Exploring Hawaii’s Big Island is best done through expertly guided excursions that maximize your time and money. Our favorite picks start with the laid-back Wailoa River kayak tour – a perfect 2-hour paddle that combines peaceful waterways with cultural stops like the King Kamehameha Statue. The real gems are in volcano country: a practical 3-hour Volcanoes National Park loop hits the highlights, while serious hikers will love the 6.5-hour volcanic trek through native forests and the otherworldly Kilauea Iki Crater. Each tour comes with friendly guides who know their stuff and useful extras that make the experience worth every penny. Check out these top-rated Big Island tours that consistently impress our travelers.
Key Points
- Guided kayaking tours on the Wailoa River offer an intimate experience to explore Japanese-style bridges and observe diverse flora and fauna.
- Certified interpretive guides lead immersive hikes in Volcanoes National Park, providing personalized attention and highlighting the park’s unique geological features.
- A comprehensive 6.5-hour guided hike through volcanic landscapes, including the Kilauea Iki Crater and Thurston Lava Tube, offers excellent value for money.
- The island’s natural features, such as the largest arboretum of tree species outside of Africa and diverse wildlife, can be experienced during guided tours.
- Flexible booking options, generous cancellation policies, and inclusion of amenities like snacks, beverages, and transportation make these guided tours accessible and valuable.
Hilo: Wailoa River to King Kamehameha Guided Kayaking Tour
Situated on the island of Hawaii, the Hilo: Wailoa River to King Kamehameha Guided Kayaking Tour offers participants a unique opportunity to explore the scenic Wailoa River and pay tribute to the legacy of King Kamehameha.
This 2-hour guided tour, limited to only 5 guests, allows adventurers to paddle under Japanese-style bridges and observe diverse flora and fauna. Participants will visit the iconic King Kamehameha Statue and learn about the region’s history and natural features, including the largest arboretum of tree species outside of Africa.
With complimentary snacks, beverages, and hotel transportation, this tour provides excellent value for money and is suitable for first-time kayakers.
Read our full review: Hilo: Wailoa River to King Kamehameha Guided Kayaking Tour Review
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Kilauea: Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike
Offering a captivating exploration of Volcanoes National Park, the Kilauea: Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike takes adventurers on a 3-hour, 4-mile loop through the park’s stunning landscapes.
Led by certified interpretive guides, the tour provides an immersive experience, showcasing volcanic sunsets, lava lake glows, and the beauty of native Hawaiian rainforests.
With a maximum group size of 10, the hike ensures personalized attention and ample opportunities to learn about the region’s geology, flora, and legends.
Hikers enjoy a healthy snack, backpacks, trekking poles, and park entrance fees, all included in the $120 per person price.
Flexible booking and a generous 24-hour cancellation policy make this guided tour an attractive choice for exploring Hawaii’s volcanic wonders.
Read our full review: Kilauea: Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike Review
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Big Island: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike
Embarking on a thrilling 6.5-hour adventure, the Big Island: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike invites explorers to enjoy the park’s volcanic wonders.
Trekking through Hawaiian forests and the Kilauea Iki Crater, you will discover the Thurston Lava Tube and observe native wildlife.
Priced from $230.45 per person, the hike is limited to 10 participants and includes a breakfast buffet and gourmet picnic lunch.
With an overall rating of 5/5 from 22 reviews, the tour offers excellent value for money.
Hikers should bring suitable attire and be prepared for an engaging, educational experience led by knowledgeable guides.
Read our full review: Big Island: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike Review
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Recap
The best guided tours on the Island of Hawaii provide visitors with the opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the region. From kayaking along the Wailoa River to hiking through Volcanoes National Park, these tours offer an immersive experience that allows travelers to appreciate the island’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking to discover the island’s highlights, these guided tours are a great way to make the most of your visit.