The 3 Best National Park Tours in Island Of Hawaii
The Island of Hawaii stands out among the Hawaiian Islands for its impressive volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, and black sand beaches. What makes this island particularly compelling is its active volcanoes—Mauna Loa and Kilauea—which continuously reshape the scenery. That’s why a national park tour on the Big Island is an absolute must for any traveler eager to see lava flows, craters, and volcanic crags firsthand. These tours offer more than just sightseeing; they provide a chance to walk through volcanic tunnels, learn about island ecology, and really understand how this fiery landscape came to be.
Whether you prefer a manageable half-day outing or a comprehensive full-day experience, there’s a Big Island tour tailored to your interests and schedule. Many tours also blend cultural insights and local food stops, enriching your understanding of the island’s unique environment. Ready to explore? Here are the top three national park tours in Island of Hawaii, from guided hikes to full-day adventures.
Quick Overview
Our list features three standout Big Island tours: a guided hike through Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park (Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike), a full-day exploration from Waikoloa that hits multiple landmarks including the volcano park (Ultimate National Park Tour from Waikoloa), and an in-depth day trip focused on hiking, lava tubes, and scenic views from Hilo (Hilo: Big Island Volcanoes National Park Adventure Tour). Each offers a different way to experience the island’s volcanic heart, suited for different interests and activity levels.
1. Big Island: Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike
This guided hike in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park gives you a chance to walk right into the volcanic landscape, exploring lush forests, craters, and the famous Thurston Lava Tube. At around $230 per person, this 6.5-hour tour offers great value for an in-depth experience. The tour can be booked as a group or private adventure, and it’s perfect for those who want to get off the bus and into the scenery.
The hike takes you through the Kilauea Iki Crater and Hawaiian rainforests, where you’ll likely spot native birds and plant life. Your guide will share insights about the park’s ecology and volcanic history, making the experience both educational and awe-inspiring. The highlight is definitely walking through the Thurston Lava Tube, a tunnel carved by ancient lava flows, which feels like stepping into another world.
Many reviewers praise the guide’s friendliness and knowledge—one noted, “Jennifer baked cookies for us and shared stories about the volcano’s geology.” The tour includes a picnic lunch, which you’ll enjoy amidst the scenic surroundings. Keep in mind that some find the lunch break could be earlier in the day for better pacing.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for active travelers who want a detailed, hands-on experience in the volcanic landscape, with plenty of opportunities to learn and ask questions.
2. Ultimate National Park Tour from Waikoloa
For those who prefer a full-day adventure that combines multiple sights, the Ultimate National Park Tour from Waikoloa is hard to beat. Priced at $310 per person, it covers Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, a Kona coffee farm, and other key landmarks like Bay View Farm and Kealakekua Bay. The 12-hour itinerary is packed, making it perfect for travelers who want to maximize their island experience in one day.
This tour, which has a perfect 5/5 rating from recent reviews, includes a visit to a working Kona Coffee Farm, where you’ll learn about the coffee-making process and sample fresh brews. It also features a hike at Mauna Ulu, a volcanic cinder cone that offers impressive views of the surrounding rainforest and lava fields. The stops at Naalehu for malassadas and Punaluu Black Sand Beach add cultural and scenic richness to this comprehensive trip.
Guide Marcus, a local expert, shares stories about Captain Cook and island life, making the journey both informative and entertaining. The tour’s biggest appeal is its diversity—covering landscapes, history, and food in a single day—though it’s a long trip, so expect to be on the go.
Bottom Line: This tour is best suited for travelers who want a broad, varied look at the island’s highlights and don’t mind a full day in the saddle.
3. Hilo : Big Island Volcanoes National Park Adventure Tour
If you’re based near Hilo or prefer a more focused, in-depth day, the Hilo adventure tour offers an intimate look at the most active volcano on Earth. Priced at $188 per person, this 10-hour trip is a well-rounded, detailed exploration that includes walking through lava tubes, visiting a nut factory, and enjoying views of Richardson Beach’s black sands.
The tour emphasizes the Kilauea volcano, with an educational visit to the Thomas A. Jaggar Museum in the crater, where you get stunning vistas of ongoing lava activity. The mix of lush jungles and stark black lava flows makes every stop visually striking, and the guide’s explanations help you understand the volcanic processes shaping the landscape.
Reviewers appreciate the personalized experience and highlight the variety of sights—one noted the tour was “full of interesting stops and great views.” While it may not include the extensive hiking of the first tour, it offers a detailed, relaxed look at the volcano’s environment.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a smaller-group, leisurely day with a focus on volcanic activity and scenic diversity.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing among these options depends on your budget, time availability, and interest level. If you’re eager for an active, in-depth experience with a knowledgeable guide, the Big Island: Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Guided Hike offers immersive hiking. For a comprehensive day that covers multiple sights and includes cultural stops, the Ultimate National Park Tour from Waikoloa delivers excellent value. If your focus is on volcano activity and a more relaxed pace, the Hilo adventure tour provides a well-rounded, intimate look.
Consider your fitness level, whether you prefer a guided hike or a bus tour with stops, and the time of year—some tours are better suited for dry or wet seasons. Booking early can ensure you get your preferred date, especially in peak season from winter to spring.
Final Thoughts
The Big Island offers a variety of ways to experience Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and surrounding landscapes. If you’re after a physically active, educational trek, the guided volcano hike shines. For a full-day exploration with scenic stops, cultural insights, and food, the Waikoloa tour is hard to beat. If you want a quieter, more detailed look at volcanic activity, the Hilo adventure suits well.
No matter which you choose, booking early and planning according to your interests will help you make the most of your trip to this fiery, fascinating island. The volcanic landscapes are ever-changing and awe-inspiring—don’t miss the chance to see them up close.