The 15 best things to do in Big Island of Hawaii (2026)

The ranked list

1. 

   1. KONA Manta Ray Night Snorkel - FREE re-ride if no Sightings

   Outty Ranking93

   Swimming with magical giants as they dance and float right in front of your eyes is a truly magical Kona experience! Our night manta ray snorkel tours begin departing at 6 p.m. and run until 10 p.m. and last about an ho. 90+ Club at 93/100, 4.9/5 from 2,695 traveler reviews, 1.3h from $30, free cancellation, an Outty 90+ Club member.

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2. 

   2. Big Island: Captain Cook Snorkel On A Power Catamaran With Lunch

   Outty Ranking93

   Cruise coastline, admire marine life, such as fish, dolphins, whales (seasonal), or other ocean creatures we might see on the tour. Explore sea caves and other historical areas where ancient Hawaiians made history and cr. 90+ Club at 93/100, 4.9/5 from 2,501 traveler reviews, 4h from $85, free cancellation, an Outty 90+ Club member.

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3. 

   3. Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History

   Outty Ranking92

   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 s. 90+ Club at 92/100, 4.9/5 from 7,079 traveler reviews, 11h from $276, free cancellation, an Outty 90+ Club member.

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4. 

   4. Small Group Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour

   Outty Ranking91

   See rare black sand beaches, visit the famous Kona Coffee Farm and the magnificent Volcanoes National Park including Thurston Lava Tube, Chain of Craters Road, and past lava flow. Finish the adventure with stargazing nea. 90+ Club at 91/100, 4.9/5 from 1,746 traveler reviews, 12h from $309, free cancellation, an Outty 90+ Club member.

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5. 

   5. Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park & Black Sand Beach

   Outty Ranking90

   Cruise Ship Guests: We have special permits to pick up directly from Hilo port of call. Departure times may be adjusted to fit your ships arrival & departure. Hilo Hotel Guests: Meeting location is Hilo Hawaiian Hotel. 90+ Club at 90/100, 4.8/5 from 3,027 traveler reviews, 6h from $169, free cancellation, an Outty 90+ Club member.

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6. 

   6. Award Winning Farm Tour: Coffee, Chocolate and Unique Gifts

   Outty Ranking90

   Experience the pinnacle of excellence with our awarded BADGE OF EXCELLENCE! Dive into the fascinating world of coffee and chocolate production in Hawaii like never before. Delve into the art of chocolate cultivation, tra. 90+ Club at 90/100, 5.0/5 from 559 traveler reviews, 3h from $50, free cancellation, an Outty 90+ Club member.

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7. 

   7. Big Island Highlights: Coffee, Volcano, Black Sands & Waterfall

   Outty Ranking90

   This Kailani Tours experience is unique for its diverse blend of Hawai'i’s natural beauty, local flavors, and rich cultural history. Guests enjoy exclusive perks like complimentary donuts at Punalu'u Bake Shop, and sweet. 90+ Club at 90/100, 4.9/5 from 1,068 traveler reviews, 11h from $299, free cancellation, an Outty 90+ Club member.

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8. 

   8. Hawaiian Salt Farm Tour in Kona

   Outty Ranking89

   Hawai‘i Island’s only working salt farm, featured on Guy Fieri’s “Guy Hawaiian Style,” is located on a scenic 7-acre oceanfront site in the Hawai‘i Ocean Science & Technology Park (HOST Park), a community dedicated to oc. Exceptional at 89/100, 4.9/5 from 919 traveler reviews, 1h from $27, free cancellation.

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9. 

   9. Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour

   Outty Ranking89

   Head to the Mauna Kea Observatory, nestled high in the mountains of the Big Island, and experience an intriguing and provocative journey through space and time. Discover Hawaii from the top of the island's tallest peak,. Exceptional at 89/100, 4.9/5 from 1,669 traveler reviews, 8h from $330, free cancellation.

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10. 

    10. Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cook Monument) Snorkel and Sail Adventure

    Outty Ranking89

    Join us aboard our luxurious 50’ catamaran “Kona Style”, as we sail the Kona coast. Scan the horizon for dolphins and whales (seasonal) from our shaded cabin or sunny splash nets. Snorkel calm waters and lush coral garde. Exceptional at 89/100, 5.0/5 from 721 traveler reviews, 4h from $189, free cancellation.

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11. 

    11. Kona’s Best Morning Snorkel: Captain Cook & Kealakekua Bay

    Outty Ranking88

    Since 1971, we've taken pride in offering a top-tier snorkeling experience backed by decades of expertise and a highly trained, lifeguard-certified crew. When you join us, you’re in the hands of professionals dedicated t. Exceptional at 88/100, 4.9/5 from 1,037 traveler reviews, 4.5h from $55, free cancellation.

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12. 

    12. Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel

    Outty Ranking88

    A must do while in Hawaii! It's a lifetime opportunity to see up close manta rays feeding and interacting with other ocean creatures under the neon lights. Join us for a memorable and magical moment of a night snorkel wi. Exceptional at 88/100, 4.8/5 from 6,298 traveler reviews, 2.5h from $44, free cancellation.

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13. 

    13. Big Island: Deluxe Volcano Experience with Restaurant Dinner

    Outty Ranking88

    Travel in style and comfort with Big Island’s Premier Tour Company - Kailani Tours. Cruise along the scenic Kona coastline on your way to Hawaii’s most active volcano – Kilauea! Sample Kona coffee, visit Punalu’u Black S. Exceptional at 88/100, 4.9/5 from 631 traveler reviews, 11h from $342, free cancellation.

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14. 

    14. Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Tour: Guaranteed or come again free

    Outty Ranking88

    Why Choose Us for Your Manta Ray Night Snorkel? The strongest light power out of any operator…! Choose us if you want the most manta rays statistically! Our light boards has 300,000 lumens Power of blue or white dive li. Exceptional at 88/100, 4.7/5 from 2,579 traveler reviews, 1.5h from $15, free cancellation.

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15. 

    15. Kealakekua Bay Afternoon Snorkel: Family Fun on the Kona Coast

    Outty Ranking87

    Spend your morning exploring the Big Island, then board the eco-friendly Fair Wind II for an afternoon of snorkeling highlights in Kealakekua Bay - relaxed, scenic, and perfectly timed. Snorkel the vibrant reefs of Keal. Exceptional at 87/100, 4.9/5 from 705 traveler reviews, 4h from $55, free cancellation.

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Traveler ratings are provided by Viator and Tripadvisor. The Outty Ranking is our own independent evaluation. How the ranking works.

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