraction, but we still encourage all visitors to make some time and stop at one of the most beautiful botanical gardens you'll find anywhere: the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden.
This stunning rainforest preserve is touted as one of the most beautiful locations in Hawaii; a distinction it well deserves. With the aid of the map provided by the garden, you will easily spend several hours ambling through the various sections of this magical lush wonderland. Every twist and turn leads to a new plant or tree.
Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Botanical Garden
Hapuna Beach State Park
#2 Rated Beach on the Big Island
This is an extremely popular beach for both locals and visitors. Conde Nast Traveler magazine has often ranked it as one of the top beaches in the US. It is hard to argue with this half-mile stretch of pristine golden sand and crystal blue water.
There are several covered pavilions to enjoy an afternoon picnic and restrooms, albeit rather pitiful ones, are available. There is occasionally a lifeguard on duty...despite the "no lifeguard on duty" sign.
Don't expect a lot of shade on this beach. Consequently, the golden sand heats to an unbearable temperature on a sunny day. During the summer months, the sand reaches 200 feet wide, so unless you want steaming toes wear sandals or water shoes. In the summer, the water is generally calm, but in the winter the surf can be treacherous. Be sure to monitor conditions carefully before entering. For snorkelers, the south end of the beach provides a variety of fish and coral.
Manini'owali Beach at Kua Bay
#3 rated beach on the big island.
Kua Bay, also called Manini'owali Beach, is a lovely little pocket of sand that used to be very difficult to access, but since a multi-million dollar road has been paved right through the lava- it's a snap to enjoy this Big Island gem.
Kua Bay beach has full facilities including restrooms and showers, water, barbecues and picnic tables. It is very popular on the weekends, not to mention parking can be a nightmare, so you might want to aim for the weekdays.
When the water is calm, swimming is great here - some of the best in Kona. However, if the waves are going strong and the surf is up, stay out because it can be extremely dangerous.
Manini'owali Beach in Kua Bay
Waipio Valley Overlook
Kohala & north hamakua region, #6 rated in sights to see on the big island.
Located along the Hamakua Coast on the northeastern coast of the Big Island of Hawai'i, Waipi'o Valley is the largest and southernmost of the seven valleys on the windward side of the Kohala Mountains.
Time and nature's elements have carved an unimaginably massive valley filled with deep green-encrusted cliffs cut by plunging waterfalls. Its floor is carpeted with forests and neatly formed taro patches interspersed with the homes of its few residents.
At the mouth of the valley, the ocean licks the mile-long black sand beach which is sliced in half by the river that is partially fed by the 1,200 ft. free-falling Hi'ilawe Falls which resides deep in the valley.
Waipio Valley
Kilauea Iki Trail
#1 Rated Hike on the Big Island
As you stand at the Kilauea Iki overlook inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you can see a lightly-etched trail stretching across the crater floor. From your 400 ft high vantage point you might be able to see little specks walking the path: those are people!
Kilauea Iki is an approximately four-mile loop that takes 2-3 hours. It skirts the rim of the crater, dips down and across the floor and back up to the overlook. The portion of Crater Rim Trail that runs along the rim is a dense high-elevation jungle populated with flowering ohia trees and graceful ferns.
Awini Trail beyond Pololu Valley
Big Island of Hawaii Itinerary Suggestions
Orchid island itineraries.
The Big Island garnered its name from being the largest island in Hawaii. It has vast and transparent blue waters, spectacular beaches, hidden natural reserves, and an abundance of regions to travel to. If you are seeking trails to explore or sights to see in a day, three days, or however long you anticipate, the Big Island has ample amounts of activities.
Ultimately, we've designed our itineraries around a set number of on-island days: offering one , two , three , four , five , six , seven , and in now, ten days for exploring the island, soaking in the best sights, and ensuring your precious time on the island is utilized wisely. We've tried to balance our itineraries between those who seek adventure and those who are looking to find a good beach and relax. Overall, we want your experience to be exactly what you've dreamed of when planning your Big Island of Hawaii trip.
For each island we've attempted to split up the itinerary days by sorting attractions according to their geographic proximity; i.e; on Volcanoes National Park day, you'd explore the best of the Big Island's HVNP attractions, and activities. Our itineraries are not meant to necessarily be followed consecutively, which would probably be exhausting, but instead as a grab-and-go resource for 'mapping' your trip - think of us as a Wayfinder's guide to the Big Island of Hawaii .
For nearly 20 years now, we've been visiting the Big Island and making detailed notes about what the island's highlights are and what visitors like yourself simply must-see based on the limited time you've allocated for each Hawaiian Island.
It isn't easy and can even be overwhelming to start planning a trip to Hawaii. One quick look on our website, and you'll soon discover there are hundreds of possibilities; a variety of sights to see, a plethora of beautiful beaches to choose from, and a diverse set of incredible trails that criss-cross each of the islands. Honestly, you could spend months on the island and not see and do it all. Having a reliable guide, that's key. We'd genuinely love to be your guide to the Big Island of Hawaii during your stay, and we hope you find our itineraries resourceful while planning your trip.
View Our Big Island Itineraries
Big island tours & activities, popular tours & activities on hawaii island.
For many visitors, a Big Island of Hawaii tour may be the perfect way to experience parts of the island that you'd never get to see. We've hand-selected these top-4 Big Island tours below due to their popularity and high ratings with visitors like yourself!
Morning Kealakekua Snorkel Tour
Starting at $159/person
The tour begins in Keauhou Bay, where Hawaii’s longest-reigning monarch King Kamehameha III was born, and the tour provider, Fair Wind, will share with you stories of old Hawai’i as they travel towards Kealakekua Bay .
Learn about the last battle stand at the Kuamo’o Battlefield and view the Royal Holua Slide, the best and largest of its kind in the state!
Inside of Kealakekua Bay, the Captain Cook Monument stands tall as a way to commemorate the site in which the celebrated circumnavigator, Captain James Cook, perished in 1779.
Guests are served a light, plant-based tropical breakfast with a fresh island fruit bowl, traditional muesli, homemade banana bread, herbal tea, and 100% Kona Coffee grown on the Fair Wind family farm.
Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour
Starting at $129/person
Join Fair Wind aboard their Hula Kai vessel, for one of the most exhilarating experiences in Hawaii, Kona’s First-Class Manta Adventure! Mantas are very gentle – no teeth, stingers, or barbs.
They are simply big and beautiful with wingspans that can exceed 15-feet in width! These “Gentle Giants” visit us nightly to feed on the plankton attracted by Hula Kai’s bright lighting.
Enjoy a short and comfortable five-minute boat ride to Manta Village – located near the Sheraton Keauhou. Once at the site, just after sunset, Fair Wind's professional guides will assist you in the water for an experience of a lifetime! You will witness the mantas up close as they grace the waters and feed on plankton.
Big Island Experience Helicopter Tour
Starting at $629.00/person
See Kilauea & More on Our Big Island Helicopter Tour
The full island VIP adventure tour is for those who want it all! All of our Big Island helicopter tours rolled into one, plus an active volcano!
Helicopter Tour Highlights:
- Fly over the most active volcano in the world, Kilauea, which has been continuously flowing for over 30 years and inspires awe every day.
- While on the east side of the island, you are treated to views of Hawai’i Island’s largest city, Hilo.
- Your private journey continues along the Hamakua Coastline with wave-swept shorelines, tropical rainforests, and hundreds of waterfalls.
- Upon reaching the Kohala Coast, several majestic and sacred valleys exist to explore.
- Deep in the back of the valleys, where only helicopters can reach, are over 2000-foot waterfalls that you can hover right next to as you gaze at their power and beauty.
- Crossing over Kohala Mountain, you cruise over the Gold Coast.
Mauna Kea Summit & Stars Adventure
Starting at $255/person
Our journey from sea level to the nearly 14,000-foot summit of Maunakea reveals the wonders and world-class clarity of the Hawaiian night sky.
Maunakea Summit & Stars Highlights:
- Enjoy a warm picnic dinner and learn about Hawaiian star navigation.
- Learn about the historical accounts of early travelers through the mountain regions
- Delight in the awe-inspiring Hawaiian sunset at the top of Maunakea, the highest point in the Pacific
- Descend to a lower elevation after the sun sets and sip hot chocolate during a private star show with our 11” Celestron telescope
Best Beaches on the Big Island
Big island beach guide.
The Big Island offers up not only some of the loveliest beaches in the state but also some of the most varied. Though the Big Island may be the newest island in the chain and has the fewest major beaches, the island still has some of the best beaches in the world.
Here you'll find everything from enchanting green sand and black sand beaches, family-friendly beach spots, and rugged and remote beaches for the adventurous types.
In our Big Island Beaches Guide , we'll go over the top 10 beaches on the Big Island, and also include links where you can explore every beach on the island by region.
Big Island Beaches
Best Things to See on the Big Island
To say the Big Island is bursting with some of the best and most popular sights and attractions in Hawaii is certainly an understatement.
Tour otherworldly volcanic landscapes; marvel at the beautiful waterfalls, lovely parks, and botanical gardens; or stop by the museums and cultural centers.
You can even commune with the stars on the world's tallest mountain (measuring from the seafloor to summit). In our Big Island Things to See Guide , we'll show you the best landmarks and natural wonders the Big island has to offer, starting with our top 10.
Things to See on the Big Island
Best Hikes on the Big Island
Big island hiking trails guide.
Green sand beaches, gardens, rainforests, waterfalls, volcanoes, petroglyphs- this and so much more awaits you on the Big Island's incredible trails.
The Big Island has some of the best hiking trails in all of Hawaii; whether you're a hard-core trekker or just want to stroll and admire the scenery.
Included in our Big Island Hiking Guide are a few of our favorite Big Island excursions, sorted by the top hikes and additionally by region, to get you started.
Big Island Hikes
Big Island Visitor Information
Travel tips for hawaii's big island.
The Big Island of Hawaii is the third most popular Hawaiian island among visitors, hosting over 1.5 to 1.7 million travelers annually . Often called the "Big Island" to help distinguish it from the 1,500-mile-long archipelago with which it shares its name, Hawaii, the Big Island has certainly earned its nickname.
Sitting in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the landmass of the Big Island is approximately the same size as the state of Connecticut, about 4,050 sq. miles, and still growing regularly thanks to Kilauea Volcano on the eastern coast of the island.
Composed of five major volcanoes, the island is the youngest in the Hawaiian chain with origins dating back some 800,000 years to the present day.
Popular Big Island Travel Articles
Big island of hawaii vacation guide, explore hawaii's big island by topic.
Often called the "Big Island" (or "Big I") to help distinguish it from the 1,500-mile-long archipelago with which it shares its name- Hawaii- the Big Island has undoubtedly earned its moniker. The Big Island offers visitors an incredible, diverse, and expansive variety of things to both see and do.
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A visit to the USS Missouri Battleship Memorial in Pearl Harbor
Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.
Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.
Legendary Journeys and Adventures
Tauck's classic four-island journey across Hawaii incorporates natural and historical sights, exclusive cultural experiences, and free days to pursue your own passions on Oahu, the Big Island of Hawaii, Kauai and Maui.
Fairmont kea lani, maui.
