Private Hilo Shore Excursion Waterfalls and Botanical Garden
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
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Age 12 and under
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Quick answer
Is Private Hilo Shore Excursion Waterfalls and Botanical Garden worth booking?
Private Hilo Shore Excursion Waterfalls and Botanical Garden is a 5-hour experience in Hilo, United States, from $905 per person. It scores 46 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 46 / 100
- Rating
- Not yet rated
- Duration
- 5 hours
- From
- $905 per person
Discover the wild beauty of the Big Island on an exclusive, private shore excursion from Hilo tailored completely to your group's pace. Your private adventure begins at the legendary Rainbow Falls, where an 80-foot water
What you get
About this experience
Discover the wild beauty of the Big Island on an exclusive, private shore excursion from Hilo tailored completely to your group's pace. Your private adventure begins at the legendary Rainbow Falls, where an 80-foot waterfall plunges over an ancient lava cave. Wind through the lush, canopy-covered Pepeekeo Scenic Drive in your own private vehicle before exploring the world-renowned Hawai'i Tropical Botanical Garden — a 40-acre sanctuary home to over 2,000 species of rare tropical plants along scenic Onomea Bay. Enjoy the flexibility of a private itinerary as you stop in the charming plantation village of Historic Honomu Town for a leisurely stroll and local treats, then witness the breathtaking 442-foot free-fall of ʻAkaka Falls. Conclude your personalized day at Liliʻuokalani Japanese Gardens — the largest authentic Edo-style garden outside of Japan — and cross the footbridge to Coconut Island for stunning panoramic views of Hilo Bay.
What's included
Included
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Pickup/Drop off
- Expert Guide
Not included
- Tips & Gratuities
- Foods & drinks
What you'll see and do
Feast your eyes on the breathtaking beauty of Rainbow Falls (Waiānuenue), an iconic 80-foot natural waterfall that plunges over an ancient lava cave into a sparkling turquoise pool below. According to Hawaiian legend, the cave beneath the waterfall was the sacred home of Hina, mother of the demigod Maui. Surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, this spectacular site gets its name from the vibrant rainbows that dance across the mist on sunny mornings. A short paved pathway offers effortless access to the viewing platform, making it easy to capture perfect postcard-worthy photos of one of the Big Island's most beloved natural wonders. For those who want to explore further, a staircase leads to the top of the falls where a hidden pathway through lush vegetation reveals a grove of magnificent ancient banyan trees.
45 minutes here
Pepeekeo Scenic Drive
Experience the breathtaking old-world charm of the Pepeekeo Scenic Drive. This legendary 4-mile stretch of the Old Mamalahoa Highway winds from one scenic spot to another through a dense, canopy-covered tropical rainforest, far removed from the busy main highway. As you navigate the gentle curves and cross charming old bridges, look out at towering banyan trees, lush giant ferns, and vibrant tropical flowers. Along the way, stunning glimpses of beautiful Onomea Bay and rugged volcanic coastline give you a front-row seat to the untouched wild beauty of the Big Island's coast. Halfway through the drive, the world-famous Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Gardens — home to over 2,000 species of rare and exotic plants — awaits as a breathtaking bonus stop.
30 minutes here
Step into a living paradise at the Hawai'i Tropical Botanical Garden, a stunning nature preserve nestled in the scenic Onomea Valley, just 8 miles north of Hilo along the Big Island's beautiful Hamakua Coast. This lush 40-acre sanctuary is home to over 2,000 species of rare and exotic tropical plants, representing more than 125 families and 750 genera from around the globe — including nearly 200 species of towering palms, vibrant orchids, and dramatic heliconias. Walk down a 500-foot landscaped boardwalk into the lower garden trails, where tranquil streams, hidden waterfalls, and breathtaking coastal views await. Follow the trail to the stunning three-tiered Onomea Falls before the path opens up to spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean where the rainforest dramatically meets the sea. It is an unforgettable and deeply peaceful look at the true botanical magic of the Big Island.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Take a delightful step back in time as you explore Historic Honomu Town, a charming plantation-era village nestled along the beautiful Hamakua Coast. With its history dating back to 1876, this quaint town was once a thriving sugar cane plantation hub with its own theaters, shops, and bustling community life. Today, its beautifully preserved early 20th-century wooden storefronts and plantation-style architecture tell the story of old Hawaii. Stroll down the main street to browse eclectic art galleries, hunt for unique handmade souvenirs, and stop at local shops selling plantation-era antiques and locally crafted gifts. Don't miss Mr. Ed's Bakery — a beloved local institution famous for its giant cinnamon rolls, sticky monkey bread, and over 150 varieties of tropical jams and jellies. It's the perfect slice of authentic small-town Hawaii charm before continuing your adventure.
35 minutes here
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Liliʻuokalani Gardens, the largest authentic Edo-style Japanese garden outside of Japan, spanning 24 acres along Banyan Drive in Hilo. Dedicated in 1917 as a tribute to Hawaiʻi's first Japanese immigrants who worked the Big Island's sugar cane fields, this stunning oceanfront park was made possible by Queen Liliʻuokalani — Hawaii's last reigning monarch. Stroll along winding footpaths to discover koi ponds, stone pagodas, lanterns donated by 14 Japanese prefectures, and a traditional teahouse. A charming footbridge leads to Coconut Island — Moku Ola, or "Island of Life." Once home to an ancient Hawaiian healing temple, today it offers a peaceful retreat in Hilo Bay with panoramic views of the historic waterfront and lush green mountains.
90 minutes here
Hilo
After a beautiful day exploring the best waterfalls, tropical gardens, and scenic coastlines of the Big Island, we will begin our relaxed drive back to Hilo. Relax and enjoy the passing landscapes as your guide drops you off directly at your original pickup location.
15 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 45 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
Private Group 1-2
Private Group 1-2 Pickup included
Private Group 1-5
Private Group 1-5 Pickup included
Private Group 1-3
Private Group 1-3 Pickup included
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 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- BARBIL TOURS
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
Good to know
- Duration
- 5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $905 to $1290
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 0
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Why this scores 46
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Hilo Shore Excursion Waterfalls and Botanical Garden: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Hilo.
How much does Private Hilo Shore Excursion Waterfalls and Botanical Garden cost?
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Prices start at $905 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 Private Hilo Shore Excursion Waterfalls and Botanical Garden take?
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Plan for about 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 Private Hilo Shore Excursion Waterfalls and Botanical Garden worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 46 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (0/5 across 0 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 Private Hilo Shore Excursion Waterfalls and Botanical Garden?
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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 Private Hilo Shore Excursion Waterfalls and Botanical Garden suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Private Hilo Shore Excursion Waterfalls and Botanical Garden?
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Around 0 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?
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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-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Private Hilo Shore Excursion Waterfalls and Botanical Garden start and how do I get there?
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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?
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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?
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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?
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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?
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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.
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