USA · BIG ISLAND OF HAWAII TOURS

15 Big Island of Hawaii Tours to Build a Day Around

74 tours  ·  from $25

The 15 best big island of hawaii tours you can book today, with what each costs, how long it runs and who it suits. Number one is top for a reason; start there.

Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History - Waipiʻo Valley and the Hamakua Coast
Big Island of Hawaii Tours, Historical Tours, Tour Reviews

Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History

1.Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 6,569 reviews · 11 hours (approx.) · from $264Our pick

Spend about 11 hours crossing Hawaii Island in a small Mercedes Sprinter van. See Punaluʻu Beach, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Thurston Lava Tube, Rainbow and Akaka Falls, Waipiʻo Valley, and a Kona coffee farm. Guides such as Chris, Drew, Kevin, and Kavika are known for lively island history and culture talks.

“Kamika was an amazing tour guide. Highly recommend to anyone visiting the big island. We took the tour the first day and now able able to see all the things we wanted more time at.”

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Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel - Getting into the water after dark
Big Island of Hawaii Tours, Evening Experiences, Manta Ray Snorkeling, Tour Reviews

Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel

2.Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 5,656 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $84

Meet Hang Loose Boat Tours at Keauhou Bay for a sunset cruise and guided night snorkel with manta rays. Bryce, Jordan, Noah, Vince, and other crew members may lead the trip. Gear, a wetsuit top, flotation aid, snacks, and water are included. Strong swimming skills are required.

“It was perfect and beautiful! a manta ray brushed my stomach! It was a beautiful experience! Our guide was incredible! Bring towels and a coat for after!”

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Big Island: Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Tour in Keauhou Harbor - Floating Beside the Light Board
Big Island of Hawaii Tours, Manta Ray Snorkeling, Tour Reviews, Tours

Big Island: Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Tour in Keauhou Harbor

3.Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Tour in Keauhou Harbor

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 2,465 reviews · 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.) · from $25Best value

Meet at Keauhou Harbor for a quick nighttime boat ride to Kona’s manta ray viewing area. With a maximum of 17 people, an illuminated plankton board, mask, snorkel, and in-water guides such as Greg and Eric, you can float near wild rays for up to 30 minutes. Wetsuits cost $10 extra.

“I had a great experience from start to finish. They guide you step by step and give very clear instructions. We did the 6:20 and saw many Manta-rays. I was a bit anxious but we were in the best hands and the captain and two guide members were incredible. Im so glad I did it!”

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Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park & Black Sand Beach - Macadamia nuts, chocolate, and a practical snack stop
Big Island of Hawaii Tours, National Park Tours, National Parks, Shore Excursions, Tour Reviews, Tours

Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park & Black Sand Beach

4.Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park & Black Sand Beach

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 2,338 reviews · 6 hours (approx.) · from $159

From Hilo Pier, visit Volcanoes National Park, Kilauea’s crater, steam vents, sulfur banks, Nahuku Lava Tube, Richardson Black Sand Beach, and a macadamia farm. Guides such as Robert, Jess, Donna, Maggie, and Hannibal add local stories and volcano lore. Lunch is purchased separately.

“We booked this excursion because it was coordinated with our Norwegian Pride of America's schedule. Viator sent us detailed information about where and how to meet our driver, from C Big Island Tours, in advance, which was very helpful. On this excursion, we first drove to Richardson Park, a beautiful black sand beach park. From there, we went to see the beautiful Rainbow Falls (but no rainbow!). Next we stopped at the Mauna Loa macadamia nut farm, where we were able to shop and eat lunch (for purchase). (The sandwiches are "so-so".) Macadamia nut merchandise was priced below what we saw in other retail outlets on the islands, so buy…”

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Big Island: Captain Cook Snorkel On A Power Catamaran With Lunch - Kealakekua Bay and its difficult history
Big Island of Hawaii Tours, Boat Tours in the Big Island, Cruises & Boat Tours, Lunch Experiences, Sailing, Tour Reviews

Big Island: Captain Cook Snorkel On A Power Catamaran With Lunch

5.Captain Cook Snorkel On A Power Catamaran With Lunch

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2,232 reviews · 4 hours (approx.) · from $85

Cruise from Kona to historic Kealakekua Bay aboard a power catamaran, with snorkeling gear, flotation aids, lunch, and a crew led by captains such as Aiden or Bryce. Expect clear water, reef fish, possible dolphins and winter whales, plus a slide and rinse shower on the boat.

“We had a great time, everything ran very smooth. Guides are funny and knowledgeable about the island. Saw dolphins, humpbacks and plenty of different reef fish and coral. Boat is very comfortable and lunch was delicious. Highly recommend doing this experience. Friendly for all ages.”

