Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens
Hilo, United States

Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens

Outty Ranking 88 4.9 · 454 traveler reviews5.5 hoursFrom $188
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Outty Ranking

88/100

Exceptional. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.9/5

Based on 454 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens worth booking?

Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens is a 5.5-hour experience in Hilo, United States, from $188 per person. It scores 88 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 454 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
88 / 100
Rating
4.9/5 (454)
Duration
5.5 hours
From
$188 per person

A day trip to Hilo is not complete without a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to one of the world's most active volcanoes. Witness the current volcanic eruption at the summit of Kilauea volcano with a chance to see lava, learn of past geologic events and the effects on this ever changing landscape. Feel the heat of steam vents, then traverse an ancient lava tube nestled in the cool mist of the Hawaiian rainforest. Conclude your day indulging your senses around Hilo town including the majestic Rainbow Falls, Liliuokalani Gardens, and tasty locally made chocolates and coffee on this small group tour.

What you get

    About this experience

    A day trip to Hilo is not complete without a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to one of the world's most active volcanoes. Witness the current volcanic eruption at the summit of Kilauea volcano with a chance to see lava, learn of past geologic events and the effects on this ever changing landscape. Feel the heat of steam vents, then traverse an ancient lava tube nestled in the cool mist of the Hawaiian rainforest. Conclude your day indulging your senses around Hilo town including the majestic Rainbow Falls, Liliuokalani Gardens, and tasty locally made chocolates and coffee on this small group tour.

    What's included

    Included

    • Private transportation
    • Snacks
    • Bottled water
    • Professional guide
    • National park admission fee

    Not included

    • Lunch
    • Gratuities
    • We DO NOT provide transportation from Kona or Waikoloa. Please meet us in Hilo at the bus terminal.

    What you'll see and do

    1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

      Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park including a visit to Kilauea caldera where you will witness the dramatic changes from our recent eruption, experience the steam vents and other volcanic formations from past lava flows.

      120 minutes here · Admission included

    2. Nahuku - Lava Tube

      Enjoy a walk through the Hawaiian rainforest to Nahuku (Thurston Lava Tube). Explore the 500 year old underground tube where hot molten lava once rushed through.

      30 minutes here · Admission included

    3. Chain of Craters Road

      Explore frozen fields of lava from past volcanic eruptions and peer down into once active volcanic craters. Learn about the history, culture and geology of Kilauea volcano.

      30 minutes here · Admission included

    4. Rainbow Falls

      View the majestic 80 foot waterfall of Waianuenue or Rainbow Falls. Enjoy the tropical landscape as you learn the legends of Hawaii.

      20 minutes here

    5. Big Island Candies

      Get your pep in your step with tasty hand-made chocolates, locally grown macadamia nuts and island fresh coffee!

      15 minutes here

    6. Lili'uokalani Gardens

      Immerse yourself in tranquility with a short stroll around Liliuokalani Gardens as you enjoy the fishponds, pagodas and picture perfect landscaping along Hilo bay.

      20 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.

    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 12 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Mauka Makai Adventures

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Youth ages 10 years and older only are allowed on this tour. All participants must have a paid seat. We do not allow children under the age of 10 years old.
    • Covered walking shoes are required and a jacket is highly recommended.
    • Participants must be able to walk a minimum of 1 mile on uneven terrain.
    • Operates in all weather conditions (be prepared for sun, wind and rain).
    • We do not guarantee you will see molten lava on this tour.
    • HOTEL pick-up is offered for select HILO HOTELS ONLY. If you are staying outside of Hilo, please plan to meet at the Hilo Mo'oheau Bus Terminal (please confirm at time of booking).
    • CRUISE SHIP passengers, we pick-up directly at the PORT OF HILO and will adjust the tour time as needed to accommodate your ships time in port.
    • For a one DAY TRIP to the Big Island, please make your travel arrangements to and from the HILO AIRPORT. Schedule your flight arrival a minimum of 30 minutes prior to the tour start time AND provide your flight details at time of booking.
    • Kilauea volcano is an active volcano, you may be exposed to volcanic gas on this tour.
    • This tour cannot accommodate guests with wheelchairs, scooters or oxygen tanks.

