Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History in Big Island of Hawaii, United States
Big Island of Hawaii, United States

Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History

Outty Ranking 93 4.9 · 7,132 traveler reviews11 hoursFrom $27690+ Club
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Outty Ranking

93/100

90+ Club. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.9/5

Based on 7,132 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History worth booking?

Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History is a 11-hour experience in Big Island of Hawaii, United States, from $276 per person. It scores 93 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “90+ Club”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 7,132 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing. It sits in the Outty 90+ Club, the top tier of everything we rank.

Outty Ranking
93 / 100
Rating
4.9/5 (7,132)
Duration
11 hours
From
$276 per person

This 12 hour nature tour offers an in-depth look at Hawaii’s youngest and largest island. Explore the diverse landscape and natural wonders, including a visit of the Volcanoes National Park, walk through rainforests to soaring waterfalls and stroll black-sand beaches as you scan the horizon for green sea turtles. This family-friendly tour requires easy walking and introduces people of all ages to the island, and includes lunch, snacks, refreshments, and park entrance fees.

What you get

    About this experience

    This 12 hour nature tour offers an in-depth look at Hawaii’s youngest and largest island. Explore the diverse landscape and natural wonders, including a visit of the Volcanoes National Park, walk through rainforests to soaring waterfalls and stroll black-sand beaches as you scan the horizon for green sea turtles. This family-friendly tour requires easy walking and introduces people of all ages to the island, and includes lunch, snacks, refreshments, and park entrance fees.

    What's included

    Included

    • Bottled Water and Hawaiian Juice
    • Luxury Mercedes Sprinter Van Transportation
    • Kona/ Kohala Coast area hotel pickup and drop-off
    • Small Group Tour
    • All Fees and Taxes
    • Professional Guide
    • Picnic Style Lunch and Snacks

    Not included

    • Tour Guide Gratuities/Tips
    • Private Tour
    • Personal Purchases

    What you'll see and do

    1. Kohala Coast

      Pick up guests from resorts along the Kohala Coast while enjoying a narrated tour with unique landscape and scenic view.

      Pass by without stopping

    2. Kailua Pier

      Drive through the historic Downtown Kona, home to the summer palace of Hawaiian royalty and oldest church in Hawaii.

      Pass by without stopping

    3. Bay View Farm

      Take a tour of this Kona Coffee Farm to learn about the harvesting and milling process while sampling Kona Coffee and Tea.

      40 minutes here

    4. Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

      Dip your toes in the sand at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach and scan the horizon for green sea turtles on the shore

      35 minutes here

    5. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

      Explore the wonders of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, including steam vents, the Halema’uma’u and Kilauea Iki crater lookouts, past lava flow sites, and take a short hike along crater rim trail and lava tube.

      80 minutes here · Admission included

    6. Nahuku - Lava Tube

      Walk along a bridge that gives you a literal inside look at Hawaii, as you follow it to the eerie Thurston Lava Tube, a 600-foot-long (183-meter) cave formed hundreds of years ago by an underground river of magma.

      20 minutes here

    7. Hilo

      Drive through historical Downtown Hilo, the largest city on the island.

      Pass by without stopping

    8. Rainbow Falls

      This 80-foot falls plunges over a natural lava cave and into the Wailuku River below. On a sunny day, rainbows appear in the mist of the falls, making for a magical view.

      20 minutes here

    9. Akaka Falls State Park

      This towering 442-foot (135-meter) waterfall plummets into a lush ravine at the center of a state park. You’ll enjoy a short walk through the vegetation for an up close view and plenty of photo ops.

      35 minutes here · Admission included

    10. Waipi'o Valley

      The views stop you in your tracks at the Waipio Valley lookout, where a dramatic backdrop of lush cliffs drops into the sparkling blue ocean

      20 minutes here

    11. Parker Ranch

      Driver through the scenic green pasture of Parker Ranch, home of the Hawaiian cowboys and one of the largest ranches in the US.