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KONA Manta Ray Night Snorkel - FREE re-ride if no Sightings - The 23-foot RHIB ride keeps the evening short
Big Island of Hawaii Tours, Evening Experiences, Manta Ray Snorkeling, Tour Reviews

KONA Manta Ray Night Snorkel – FREE re-ride if no Sightings

6.KONA Manta Ray Night Snorkel – FREE re-ride if no Sightings

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2,212 reviews · 1 hour 20 minutes (approx.) · from $49

Meet My Kona Adventures near the Outrigger Resort in Kailua-Kona for a short RHIB boat ride and 25 to 30 minutes in the water with wild manta rays. Guides such as Taco, Peyton, Rocky, and Mike explain manta behavior and keep the small group organized. Snorkel gear is included; wetsuits cost extra.

“Boat leaves directly from the little dock next to Outrgger Resort. There were 11 of us and 3 staff … The captain, the guide Peyton and another life guard. I wore a wet suit top( $10) my husband went without. As soon as we entered the water we were greeted by these gentle giants as if they had been waiting for us. They were so big and came so close , probably 10 feet at least… you stay in the water for about 25 minutes which was just right…. Boat ride is only about 3 minutes which was great … Highly recommended”

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Manta Ray Night Snorkel at Kona, Big Island - The first step is an easy-to-miss check-in
Big Island of Hawaii Tours, Evening Experiences, Manta Ray Snorkeling, Tour Reviews

Manta Ray Night Snorkel at Kona, Big Island

7.Manta Ray Night Snorkel at Kona, Big Island

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,758 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $44

Join Dolphin Discoveries for a night snorkel off Kona’s Keauhou Bay, where manta rays may glide within inches of you under the boat’s lights. You’ll get a mask, snorkel, short-sleeve wetsuit top, and safety briefing. Guides including Vinny and Bryce have earned praise for calm, clear support.

“Had a great time - check in was very easy (check in at their store front then drive to the harbor; instructions very clear). You get a wet suit top and a snorkel. The guides were awesome, both informative and fun. Boat ride is 3-5 minutes and then you jump in for about 30 minutes. You’re holding onto a lighted board that does take some upper arm strength. Our day was calm but I did get a bit seasick towards the end. You can always go back early (onto the boat) if needed and the guides will help. We only saw one ray but she put on quite the show…”

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Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars - The 4x4 ride from Hilo, Kona, or Waikoloa
Big Island of Hawaii Tours, Evening Experiences, Tour Reviews

Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars

8.Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,706 reviews · 7 to 8 hours (approx.) · from $289

Ride a 4x4 van from Hilo, Waikoloa, or Kona to Mauna Kea’s 13,796-foot summit for sunset, then view stars through a professional telescope. Guides such as Tay, Kella, John, and Chris add astronomy, Hawaiian stories, warm jackets, snacks, hot drinks, and a night photo.

“Most of this experience is either riding in the van or sitting in the van. This was a $300 (GROAT--greatest ripoff of all time) adventure to look into a telescope for about 5 seconds. The guides are friendly and nice, but the experience is hit and miss depending upon mother nature--ours was mostly a miss. Of the dozens of tours that we have done in Hawaii and throughout the world, this unfortunately ranks near the bottom.”

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Small Group Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour - Punalu’u Bake Shop and black sand
Big Island of Hawaii Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours

Small Group Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour

9.Small Group Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,619 reviews · 12 hours (approx.) · from $297

Spend about 12 hours crossing Hawaii Island from Kona or Kohala Coast to Volcanoes National Park. Sample Kona coffee, visit Punalu’u Beach, walk through Thurston Lava Tube, eat two included meals, and finish with stargazing. Guides such as Felix, Derek, Todd, and Dreu lead the small groups.

“We would only give this tour one star if it hadn't been for the saving grace of the volcano. First, they missed our stop and after waiting a half hour past our pick up time we called and were told it would be another half an hour before they could send a car to pick us up.bit took forty minutes. The office person that came to pick us up was friendly enough but when she got there she told us that we had to make a stop to pick up our lunches, which the van driver had also failed to get. When we finally caught up to the group, they…”

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Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour - Dinner and altitude adjustment at 9,000 feet
Big Island of Hawaii Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours

Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour

10.Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,545 reviews · 8 hours (approx.) · from $329

Ride a 4x4 van from Kona to Mauna Kea for a hot picnic dinner, sunset above the clouds, and a private star show at 9,000 feet. Guides such as Jeff, Jason, Wilson, and Eugene share astronomy, Hawaiian culture, geology, and ecology. Parkas, gloves, cocoa, and cookies are included.

“A must do and the only place on earth to do it! You can rent a jeep and drive up yourself but it is very dangerous and I highly recommend this tour for safety and the experienced tour guide and extra benefits like parka jackets (it’s cold up there) and private star gazing. Most amazing night sky ever, never saw so many stars. And the sunset was the best. Definitely recommend doing as a tour not on your own in a rented 4x4!!”

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Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit Tour with Free Night Star Photo - A Useful Pause at 9,000 Feet
Big Island of Hawaii Tours, Evening Experiences, Tour Reviews, Tours

Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit Tour with Free Night Star Photo

11.Mauna Kea Summit Tour with Free Night Star Photo

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,449 reviews · 8 hours (approx.) · from $280

Join Hawaiian Eyes Tours for an eight-hour, small-group ride to Mauna Kea’s summit. Guides such as Wes, Chris, and James share island knowledge, provide warm clothing, dinner, hot drinks, telescope viewing, and free sunset and star photos, weather and moon phase permitting.

