
Hilo Shore Excursion: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 40 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Hilo Shore Excursion: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo worth booking?
Hilo Shore Excursion: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo is a 7-hour experience in Hilo, United States, from $188 per person. It scores 75 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 40 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 75 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (40)
- Duration
- 7 hours
- From
- $188 per person
Discover one of Hawaiʻi’s most unique and visually striking natural wonders on this unforgettable visit to Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach. Stroll along the shoreline where endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) often bask in the sun. Dip your toes in the cool waters, explore tide pools teeming with marine life. Your all inclusive tour includes the Hilo Discovery and Volcanoes National Park Explorer packages. As a locally owned and operated tour company based on Hawaiʻi Island, we offer immersive, guided experiences while sharing not just the breathtaking beauty of volcanoes, waterfalls, and valleys – but the stories, language, and spirit that make these places sacred. Our expertly guided tours highlight the island’s natural beauty, rich history, and volcanic landscapes. We also offer custom and private tours!
What you get
About this experience
Discover one of Hawaiʻi’s most unique and visually striking natural wonders on this unforgettable visit to Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach. Stroll along the shoreline where endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) often bask in the sun. Dip your toes in the cool waters, explore tide pools teeming with marine life. Your all inclusive tour includes the Hilo Discovery and Volcanoes National Park Explorer packages. As a locally owned and operated tour company based on Hawaiʻi Island, we offer immersive, guided experiences while sharing not just the breathtaking beauty of volcanoes, waterfalls, and valleys – but the stories, language, and spirit that make these places sacred. Our expertly guided tours highlight the island’s natural beauty, rich history, and volcanic landscapes. We also offer custom and private tours!
What's included
Included
- Admission fees
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Meals
Not included
- No Alcohol
What you'll see and do
Ka'u Coffee Mill
Enjoy a taste of Hawaiʻi at Kaʻū Coffee Mill, nestled in the countryside near Pāhala. Sample locally grown coffee, browse the gift shop, and discover the rich flavors of the island’s celebrated Kaʻū coffee region—a delicious stop on our Punaluʻu adventure!
20 minutes here
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
Discover one of Hawaiʻi’s most unique and visually striking natural wonders on this unforgettable visit to Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach on this all-inclusive tour. Located on the Big Island’s southeastern coast, and known for its jet-black shoreline formed by cooled lava fragments, Punaluʻu offers a rare and captivating sight that perfectly blends natural beauty with cultural significance. Also included in the excursion is the Volcano Explorer which is a drive through Chain of Craters Road and Crater Rim Drive, scenic stops, as well as a self guided visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
60 minutes here · Admission included
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Also included in the excursion is the Volcano Explorer which is a drive through Chain of Craters Road and Crater Rim Drive, scenic stops, as well as a self guided visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: - Kīlauea Visitor Center - Volcano House - Halemaʻumaʻu Crater (Uekahuna Look Out) - Steamy Haʻakulamanu (Sulphur Banks) - Kīlauea Iki Overlook - Thurston Lava Tube
120 minutes here
Hilo
Included in the excursion is the Hilo Discovery which includes a drive through Historic Hilo town and stops at: - Reed’s Bay - Banyan Tree Drive - Queen Liliuokalani Gardens - Rainbow Falls - King Kamehameha Statue - Big Island Candies
90 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Hilo
You will be contacted regarding pick up instructions
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations.
Ends at
You will be contacted regarding pick up instructions
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
- Aloha Aina Tours
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 38 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
10 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Traveler reviews
38 verified traveler reviews for Hilo Shore Excursion: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
The tour was good,...
The tour was good, however, we felt a little rushed especially at Volcano National Park. Although not sure how much more there was to see and some of that could have been the rest of tour group. The driver could have give more background details during tour Overall good experience and got to see everything we wanted
via Viator
Excellent Volcanoes National Park Tour from Hilo
We really enjoyed our Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park tour from Hilo. Everything was very well organized from the moment we got off the ship. Our guide was wonderful — she was both our driver and tour guide and did an excellent job. The bus was comfortable, the group was small, and the lunch was excellent. Unfortunately, the much-anticipated Episode 55 eruption didn’t happen during our visit, but we still saw and experienced so much. When the black sand beach became unavailable, the itinerary was adjusted to include Akaka Falls and Rainbow Falls instead, which was a great alternative. A very well-organized and enjoyable tour. We would definitely recommend it!
via Viator
Excellent tour with Aloha Aina Tours
This tour was excellent! Holley was our guide. She was VERY knowledgeable and have a lot of information. She was very accommodating to the group and flexible with time and stops. I highly recommend this tour.
via Tripadvisor
Excellent and a must take tour!
This was one of the best tours I have ever been on. My husband and I flew in from Oahu to Hawaii just for the day. The tour guide, Amanda, was incredible. She was waiting for us when we got off the plane and from the moment she picked us up was engaging and accommodating. She has so much knowledge of Hilo and the island of Hawaii and shares it in an understanding and very interesting manner. She took us everywhere and informed us of the best views and photo spots at the beach and waterfalls. She shared the history of the volcano, the current and past eruptions, the makeup of the volcano and the chemical reaction that is currently happening. She knows the landscape of Hilo, the vegetation and migration of the plants. She knows history of what country and people contributed to the development of Hawaii. She is so interesting and what she shares is fascinating. She is proud of her tours and loves the company she works for praising them for treating her so well and providing tours that people enjoy. The van was clean and comfortable. She is a great driver. The bento box lunch was delicious. She provided beverages and made the day very comfortable. This is a tour worth taking and I hope all of the guides are as enjoyable as Amanda. Working with Viator is very easy too.
via Tripadvisor
Take the tour with Aloha for Sure
Our guide Ken was very interesting and informative. He took the time to answer all questions and make sure that we were safe and aware of our surroundings. Good tour guide for all ages. Educated us on the culture, but didn't talk to excess.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 7 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 14
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Aloha Aina Tours, who run 4 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 69.0.
See everything Aloha Aina Tours runsWhy this scores 75
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Hilo Shore Excursion: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Hilo.
How much does Hilo Shore Excursion: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo 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: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo take?
+
Plan for about 7 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: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 75 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 40 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Hilo, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Hilo Shore Excursion: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo?
+
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: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 7-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Hilo Shore Excursion: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo?
+
Around 14 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 7-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Hilo Shore Excursion: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo 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, Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens, Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcano Safari Lava Caves & Black Sand. 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: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo?
+
Included: Admission fees; In-vehicle air conditioning; and Meals. Not included: No Alcohol. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Hilo Shore Excursion: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo include hotel pickup?
+
Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 10 listed pickup locations in and around Hilo. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Hilo Shore Excursion: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo 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: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo?
+
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: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo wheelchair or stroller accessible?
+
The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Specialized infant seats are available; and Transportation options are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Hilo Shore Excursion: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo 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 Hilo Shore Excursion: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo?
+
Across 40 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Hilo Shore Excursion: Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Volcano, & Hilo.
Pick your date