Nights 9, 10, 11
Enjoy three nights in Maui at a luxury oceanfront resort
Your stay at Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui – an all-suite luxury resort – will be memorable. The resort was artfully redesigned and renovated in 2023, with guest rooms incorporating more local culture, textures and artwork that blend ancient Hawaii with modern. Renovations include a newly reimagined open-air lobby complete with flowing waterfalls, lush gardens, and breathtaking ocean views – and just beyond the lobby, discover the new Hale Kukuna, an immersive space dedicated to Hawaiian culture, designed to inspire deeper connections to Maui and Hawaii.
Travel aboard an outrigger canoe
Ancient meets modern day on the waves.
On the island of Oahu you'll have an opportunity to discover a bit of old Hawaii on a unique adventure aboard a traditional outrigger canoe. From paddling the boat, to riding the waves, to the possibility of observing some of the Pacific Ocean's marine life, your experience will give you a modern take on ancient Hawaiian transportation (they've been around for two millennia) between islands.
Kauai helicopter sightseeing
Kauai – rainforests & mountains (45 - 55 minute adventure).
In addition to sightseeing by land, you'll truly get immersed in the beauty of the island of Kauai on an amazing helicopter adventure that reveals a world of lush tropical rainforests, jagged mountains, sea cliffs, beaches and craters. Music and narration combine as you view the best of the island, including spectacular Waimea Canyon and views of the Na Pali Cliffs.
Private evening at Queen Emma Summer Palace
Attend a private, after-hours tour, reception and dinner at queen emma summer palace.
Known as Hānaiakamalama (The Southern Cross), or Queen Emma Summer Palace, the palace served as a summer retreat for Queen Emma of Hawaii from 1857 to 1885, as well as for her husband King Kamehameha IV, and their son, Prince Albert Edward. It is a now a historic landmark, museum – and it's the site of a special Tauck welcome evening featuring a private after-hours reception, tour and dinner.
Early opening visit to Iolani Palace
Before the day's crowds, visit honolulu's extraordinary iolani palace.
Built in 1882 by King Kalakaua, Iolani Palace in Honolulu was Hawaii's official royal residence and the Hawaiian monarchy's seat of government until its overthrow in 1893. A National Historic Landmark since 1962 and the only official royal residence in the United States, the Palace is one of Hawaii's most recognizable buildings; restored to its former grandeur, it evokes a time when their Majesties King Kalakaua and his sister and successor, Queen Liliuokalani, walked its grand halls. An exclusive guided visit, before the day's crowds, provides insights and stories into the palace's rich legacy.
Hawaii is my idea of Paradise, beautiful islands, gorgeous resorts, friendly people. The trip had a nice balance of organized activities and leisure time.
Tauck Traveler Review
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Overnight Accommodations
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The royal hawaiian, a luxury collection resort.
Waikiki, Oahu
Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii
Kohala Coast, Big Island
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa
Koloa, Kauai
Nights 9-11
Maui, Hawaii
Your Journey
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About Booking This Tour
Travel Documents
The Best of Hawaii begins and ends in the U.S.
Real ID Act - Effective May 7, 2025
Beginning in May 2025, some state IDs will no longer permit you to board a domestic flight. Currently, some states are compliant, some have received extensions, and some are not compliant. Click here to see the status of your state. If your state license is not compliant, you can use a passport in lieu of a valid state ID.
Please Note: The federal government has extended the deadline to May 7, 2025 for domestic airline passengers to secure a Real ID driver's license for use as identification at the airport. Travelers without a verified license or ID card will also have the option of showing other identity documents, such as a passport or military ID to board a plane.
If you are a citizen of another country traveling to the U.S., you should contact an embassy or consulate of the U.S. to determine what travel documentation is necessary. You may also log on to the U.S. State Department's Internet site by clicking here.
If you are traveling by air to join and/or depart from this tour within the U.S., please read the section entitled Airline Security Measures under Additional Information above to determine what travel documentation is required.
If you are a citizen of the U.S. or Canada who travels frequently between the two countries, you may benefit from the NEXUS program, which is joint initiative between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency that allows pre-screened and approved travelers faster processing at designated highway lanes in high-volume border crossing locations, at a NEXUS kiosk at several airports, and at certain marine reporting locations in the Great Lakes and Seattle regions. For further information, you may log on to the Nexus Internet website by clicking here.
Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.
We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.
To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.
Note: For activities marked with an asterisk (*) in day-by-day descriptions, participation is at your own risk; a signed liability waiver will be required.
TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.
How to Book a Tour
See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.
At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:
- Tour Name and Departure Date
- Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
- Traveler's Address(es)
- Email Address*
- Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
- Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
- Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
- Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
- Interest in our specially negotiated airfares
* Required Fields
Deposit & Final Payment
The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.
The deposit amount is $350 per person
Final Payment:
Final Payment for Land Journeys is due at Tauck's Wilton Woods, CT office 60 days before departure. Any bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice.
Travel Protection Plan
Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:
Tauck's Guest Protection
Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:
Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:
Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.
*Extreme Circumstances: In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.
Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.
- Trip Cancellation – If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
- Trip Interruption – If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
- Travel Delay – Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
- Medical Expense – Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip.
- Baggage / Personal Effects Protection – Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
- Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services – Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.
The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $449 per person
This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.
This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.
The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.
To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .
If You Have To Cancel
If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.
Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:
Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person
Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :
60 days or more before departure = $350 per person
59-8 days before departure = $600 per person
7-1 days before departure = $900 per person
Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.
In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.
Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Fee Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.
Travel Terms and Conditions
Click here to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.
Travel Requirements For This Tour
Air Information and Luggage Restrictions
AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.
TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.
AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.
Special Luggage Restrictions for this Tour
The U.S. TSA has instituted standardized screening procedures at airports across the U.S. At some airports in Hawaii, this procedure is handled manually and will be time-consuming. Please be aware that you will not have access to your bags after they are screened; therefore, you should remove everything that you may want to take on the plane with you before you hand over your checked bag for screening.
Checked Luggage – General
Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).
Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.
Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.
Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.
Carry-on Luggage - General
Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.
For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.
Health, Safety and Mobility
HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS
Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.
If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.
Please Note: Destinations around the world have instituted new measures like testing requirements, health insurance coverage, or specific restrictions on travel. These guidelines are in addition to, and may go beyond, Tauck's requirements. Click here for more information about the requirements for your journey.
VACCINATIONS
If you are a resident of another country traveling to or within the U.S., no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Hawaii. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here.
While your journey to Hawaii is very relaxing and the pace leisurely, to enjoy fully all the tour has to offer, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, as some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. For the most part, however, the amount of walking you do is at your discretion.
If you require the use of a wheelchair throughout the tour, it is advisable to bring your own. Wheelchairs are available on all islands at all hotels and may be arranged by the tour directors; however, they are intended for on-site use and cannot be taken off property. In addition, wheelchairs are available at the airports for pre-boarding purposes only. There are disabled access bathrooms with grab bars in all of the hotels.
PLEASE NOTE: We regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.
Regarding Portable Oxygen
The Best of Hawaii tours travel to Haleakala National Park on Maui, an elevation of 10,023 ft (3,055 m). The motor coach drivers and Tauck Directors do forewarn guests with heart and respiratory problems of the elevation and that they may encounter sulfur fumes from the volcano. Specific information concerning volcanic emissions in the state of Hawaii may be found by clicking here .
Oxygen is not carried aboard motor coaches and the drivers are not certified to administer oxygen. Oxygen is a hazardous material as the container is compressed. You are allowed to carry your own providing it does not exceed one hundred pounds per one unit. You need to have proper training on how to use it, and your companion must also be certified in case you are rendered unconscious. A prescription from a doctor plus proof of certification from the Red Cross on how to use it is needed for any purchase of oxygen. It is recommended that you carry the proper paperwork along with your personal supply in case additional canisters are required while on tour. You are responsible for any maintenance and operation that the tank requires while on tour, and for locating what facilities exist on the tour itinerary which can perform tank maintenance. You are also responsible for emptying the tank prior to embarking all tour planes, floatplanes, or helicopters and refilling the tank at a designated facility. You will need to provide us with the exact specifications of the tank, including size, model, and all components that accompany it, prior to booking the tour to determine motor coach storage capabilities.
If you require oxygen on inter-island flights, Hawaiian Airlines stipulates that you MUST have a doctor's certificate written within 30 days of travel. This certificate must include the rate of flow (meters per minute) and whether you require a mask or nasal cannula. This certificate needs to be sent to the Hawaiian Airlines office at least 48 hours in advance of the flight. There are 3 on-tour flights on this tour. Once you have requested the airline for oxygen you MUST use it. Hawaiian Airlines flights reach a cruising altitude of between 12-24,000 ft (3,657 to 7,315 m), become pressurized at 5,000 ft (1,524 m) and average 78°F (26°C).
SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS
The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.
Reading List
We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey! You can view the reading list here.
The temperature in Hawaii averages 75 ºF (24 ºC) all year long. An average high temperature of 83 ºF (28 ºC) is reached in August. Winters are nearly as mild with an average low temperature of 69 ºF (21 ºC), and sunny weather occurs throughout the year. Although the weather is nearly perfect, Hawaii does have a tropical climate and it does rain from time to time. Very few days of touring are interrupted by rain. When it does rain, it usually occurs during the night. The rainy season is December through March; however, a light shower is possible at any time of the year.
To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov.us, by clicking here.
What To Pack
Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .
We suggest you dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is flexible and allows for layering. Casual, cotton clothing is recommended. Women often dress in bright pastels or other vibrant hues. Sun hats, aloha shirts and floral print muumuus are customarily worn and are readily found in stores on all the islands. For fine dining, dresses are recommended, as are light wraps for evenings. For men, coats and ties are rarely worn in hotels, but "aloha shirts" and dress pants are perfectly acceptable. Men are requested to wear long pants in the evening.
Bathrobes, hairdryers, irons and ironing boards are provided in each hotel guest room.
Valet laundry and dry-cleaning services are available at all the hotels on this itinerary.
We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription, or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.
We recommend you pack the following items for your journey to Hawaii:
- Sturdy but comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken-in for sightseeing
- Aloha shirts and dress pants for men
- Sundresses and cocktail dresses for ladies
- A light wrap for evenings
- Colorful resort wear
- Short and long-sleeved cotton shirts
- Shorts and slacks
- Light jacket, sweater or windbreaker
- Raincoat and rain hat
- Collapsible umbrella
- Insect repellent
- Camera, lenses, batteries, chargers and extra memory cards
- Daypack for camera equipment
- Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
- Reusable zipper lock bags or other waterproof bags
- Copies of your travel documents that should be safely secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling
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- Tour Overview
- Tour Highlights
Tour Dates & Pricing
Day itinerary, departure cities.
Choose Your Departure Year:
featuring Oahu, Kauai, & Maui
Indulge in a tropical retreat showcasing the best of three distinct Hawaiian Islands with the perfect balance of planned attractions and time at leisure to explore as you wish. Stay in luxurious resort hotels featuring lavish amenities, private lanais, and stunning views during our three nights on Oahu, two nights on Kauai, and three nights on Maui. Highlights include a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial* and Visitor Center at Pearl Harbor, a Honolulu city tour, Waimea Canyon, Maui Ocean Center, a Maui Tropical Plantation tram tour, and a traditional luau. Plus, all interisland flights are included!