“Such a good trip! The tour is very fun, took a lot of great photos, guide is super helpful and friendly, will recommend!”

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Kona Snorkel Tour: Captain Cook Reef Snorkel, Dolphin & Sea Caves - Reaching Kealakekua Bay and the Captain Cook Monument
Big Island of Hawaii Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours

Kona Snorkel Tour: Captain Cook Reef Snorkel, Dolphin & Sea Caves

12.Kona Snorkel Tour: Captain Cook Reef Snorkel, Dolphin & Sea Caves

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,411 reviews · 2 hours 45 minutes (approx.) · from $71

Take a small-group Zodiac RIB from Kailua-Kona to Kealakekua Bay and the Captain Cook Monument. Guides such as David, Chip, Sage, Danielle, and Rory share island stories while you snorkel with provided gear, visit sea caves, and watch for dolphins or whales. The boat holds no more than 18 people.

“The tour was amazing. Our family was well taken care of. The boat ride was exciting and the stories along the way were captivating. Captain Cook bay was beautiful. The weather started to pour right after we left which was a blessing. The coral and fishes were beautiful and we learned it’s an ancient burial and hide out ground for Hawaiian royalties. Highly recommend this tour to others.”

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Big Island Historical Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay - Boarding at Kailua Pier at 4:00 p.m.
Big Island of Hawaii Tours, Boat Tours in the Big Island, Cruises & Boat Tours, Dining Experiences, Dinner Cruises, Dinner Experiences, Historical Tours, Tour Reviews

Big Island Historical Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay

13.Big Island Historical Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,279 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $189

Sail 12 miles down Kona’s coast to Kealakekua Bay on a catamaran with a local historian, live Hawaiian music, dinner, and sunset views. You’ll hear stories about landmarks hidden from land, enjoy one complimentary cocktail, and return to Kailua Pier after about three hours.

“The historical dinner cruise was a wonderful excursion. The captain was upbeat and fun, the crew were very attentive and great at what they do, the historical narrator was so interesting and the musician was very entertaining. The dinner it”

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Glow of the Deep: Night Snorkeling with Manta Rays - The boat ride and sunset from the upper deck
Big Island of Hawaii Tours, Evening Experiences, Snorkeling, Tour Reviews

Glow of the Deep: Night Snorkeling with Manta Rays

14.Glow of the Deep: Night Snorkeling with Manta Rays

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,254 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $80

From Honokohau Harbor, you’ll cruise offshore for sunset, then spend about 45 minutes floating above a bright light board as manta rays feed below. Wetsuits, snorkel gear, flotation noodles, snacks, water, and guides are provided. You must know how to swim, but a ride-along option is available.

“If you are prone to sea sickness use something!! Most amazing experience. The dolphins and Manta Rays are incredible. Allie, Rory and Justice are great hosts”

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Kailua Kona: Night Manta Ray Adventure on the Big Island - The 20-minute cruise from Kailua-Kona
Big Island of Hawaii Tours, Evening Experiences, Manta Ray Snorkeling, Tour Reviews

Kailua Kona: Night Manta Ray Adventure on the Big Island

15.Kailua Kona: Night Manta Ray Adventure on the Big Island

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 1,199 reviews · 2h 30m · from $121

Join Hang Loose Boat Tours for a 150-minute night cruise from Kailua-Kona to a manta feeding site. Guides such as Aidan, Gary, Noah, Jordan, and Ula help you use the light boards, floats, and snorkel gear while rays circle beneath you. Ride-along places are available.

“Great experience and lovely crew. A lot of Mantas seen even from up close.”

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New in Big Island of Hawaii Tours

★ 4.5Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter TourFrom $202412 reviews
★ 5.0Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and GardensFrom $187393 reviews
★ 5.0Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling Tour – 4 hour Kona Zodiac AdventureFrom $130508 reviews
★ 5.0Zodiac Raft Whale Watching AdventureFrom $113456 reviews
★ 5.0Hawaii Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Beaches & Hilo Highlights Day TourFrom $186391 reviews
★ 5.0Whale Watching On The Big IslandFrom $98573 reviews
★ 5.0Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour in Kailua-Kona, Big IslandFrom $125382 reviews
★ 4.5Big Island, Hawaii: Volcanoes National Park SafariFrom $379545 reviews
★ 5.0Snorkel with Manta Rays GuaranteedFrom $141738 reviews
★ 5.0Small-Group Big Island Tour: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Kona Coffee FarmFrom $209343 reviews
★ 4.0Big Island, Hawaii: Admission to Voyagers of the Pacific LuauFrom $190790 reviews
★ 5.0Polynesian Cultural ATV Tour in KonaFrom $187627 reviews
★ 5.0Night Manta Ray ExperienceFrom $146751 reviews
★ 5.0Manta Ray Snorkeling by Night in Kailua-Kona, HawaiiFrom $127672 reviews
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