Big Island Double Valley Slingshot Private Adventure Tour

The Big Island Double Valley Slingshot Private Adventure Tour offers a distinctive way to explore Hawaii’s diverse landscapes. Priced at $424.24 per group (up to 2 people), this 8-hour journey combines exhilarating driving with visits to some of the island’s most iconic sights. The tour is ideal for those who enjoy self-paced exploration and are looking for a thrilling, yet culturally enriching adventure. While the experience is vehicle-specific and requires a valid driver’s license for the Polaris Slingshot, the private nature of the tour ensures a personalized day tailored to your interests. This tour suits travelers seeking a unique, flexible way to soak in the Big Island’s beauty, with a focus on scenic views, historic sites, and charming towns.

Key Points

• Private, self-guided adventure using a Polaris Slingshot for up to 8 hours.
• Visit historic sites like Puukohola National Historic Park and Mailekini Heiau.
• Scenic stops include Pololu Valley Lookout, Waipio Valley, and Kohala Mountain Road.
• Explore charming towns like Hawi, Honoka’a, and Waimea.
• Flexible pacing and fully integrated navigation help customize the experience.
• Perfect for thrill-seekers and those wanting unobstructed views in a private setting.

Exploring the Historic Puukohola National Historic Park

The tour begins with a visit to Puukohola National Historic Park, home to the ruins of the last major Hawaiian temple. This site is deeply connected to Kamehameha I, who constructed the heiau—a mortarless temple built by hand using red stones transported from Polol Valley by a human chain about 14 miles long. The construction of the Puukohol temple involved thousands of people and was completed in under a year, making it a remarkable feat.

The park also includes the ruins of Mailekini Heiau, offering insight into ancient Hawaiian religious practices. While the admission fee is not included, the site provides a powerful glimpse into the island’s cultural heritage. Visitors can expect about 30 minutes at this stop, with ample opportunity to appreciate the significance of Kamehameha’s unification efforts.

Discovering Mahukona Beach Park and Its Sugar Industry Roots

Next, the tour takes you to Mahukona Beach Park, a former port town that once played a key role in Hawaii’s sugar industry. The harbor was the terminus of the Hawaiian Railroad and a hub for transporting sugarcane from nearby plantations to ships for export. Samuel Gardner Wilder developed the harbor and constructed a pier to facilitate this trade, while remnants of a sugar mill still stand today.

This stop is brief, lasting about 15 minutes, and offers a glimpse into the island’s industrial past. Though admission is not included, the site’s historical significance makes it a worthwhile look into Hawaii’s economic development during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Exploring Hawi and the Iconic King Kamehameha Statue

The charming town of Hawi is a highlight of the tour, known for its locally produced food and souvenirs. You’ll find multiple shops and restaurants, creating a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a wander. As part of this stop, the original Statue of King Kamehameha is visited, cast in 1880 by Thomas Ridgeway Gould and installed in 1883. This outdoor sculpture, located in front of the old county courthouse, is an important symbol of Hawaiian history.

You get about an hour here to browse, take photos, and appreciate the cultural significance of the statue and the town’s quaint vibe. The admission to the statue is free, making it an accessible way to connect with Hawaii’s royal legacy.

Visiting Pololu Valley Lookout and Its Black Sand Beach

The Pololu Valley Lookout offers some of the most stunning views along the tour. This erosional valley features a deep cut into Kohala Mountain and is famous for its black sand beach and a distinctive yellow sand dune that acts as a natural barrier. The name “Polol” translates to “long spear” in Hawaiian, reflecting the valley’s shape.

Historically, the valley supported kalo (taro) farming, with a particular crimson-stem variety. It also saw rice cultivation in the 1800s before falling into disuse. As a scenic stop, the 30-minute visit allows time to admire the rugged coastline and lush landscape, with admission not included.

Scenic Kohala Mountain Road and Waimea’s Ranching Heritage

The tour then follows the Kohala Mountain Road, a twisty scenic route that provides sweeping views of the Kohala Valley. A lookout along this road offers particularly memorable panoramic sights. The journey culminates in Waimea, a town known for its ranching history and cultural events like the Fourth of July rodeo and Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival.

Waimea is also home to the headquarters of two observatories on Mauna Kea—the Keck Observatory and Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope—adding to its scientific prominence. Spending about 30 minutes, this stop provides a blend of history, culture, and science.

The Majestic Waipio Valley Viewpoint

One of the most striking stops is the Waipio Valley Lookout, which offers sweeping views of lush landscapes, waterfalls, and the black sand beach. The valley’s almost 2,000-foot deep floor can be seen from above, providing a breathtaking perspective of its dramatic terrain.

Visitors may choose to explore further by hiking down or joining guided tours that respect the cultural and environmental significance of the area. The 30-minute stop captures the raw beauty of this iconic Hawaiian landscape, with admission not included.

Honokaa and Local Shopping at Tex Drive-In

The tour concludes with a visit to Honokaa, a lively town known for locally produced items and delicious Malasadas at Tex Drive-In. This 1-hour stop offers a relaxed way to shop for souvenirs, enjoy regional snacks, and reflect on the day’s adventures. Honokaa’s small-town charm makes it an ideal spot for a casual stroll before heading back.

Practicalities of the Polaris Slingshot Experience

All stops are made with your own Polaris Slingshot, a top-of-the-line vehicle designed for unobstructed views and thrilling drives. The Slingshot features a bumping stereo system, waterproof design, and lockable storage. The fully integrated navigation system allows you to explore at your own pace, with eight hours of flexible time.

The driver, at least 21 years old with a valid driver’s license, can control the vehicle, while passengers of any age must be able to sit securely. A refundable security deposit of $750 or $1,500 is required for the rental.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This private adventure appeals to those who love driving themselves, enjoy scenic routes, and want a personalized experience. The high-quality Polaris Slingshot makes the journey exciting, while the diverse stops offer a mix of history, nature, and local culture. Because of the flexible pacing and private setting, this tour suits adventurous couples or small groups seeking a customizable day with unobstructed vistas.

The Sum Up: A Unique Self-Guided Hawaiian Adventure

The Big Island Double Valley Slingshot Private Adventure Tour delivers a personalized, scenic, and thrilling way to explore Hawaii’s highlights. The emphasis on self-paced driving with a luxury vehicle makes it stand out among traditional sightseeing tours. With stops ranging from historic sites to breathtaking valleys, the experience offers a rich blend of culture, landscape, and adventure.

While the price point reflects the private nature and vehicle quality, travelers who enjoy driving, customized exploration, and stunning views will find this tour a valuable investment. It’s best suited for those who want a flexible, fun, and memorable day on the Big Island.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The 8-hour private adventure using the Polaris Slingshot is included. Stops and the vehicle itself are part of the experience; admission fees to specific sites are not included.

Do I need a special driver’s license?
Yes, the driver must have a valid driver’s license from any country and be 21 or older to operate the Polaris Slingshot.

Can I drive the Slingshot myself?
Yes, the tour is designed for self-driving by the designated driver. Passengers of any age must be able to sit securely.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While children of any age can ride if they sit securely, the driver must be 21+ and hold a valid license. The vehicle’s design may limit comfort for very young children.

How flexible is the schedule?
The fully integrated navigation system allows you to explore at your own pace within the 8-hour window, making it easy to spend more or less time at each stop.

What about the security deposit?
A refundable deposit of $750 or $1,500 is required upon rental pickup to cover potential damages or issues.

Is there any food included?
No, the tour does not include meals or snacks, but stops at Hawi, Honokaa, and other towns provide opportunities to purchase food and beverages.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refundable.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Aloha Motorsports, with contact at +1 808-667-7000 or [email protected].