The Holiday Advantage
You can earn a $100 Travel Show Credit good for your next trip with Holiday Vacations by simply clicking the photo to watch the online travel show! The show is about 10 minutes long and at the end, you'll have the ability to submit your contact information and receive a travel credit which can be applied to this or any Holiday Vacations tour. Get started now!
Take your Hawaiian getaway to the next level of extraordinary with some of our immersive excursion options. We’ve compiled the best activities for all interests, including scenic flightseeing, whale watching, a sunset dinner cruise, and more.
Book now to make the most of your time in paradise!
View Available Hawaii Optional Excursions
Adventures on Three Islands
Enjoy adventures on three incredible Hawaiian Islands – Oahu, Kauai, and Maui. Soak in the sunshine at Waikiki Beach, tour the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, delight in rich coffee at Kauai Coffee Company, and explore many other attractions of your choice with ample time at leisure.
- Drums of the Pacific Luau & Polynesian Show
Indulge in the tastes, sights, and sounds of the Islands of Aloha with a spectacular luau, complete with authentic Hawaiian cuisine, traditional Polynesian music and dances, and even a fire knife finale. Cross this amazing experience off your bucket list while enjoying a breathtaking cultural performance.
Wonders of Tropical Nature
Hawaii is home to some of the most fascinating natural beauty in the world, and this tour provides incredible opportunities for you to immerse yourself in it. Learn about the geologic history of Punchbowl Crater, explore Waimea Canyon, known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” and enjoy tropical weather on Kauai, the second wettest place on Earth.
Additional Tour Information
Your holiday vacations experience includes:, all accommodations featuring.
- 3 nights at the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
- 2 nights at the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort
- 3 nights at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa
Attractions & Highlights
- Traditional flower lei greeting
- Punchbowl Crater and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific
- USS Arizona Memorial & Visitor Center at Pearl Harbor *Subject to availability
- Honolulu city tour
- Waikiki Beach
- Kauai Coffee Estate Visitor Center
- Waimea Canyon
- Maui Ocean Center
- Ka’anapali Beach
- Maui Tropical Plantation
- Leisure time on all islands
10 Excellent Meals Featuring
- Holiday Vacations Welcome Lunch in Honolulu
- Holiday Vacations Farewell Meal on Maui
April 2, 2024 - April 11, 2024
Price Per Person
Final Payment Date: 02/02/2024
April 20, 2024 - April 29, 2024
Final Payment Date: 02/20/2024
September 24, 2024 - October 3, 2024
Final Payment Date: 07/26/2024
October 19, 2024 - October 28, 2024
Final Payment Date: 08/20/2024
November 9, 2024 - November 18, 2024
Final Payment Date: 09/10/2024
Day 1 : Fly to Honolulu
We fly to Oahu and land in the lush paradise of Honolulu, where the Aloha spirit is ever-present. After a traditional flower lei greeting, we check in to our luxurious resort hotel for a three-night stay, ideally located by the beautiful white sands of Waikiki Beach.
Day 2 : Pearl Harbor
After an included breakfast, we embark on a tour of Honolulu including the most moving site on Oahu, Pearl Harbor National Memorial. View the galleries and exhibits that recall December 7, 1941, the day that catapulted the U.S. into World War II. We watch a documentary film and take a Navy launch out to the USS Arizona Memorial to observe the sunken battleship. This afternoon, e komo mai (welcome) new friends over refreshing beverages during a Holiday Vacations Welcome Lunch in Honolulu. Our city tour continues, bringing us past the volcanic-shaped Hawaiian State Capitol building and Iolani Palace, the only palace in the U.S. once inhabited by a reigning monarch. We also visit the Punchbowl, an extinct volcano and home of the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. *Tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial are subject to availability through National Park Service and confirmed the day prior.
Day 3 : Oahu
Today is yours to experience all Oahu has to offer. Enjoy tranquility and feel the warm island breeze while relaxing on Waikiki Beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, explore Diamond Head crater, mingle with the animals at Honolulu Zoo, or lose yourself in Honolulu’s downtown ambiance. This evening, savor a delicious included dinner at the hotel.
Day 4 : Waimea Canyon
This morning we fly to Kauai, known as the Garden Isle for its lush, tropical landscapes. After lunch, we sample rich, aromatic coffee at Kauai Coffee Company Visitor Center, the country’s largest grower. Later, we gaze upon “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon, a vast gorge in striking colors of red rock and emerald green vegetation. This evening, we check in to our upscale Kauai accommodations.
Day 5 : Kauai
Following an included breakfast, today is yours to explore the second wettest place on Earth, Kauai. This island is known for its lush rainforest, breathtaking scenery, and balmy breeze. You may enjoy touring a botanical garden, flightseeing by helicopter, or relaxing by the pool at our resort hotel. After a day of individual adventures, we gather as a group for dinner this evening.
Day 6 : Maui
We fly to Maui today, nicknamed the Valley Isle for the valleys carved into its mountains. We enjoy lunch together at the Maui Ocean Center, then get an up-close view of the marine life that calls Hawaii home. Meet some of the most notable visitors to these waters during the 3D Humpbacks of Hawaii experience. Later, we arrive at our hotel located on Ka'anapali Beach and enjoy time at leisure.
Day 7 : The Valley Isle
Enjoy an included breakfast at the hotel before venturing out to explore Maui as you wish. Take the day to relax at the hotel, play a round on a championship golf course, go on a snorkeling expedition, travel the winding Road to Hana, or soak up breathtaking views on a sunset dinner cruise.
Day 8 : Traditional Luau
Sleep in and indulge in a leisurely morning or wake up early to watch the sunrise from the summit of Haleakala, “House of the Sun.” Take advantage of more free time on this beautiful island. Explore nearby shops, dining, and live entertainment in Whalers Village, just a short stroll from our hotel. Tonight, say farewell Hawaii-style with Drums of the Pacific luau and Polynesian show. Enjoy tropical drinks and the exotic flavors of native Hawaiian cuisine. Our evening ends with music and dances of the South Pacific!
Day 9 : Aloha Hawaii
Wake up well-rested and enjoy one last morning to spend as you please in tropical paradise. Later, we spend time exploring Maui Tropical Plantation on a narrated tram tour, learning about the island’s iconic fruits and plants. We also gather for a fantastic Farewell Meal to commemorate our adventure on the Islands of Aloha before boarding our overnight flight to the mainland.
Day 10 : Arrive Home
A hui hou (until we meet again).
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Hawaii Three Island Holiday
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Stories from Hawaii
Activity levels.
Tour days tend to be shorter in length, at a relaxed pace, and include lots of unscheduled time for leisure. Expect standing and walking for extended periods of time on flat surfaces, mostly low altitudes, and consistent temperatures.
Tour days usually move at a leisurely pace. Some days’ scheduled activities last longer than others. Expect standing and walking for long periods of time on occasionally uneven terrain. You may experience changes in altitude or temperature.
Tour days tend to be long, move at a consistent pace, and may include long travel days. Expect standing and walking for long periods of time on uneven surfaces. Some destinations may have changes in altitude and/or temperature.
Tour days tend to be long, move at a brisk pace, and may include lengthy travel days. Expect long periods of walking and standing on uneven surfaces. Scheduled activities may require physical effort or have distinct changes in altitude or temperature.
Very Active
Tour days tend to be long, move at a vigorous pace, and may include lengthy travel days. Expect long periods of walking and standing on rough surfaces. Scheduled activities may require physical effort or have distinct changes in altitude or temperature.
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Keauhou Manta Ray Night Snorkel
Intimate encounters with Hawaii’s underwater butterflies occur just 3 minutes from launch at Keauhou Bay. With a maximum capacity of 13 people per tour you are guaranteed the personal attention you deserve and amplified flexibility. USCG captain piloting boat, one lifeguard on boat for safety, and a swim guide in the water. Experience Hawaii’s most magnificent creatures up-close on our nighttime snorkel!
- Hour Glass 2.5 hours
Wildlife & Reef Snorkel Adventure! Kealakekua Bay / Captain Cook
With a maximum capacity of 14 people per tour you are guaranteed the personal attention you deserve and amplified flexibility. Encounter wild dolphins and whales (wildlife is not guaranteed). Explore the coastline of sea caves and coves. Snorkel above the beautiful reefs along the coast or at the well known Captain Cook Monument in Kealakekua Bay.
- Clock 8am - 10am
- Hour Glass 2 - 3 hours
Sea Cave Snorkel Adventure!
Explore sea caves, lava tubes, coves, & other coastline topography along the Kona coastline! We may encounter dolphins, whales, & other ocean life!
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We have a variety of beach supplies available for rent, including kayaks, stand up paddle boards, towels, beach chairs and more.
Hawaii Island and Ocean Tours is a locally owned and operated tour company that offers passengers the opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the Kona side of Hawaii’s Big Island. During the day, our experienced crew leads tours through clear blue waters, where passengers can explore the local sea life, see Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins playing in the wild, and learn about Hawaiian culture. When the sun sets, we offer a unique nighttime snorkel adventure with the majestic and graceful Kona Manta Rays near the shores of the Keauhou Bay.
34 Great Things to Do in Honolulu (that are actually IN Honolulu)
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It’s Hawaii’s beating heart and a city of contrast. From the sparkling skyline and bustling Waikiki beaches to leafy jungle and turquoise lagoons, Honolulu might be busy but it has something for everyone. Also known as The Manhattan of the Pacific, Honolulu is the most visited area of the Aloha State. It also happens to be Hawaii’s capital city.
To put it in perspective, Oahu is the most visited of Hawaii’s islands, welcoming millions of travelers a year, and sees 40% of the entire state’s tourism revenue. Much of this is centered on Honolulu and Waikiki. On top of that, over a million people call this island home, many of them living in high-energy Honolulu.
With so much to see and do, it can be tricky to narrow down how to spend your time in Honolulu. After living on Oahu for a few years, we’re here to help you choose which fun activities and awesome experiences are best suited to you (and your family’s) interests. These are 34 of our favorite things to do in Honolulu.
Want to skip right to it? These are truly our favorite stand-out things to do in Honolulu: – Make your way to Pearl Harbor, either on a guided tour or on your own . – Visit the only royal residence in the entire country: The Iolani Palace – Catch a wave with these surf lessons off of Waikiki Beach! – Take to the skies on a helicopter tour of Honolulu or the whole island (plus get 5% off)! – Enjoy one of our favorite luaus on Oahu or head out on a cultural catamaran !
Where is Honolulu?
Hawaii’s capital city, Honolulu, is located along the southeastern coast of the island of Oahu. As the third largest island in the chain, Oahu is sandwiched between Kauai to the west and Molokai to the east.
What gets a little tricky for visitors that are doing research on Honolulu is differentiating between the city of Honolulu and the county of Honolulu, which actually completely encompasses the island of Oahu. As the third largest island, Oahu is broken up into four different regions with Honolulu spanning almost the entire southern coast of the island.
The city of Honolulu begins near Pearl Harbor, extends up to the leeward face of the Ko’olau Mountain Range, and officially ends at Makapu’u Point at the far eastern point of the island. You’ll likely fly in and out of the Daniel K. Inouye Airport which is on the edge of the city of Honolulu.