    Photos

    Halema'uma'u Eruption, Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and GardensKilauea Volcano, Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and GardensNahuku - Thurston Lava Tube, Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and GardensLiliuokalani Gardens - Hilo, Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens'Ohelo on Pahoehoe Lava, Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and GardensOhi'a Lehua, Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 452 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    7 mentions

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

    Knowledge and storytelling

    6 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Traveler reviews

    452 verified traveler reviews for Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    425
    4 star
    22
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    2
    1 star
    3
    Sort
    Jean_A · October 2026

    Excellent

    Jill was awesome. Very informative and friendly. Glad we took this tour. I Would recommend to anyone.

    via Viator

    N6919TNandye · September 2026

    Awesome tour

    Our tour guide was Jill, and she was phenomenal. Very knowledgeable about the area (has lived on the island her entire life) and could answer any question we had. Each stop was well worth it. Jill even gave us suggestions on what to do the next day.

    via Tripadvisor

    cornellc295 · September 2026

    Great local guide

    Jill, our guide, was amazing! She is a native to Hilo and had great stories that made the tour come alive! Her knowledge of the history of the area made the tour personal, educational, and culturally relevant. I cannot express what a wonderful experience this was.

    via Tripadvisor

    paulmP811BO · September 2026

    Perfect day

    I have been searching for the perfect superlative to describe this tour, but everyone else seems to fall short in expressing just how wonderful it was. If you are fortunate enough to have Jill as your guide, you are in for an enlightening experience. She greets you with her effervescent personality, and as the tour progresses, you are introduced to the Hawaiian language, history, and sagas. Time flies by, and at the end, you wish you could have started again.

    via Tripadvisor

    Paul_M · September 2026

    A great day seeing the volcano

    I have been searching for the perfect superlative to describe this tour, but everyone else seems to fall short in expressing just how wonderful it was. If you are fortunate enough to have Jill as your guide, you are in for an enlightening experience. She greets you with her effervescent personality, and as the tour progresses, you are introduced to the Hawaiian language, history, and sagas. Time flies by, and at the end, you wish you could have started again.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    5.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $188 to $196
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    159
    Verdict
    Exceptional

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Mauka Makai Adventures, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 80.7 and 1 in the 90+ Club.

    See everything Mauka Makai Adventures runs

    Why this scores 88

    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)98
    Booking momentum (14% weight)97
    Value for money (12% weight)63
    Listing quality (10% weight)80
    Local standing (8% weight)61
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Hilo.

    How much does Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens cost?

    +

    Prices start at $188 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Hilo usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens take?

    +

    Plan for about 5.5 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 Hilo is not rushed.

    Is Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 88 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 454 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Hilo, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens?

    +

    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 Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 5.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens?

    +

    Around 159 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 Hilo 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 Hilo and add a light layer if any part of the 5.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens 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 Hilo 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 Hilo?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Hilo experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Hawaii Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Beaches & Hilo Highlights Day Tour, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hilo Highlights Small Group Tour, Ultimate Big Island Experience: Volcano, Waterfall, Beach & Lunch. 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 Hilo?

    +

    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 Hilo?

    +

    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 Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens?

    +

    Included: Private transportation; Snacks; Bottled water; Professional guide; and National park admission fee. Not included: Lunch; Gratuities; and We DO NOT provide transportation from Kona or Waikoloa. Please meet us in Hilo at the bus. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 7 listed pickup locations in and around Hilo. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time.

    What languages is Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens 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 Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens?

    +

    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 Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers; and This tour cannot accommodate guests with wheelchairs, scooters or oxygen tanks. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Hilo. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens?

    +

    Across 454 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

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