Overview
Experience a unique shore excursion departing from Hilo Port, where we take you to the renowned Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, setting us apart from other cruise tours on the island. Enjoy a leisurely 1 hour and 30-minute scenic drive to this iconic destination, where you'll marvel at the striking contrast of the black sand against the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean.
Our journey continues into Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where the majestic peaks of Kilauea Volcano await exploration. Then, immerse yourself in the beauty of Rainbow Falls, a picturesque cascade straight out of a tropical paradise. Each destination promises unforgettable experiences and breathtaking vistas.
As the day winds down, we'll return you to Hilo Port, leaving you with memories of a day filled with exploration, wonder, and the natural beauty of the Big Island. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that will make your cruise experience truly special.
Itinerary
- Banyan Drive is a scenic, historic stretch in Hilo lined with giant banyan trees planted by famous figures such as Amelia Earhart, Babe Ruth, and Franklin Roosevelt. Often called Hilo’s “Walk of Fame,” the drive offers a leafy tunnel of shade and history—its iconic trees having survived the tsunamis that once reshaped the town.
- Established in 1917 by Queen Liliʻuokalani, this expansive park stands as the largest Authentic Japanese garden of its kind beyond Japan's shores. Dotted throughout the serene landscape are stone lanterns, gazebos, and torii gates, serving as poignant tributes to the Japanese immigrants who made Hawaii their home.
- Big Island Candies is a beloved Hilo-based shop known for its buttery shortbread cookies, chocolate-dipped treats, and playful local flavors. Visitors can browse through beautifully packaged confections while sampling fresh-brewed Kona coffee, seasonal candies, and signature shortbread. The store has the feel of a small factory boutique—warm, aromatic, and filled with gifts that travel well—making it an easy stop for both locals and travelers stocking up on sweets. (15 mins)
- Our journey now takes us to the renowned Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, where numerous Honu (Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles) reside. Here, we have a great opportunity to witness these majestic creatures basking in the warm sun. (25 mins)
- Have a taste of the underrated “south of Kona” brew known as Kaʻū Coffee—grown in the volcanic soils just outside Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Rich, smooth, and award-winning, it’s a great way to sample a different side of Hawaiʻi’s coffee culture. This stop is doable if we head toward Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach. (15 mins)
- Next, we journey to the summit of Kīlauea within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, a world-renowned volcanic site tied to the Hawaiian goddess Pele. The park is home to Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world’s most active volcanoes, offering dramatic volcanic scenery and insight into how the islands formed. We’ll stop at the visitor center, view the collapsed caldera, explore steam vents and sulfur banks, and enjoy scenic overlooks. Lava activity is unpredictable—there is no guarantee of glowing lava, and there is no ocean entry, as the last one occurred in 2018. For those prone to being cold, please bring comfortable shoes and a jacket; summit temperatures can be 20+ degrees cooler than the coast. A visit to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is an unforgettable highlight. (Entrance fees not included; national park passes are valid for use on commercial tours for your immediate party.) (120 mins)
- The Mauna Loa Macadamia Visitor Center is a fun stop for anyone who wants to taste Hawaiʻi’s famous mac nuts right where they’re grown and roasted. Surrounded by lush orchards, the center offers samples of classic and flavored macadamias, chocolate-covered treats, and other island snacks. Visitors can glimpse parts of the processing operation, browse gifts, and enjoy a casual atmosphere that mixes learning with plenty of tasting—plus lots of chances to stock up before heading home (time allowing and if this is a preference). (15 mins)
- As for one of our last stops we take photos at this iconic waterfall, for iconic postcard worthy photos (15 mins)
- We'll embark on a walk through a lava tube, where your guide will provide insights into its formation by lava. This loop, approximately 600 meters or .4-mile trail, features low lighting, with gradual stairs leading into and out of the tube. While this portion of the tour may not be suitable for all passengers due to physical fitness, alternative options include remaining in the vehicle or exploring the natural scenery outside. Additionally, you'll have the choice to bring headlamps along for enhanced visibility within the dimly lit lava tube, allowing you to appreciate intricate cave details and observe the formation of tiny stalactites. (20 mins)
- ʻAkaka Falls is a showstopper—plunging more than 400 feet through a lush rainforest gorge alive with birdsong, greenery, and mist. The paved loop trail takes most visitors about 20–30 minutes and winds past smaller waterfalls and scenic overlooks before revealing the grand view of ʻAkaka itself. It’s a vibrant, postcard-perfect stop for nature lovers and photographers alike (admission not included). This stop can also be selected as an alternative to Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach and the Kau Coffee plantation as these are opposite directions from one another. Please note that the order of stops may vary and will be determined by our expert guides to provide the best overall experience. As this is a private tour, we can also tailor the day to your preferences (within reason) and within the time allotted. (30 mins)
What’s Included
Inclusions
- Port of Hilo/ Hotels pick up
- Bottled water
- Snacks
Exclusions
- Gratuities
- entrance fees
- Meal is not provided but we have snacks and drinks provided throughout the tour
Meeting & Logistics
We pick up just outside the Port of Hilo, Please Leave outside the Port of Hilo Gate and head toward Kalanianole street. We will be there or around the corner, we will arrange pick up details within 24 hours.
Special Instructions
Look for the black Ford shuttle van with Hawaii Island Time on the back or Call us upon walking out of the port.
Meeting Point
Hawaii
Additional Info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Travel time is already included to the total duration set
- What to Bring: Walking shoes, a Hat, a light sweater or a Rain Jacket just in case