Neighborhoods in Honolulu
The city of Honolulu has 36 official neighborhoods, making it a little bit difficult to choose where to stay . While most visitors stick to the equally sprawling and lively Waikiki neighborhood, some of the less explored areas might suit you better.
Located next to Waikiki, Ala Moana has a beautiful beach and huge mall for those looking to get into Honolulu’s shopping scene. Downtown Honolulu, otherwise known as the Business District, has many of the best museums and historic attractions in the city, like the Iolani Palace and the Bishop Museum, all keeping visitors preoccupied when not at the beach.
For visitor’s that are looking for something a little more trendy, Kaka’ako has delicious restaurants to suit any budget, breweries, and vibrant street art. Alternatively, Chinatown is also a foodie haven with some seriously good eats and really interesting heritage!
Of course, if you want to truly be in the center of the action, there’s no better place to stay than Waikiki . You’re walking distance or a short drive from most of the best of Honolulu and it isn’t difficult to escape if you start to crave some peace and quiet.
We talk more about Honolulu’s neighborhoods in our Where to Stay in Honolulu article!
Oahu vs Honolulu vs Waikiki: are Oahu and Honolulu the same thing?
We’ll start big and end small. Honolulu is the largest city on the island of Oahu – and it just so happens to be the capital of Hawaii. Honolulu is also the name of the county that encompasses the entire island of Oahu. Waikiki is the most bustling and popular neighborhood within the city of Honolulu. This is where most visitors choose to stay.
In short, Oahu is the island, Honolulu is the largest city on Oahu, and Waikiki is a neighborhood within Honolulu.
If you’re looking for things to do on the entire island of Oahu , we have you covered!
Map of Things to Do in Honolulu
Related reads: The Ultimate Ko Olina Guide: What to Do, Where to Eat, Where to Stay Which Part of Oahu Should You Stay: Waikiki or Ko Olina or North Shore 21 Amazing Things to Do on Oahu’s North Shore
The 34 Best Things to Do in Honolulu
1. diamond head state monument crater hike.
You’ll see its beautiful silhouette in the distance from everywhere in Waikiki – and Honolulu for that matter. While it might look like a mountain, Diamond Head Crater is actually a volcanic tuff crater. Instead of simply enjoying the views from the beach, why not get up close and personal with Diamond Head on a crater hike?
At a brisk 0.8 mile climb from the parking area up to the observation deck on the crater’s rim, this moderate hike makes for a wonderful morning or afternoon excursion. From the start of the trail you’re already inside the crater itself. You’ll gain about 580’ of elevation as you make your way to the summit.
Sprawling views of both the crater and Honolulu in the distance are worth the trek alone but the chance to see rainbows – especially in the morning – make the hike even more exciting. There’s even a military bunker that you can explore along the way.
Reservations for both parking and entrance are now required for out-of-state visitors so you’ll need to do some planning ahead of time.
Directions: Diamond Head Crater Trailhead
2. Leonard’s Bakery for Malasadas
Malasadas are something of a Hawaiian delicacy and a sweet treat that you can’t skip on a visit to Honolulu. Brought to Hawaii by Portuguese immigrants, malasadas are essentially filled donuts with either a fruit or chocolate center. Baked fresh every day and served warm – if you get there early enough – Leonard’s Bakery has some of the best in town.
These also make for a delicious reward after the hike up to Diamond Head. Leonard’s is on the way back to and from the trailhead and makes for the perfect pitstop on the way back to Waikiki. Try to avoid the lines by either ordering ahead online or arriving early in the morning.
Directions: 933 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
3. Ono Seafood
Also on the Diamond Head side of Waikiki, Ono Seafood dishes up fresh, no-frills poke, poke bowls, and sashimi to poke-obsessed customers. You can’t miss the bright red building and colorful mural on Kapahulu Ave. This is a great, quick stop to grab lunch on the go. Including before or after your hike to Diamond Head.
You’ll actually find several delicious, and relatively cheap, restaurants on Kapahulu Avenue. Another one of our favorites (listed further down!) is Rainbow Drive-In.
Directions: 747 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
4. Waiola Shave Ice
If you’re coming all the way to Hawaii you absolutely can’t miss out on sampling Hawaiian shave ice. This isn’t your mainland snow cone or shaved ice but a fluffy, soft, pillow of super fine ice that resembles snow and is covered in homemade syrups.
We recommend trying out one of the “multiple flavor” options like banana split or root beer float. The best spot for shave ice in Honolulu, in our humble opinion, is Waiola . There are several spots around town but the one on Waiola Street is the original.
You can thank us later when you’re devouring your fifth or sixth shave ice of the trip!
Directions: 2135 Waiola St, Honolulu, HI 96826
These are just a few of our favorite places to eat, grab an itinerary for the full list by area!
5. Honolulu Nightlife
If you’re coming to Hawaii on the hunt for happening nightlife, Honolulu is your best bet. Many of the other cities, and islands, in Hawaii just can’t hang when it comes to staying out late which makes Honolulu the hub for a night on the town. Several different neighborhoods in the Hawaiian capital have plenty of bars, trendy breweries, and even clubs that cater to night owls.
One of our favorite spots in Honolulu for nightlife is the Chinatown neighborhood. Hip restaurants are the name of the game in this part of town and we highly recommend Lucky Belly and the Tchin Tchin! Bar , just to name a few.
Another area that is great for bar hopping is Lewers Street, located right in the center of Waikiki. Here you’ll find a few chains like Yard House , Roy’s for a more upscale restaurant with good drinks, and fun dive bars sprinkled in too.
We also couldn’t help but notice The Gallery downstairs from the Waikiki Beachcomber on Kalakaua Ave. While the weekends are a great time for bar and club hopping, it’s notably mellower during the week, but The Gallery always has something going on. Even a Tuesday night was a great time for a DJ battle at The Gallery. (Beachcomber guests rest easy, somehow we heard car horns from our room but not the party at this hole in the wall.)
6. Ala Moana Beach Park
If you’re wondering where the locals go for a beach day in Waikiki – it’s Ala Moana Beach! Located right next to Waikiki Beach (just off to the right if you’re facing the ocean), this half-mile stretch of sand is across from the Ala Moana Center, an open-air shopping center. Ala Moana even made our list of the 10 Best Beaches on Oahu .
Ala Moana Beach is an ideal option for families with little ones as the lagoon is protected from large swells by the extensive reef. There are also bathrooms, huge grassy areas, and plenty of places to eat nearby. Extra bonus points for a spacious parking lot, lifeguards, and picnic tables that make this beach even more comfortable.
If you’re looking at a map of Ala Moana Beach, you might notice a peninsula connected to the main beach itself. This is known as Magic Island and is a part of the larger Ala Moana Beach Park. The Magic Island Lagoon might be an even better option to take little ones to splash around.
Directions to Ala Moana Beach Park .
Magic Island also makes our list for one of our favorite photo spots ! Whether you hire a professional ( our recommendations here ) or set up a tripod and capture your own, this is a great place to do it.
7. Kaka’ako Street Art
One of Honolulu’s original neighborhoods (and now the hip spot in town!), Kaka’ako has since been built up with highrise condos and restaurants, but still retains buckets of charm through its colorful murals. Start at Mother Waldron Neighborhood Park and get exploring. There’s street art in nearly every direction!
100’s of artists descended on Honolulu as a part of the POW!WOW! Mural Festival (Honolulu is also the home of the POW!WOW! initiative), to contribute murals and add some character to the otherwise industrial neighborhood. To make an evening of it, plan for dinner and drinks at one of the breweries in Kaka’ako like Aloha Beer Co or Waikiki Brewing Company .
Directions: Mother Waldron Neighborhood Park
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8. ‘Iolani Palace, a National Historic Landmark
Honolulu’s ‘Iolani Palace is the only royal residence in the entirety of the United States and had both running water and electricity before the White House! Fun facts aside, the true allure of a visit to ‘Iolani Palace is to learn about and better understand Hawaiian history.
Located right in the heart of downtown Honolulu, ‘Iolani Palace is easy to get to from anywhere in the city and makes for a great introduction to Hawaii’s fascinating heritage. Just across the street from the palace is Ali’iolani Hale, Hawaii’s state supreme court, and a statue of Hawaii’s famous king, Kamehameha The Great.
Both guided and self-guided tours run Tuesday through Saturday. Keep in mind that they ask guests to dress respectfully (no bikinis or beach coverups) as ‘Iolani Palace is considered a sacred place. Large backpacks, luggage, and both food and drink are also not allowed.
You’ll need to purchase tickets online or at the ticket desk across from the palace at Hale Koa.
Directions: 364 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813
9. Historic Chinatown and the Arts District
Chinatown is one of Honolulu’s most interesting neighborhoods and is steeped in history. Our favorite way to explore Chinatown is through a walking tour where you’ll have the chance to both see and taste Honolulu’s legacy of Chinese heritage. Walk these storied streets with a local guide and dive tastebuds first into the delicious cuisine.
If your stomach is still rumbling after the tour, some of our favorite eats in Chinatown are The Pig and The Lady for Vietnamese cuisine or Lucky Belly for ramen. The neighborhood is also well known for its traditional dim sum restaurants.
The Arts District also overlaps with some of the Chinatown neighborhood and has a street festival every first Friday of the month if you happen to be in town. This is your chance to stroll through the art galleries and enjoy street performances, plus you’re walking distance to all of Chinatown’s delicious restaurants! Regardless of whether you’re in Honolulu for First Friday or not, just walking around the Arts District is worth your time if you’re interested in artistic expression.
Directions to Chinatown Parking Lot: 888 Nuuanu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96817
Looking to save money on your Oahu vacation? You chose wisely because Oahu is the cheapest island to visit , and here are some tips for snagging a cheap plane ticket . These are the best affordable family resorts across the islands. Check out how we book our travel for more tips and bookedwithpoints.com to learn about traveling with credit card points.
10. Best Honolulu Sunset Spot
You can’t miss the chance to see a Hawaiian sunset on your trip to Oahu. After living on the island and scouring for our favorites, the best sunset spot in Honolulu (in our humble opinion) has to go to Tantalus Lookout.
It’s a 25-minute drive from the Waikiki neighborhood, through the beautiful Pu’u Ualakaa State Park and along a winding road. Bring along a picnic blanket and some poke bowls and watch the sun dip into the Pacific Ocean from your perch.
We particularly love this spot in the winter months, but it’s great any time of year! If you can’t make it for sunset, it’s also worth it for the views of Diamond Head and Honolulu sprawling out in the distance.
Directions: Nutridge St, Honolulu, HI 96822
11. Kamehameha Bakery
If you can’t bring yourself to stand in line at Leonard’s, head over to another famous bakery in the Kahili neighborhood. Kamehameha Bakery whips up their own version of Portuguese malasadas, fresh bread, and donuts to satisfy your sweet tooth. They’re best known for their poi glazed malasadas and donuts, so be sure to try those if you can snag one in time.
If you’re an early riser the bakery opens at 2:00 in the morning!
Directions: 1284 Kalani St Unit D106, Honolulu, HI 96817
12. Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum
We’ll start this off by saying that the Bishop Museum is our favorite museum in all of Hawaii! In fact, Honolulu in general is our favorite city for museums in the state. Not only does it have interesting exhibits for kids but it’s entertaining for adults too.