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 14 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Wasabi Tours Hawaii

    Know before you go

    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Operates in all weather conditions; please dress appropriately.
    • Children under 5 years old are not allowed to participate
    • This tour only departs from Kailua Kona and Waikoloa on the Big Island of Hawaii
    • Itineraries may change, and refunds will not be given for closures and itinerary changes out of our control. Tours run rain or shine.
    • Vegetarian or gluten free meals are available, please advise at time of booking if required
    • Not possible for travelers require walkers/wheelchairs

    Photos

    The Black Sand Beach at Punaluu, Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History in Big Island of HawaiiVisit Akaka Falls on this tour, Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History in Big Island of HawaiiWaipio Valley Lookout, Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History in Big Island of HawaiiView of Halemaumau Crater, Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History in Big Island of HawaiiThurston Lava Tube, Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History in Big Island of HawaiiPunaluu Black Sand Beach, Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History in Big Island of Hawaii

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 7,107 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    8 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    The guide

    7 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Food and drink

    4 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Pace and timing

    3 mentions

    Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

    Traveler reviews

    7,107 verified traveler reviews for Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    6,705
    4 star
    281
    3 star
    72
    2 star
    26
    1 star
    23
    Sort
    A2696FXstephenr · October 2026

    We love Mia

    Mia made the day wonderful with her educational and entertaining stories about the islands, the places we were visiting, and her personal history and experience. Highly recommend her as a guide and this excursion as a great introduction to the variety of experiences available on the big island.

    via Tripadvisor

    Raymond_D · October 2026

    Good tour

    Tour and guide were brilliant, guide gave a good history lesson of the island and was full of knowledge. The day was long but we'll worth it. The only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 was the lunch. It could have been better, some of it was cold and flavourless. Apart from that it was a good day.

    via Viator

    Chris_L · October 2026

    Henry was one of the best...

    Henry was one of the best and most knowledgeable tour guides we've ever had! We saw so much and covered so much of Hawaii's history. Only area to improve would be to change the lunch to sandwiches, as the BBQ was cold by the time we got to eat it.

    via Viator

    heather_p · October 2026

    Wonderful Experience!

    Kona Chris was a fantastic tour guide and very knowledgeable about the island. We saw many highlights without having to navigate it ourselves. We just looked out the windows, marveled at the beauty, laughed at Chris’s commentary, ate snacks, and got out at the stopping points and took our pics. I can’t believe all that we did in one day. Take the tour!

    via Viator

    Q3682OSrichardw · October 2026

    Great tour of the Big Island

    Derek did a fantastic job of sharing his knowledge of the island. We have been here two other times and circled the island, but this was far more enjoyable.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    11 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $276 to $287
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    2,496
    Verdict
    90+ Club

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Wasabi Tours Hawaii, who run 4 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 85.2 and 2 in the 90+ Club.

    See everything Wasabi Tours Hawaii runs

    Why this scores 93

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)93
    Review evidence (18% weight)100
    Booking momentum (14% weight)100
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)71
    Local standing (8% weight)68
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Big Island of Hawaii.

    How much does Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History cost?

    +

    Prices start at $276 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Big Island of Hawaii usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History take?

    +

    Plan for about 11 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Big Island of Hawaii is not rushed.

    Is Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 93 out of 100, which we label "90+ Club". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 7,132 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Big Island of Hawaii, and how flexible the cancellation terms are. Scoring 90 or above puts it in the Outty 90+ Club, the top tier of everything we rank.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 11-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History?

    +

    Around 2,496 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Big Island of Hawaii can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Big Island of Hawaii and add a light layer if any part of the 11-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Big Island of Hawaii within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Big Island of Hawaii?

    +

    The Big Island is volcano country: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tours, Mauna Kea summit stargazing, night manta ray snorkels off Kona, Waipio Valley lookouts and coffee farm visits. Summit tours have real altitude rules, so we weight safety detail. On Outty we rank every Big Island of Hawaii experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Big Island: Captain Cook Snorkel On A Power Catamaran With Lunch, KONA Manta Ray Night Snorkel - FREE re-ride if no Sightings, Small Group Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Big Island of Hawaii?

    +

    April to October, though the island runs year round. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Big Island of Hawaii?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History?

    +

    Included: Bottled Water and Hawaiian Juice; Luxury Mercedes Sprinter Van Transportation; Kona/ Kohala Coast area hotel pickup and drop-off; Small Group Tour; and All Fees and Taxes. Not included: Tour Guide Gratuities/Tips; Private Tour; and Personal Purchases. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 22 listed pickup locations in and around Big Island of Hawaii. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Not possible for travelers require walkers/wheelchairs. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History?

    +

    Across 7,132 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide, food and drink. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

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