Lunch options on Hawaii’s Big Island combine great food with spectacular experiences. The standout tours pack real value: The Kilauea Lava Flow Tour offers the perfect mix of volcanic views and local flavors with both lunch and dinner included. For ocean lovers, nothing beats lunch aboard the Kona Half-Day Boat Tour while watching the pristine coastline drift by. We especially love the Big Island Tour from Waikoloa – it’s a comprehensive 12-hour journey that smartly combines coffee tasting and black sand beach stops. For a more intimate experience, the Ultimate Circle Island Explorer delivers private tastings and a local-style lunch away from the crowds. Check out these recommended tours for the best combination of Big Island flavors and adventures.
Key Points
- The Kilauea Lava Flow Tour includes a picnic lunch during the 9-hour tour, allowing visitors to enjoy a meal amidst the natural beauty of the island.
- The Kona Half-Day Boat Tour does not include a lunch, but the tour duration of 4.5 hours provides an opportunity to explore local dining options along the Kona Coast.
- The Big Island Tour from Waikoloa includes a lunch as part of the 12-hour small group tour, ensuring a satisfying midday meal during the day’s diverse sightseeing activities.
- The Ultimate Circle Island Explorer provides a lunch as part of the 12-hour small-group adventure, complementing the tour’s personalized service and well-planned itinerary.
- Most tours on the Island of Hawaii include a meal, often a lunch or snack, as part of the tour package, allowing visitors to experience the local cuisine and enhance their overall experience.
From Hilo: Kilauea Lava Flow Tour With Lunch and Dinner
For adventurous travelers, the Kilauea Lava Flow Tour with Lunch and Dinner from Hilo offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the raw power of Hawaii’s volcanic landscape. Priced at $250.26 per person, this 9-hour tour takes guests on a journey through the island’s natural wonders, including a hike to the recent 2018 eruption flow and a visit to the Painted Church in Kalapana.
Participants will explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, marvel at a volcanic black sand beach, and drive through Hilo’s historic waterfront. The tour includes a picnic lunch among pine trees and a delicious dinner, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off.
With a maximum group size of 13, the experience offers an intimate and personalized adventure.
While the tour’s overall rating of 3.5/5 based on 8 reviews suggests room for improvement, the highly praised guide and transportation services indicate a well-executed tour that delivers on its promise of an immersive volcanic exploration.
Read our full review: From Hilo: Kilauea Lava Flow Tour With Lunch and Dinner Review
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Big Island: Kona Half-Day Boat Tour With Snorkeling & Lunch
The Big Island’s Kona Half-Day Boat Tour with Snorkeling & Lunch offers adventurous travelers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the island’s stunning coastline and vibrant marine life. Priced from $163.72 per person, this 4.5-hour tour departs from historic Keauhou Bay, providing guests with scenic views along the Kona Coast.
Snorkelers can look forward to two exceptional locations: Puʻuhonua O Honaunau and Kealakekua Bay, where they’ll observe colorful coral and a variety of marine species, including turtles. The tour also includes an exploration of ancient lava tubes and sea caves.
Complementing the aquatic adventures, guests are served a delicious deli-style lunch, complete with tropical snacks and beverages.
With a team of knowledgeable and professional crew, as well as a comfortable boat with easy access for snorkeling, this tour has earned a stellar 5/5 rating from 26 reviews.
Suitable for most ages, the Kona Half-Day Boat Tour is an unforgettable way to experience the natural wonders of Hawaii’s Big Island.
Read our full review: Big Island: Kona Half-Day Boat Tour With Snorkeling & Lunch Review
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From Waikoloa: Big Island Tour With Lunch
This 12-hour small group tour from Waikoloa offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of the Big Island’s diverse landscapes and cultural attractions.
For $309.93 per person, you’ll visit a Kona coffee farm, a black sand beach to view turtles, and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, including the Kilauea Iki Crater Overlook and Steaming Bluffs.
The tour also includes a stop at the Big Island Candies factory and a view of the Waipio Valley, where you might spot native wild horses.
With a maximum of 13 participants and a live English-speaking guide, this small-group experience ensures personalized attention.
Hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, and tips are included.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems or respiratory issues, and closed-toe shoes are required.
Based on 12 reviews, the tour has an impressive 4.8/5 rating, with guests praising the knowledgeable and friendly guides and the variety of sights and experiences.
Read our full review: From Waikoloa: Big Island Tour With Lunch Review
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Ultimate Circle Island Explorer From Kona With Lunch
Offering a comprehensive circle-island exploration from Kona, the Ultimate Circle Island Explorer promises a 12-hour small-group adventure showcasing the Big Island’s diverse landscapes and cultural attractions.
Priced from $309.93 per person, this tour takes visitors to notable landmarks, including a private coffee tasting at a Kona farm, turtle viewing at Punaluu Black Sand Beach, and a journey through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Participants will also enjoy the stunning vistas of Waipio Valley, known for its wild horses and taro farming.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, and gratuities included, the experience caters to the needs of travelers.
While not suitable for those with back problems or respiratory issues, the tour is praised for its personalized service, knowledgeable guides, and well-planned itinerary, earning an impressive 4.9/5 rating from past guests.
For those seeking an immersive Big Island adventure with a focus on local cuisine and natural wonders, the Ultimate Circle Island Explorer is an excellent choice.
Read our full review: Ultimate Circle Island Explorer From Kona With Lunch Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tours?
The dress code for the tours is typically casual. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes, as the tours may involve some walking or light physical activity. No formal attire is required.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
You can typically bring your own food and drinks on tours, but it’s best to check with the tour operator first. Many tours allow outside snacks and beverages, but there may be restrictions or fees.
Are There Any Vegetarian/Vegan Menu Options Available?
Yes, many restaurants on the Island of Hawaii offer vegetarian and vegan menu options. Diners can easily find meals catered to their dietary preferences, allowing them to enjoy a delicious and satisfying lunch experience.
How Do I Get to the Starting Point of the Tours?
To get to the starting point of the tours, visitors can check with their hotel or tour operator for transportation options. Many offer shuttle services or provide directions for self-driving. It’s best to confirm the meeting location in advance.
Can I Request Special Dietary Accommodations?
Sure, you can request special dietary accommodations. Most tour providers are happy to accommodate dietary needs like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free requests if you let them know in advance. Just be sure to specify your requirements when booking.
Recap
The island of Hawaii offers a variety of lunch experiences for visitors. From lava flow tours with a midday meal to half-day boat trips with snorkeling and lunch, there’s something to suit every taste. Whether you’re exploring the Big Island’s iconic Kona region or taking a comprehensive circle island tour, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy a delicious lunch amid the island’s natural beauty.