Stroll through the Hawaii Hall where the history of the islands unravels over three different floors with a giant, humpback whale hanging from the ceiling, or have fun with your little ones at the Science Center. The Polynesian voyaging exhibit is super interesting and our kiddos love the volcano that they can climb inside. Overall, this museum provides some great background knowledge for your adventures around Oahu and the Hawaiian islands!
We also love popping in to the Bishop Museums on site restaurant, Highway Inn Cafe , which dishes up a mean Hawaiian plate lunch with Kiawe-smoked kālua pig. Both the Bishop Museum and Highway Inn Cafe are open every day.
Directions: 1525 Bernice St, Honolulu, HI 96817
13. Honolulu Helicopter Tours
Want a birds-eye view of Honolulu’s glittering skyline, the verdant Diamond Head Crater, and the surfers off Waikiki Beach? Hop aboard a helicopter tour to get a better perspective.
We don’t often recommend helicopter tours in Hawaii due to the variable weather conditions, but Honolulu Helicopter Tours has the best safety record on the island of Oahu. They have never had an accident in the 11 years they’ve been in operation!
Honolulu Helicopter Tours offer several different options to accommodate all price ranges, including quick, 18-minute flights and a full hour tour. You can also choose to fly with or without the doors on which makes for either a comfy or adventurous flight experience!
After experiencing it ourselves a handful of times and talking to visitors who have taken to the skies, few regret this once-in-a-lifetime flight. All flights take off from Honolulu Airport which is only a 20-minute drive from downtown Waikiki.
Directions: 300 Rodgers Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96819
14. Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Pearl Harbor is synonymous with Hawaiian history and thousands of visitors make the trek over from Honolulu every day to pay their respects and see this World War II battleground for themselves. This also makes it one of the most visited sites on Oahu.
Keep in mind that snagging tickets to USS Arizona Memorial can be tricky – especially in the high season! Make sure you book tickets well in advance or hop on a guided Pearl Harbor tour and forgo figuring out all the details on your own . They’ll also pick you up and drop you off at your hotel.
For those who are interested, a free shuttle ferries visitors over to both the Aviation Museum and Battleship Missouri Memorial. The Aviation Museum is great for aircraft aficionados (including kids!).
Directions: 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818
Related reads: Book One of The 7 Best Snorkeling Tours on Oahu The 7 Best Whale Watching Tours on Oahu (+How to DIY) Oahu Adventure Tours: Kayak, SUP, Hike, & Explore Oahu Like a Local
15. Makapu’u Beach & Lighthouse
A 25-minute drive from downtown Honolulu, Makapu’u Beach and Lighthouse make for a fun outdoor activity outside the hustle and bustle of the city. Follow the 2-mile, paved Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail to explore the area and, eventually, reach the star of the show. The lighthouse sits at the far eastern edge of Oahu, overlooking the Pacific Ocean from a rocky bluff.
The trail itself is rated as moderate and does gain about 500’ of elevation over its course, but the views of the ocean and cliffside are well worth the trek. You may be able to see the nearby blow holes and tide pools, although the unmarked trail that leads down to them is treacherous at best.
Makapu’u Beach is also well worth a visit if you want to fit in some sunbathing or swimming. Be warned that this beach is loved by body-surfers, which also means that it can have a rough surf break at times. Lifeguards patrol the beach for added safety.
Directions: Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail
16. Koko Head Crater Hike
The hike up to Koko Head Crater isn’t for the fainthearted but it does offer some amazing views! Koko Head Crater is a volcanic cinder cone and this hike climbs all the way up to its edge, about 1.8 miles and 1,020’ of elevation. Most of the Koko crater trail follows a now abandoned tramway that was originally built by the U.S. Army and has around 1,000 steps to conquer before you reach the top.
Scenery from the crater’s rim is stunning with unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean and the eastern edge of the island. Getting to the trailhead is very easy. Simply park in the huge (and free!) parking area and walk behind the baseball field where you’ll see the daunting staircase. This hike is only an 8-mile drive from Waikiki.
Although it can be tempting, we recommend avoiding a sunrise trek to the top. This is one of the most popular sunrise hikes on Oahu and parking can be incredibly difficult to get. You’ll also be sharing your views with lots of fellow hikers!
And if you’re in the area, check out the Koko Crater Botanical Garden .
Directions: Koko Head Crater Trailhead
17. Hike Manoa Falls
If you’re dying to see waterfalls on your trip, the Manoa Falls trail is another of our favorite hikes on Oahu and the trailhead is just a 15-minute drive from Waikiki (without traffic). It’s a quick, 1.7 mile round trip trek on mostly flat ground with a bit of incline here and there. You’re completely surrounded by lush jungle in Manoa Valley for the hike which makes for a cool way to get up close and personal with Hawaii’s beautiful nature, including banyan trees and a bamboo grove. The 100’ Manoa Falls is your stunning reward at the end.
The best time to go is if there’s been recent rain as Manoa Falls can slow to a trickle in drier months – or be gushing in the wet season! With that being said the trail can get really muddy and even dangerous. Remember to always respect posted signage about closed sections of the trail.
Directions: Manoa Falls Trailhead
If you’re looking for other less strenuous hikes around Oahu, we’ve got a list of our 7 favorite easy Oahu hikes .
18. Waioli Kitchen and Bake Shop
A great stop post (or pre) Manoa Falls hike is the Waioli Kitchen and Bake Shop . Founded in 1922, Waioli Kitchen was once a tea room that provided orphaned girls with vocational training. They continue to carry out the business’ original mission of rehabilitation and community involvement today. Come for the banana macnut pancakes but stay for the fascinating history!
The Bake Shop also serves freshly baked pies, bread, and pastries that make for a great snack or fuel for your adventures hiking around Honolulu. If you do decide to eat on site there’s a great grassy area for kids to run around and play. Keep in mind that they are closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Directions: Waioli Kitchen and Bake Shop
19. Off the Hook Poke
Just six minutes from the Manoa Falls trailhead is one of the best places in Honolulu for poke. Off The Hook Poke has won “Best Seafood in Hawaii” awards and they source their fish fresh every day from the Honolulu Fish Auction. It’s so fresh that they’ve been known to sell out or even close their doors if there isn’t enough fish at the market. Be prepared for long lines but trust us – the fresh ahi is worth it!
Directions: Off The Hook Poke
20. Kahala Beach
One of the biggest draws for a stay at Kahala Beach Resort is the beach itself. But you’re in luck, because you don’t have to shell out the big bucks to experience this beautiful stretch of sand! Picture swaying, spindly palm trees, golden sand, and a serene lagoon to swim in.
Kahala Beach is raked every morning and feels private – especially compared to Waikiki! A reef protects the beach and lagoon from big waves which makes it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging in the sun. There’s also plenty of nearby parking.
Directions: Kahala Beach
Related reads: 5 Best Snorkeling Spots on Oahu 10 Best Beaches on Oahu: Secluded, White Sand, Find It All The 7 Best Luxury Hotels on Oahu
21. Waikiki Surf Lessons with Ohana Surf Project
When you picture Hawaii’s stunning beaches, you’re probably also imagining surfers lining up to catch a wave. Why not be able to brag to your friends back home that you actually learned to surf in Hawaii? You can find surf lessons at many of the beaches along Oahu’s southern coast, but Waikiki is undeniably iconic. There’s a reason why this is one of the most popular surf destinations in the world!
Ohana Surf Project is one of our favorite companies for surf lessons right on Waikiki Beach. This makes for a great activity with kids in tow as they’ll take children as young as 2. They offer private, semi-private, and group classes for all levels of surfing from beginner to pro. Even if this is your very first time on a surfboard, all are welcome. As an added bonus, Ohana Surf Project also offers pick up from your hotel or the cruise port .
If you’re an old pro or if you’ve had a class or two, you can also easily rent a surfboard on Waikiki Beach. You’ll see vendors renting surfboards near the Kuhio Beach Hula Mound and the Duke Kahanamoku Statue. It’s not difficult to see where the most popular surf spots are if you look for groups of fellow wave riders.
Directions: Surfboard vendors on Waikiki Beach
If you are heading to Oahu on or to catch a cruise ship, our Hawaii Cruise Travel Guide has all our best resources, all in one place.
22. Honolulu Zoo
The Honolulu Zoo is one of our favorite activities to do with kids on Oahu. Even better, it’s located right in the heart of Waikiki which makes it easy to get to from almost anywhere in the city. Not only are there 1,200 different animals to see, but some of them are native only to Hawaii, like the Nene bird.
The zoo itself is sprawling with over 42 acres to explore and it has the stunning backdrop of Diamond Head to top it off. This is a wonderful option for kids (and adults!) who love animals or need an excuse to break up all that beach time. Hours are everyday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm although all guests are asked to exit by 4:00 pm.
For an extra special experience, the Honolulu Zoo’s Twilight Tours offer visitors a chance to see the zoo without the crowds and spot some of the nocturnal animals. This is a guided tour which also means that you’ll get an inside look at the zoo’s innerworkings. Note that this ticket option is only available on Saturdays.
Directions: Honolulu Zoo
23. Waikiki Aquarium
If you’re wondering what animals you’re swimming around with on Waikiki Beach (and around the Hawaiian Islands), get a better look at the Waikiki Aquarium . Just some of the incredible marine life you’ll see includes Hawaiian monk seals, a 4,000 gallon display of native Hawaiian tropical fish (including the Hawaiian morwong), and a living reef that gives kids an up close look at living corals.
Waikiki Aquarium is fairly small and you can walk through the entire thing in around an hour. Like the Honolulu Zoo, the aquarium is also located within the Kapiolani Regional Park. We think they provide an amazing opportunity to educate visitors on both Pacific and specifically Hawaiian marine life.
Directions: Waikiki Aquarium
Traveling to Oahu with kids? Check out more of our Keiki-centered content: Where to Stay on Oahu with Kids: The 7 Best Family Hotels 23 Best Things to Do on Oahu With Kids (from The Hawaii Vacation Guide mom and dad) Oahu vs Maui for Kids: Pick the Perfect Getaway
24. Hawaiian Style Cooking Class
Local, Hawaiian ingredients and generations of culinary prowess combine into one with Chef Linda’s Hawaiian-style cooking class . Head out to Linda’s home near Diamond Head for a full immersion into island cuisine and its influences.
Dishes you might get to cook run the gamut from traditional Hawaiian, like laulau, to Asian Fusion, Mexican, and even Moroccan. The experience culminates with a group meal, eating your hard-earned dishes, and a glass of wine or beer.
You can choose from standard , premium , and even private classes, depending on how long you’d like the class to be and how intimate of an experience you’re looking for. One benefit of booking a premium class is that you have some say in what dishes you’ll get to cook.
All class options offer the ability to book a “Pick a Cuisine” course so you can narrow it down. We highly recommend choosing the “Hawaii Local Favorites” option.
We love this cooking class because it’s such a great way to learn about Hawaiian cuisine – and to re-make some of your favorites once you’re back home.
Want to see how Oahu stacks up against the other islands? Oahu vs Kauai: This is the Best Island For Your Vacation Oahu vs Big Island: Pick The Right Island for Your Trip Oahu vs Maui (from someone who has lived on both)
25. Rainbow Drive-In
Two words: Loco Moco.
