Private Hilo Shore Excursion Volcano National Park up to 14

Discover the Ultimate Private Hilo Shore Excursion on the Big Island

This private tour offers an engaging, personalized experience of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and surrounding sights, designed for groups of up to 14 people. Priced at $1,495 per group, it provides a comprehensive 7.5-hour exploration led by a knowledgeable guide who promises to show things that other tours often overlook. The tour includes all fees and taxes, with pickup included from the Hilo Harbor, making it a convenient choice for cruise ship passengers.

What sets this excursion apart is the combination of adventure, local insight, and flexibility. The guide drives over single-lane bridges and narrow roads, offering a true taste of island life and access to hidden waterfalls, lava fields, and lush jungles. While the tour does not include lunch, it makes up for it with extra stops, scenic photo opportunities, and personalized attention. This tour is ideal for travelers eager to explore Hawaii’s natural beauty with a guide who goes beyond the typical.

Key Points

• Private experience for groups of up to 14, with a knowledgeable guide.
• Duration of 7.5 hours, covering major sights like Volcano National Park, Rainbow Falls, and Mauna Loa.
• Includes all fees and taxes, with pickup from Hilo Harbor.
• Offers extra stops for photos, shopping, and local treats like macadamia nuts, chocolates, and Kona coffee.
• Tour emphasizes personalized, slow-paced exploration with opportunities to walk in lava fields and photograph fissures.
• Does not include lunch, but offers ample sightseeing and photo opportunities.

Unique Approach and Small-Group Exploration

Unlike standard bus tours, this private excursion is led by a guide who actively walks with guests at each stop, pointing out plants, animals, and local landmarks. The guide’s style is described as hilarious, laid-back, and highly informative, making the day feel relaxed yet deeply insightful. This personalized approach ensures everyone has a chance to take photos, ask questions, and explore at their own pace.

The guide also promises to show sights others might miss, such as surfers on narrow roads, waterfalls flowing through lava tubes, and pictures inside fissures—experiences that are seldom part of larger tour groups. Extra stops are available if the group is interested, adding flexibility to the itinerary.

Scenic Highlights: From Turtles to Volcanoes

The tour begins with a visit to the Liliuokalani Gardens, where turtles and nene geese can often be seen, and the guide explains local fish and plant life. After that, the journey takes travelers past surfers at Bayfront and Honolii Beach, with the driver navigating narrow jungle roads and old bridges that showcase the island’s lush landscape.

One of the early highlights is a stop at Onomea Bay, where a river flowing through a lava tube creates a small waterfall, perfect for photos from an old wooden bridge. The guide offers a smoothie break and points out real estate with spectacular ocean views, adding context to the island’s living landscape.

Rainbow Falls and the Optical Illusion

Next, the tour visits the famed Rainbow Waterfalls, where photos are taken and the optical illusion is explained. It’s a photo-rich stop lasting about 30 minutes, with a chance to try iced coconuts if vendors are present. The waterfall’s mist and rainbow effects make it a favorite, offering a quick yet memorable experience.

Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The heart of the tour is the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where the group spends around 4 hours immersed in volcano landscapes. The drive to the park is accompanied by Hawaiian music, setting a relaxed tone. In Volcano Village, travelers find gift shops and general stores to browse and buy food.

Within the park, key stops include the Crater Overlook, where the guide discusses Hawaiian mythology, and the Steam Vents, where viewers learn how to maximize steam production. The visit to the Lava Fissure is a standout, where guests can stand inside of a fissure and search for Peacock Lava—a rare and striking feature.

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut and Local Treats

After the volcanic exploration, the tour continues to the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center, where sampling fresh macadamia nuts and learning about their processing is part of the experience. The 30-minute visit also includes shopping opportunities.

Next, the group visits Big Island Candies to sample chocolates, candies, and Kona coffee. Watching the chocolate-making process through glass windows adds a delightful local touch. These stops offer a chance to pick up souvenirs and enjoy sweet treats before heading to the Hilo Farmers Market.

Shopping and Beach Time in Hilo

The Hilo Farmers Market offers a variety of local fruits, jewelry, shirts, and crafts. With 30 minutes allocated, guests have ample time to browse, shop, and buy unique souvenirs or fresh produce. The final stop is at Richardson Ocean Park, a black sand beach where visitors can spot turtles, fish, and nene geese. This scenic spot provides a perfect setting for photos and relaxed beach strolls.

Practical Details and Logistics

This private tour runs for approximately 7.5 hours, with pickup from Hilo Harbor included. The vehicle is air-conditioned, and all fees and taxes are covered. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join, and the guide actively engages and walks with guests at each stop. Lunch is not included, so guests should plan accordingly.

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. The tour ends back at the initial meeting point, making it convenient for cruise ship schedules.

Why This Tour Stands Out Among Others

The personalized approach and flexibility make this tour a standout. The guide’s informative storytelling, humor, and willingness to explore extra stops provide an experience tailored to the group’s interests. The focus on walking in lava fields, photographing fissures, and seeing local wildlife offers a hands-on, authentic feel that larger tours often lack.

Plus, the small group size ensures more interaction, better access to sights, and a relaxed pace. The extra stops for local treats like macadamia nuts and Kona coffee add a flavorful taste of Hawaiian life.

Summing Up the Hilo Shore Excursion to Volcanoes and More

This private tour delivers a comprehensive, flexible, and engaging experience on the Big Island. It’s perfect for those who want a deep dive into volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and local culture, all led by a guide dedicated to making the day special. The adventure in lava fields, combined with scenic stops and tasty treats, offers a balanced mix of nature, culture, and fun.

While the tour does not include lunch, the variety of stops and the guide’s personalized approach compensate for this, making it suitable for those seeking an authentic Hawaiian experience. Its private nature and attention to detail make it a good choice for families, friends, or small groups wanting a more intimate exploration of the island’s highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price for this private tour?
The tour costs $1,495 per group, accommodating up to 14 people.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops and travel time.

What locations are visited during the tour?
Stops include Liliuokalani Gardens, Onomea Bay, Rainbow Falls, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center, Big Island Candies, Hilo Farmers Market, and Richardson Ocean Park.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are stops for snacks, smoothies, and shopping.

What makes this tour different from others?
It offers a private, personalized experience with the guide actively involved in walking and exploring each site, plus extra stops and flexibility that larger tours often lack.

Are there any physical requirements?
Most travelers can participate, but walking in lava fields and along uneven terrain may require moderate mobility.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Who operates this tour?
The tour is offered by Hawaii Volcano Tours.