Big Island ATV Tour

Big Island ATV Tour: An Authentic Farm Experience Near Volcano National Park

The Big Island ATV Tour offered by Ohana Ranch provides a chance to explore a working Hawaiian farm just outside Hilo. Priced at $120 per person and lasting 2 hours, this guided adventure is perfect for those who want a mix of outdoor fun and cultural insight. With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 11 reviews, it clearly appeals to visitors seeking a relaxed, family-friendly experience.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of scenic ATV riding, hands-on activities like fruit picking, and opportunities to meet farm animals such as goats, sheep, chickens, and Hawaiian cattle. The beginners can comfortably participate, as no previous ATV experience is necessary. While the bumpy gravel road to the farm might be a downside for some, the overall experience balances fun, education, and cultural connection.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $120 per person and lasts 2 hours.
• Location and Setting: It takes place on a private Hawaiian farm near Volcano National Park, just outside Hilo.
• Activities: Riders enjoy scenic trails, fruit picking, and animal interactions.
• Beginner-Friendly: No prior ATV experience needed; suitable for ages 12 and up.
• Educational Focus: Learn about local crops, sustainable farming, and Hawaiian culture.
• Group Size: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Exploring the Hawaiian Farm on a Guided ATV Ride

This tour starts at Ohana Ranch, where visitors are greeted by a local guide. After a safety briefing and helmet fitting, the guided ride begins through scenic trails that wind across open fields, tropical plants, and gentle hills. The scenic trail showcases the natural beauty of the Big Island’s lush landscape, with plenty of space for beginners to enjoy a relaxed ride.

The ATV ride itself is described as easy to handle, with no steep or complicated sections. The guided tour ensures safety and offers explanations about the sustainable farming practices and local crops. The trail is part of a historic sugar cane road, with some uneven, bumpy sections that add to the genuine farm experience.

Fruit Picking and Farm Animal Encounters

One of the highlights of this tour is the fruit-picking stop. Visitors are encouraged to select and taste seasonal fruits growing along the trail, offering a tasty glimpse into what the land produces. The fruit varieties are not specified, but the activity emphasizes the farm’s organic and sustainable approach.

Afterward, the guide leads guests to meet the farm animals, including goats, sheep, chickens, and Hawaiian cattle. This interaction provides a hands-on element, especially enjoyable for families and those interested in farm life. The friendly animals help foster a connection to the local agricultural lifestyle.

Learning About Hawaiian Culture and Sustainable Farming

Throughout the tour, the local guide shares insights into Hawaiian culture, focusing on the plants, farming methods, and native crops such as taro and coffee. Guests learn how sustainable farming supports the local community and preserves the island’s natural resources.

This educational component distinguishes the tour from typical ATV rides, as it emphasizes cultural education and environmental awareness. Travelers interested in Hawaiian traditions and eco-friendly practices appreciate the depth of this experience.

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Logistics and Meeting Point Details

The meeting point is marked by a yellow gate on Stainback Road, approximately 1 mile from Kulani Road. Guests are advised to drive slowly along the bumpy gravel road, part of the original sugar cane road built in the 1800s. The road conditions contribute to the authentic farm journey but require careful driving—max speed of 5 MPH is recommended.

Once on-site, visitors go straight down a gravel and paved road for about 5-7 minutes before reaching the parking lot and meeting their guide. The activity involves a short walk to the ATV starting point, so appropriate footwear and a sense of adventure are advised.

Suitability and Physical Considerations

This tour is designed for ages 12 and older, with children 3-11 required to ride with an adult driver. No prior ATV experience is necessary, making it accessible to first-time riders. The pace is relaxed, with plenty of space on the trails, but guests with back injuries should refrain from participating due to the uneven terrain.

The rain or shine policy means the tour runs in most weather conditions, but unsafe weather could lead to cancellations. Participants should be prepared for muddy conditions and the bumpy gravel road.

Guides and Guest Interaction

Guests consistently praise the guides, especially their knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to teach. One guide is noted for thorough instructions and passion for Hawaiian culture, which enhances the educational aspect of the tour.

The small group size, limited to 8 participants, ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere. The local guide creates a warm, engaging environment for learning and fun.

Comparing the Experience to Other Activities

While many ATV tours focus solely on riding, this experience emphasizes education and cultural connection. The $120 price includes the ATV, helmet, fruit-picking, and animal encounters, offering value for those interested in learning about Hawaiian farming.

A negative review mentions that the ride is fairly slow, with an hour-long route within the property that doesn’t deliver high-adrenaline excitement. The bumpy dirt road to the farm might also be a consideration for those sensitive to rough terrain.

Final Thoughts: An Educational and Relaxed Adventure on the Big Island

The Big Island ATV Tour at Ohana Ranch offers a relaxed, educational, and family-friendly way to experience Hawaiian farm life. The combination of scenic riding, fruit picking, and animal interactions provides a well-rounded outing that connects visitors with the land.

This tour is especially suited for families, first-time ATV riders, and travelers interested in culture and sustainability. While it may lack adrenaline for thrill-seekers, its authentic setting and personalized guides make it a memorable activity that highlights the natural and cultural richness of the Big Island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is previous ATV experience necessary?
No, the tour is designed for beginners and no prior experience is needed.

What is included in the tour price?
The $120 fee covers your own ATV, helmet, fruit picking, animal encounters, and the guided tour.

What ages can participate?
Guests aged 12 and older can ride their own ATV, while children 3-11 must ride with an adult driver.

How long does the tour last?
The guided experience runs for 2 hours in total.

What should I bring?
Bring water (not included), wear closed-toe shoes, and be prepared for outdoor conditions.

Is the tour suitable in rainy weather?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine, unless weather conditions are unsafe.

How do I find the meeting point?
Enter “Ohana Ranch” into your GPS; the entrance is marked by a yellow gate on Stainback Road.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Guests with back injuries should not participate due to terrain and riding conditions.

What makes this tour different from other ATV rides?
This experience combines scenic riding with cultural education, fruit picking, and animal encounters, offering a well-rounded Hawaiian farm experience.

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