Rainbow Drive-In has been dishing up Hawaii’s famous plate lunches since 1961 and they’re not skimping on the good stuff. While Loco Moco (two hamburger patties with an egg on rice and covered in gravy) is a fan favorite, we also love their fish sandwiches. All of their plate lunches come with rice and their famous macaroni salad.
There are two locations, but Kapahulu is the original and it’s close to both the zoo and aquarium if you want to tack on a visit.
Directions: Original Kapahulu Rainbow Drive-In
26. Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon
Named for the Olympic swimmer and surfing icon, this artificial, saltwater lagoon is a fun way to get out on the water without the worry of dangerous ocean conditions. Pedal boats, kayaks, paddleboards, and aqua cycles are available for rent from a kiosk along the beach, close to the resort. You can also rent umbrellas, chairs, and beach toys if you don’t feel like dragging around all your gear for a beach day.
Although this is technically a part of the Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort , you don’t need to be staying there to enjoy the lagoon and water toys! The lagoons maximum depth is 10’ which also makes this feel overall safer for little ones than the open ocean.
Directions: Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon
27. Kuhio Beach
Kuhio Beach is one of our favorite stretches of sand to bring the kids in Honolulu. Because Waikiki Beach is so large, it’s broken up into 8 different sections. Kuhio Beach is one of these sections, situated on the southeastern side near Diamond Head.
One of the reasons we love this beach for kids, aside from the beautiful views, is because the water is calm year-round due to a break wall. Concrete walls stretch out into the water, creating a rectangular section of the ocean that is blocked from surf. Lifeguards are also on duty year-round.
Little ones can splash around in the shallow pool while adults (or teenagers) can catch a wave surfing or bodyboarding on one of the adjoining beaches like Queen’s Break or The Wall.
Directions: Kuhio Beach
28. Waikiki Beach Catamaran Sail
One of the best perspectives of both Diamond Head and the Honolulu skyline is from the water and there’s no better way to do it than by catamaran! Set sail on the Kepoikai II Catamaran for a beautiful day sailing on the Pacific Ocean.
Kids can sit in the front nets to keep a look out for dolphins and sea turtles, while adults can kick back and enjoy the views with a Mai Tai or beer in hand. There’s even the chance to see whales if you’re visiting from December to March! We always highly recommend getting out on the open ocean in Hawaii because it’s a great way to spot wildlife and to see some incredible scenery along the way.
A beach loading sail excursion is also great because it leaves right from Waikiki Beach. No driving or Ubering to the marina! This cruise option is awesome for families as there are bathrooms on board, you can bring your own snacks, and the crew is super friendly. Unlike some of the other catamaran cruises on Waikiki that often have booze cruise vibes, this one is less expensive (no open bar) and feels much more family friendly overall.
Their sunset cruise makes for an extra memorable experience if you’re looking to up the ante but be sure to book at least a week in advance to snag a spot!
Directions: Waikiki Beach (in front of the Royal Hawaiian )
29. Whale Watching Tour
If you find yourself in Honolulu from December to March you’re in for a treat! This is peak whale watching season on Oahu (and Hawaii in general) and you won’t want to pass up the opportunity to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
And You Creations sets sail on their whale watching tour right from Kewalo Basin Harbor in Waikiki. Their two story deck and Titanic-style railing makes this an extra fun experience and gives you an even better chance of spotting whale spouts off in the distance. As if seeing humpback whales breach and peck slap wasn’t enough, there are also cultural experiences on board like a hula show and Hawaiian chant.
Thousands of humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii for calving and mating and there’s a good chance you might even see babies. And You Creations’ onboard naturalist also provides a wealth of information about the whales. They also dip a hydrophone beneath the water so that you can hear the whales singing to each other.
Although you do forgo a more serene sailing experience on the power boat, this is actually ideal for finding the whales.
Directions: Kewalo Basin Harbor
30. Outrigger Canoe Ride
The chance to paddle and sail an outrigger canoe like the ancient Hawaiians did? Sign us up!
Also known as wa’a , outrigger canoes have been a vital part of Hawaiian culture for centuries. First brought to the islands by Polynesian explorers, smaller outrigger boats were used for everything from fishing to war.
Leaving from Waikiki Beach, your expert captain will give you the low down on how to operate an outrigger canoe (which isn’t as hard as it looks) and then you’ll head out to the open ocean to try your hand at sailing. This style of sailing is interactive, a unique cultural experience, and just an all around fun way to get out on the water. Did we mention the striking views of Waikiki too?
This activity is great for the entire family as children are usually allowed on board. Your fearless leader will also be with you every step of your outrigger adventure.
31. Go to a Luau
Want to experience a luau but don’t want to leave Waikiki? Don’t fret! Queen’s Waikiki Luau offers the perfect Polynesian cultural experience – and you won’t even have to brave Honolulu traffic.
This luau is budget friendly and right in the heart of Waikiki. Hosted in the International Marketplace Mall, while this might not be a luxury, oceanfront extravaganza, it’s priced really well and doesn’t sell out weeks in advance.
There are a few different seating options so you can choose to splurge for a front row seat or sit towards the back for a less expensive table. You can decide on the number of drinks you want included and what kind of lei you’re going for when booking the tickets online.
From fireknife dancing to hula and a delicious buffet of traditional Hawaiian cuisine, this makes for a memorable 2.5 hours.
Directions: Queen’s Waikiki Luau
If you’re looking for a different luau experience, make sure to check out our favorite luaus on Oahu to help you decide .
32. Snorkeling in Turtle Canyon
Turtle Canyon is one of the best snorkeling destinations near Honolulu, which are unfortunately few and far between. Still, you’re not missing out because this is a great place to snorkel for all experience levels and to see majestic Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. The sea turtles gather in this specific location for shell cleaning by the resident fish.
Most of the Turtle Canyon tours leave from Kewalo Harbor, just outside of Waikiki, making this easy to reach from most of Honolulu. Come prepared knowing that it can get a little crowded and you’ll have a great time! We recommend hopping on a morning tour for the best visibility.
There are lots of options when it comes to Turtle Canyon snorkel tours . You can read our dedicated blog post to figure out which one is right for you!
If boats make you seasick or you simply can’t pull yourself away from Waikiki Beach, our favorite snorkel spot near Honolulu is Queen’s Head. Located on Waikiki’s Diamond Head side, you can snorkel along the jetty and find some schools of fish and even eels.
Snorkeling is something of a rite of passage in Hawaii, but it doesn’t come without a few rules of thumb to follow. If you decide to snorkel along one of Honolulu’s beaches, bring a buddy, ask lifeguards about snorkeling conditions in the area, and never turn your back on the ocean. It can be easy to get disoriented in the water when you’re distracted by the beautiful coral reefs and colorful fish.
33. Friday Fireworks
As a romantic addition to your trip or a showstopper for the kids, Honolulu’s Hilton Hawaiian Village has a fireworks display every Friday evening. The show starts at 7:45 pm from October to June and 8:00 pm in summer and is completely free to watch.
Our favorite spots for watching the show are Fort DeRussy Beach Park, stretching towards Kahanamoku Beach. If you happen to book a Friday night sunset sail you might even get a show from the water on your way back to Waikiki.
34. Honolulu Museum of Art
Hawaii’s largest fine arts museum is located just outside of downtown Honolulu and houses an impressive 60,000 pieces. While you can visit the museum during the day, they also offer night openings each week, called HoMa nights , where the museum stays open until 9 pm. Grab some light bites, enjoy an interactive exhibit, and listen to music.
You can also visit the Shangri la Museum of Islamic Art, Culture, and Design here through a guided tour. Reservations must be made in advance to visit. The museum is in the former home of American philanthropist Doris Duke and showcases her collection along with telling her fascinating story.
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we are very very pleased with the itinerary you have put together. Well worth the money as I think this would have taken days and days to research ourselves. You two do a great job putting this together and it’s much appreciated. Robert K.
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I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!
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21 Best Places to Visit in Hawaii for an Incredible Island Getaway
F rom surfing and snorkeling to volcano-trekking and hiking America’s most picturesque trails, the Aloha State packs plenty of water and land activities for all ages to enjoy. But with six major islands to choose from, how do you even know where to start? Have no fear, SheBuysTravel has you covered. Get ready to take notes, because we’re rounding up 21 of the best places to visit in Hawaii .
The Aloha State is one of the most visited states in the USA, and for good reason. It has just about everything one wants in a vacation: a tropical vibe, beautiful weather, pristine beaches, history and culture. And while Hawaii is also home to some of the most beautiful resorts and world-class golf courses, its natural beauties give each of its six major islands its own personality and feel.
However for someone visiting Hawaii for the first time, planning a trip can get a bit overwhelming. Where’s the best scuba diving and snorkeling? Where can you view some of Hawaii’s most iconic historical sites such as Pearl Harbor? Where can you see the best volcanoes and get the best views? What’s the best island for families?
If you’re scratching your head trying to figure out where to go and where to start once you arrive, we’ve got you covered. Here are the best islands and places to visit during your upcoming Hawaii vacation.
Read More: When is the best time to visit Hawaii?
Best Hawaiian Islands to Visit
Hawai’i island.
Also commonly known as “The Big Island,” Hawaii island is the best place to visit in Hawaii if you’re looking for action, fun and diverse outdoor adventures. With 10 of the world’s 14 climate zones, it is known for its active volcanoes, beaches, waterfalls, cultural sites, colored-sand beaches and world-class snorkeling.
There are two active volcanoes – Kīlauea and Mauna Loa — in Hilo. This unique park has hiking trails, steam vents, a rainforest and guided tours. The sunny Kona side is great for beach activities such as snorkeling and stand-up paddling. The nighttime manta ray snorkel tour is unique to the island. It’s a magical experience floating on top of the water in a calm bay, with bright lights drawing the rays who swirl below.
More island attractions include Mauna Kea (the tallest mountain in the world) and Akaka State Falls. A Hawaii helicopter tour is well worth the splurge.
The fourth largest island in Hawaii, Kauai is also known as “the Garden Island.” As its name suggests, it is the best place to visit in Hawaii for nature lovers and those who enjoy a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. The island’s mountains and valleys are lush and green, flowing with waterfalls and rivers.
Kauai is home to a number of outdoor activities including water and land sports. You can easily spend the day kayaking, snorkeling, fishing, horseback riding or hiking the trails of Kokee State Park. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can go ziplining above Kauai’s beautiful and lush valleys. Or, join a helicopter tour and see Jurassic Falls, the majestic setting where the 1993 Jurassic Park movie was filmed. The Manawaiopuna Falls (its official name) was the backdrop for the scene when the visitors first arrived on the island.
In the small town of Hanalei, you can spend some time on the beach, practice your surfing skills or do some sightseeing and bird watching.
Read More: 15 Unforgettable Vacations for Singles
The island of Maui is the best place to visit in Hawaii for families, especially if you enjoy driving and exploring.
Maui is popular for its Road to Hana (more on this must-do attraction later), as well as Haleakala, a dormant volcano. At 10,023 feet above sea level, the summit is an ideal place to catch a stunning sunrise or sunset. However, It can be chilly at the top, so you may want to bring a jacket or sweater!
Situated on Haleakala’s lower slopes in Kula are two unique farms worth visiting. At the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm, you can walk through lavender fields. A peaceful place, the farm offers tours and lavender products. Nearby, the Surfing Goat Dairy Farm produces award-winning cheeses. On the kid-friendly tours, you’ll feed goats and sample cheese.
