Big Island: Evening Volcano Explorer From Kona or Kohala

Exploring the Big Island becomes truly memorable with the Evening Volcano Explorer Tour offered by KapohoKine Adventures. Priced at $310 per person and lasting 12 hours, this tour showcases some of the island’s most iconic sights, including Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a black sand beach, and a working Kona Coffee farm. It departs from Kona or Waikoloa, making it accessible for visitors staying in these areas.

What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to witness current volcanic activity, walk along lava tubes, and enjoy dinner with volcano views. While the long duration might be demanding for some, the comprehensive itinerary offers a full-day adventure packed with breathtaking scenery, cultural insights, and unique landscapes. This tour suits those eager to explore the natural forces shaping the island and savor local flavors, though wearing closed-toe shoes and bringing a light jacket are recommended.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $310 per person for a 12-hour guided tour.
• Includes meals and entrance fees: Lunch, BBQ dinner, snacks, and beverages are all part of the package.
• Guided exploration of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Visit the Kilauea Visitors Center, walk along lava tubes, and see Mauna Ulu.
• Coffee farm visit and tastings: Enjoy Kona Coffee at Bay View Farm with views of Kealakekua Bay.
• Black sand beach experience: Walk along Punaluu Black Sand Beach and watch for Hawaiian green sea turtles.
• Flexible cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Transportation Details

This tour begins with hotel pickup in Kona or Waikoloa, simplifying the logistics for travelers. The transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, offering ample window views of the island’s landscapes. The group size is not specified, but the experience is designed for comfort and ease, with a live English-speaking guide leading the way.

Visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The highlight of this journey is the exploration of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Visitors are led through the Kilauea Visitors Center, which provides insights into the volcano’s activity and history. The volcano art center and Kilauea Iki overlook offer incredible photo opportunities.

A walk along the crater rim to the Nahuku lava tube allows an up-close look at volcanic formations. The guide highlights the striking colors and unusual shapes of the landscape at Mauna Ulu, making it a truly distinctive experience. When conditions permit, the tour may include a lava glow viewing, adding a fiery spectacle to the evening.

Kona Coffee Farm Experience at Bay View Farm

The tour’s first stop is at Bay View Farm, a 24-acre working Kona Coffee farm located on the Mauna Loa Volcano slopes. This farm has been famous since 1984 for producing the best Kona coffee. Visitors see coffee growing on the trees and learn about the entire coffee-making process.

Sampling 100% Kona Coffee at a scenic overlook with views of Kealakekua Bay is a highlight. The Captain Cook monument stands nearby, marking a historic site on the only British land in the U.S. This stop combines education and tasting, giving a taste of local craftsmanship.

The Black Sand Beach and Turtle Watching

A key stop is Punaluu Black Sand Beach, recognized as one of the island’s most scenic black sand beaches. The beach is lined with coconut palms and offers opportunities to see the Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), which often feed offshore or bask on the sand.

The stroll along the beach allows for close encounters with these gentle creatures, adding a wildlife element to the trip. This location also offers photo opportunities of the contrasting black sand and lush surroundings, making it a memorable part of the day.

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Dining and Volcano Views

A lunch and BBQ dinner are included, with the latter served at Volcano House, a historic lodge that has hosted visitors like Mark Twain and Jack London since 1864. The location offers views of the volcano and a chance to relax amid stunning scenery.

Depending on volcanic activity and weather conditions, the tour may include lava glow viewing in the evening, providing an extraordinary visual display of flowing lava if nature cooperates.

Practical Details and Tips

Participants are advised to wear closed-toe shoes for walking over uneven terrain like lava fields and lava tubes. Bringing a light jacket is recommended, as evenings can be cooler, especially near the volcanoes.

The tour includes all entrance fees, making it a convenient, hassle-free experience. The full-day schedule means travelers should be prepared for an active day, with plenty of breathtaking scenery and cultural insights along the way.

The Experience Guides and Reviews

KapohoKine Adventures provides knowledgeable guides who help explain the island’s volcanic activity, history, and natural features. Reviews highlight guide Kenneth as the best guide travelers have had, noted for his thorough explanations and politeness.

Guests praise the stunning views and breathtaking attractions encountered on the tour, emphasizing how well-organized and informative it is. The tour’s length and content are suited for visitors eager to see multiple highlights in one day, with the guided commentary making the experience more enriching.

The Sum Up: Big Island Evening Volcano Explorer

This 12-hour guided tour offers a rich combination of volcanic landscapes, cultural sites, and local flavors. It’s an excellent choice for visitors who want an immersive experience that covers the best of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and nearby highlights like the black sand beach and Kona Coffee farm.

While the long day might be tiring, the value comes from all-inclusive access to key attractions, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see active volcanoes and sea turtles. It’s especially suited for adventurers and nature lovers eager to see the powerful geology and stunning vistas of the Big Island.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $310 fee covers all entrance fees, lunch, BBQ dinner, snacks, and beverages.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts 12 hours, with pickup from Kona or Waikoloa included.

What should I wear?
Participants should wear closed-toe shoes and bring a light jacket for cooler evening temperatures.

Is there an opportunity to see lava flows?
Yes, depending on lava conditions, the tour may include lava glow viewing in the evening.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunch and dinner are part of the package, with a BBQ dinner served at Volcano House.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

Who is the guide?
The guides are live English speakers, with Kenneth being specifically praised for his knowledge and presentation.

What makes this tour unique?
It combines active volcano exploration, cultural insights, and local agriculture, offering a comprehensive Big Island experience in one day.

Are children allowed?
While not explicitly stated, the long duration and terrain suggest the tour is best suited for adults or older children who can handle the schedule.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking on uneven terrain such as lava tubes and beaches, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility limitations.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby