Big Island – South Island Coastal Loop Driving Tour

The Big Island – South Island Coastal Loop Driving Tour offers a practical and budget-friendly way to explore Hawaii’s stunning southern coast. Priced at $19.99 per group, the tour is designed for groups of up to 15 people, and provides approximate two-day pacing, making it ideal for those who prefer a self-guided experience without the high cost of traditional tours. Its standout feature is the offline map and GPS-based audio narration, allowing travelers to enjoy the journey without needing cellular service. With a high rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 17 reviews, this tour combines flexibility, storytelling, and a carefully curated list of stops, making it a compelling choice for adventurous visitors.

While the tour covers numerous iconic sites and offers turn-by-turn directions to maximize time, it does not include entrance fees for some attractions like Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park or the Panaewa Rainforest Zoo. This means visitors should prepare for additional costs at certain stops, but the overall value remains excellent given the cost-effective nature of the tour. This experience suits travelers who want control over their schedule, a rich mix of sights and stories, and the convenience of offline navigation.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $19.99 per group with lifetime access
• Self-guided experience with offline map and GPS-driven narration
• 16 diverse stops, from coffee farms to volcanoes and beaches
• Ideal for groups of up to 15 people who enjoy flexibility
• Not including entrance fees, so additional costs at some attractions
• Two-day itinerary designed for a leisurely exploration of the southern coast

Exploring Kona Coffee Living History Farm

The tour begins at Kona Coffee Living History Farm, the only living history coffee farm in Hawaii. Visitors spend about an hour here, learning how coffee is cultivated and processed, gaining insight into Hawaii’s coffee industry. Admission requires an additional ticket, but the farm’s interactive displays and demonstrations make it worth the visit.

The Significance of Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park

Next, the route takes travelers to Kealakekua Bay, where the first Westerner, Captain James Cook, landed in Hawaii. The 30-minute stop offers views of the bay and the nearby Captain Cook Monument. While no admission fee is necessary for the lookout, learning about the historical site adds depth to the drive along the coast.

Discovering the Buzz at Big Island Bees

Big Island Bees is a highlight for those interested in environmental awareness and pollination. This 1-hour stop provides an educational look at bee behavior and their role in Hawaii’s ecosystem. Visitors can expand their understanding of local agriculture and honey production, all without an entrance fee, though extra charges may apply.

Visiting St Benedict’s Painted Church

A short 15-minute visit to St Benedict’s Painted Church reveals a beautifully decorated place of worship adorned with vibrant Hawaiian artwork. It’s a quick but memorable stop to appreciate local craftsmanship and religious history.

Honoring Captain Cook at the Monument

The Captain Cook Monument also gets a brief 15-minute viewing. This site commemorates the explorer’s contribution and provides a scenic photo opportunity, perfect for a quick stretch during the drive.

The Ancient Refuge at Pu’uhonua O Honaunau

The 30-minute stop at Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park offers a glimpse into Hawaiian culture. Known as The Place of Refuge, this site is more than a historical landmark, giving insight into traditional Hawaiian laws and ceremonies. Admission is extra, but the site’s significance makes it a worthwhile visit.

One of Four Green Sand Beaches: Papakolea

The tour makes a 15-minute stop at Papakolea Green Sand Beach, one of the only four in the world. Known for its unique mineral composition, the beach offers striking scenery, though visitors should plan accordingly for limited time.

Ka Lae Light and Ocean Views

A brief 15-minute visit to Ka Lae Light provides excellent ocean vistas and a chance to enjoy fishing and the coastal scenery. This spot emphasizes Hawaii’s rugged coastline and maritime history.

The Geological Wonder of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park gets an hour-long stop, showcasing some of the most extraordinary volcanic landscapes on Earth. The park features active lava flows, unique biological environments, and cultural sites, making it a major highlight despite the additional entrance fee.

Relaxing at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

A quick 15-minute stop at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach offers a chance to see the famous black volcanic sands and possibly spot sea turtles basking on the shore, a favorite among visitors for its striking landscape.

Lava Tree State Park’s Lava Molds

The 45-minute stop at Lava Tree State Park reveals fascinating lava molds of tree trunks, formed when lava swept through a forest. This site combines geological spectacle with accessible walking paths, ideal for a relaxed exploration.

Naalehu’s Whittington Beach Park

At 30 minutes, Whittington Beach Park offers another scenic coastal stop, perfect for picnicking or just soaking in the views of the ocean and shoreline.

The Rainforest Zoo and Gardens

The Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens provides 1 hour to explore Hawaii’s only zoo located in a rainforest. This stop introduces visitors to local flora and fauna and is a family-friendly highlight.

The Imiloa Astronomy Center

Imiloa Astronomy Center features exhibits and shows related to Hawaiian culture, history, and astronomy. A 1-hour visit offers engaging insights into the island’s relationship with the stars and space technology.

Stargazing at Mauna Kea Observatories

The tour concludes with a 1-hour stop at the Mauna Kea Observatories, where visitors can enjoy stargazing at some of the world’s most famous telescopes, weather permitting.

The Scenic Drive Through Saddle Road

Finally, the 15-minute stop at Saddle Road showcases one of the most scenic and bucket-list drives on the island, offering panoramic views of the volcanic landscape.

Practical Aspects and Tour Logistics

This tour begins with easy download instructions and turn-by-turn GPS directions that work offline, making it perfect for remote areas. It is customizable, allowing travelers to start at any time and stop as they please. The tour never expires, providing flexibility for multiple trips or revisits.

The tour includes activity and restaurant recommendations as part of its highlights, but it does not include meals, refreshments, or entrance fees for attractions like the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park or the Rainforest Zoo. Travelers should budget accordingly for these extras.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This self-guided adventure suits those seeking flexibility and value. The informative narration enhances the experience, making it ideal for travelers interested in Hawaiian history, geology, and culture. It also appeals to groups of up to 15 who want to explore together without the constraints of a traditional guided tour.

Final Thoughts on the South Island Coastal Loop

The Big Island South Coast Loop is a cost-effective, informative, and flexible way to discover some of Hawaii’s most iconic spots. Its offline GPS and audio stories turn what could be a complicated planning process into a smooth, enriching experience.

While travelers should be prepared for additional entrance costs at certain stops, the overall value for money and wide variety of locations make it a strong choice for independent explorers. This tour excels in offering personalized pacing and storytelling, making it a compelling option for anyone keen to navigate the Big Island on their own terms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include entrance fees?
No, the tour does not include entrance fees for places like Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park or the Rainforest Zoo. These are paid separately at each site.

How many stops are included?
There are 16 stops on the itinerary, ranging from cultural sites to natural wonders like beaches and volcanoes.

Can I start the tour at any time?
Yes, the tour is customizable and can be started whenever you wish, with no expiration.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the experience is flexible enough for families, groups, or solo explorers.

Do I need data or Wi-Fi to use this tour?
No, all map data and narration are downloaded in advance, so cell service is not needed during the tour.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience is designed for about two days, but you can pace it according to your schedule.

Are meals included?
No, meals and refreshments are not included. You can plan to eat at any of the stops or bring your own.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its low cost, offline navigation, rich storytelling, and freedom to explore at your own pace distinguish it from traditional guided trips.

Can I see the volcanoes and night sky?
Yes, the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Mauna Kea Observatories stops are perfect for exploring the volcanic landscape and stargazing.

Is there customer support available?
Yes, support is available via call, chat, or email through Shaka Guide Apps.

This self-guided, flexible, and informative tour provides a practical way to experience the diverse beauty of Hawaii’s south coast, all while maintaining control over your schedule and budget.