Big Island Half-Day Tour With Lunch

The Big Island of Hawaii is a captivating destination, and the Half-Day Tour with Lunch is an excellent way to experience its natural wonders. This guided tour takes visitors on a journey through Volcanoes National Park, where they’ll witness the might of Kilauea Volcano and explore the Crater Rim Trail. Along the way, they’ll also discover the serene beauty of Rainbow Falls and the unique Black Sand Beach. With a delicious local lunch included, this tour promises a well-rounded and unforgettable adventure. But there’s more to explore…

Key Points

• A half-day tour of the Big Island that includes visits to Kilauea volcano, Rainbow Falls, and Black Sand Beach, along with a locally-sourced lunch.
• Tour price of $189.05 per person with a maximum capacity of 13 travelers, departing from Moʻoheau County Park bus station in Hilo.
• Inclusions such as all necessary fees, an experienced guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off service in Hilo, and a provided lunch with vegetarian options.
• Opportunity to explore the geological wonders of Kilauea volcano, including the steaming caldera and hiking along the Crater Rim Trail.
• Exploration of natural attractions like the 80-foot Rainbow Falls and the unique Black Sand Beach, with a chance to spot sea turtles.

Tour Overview and Details

The Big Island Half-Day Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the island’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. Priced at $189.05 per person, the tour provides excellent value with its 32 reviews and 97% traveler recommendation.

Accommodating a maximum of 13 travelers, the tour departs from the Moʻoheau County Park bus station in Hilo. Guests are picked up in a comfortable 15-passenger van and enjoy a lunch of local cuisine, including options for vegetarians.

The highlights include Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls, and Black Sand Beach, with opportunities to see turtles and sample tropical fruits.

Inclusions and Meeting Points

The Big Island Half-Day Tour includes all necessary fees and taxes, a provided lunch with vegetarian options, an experienced guide, and hotel pick-up and drop-off service in Hilo (excluding the Hilo airport).

The meeting point is at the Moʻoheau County Park bus station, located at 369 Kamehameha Ave, Hilo, HI 96720. Guests will be picked up in a white 15-passenger Ford Transit van with the Shaka Braddah Tours decal.

The tour provides a comfortable and convenient transportation option, allowing travelers to focus on the remarkable sights and experiences that await them on the Big Island.

Volcanoes National Park and Kilauea

Visitors on the Big Island Half-Day Tour venture into Volcanoes National Park to witness the captivating spectacle of Kilauea, an active volcano that has been a focal point of geological wonder for decades.

Within the park, guests:

1. Gaze upon the steaming caldera of Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes on Earth, which has continually erupted since 1983.
2. Hike along the Crater Rim Trail, admiring the otherworldly landscapes sculpted by volcanic forces.
3. Learn about the cultural significance of Kilauea and its role in Hawaiian mythology from the knowledgeable tour guides.

The opportunity to experience this natural wonder up close is a highlight of the Big Island Half-Day Tour.

Rainbow Falls and Black Sand Beach

After exploring the captivating Kilauea volcano, the tour moves on to discover the natural wonders of Rainbow Falls and Black Sand Beach. At Rainbow Falls, guests marvel at the 80-foot waterfall cascading over a lush, green forest. Next, the tour visits the striking Black Sand Beach, formed by volcanic activity. Travelers can walk along the dark, volcanic sand and keep an eye out for sea turtles basking in the sun.

Attraction	Description
Rainbow Falls	80-foot waterfall surrounded by lush, green forest
Black Sand Beach	Formed by volcanic activity, featuring dark, volcanic sand
Sea Turtles	Often seen basking on the beach

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

During the tour, guests enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, savoring a variety of flavorful options.

The menu features:

1. Freshly grilled fish tacos, with a zesty blend of local seasonings and a vibrant pico de gallo.
2. Tender and smoky kalua pork, slow-cooked to perfection and served with fluffy steamed rice.
3. Vegetarian-friendly dishes, including a colorful mixed greens salad and a hearty vegetable stir-fry.

Guests appreciate the opportunity to enjoy the island’s culinary traditions, fueling up for the rest of the adventure ahead.

Opportunity to See Turtles and Tropical Fruits

As the tour makes its way back, guests have the chance to spot Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on the beaches.

These majestic creatures are a highlight for many visitors, offering a rare opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat.

In addition, guests can sample a variety of tropical fruits during the drive, providing a flavorful end to the day’s culinary experiences.

From juicy pineapples to fragrant mangoes, these locally sourced fruits offer a refreshing and authentic taste of the Big Island’s vibrant agricultural bounty.

Tour Guides and Guest Experience

According to guest reviews, the tour guides Anthony and Desmond are praised for their exceptional knowledge, hospitable demeanor, and engaging storytelling abilities.

Travelers appreciate the intimate experience and the wealth of information shared about Hawaiian culture and history. The guides’ ability to create a relaxed atmosphere while providing extensive knowledge is a highlight.

The tour is described as suitable for all travelers, with the pace making it enjoyable for:

1. Couples seeking an enriching experience.
2. Families wanting to learn about the Big Island.
3. Those interested in an immersive cultural exploration.

Guest Reviews and Recommendations

What do guests have to say about this Big Island half-day tour? Overwhelmingly positive, with many describing it as a highlight of their trip.

Guests praised the well-planned itinerary and comfortable van, noting the guides’ extensive knowledge and ability to create a relaxed atmosphere.

Travelers appreciated the intimate experience and the wealth of information shared about Hawaiian culture and history.

Ratings are high, with recommendations for couples and families seeking an enriching tour of the island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. It welcomes travelers of all ages, and provides infant seats for those with young children. The tour is suitable for families and can accommodate a range of ages.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. However, a complimentary lunch is provided, so guests may not need to bring additional food. Drinking water is also available during the tour.

Is There a Restroom on the Tour Van?

The tour van doesn’t have a restroom, but guests can use restrooms at the various stops along the tour. It’s recommended to plan ahead and use facilities before the tour starts or during breaks.

How Long Is the Drive From the Meeting Point to the First Attraction?

The drive from the meeting point to the first attraction, Volcanoes National Park, is approximately 30 minutes. The tour van will pick up guests at the Moʻoheau County Park bus station in Hilo and transport them directly to the national park.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Lunch Option?

Yes, the tour includes vegetarian options for lunch. Simply let the tour operator know of any dietary restrictions when booking, and they’ll accommodate your preferences to ensure you enjoy a delicious local meal during the tour.

Sum Up

The Big Island Half-Day Tour offers an unforgettable experience, showcasing the island’s natural wonders. Travelers can explore Kilauea Volcano, hike the Crater Rim Trail, and relish a delicious local lunch, all while enjoying a personalized adventure with expert guides. With convenient pick-up and a small group size, this tour is an excellent way to discover the breathtaking beauty of Hawaii’s Big Island.