The town of Kahului is the place to go if you want to be with the locals and eat where they eat. It’s also a great place to go shopping for authentic Hawaiian trinkets and souvenirs. SheBuysTravel contributor Deb Steenhagen especially recommends the Ka’anapali Beach in Maui for families and beginners who are new to surfing and want to give it a try.
Oahu (North Shore)
Home to the state capital of Honolulu, Oahu has some of Hawaii’s best beaches for families as well as urban amenities. SheBuysTravel contributor Mimi Slawoff feels that Oahu is the best place to visit in Hawaii for first-time visitors since it is typically the easiest to reach and the most affordable for family travel. Plus it offers everything from urban adventures to laid-back island vibes.
Top things to do on Oahu include visiting the North Shore’s world-renowned surfing spots Waimea Bay, Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach. Haleiwa, a laid-back surf town, is a fun place to stop for shaved ice and local artwork. Oahu is also known for having some of the best farmers’ markets.
Learning to surf is one of the first things to do on Oahu. It’s a big part of Hawaiian culture. So you’ve got to try it at least once while in Hawaii. Group surf lessons by Surfer Girl Academy are available for those over the age of 12.
Nicknamed the “Pineapple Island”, Lana’i was once home to a plantation that produced 75% of the world’s pineapples. Today it is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii if you want a mix of serenity and adventure.
As one of the smallest inhabited Hawaii islands, Lana’i has incredible snorkeling opportunities as well as views of the Molokai and Maui islands. On the north side of the island sits Shipwreck Beach, popular for its offshore wreck of a WWII tanker. The secluded Polihua Beach is the best place to spot green turtles and the occasional humpback whale off of the coast.
If you’re into exploring the rugged back roads, a four-wheel drive vehicle will get you access to many off-the-beaten-path treasures. The Garden of the Gods can be found inland, presenting a lunar landscape of rock towers and boulders.
The most undeveloped accessible Hawaiian island, Molokai is a true getaway. Here, you’ll find empty beaches and 30 miles of reef with abundant marine life. The island is mostly populated by native Hawaiians. While they’re protective of their land, they welcome visitors.
There’s only one two-lane highway stretching across the small island, and Molokai doesn’t have a major resort, shopping centers or traffic lights. The small, rustic town of Kaunakakai has places to stock up for supplies.
SheBuysTravel contributor Mimi Slawoff visited with her family and believes that Molokai is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii for couples seeking an intimate island experience as well as families who enjoy authentic excursions led by locals. Some of her favorite activities were snorkeling, taking a cultural hike in Halawa Valley and swimming in the pond beneath Mo`oula Falls.
On the northern tip of the island sits Kalaupapa National Historical Park, accessible only by mule ride, hiking or commuter plane. There you’ll find steep and sheer cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean – in fact, they’re some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world!
Best Attractions to Visit:
The capital of the state, Honolulu is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii for historic landmarks, world-class shopping, nightlife and mouth-watering dining options.
Honolulu is home to some of Oahu’s most historic places such as the Pearl Harbor site and USS Arizona Memorial. Honolulu is also where you’ll find the incredible Diamond Head volcanic crater and the world-famous Waikiki Beach. In the downtown district, you’ll also find important Hawaii landmarks such as the Iolani Palace , the King Kamehameha I statue , the Kawaiahao Church and the Aloha Tower . While you’re there, don’t pass up the opportunity to attend a traditional Polynesian luau !
If you’re into deep-sea fishing, white sand beaches, historic landmarks and coffee farms, the town of Kailua-Kona (also known as Kona) is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii to satisfy those interests. Kona is also where King Kamehameha spent his final years.
Located on the Big Island, Kona is famous for its 100% Kona coffee. Kona has several coffee farms, like Greenwell Farms and Mountain Thunder, where you can walk through a typical 1920s farmhouse, tour the grounds and learn about the coffee growing process. Costumed interpreters demonstrate several traditional crafts, agricultural activities and the everyday tasks of people from the past. If you happen to visit on a Thursday, it’s worth stopping by the nearby Greenwell Store Museum to watch the traditional art of baking Portuguese bread in a large wood-fired forno.
An underwater submarine adventure is a fun way to explore Kona’s beautiful marine life and snap some National Geographic-worthy pics!
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Located in Hilo, the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of the best places in Hawaii to visit for an up close and personal look at real, active volcanoes with glowing, oozing lava flows.
SheBuysTravel contributor Keri Baugh visited Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with her kids and says that it is a must-do trip on the Big Island of Hawaii. However, it is a full-day trip, so you will want to plan ahead. In her words, “It is not necessarily a splurge in terms of cost, but it is a splurge in terms of time.” There are several guided tours to the park that will take you to the area and also provide your meals.
At the Kīlauea Visitor Center you’ll learn more about what to see and where to go, as well as receive information about ranger-led tours, trails, and safety information. While at the park, you can walk through the Thurston lava tube, hike the Kilauea Iki Trail, check out the bottom of the Halemaumau crater and view breathtaking sunsets from the Jagger Museum with the crater’s flume glowing red from the lava lake beneath.
Na’Pali Coast State Wilderness Park
Located in Kauai, the Na’Pali Coast State Wilderness Park is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii for adventurous visitors who love hiking, snorkeling and beautiful views. It is known for its towering sea cliffs, narrow valleys and cascading waterfalls.
The Na’Pali Coast is home to the Kalalau Trail, an approximately 11-mile-long trail that has been named one of the most beautiful and dangerous hikes in the United States. Getting to the coast is very challenging and takes a full day. It is also a very popular area for backpacking and camping.
SheBuysTravel contributor Mimi Slawoff’s favorite activities on the Napali Coast are sailing and snorkeling amongst the sea caves. In her opinion, it’s the best way to see Hawaii’s cute spinner dolphins who jump out of the water vertically and spin like a top before diving back into the ocean.
Waikiki Beach
If you’re staying in Honolulu and are in search of a beautiful yet accessible beach, Waikiki Beach is the place to be. Waikiki is a lively beachfront urban oasis with a range of hotels, shops, restaurants and entertainment. It’s also a great family-friendly beach area with typically gentle surf.
Waikiki Beach is calm, which makes it ideal for surfing and stand-up paddling. It’s also a great place to do some whale-watching, take a sunset tour or catch an underwater submarine tour that dives 100 feet underwater to explore artificial reefs.
Waikiki also has several indoor attractions worth visiting such as the Waikiki Aquarium, Honolulu Zoo and Iolani Palace. The nearby Bishop Museum is a cool place to explore Hawaii’s history. Housing thousands of historical and cultural artifacts, the museum has shows and interactive activities sure to impress visitors of all ages.
Diamond Head State Monument
One of Hawaii’s most recognized landmarks, Diamond Head State Monument is a volcanic cone on the island of Oahu known for its historic hiking trail, stunning and panoramic coastal views and military history. It encompasses over 475 acres, including the interior and outer slopes of the crater.
There aren’t many places in the world where you can walk along a trail to the edge of a 300,000-year-old crater, but Diamond Head is one of them. However, if you go (whether alone or via a guided tour ), you’ll want to allow up to two hours for the 1.6-mile round-trip hike. Although not difficult, the trail is uneven at times. Plus, you’ll walk through a tunnel and climb 99 steps at the end! However, the trek is worth the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Honolulu.
Haleakala National Park
Located on the island of Maui, Haleakala National Park is home to the dormant Haleakalā Volcano and endangered Hawaiian geese. Haleakala means “house of the sun” in Hawaiian, and legend has it that the demigod Maui lassoed the sun from its journey across the sky as it stood on the volcano. From there he was able to slow its descent to make the day last even longer. The park sits 10,023 feet above sea level, providing breathtaking views from all angles.
If there’s one national park that you’ll want to get up early and take a guided sunrise tour for, this is it. In fact, it is known to be one of the best places in Hawaii for watching spectacular, unforgettable sunrises. After the sunrise, you can spend some time exploring the park, admiring the seven-mile-wide crater and watching for the nene goose, Hawaii’s state bird.
Pearl Harbor
Located west of Honolulu, Pearl Harbor is the site of the WWII’s 1941 bombing attack. It’s home to the USS Arizona Memorial. The attack on Pearl Harbor is one of the defining moments in United States and world history. You can explore on your own or go with a travel guide via a guided tour . However, since it is a very popular attraction, you’ll want to reserve your tickets well in advance online. If taking the self-guided Pearl Harbor tour, plan to arrive by 7 a.m. with everyone in your group present.
Tickets for the 75-minute USS Arizona Memorial program are free. However, there’s a limited number available each day. The program includes a short video (with actual attack footage) and a round-trip boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial. Dedicated to those who lost their lives there, the memorial is located above the remains of the sunken ship, the final resting place for more than 1,000 men.
Waimea Canyon State Park
Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, the Waimea Canyon State Park is a 10-mile long, 3,000-foot deep canyon on the western side of Kauai island. Although not as big or old as the famous Grand Canyon in Arizona, it is just as amazing and offers beautiful vistas of crested buttes and rugged red rocks.
The main Waimea Canyon Overlook offers dramatic views of Kauai’s interior, while the main road, Waimea Canyon drive, takes you into Kokee State Park. There are several hiking trails for all skill levels, however, a helicopter tour is also a popular way to view the canyon and its waterfalls.
Road to Hana
The Road to Hana is the crown jewel of Hawaii driving tours and a must-do on the island of Maui. With lush rainforest, dramatic and rugged ocean vistas, countless waterfalls and pools, it makes for one of the most memorable and scenic drives while in Hawaii. Along the way, you’ll see waterfalls, black sand beaches and the charming town of Hana.
SheBuysTravel contributor Mimi Slawoff recommends getting up before dawn to get an early start. While the drive is just 52 miles long, with its 620 curves and 59 narrow bridges, it can easily turn the trip into a few hours long. Instead of driving yourself, you may also opt to do a full-day guided tour .
Hanauma Bay National Preserve
Known for its snorkeling, Hanauma Bay National Preserve is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii for exploring the island’s coral reef and diverse marine life. Nestled on the side of Koko Head, it’s roughly a 30-minute drive from Honolulu and offers a wonderful break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
With lush, green hills and beautiful blue waters, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is a great place to snorkel and see its 400 species of fish and abundance of green sea turtles (honus). Formed within a volcanic cone, Hanauma Bay is a protected marine life conservation area. Before snorkeling, you’re required to watch a short video about protecting marine life. If possible, aim to get there in the morning.
Kaanapali Beach
Located in the historic town of Lahaina, this family-friendly resort area on the west side of Maui is home to a variety of beachfront hotels , terrific family-friendly restaurants and amazing sunsets. With three miles of white sand and crystal clear water, it is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii for a relaxing, yet fun beach getaway.
In addition to its beach itself, its daily sunset cliff diving ceremony from the Black Rock cliff, Puu Kekaa, is one of the beach’s most popular attractions. Ziplining is a popular activity for getting your adrenaline fix while soaring over the breathtaking coastline. Just in front of the beach is the open-air shopping complex, Whaler’s Village. There you’ll find a variety of shops and restaurants, entertainment and a renowned whaling museum.
Kauai Botanical Gardens
Kauai is known as “the Garden Isle” for a reason. There you can find three of the nation’s five National Tropical Botanical Gardens on Kauai: Allerton Garden and McBryde Garden on the South Shore and Limahuli Garden in Haena. It is certainly one of the best places to visit in Hawaii if you love nature, greenery and gardens.
The largest collection of Hawaiian flora in the world can be found in McBryde Garden while beautiful landscaping and the Jurassic Park-famous Moreton Bay fig trees can be found in Allerton Garden. Limahuli Garden is home to endangered native plants, taro-filled agricultural terraces and striking views of the Kauai North Shore.
Other botanical gardens include the Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens, Smith’s Tropical Paradise Botanical Garden and the Kauai Coffee Plantation.
Wailea is a luxurious resort community in South Maui known for its beautiful, crescent-shaped beaches and world-class golf courses. It is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii if what you’re looking for is peace, privacy and relaxation.
One of the most popular and beautiful places to visit is Wailea Beach, once named “America’s Best Beach” in 1999. Polo Beach is great for swimming and snorkeling, while Ulua Beach park is a great place to get in your morning or evening walk or job. Wailea also has great trails for hiking and viewing lava fields. In town, there are plenty of opportunities for shopping and entertainment with world-class shops, spas, restaurants and popular area events.
Polynesian Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Center is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii if you want to truly feel the aloha spirit. The park features six island villages representing Hawai‘i, Samoa, Tahiti, Tonga, Fiji and Aotearoa (New Zealand).
At this Polynesian-themed park and living museum, you’ll be fully immersed in each of the Pacific cultures as natives share their traditions through music, dance and activities. You’ll learn to throw a wooden spear, paddle a canoe and cook like a Polynesian. In the Umu Making Experience, you’ll learn how to cook the Samoan way. Besides cooking the food, you’ll also learn how to weave utensils, start a fire and heat rocks.
The center also has family-friendly luaus with a variety of mouthwatering, traditional food. For example, the luau features foods such as lomilomi salmon, chicken long rice and kalua pork.
Waipio Valley Lookout
Located on the Hamakua Coast, the Waipio Valley Lookout is one of the most popular places to visit on the Big Island and one of the best places to visit in Hawaii for striking views of its coastline. This beautiful valley is marked by cliffs of up to 2,000 feet high, waterfalls, taro fields and rivers.
Also named “The Valley of the Kings” Waipio Valley isn’t just about its incredible views. It is also an important site for Hawaiian history and culture, once the home of thousands of Native Hawaiians. Now, there are less than 100 residents who live there.
Note: Waipio Valley Road has been closed to visitors since February 25, 2022. halting all tourist and volunteer activities and prohibiting hiking access to the black sand beaches for non-residents. However, the lookout point can still be accessed.
7 months after Lahaina wildfires, helicopter tour operators face slow but steady recovery
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Seven months after the wildfires in Lahaina, local businesses are still recovering.
The Hawaii Tourism Authority recently launched its Makaukau Maui campaign — an effort to support those struggling businesses and encourage a responsible, respectful return for visitors.
“We love the island and we wanted to come over here and help because tourism is a big part of Maui. We wanted to help support people that rely on tourism,” said Johh Carson, who was visiting Maui from Arkansas with his wife.
Maui Wildfires Disaster
The couple booked a trip with Air Maui Helicopters Tours but say they wanted to make sure it was the right time to visit.
“This is our second year in a row. We were here two years ago and flew with the same company and that’s why we came back to them because it felt like it’s family and they flew around the island and it was so an informational,” added Carson.
Air Maui says it’s halted tours over Lahaina town and says most of the visitors who have come back to Maui after the fire understand that the community is still healing.
“When they first evacuated the island, for a long time after, people didn’t want to come because out of respect and the situation, the lack of resources, and so forth. But now as people are coming back, they’re very respectful and everybody is very much concerned about how we are doing,” said pilot Richie Olsten, director of operations for Air Maui Helicopter Tours.
“We’ve had people message us and asked if they could work, can they volunteer to help when they’re here on vacation and what they can do to help the people of Lahaina so that today has been very good.”
Prior to the August wildfires, Air Maui operated around 30 tours every day. After the fires, the company was seeing as few as one per day. As a result, Air Maui was forced to lay off some employees.
“That was difficult. You know, some people were able to file for unemployment at that time. So that helped out but there was no federal assistance like during COVID. So it was difficult for the people that were laid off at that time,” added Olsten
The return of tourism has been gradual and business is looking better, but there are still challenges ahead.
“We invite the people to come back so we can recover and help Lahaina recover from this big tragedy that occurred,” said Olsten.
To learn more about Air Maui and the tours they offer, click here .
For more information on the Hawaii Tourism Authority’s Makaukau Maui campaign, click here.
Copyright 2024 Hawaii News Now. All rights reserved.
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Circus Serves Up Fun In Olinda
Providing fun for all ages, the Super American Circus concluded a three-day stand under the Big Top tent at the Oskie Rice Event Center Sunday night. After stints on the Big Island, Oahu and Maui, the American-style modern circus was set to shift to the island of Kauai before embarking on upcoming tours on Guam and in the Philippines.
FIRST PHOTO: Casar Ponce defies gravity as he picks up speed in the spinning wheel apparatus Saturday.
SECOND PHOTO: Aerialist Nicole Montgomery displays fluid style and grace as she performs for the packed tent.
THIRD PHOTO: The Aviva Sisters, Holly Leonard (left) and Sydney Wilson, strike a pose high above the arena.
FOURTH PHOTO: The clown Chimichurri leads a line of volunteers plucked from the audience in a dance.
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13 Day First Class Hawaii Island Tour of Oahu, Big Island, Maui, and Kauai. Let the spirit of aloha follow you from waves of Oahu to the black sand beach of Punalu'u Beach Park. Views of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, farm-to-table feasting at a Maui farm and more are yours to discover on this Hawaii island hopping adventure.
1 contribution. Night manta rays. Review of: Night Manta Ray Adventure on the Big Island, Hawaii. Written March 29, 2024. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. KZanello. East Sandwich, MA70 contributions.
A trip for a couple to Hawaii averages about $1000 / day over a 7-night trip that includes 2 islands. That includes a beachfront hotel, flights from the West Coast, inter-island flights, premium tours & activities, on-island transportation, and a personal concierge.
Things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii. Day 1: Hilo, Big Island. Day 2: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island. Day 3: Swim with the Manta Rays, Kona. Day 4: Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay and explore Kona Town. Day 5: Waikoloa on the Kohala Coast.
Turtle Canyons Snorkel Excursion from Waikiki, Hawaii. 3,490. Share the warm Hawaiian waters with green sea turtles, tropical fish, and more on a 2-hour snorkel excursion from Waikiki. No need to wear your flippers and mask on the plane, as all necessary gear is provided.
A: The best tours in Big Island of Hawaii according to Viator travelers are: Night Manta Ray Adventure on the Big Island, Hawaii. Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History. Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stars - Hilo Kona Waikoloa Pick Up.
Cultural Tours. Immerse yourself in Hawaiian history and culture with a tour of sites like ʻIolani Palace on Oʻahu or Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau —one of the many national historical sites on the Island of Hawaiʻi. At the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oʻahu, you can even visit different Polynesian villages, paddle a traditional outrigger canoe ...
What people love about Hawaii Tours. Ronald Smith 20 Jan, 2023. 5. The four-island tour with Trafalger was wonderful. Hawaii Four Island Adventure (13 Days) Hailey Clayton 23 Jan, 2024. 5. I went on the Hawaii GIVE volunteer trip and it was AMAZING. The guides are awesome and truly make your time there more memorable and fun.
Polynesian Adventure Tours By Island. View all of our amazing tours by Island. Our Most Popular Activities. Sightseeing taken to a whole new level of comfort and convenience. Exclusive Tour! Oahu to Kona & Hilo: Hawaii Island Highlights & Volcanoes. From $500. A relaxing, scenic excursion around the Big Island of Hawai'i! ...
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Circle Island Sightseeing Vacations. There are islands all over the world that we love. We provide our own guided tours on Maui, Oahu, and Big Island from our home islands here in Hawaii. In addition, our close partners throughout Polynesia, all the way down to the South Island of New Zealand, can deliver exceptional one-day and multi-day ...
Nov 5-Nov 15 Extension available. $5,899. Select. Planning ahead pays off. Book now to lock in the best deals and departure dates. On our guided tour of Hawaii, set foot on the shores of Oahu, sip local coffee near historic craters in Kona, and discover Maui's colorful ocean life. View trip!
The Big Island of Hawaii is the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago—almost as large as all the other islands combined—and bursting with life. Within 4,000 square miles of land, you'll experience dense tropical rainforests, black-sand beaches, snow-capped peaks, remnants of ancient Hawaiian settlements, and the incredible Kilauea ...
The Big Island of Hawaii, of course, is the largest landmass in the Hawaiian island chain- which consists of eight major islands and 124 islets. The archipelago is made up of numerous volcanic islands in the central Pacific Ocean stretching in a 1,500-mile crescent from Kure Island in the northwest to the Big Island of Hawaii in the east ...
See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation. At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party: Tour Name and Departure Date. Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license.
Enjoy adventures on three incredible Hawaiian Islands - Oahu, Kauai, and Maui. Soak in the sunshine at Waikiki Beach, tour the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, delight in rich coffee at Kauai Coffee Company, and explore many other attractions of your choice with ample time at leisure.
Hawaii Island and Ocean Tours is a locally owned and operated tour company that offers passengers the opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the Kona side of Hawaii's Big Island. During the day, our experienced crew leads tours through clear blue waters, where passengers can explore the local sea life, see Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins ...
Begin a Circle Island Helicopter tour of the big island that takes you over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to see the volcanic craters and have lunch at the historic Volcano House. The tour includes views of ocean cliffs, tropical rainforests, coffee farms, waterfalls, volcanoes, steam vents, historic Hilo town and so much more. 12:30PM
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The Big Island private tour offers an all-day experience of the... More. 10-11 Hours Private Island Tour. See The Highlights of Big Island with a Professional Guide. Explore Volcanoes National Park, Black Sand Beach, and more. Relax and let us do the driving! $1,699 Now. from $1,614.
As the home of Pele, the goddess of fire and mythical creator of the Hawaiian Islands, Maui manifests mana, or spiritual power. Travelers can experience some of that at the 10,023-foot-tall Haleakala volcano, where the ancients studied the stars. "There's nothing like seeing the sun appear as it first pops up over Haleakala," Salloum says.
To put it in perspective, Oahu is the most visited of Hawaii's islands, welcoming millions of travelers a year, and sees 40% of the entire state's tourism revenue. Much of this is centered on Honolulu and Waikiki. ... We don't often recommend helicopter tours in Hawaii due to the variable weather conditions, but Honolulu Helicopter Tours ...
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Before the fires, they operated up to 30 tours every day. By Casey Lund. Published: Apr. 1, 2024 at 10:43 AM HST | Updated: seconds ago HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Seven months after the wildfires ...
Apr 1, 2024. Providing fun for all ages, the Super American Circus concluded a three-day stand under the Big Top tent at the Oskie Rice Event Center Sunday night. After stints on the Big Island ...