The 5 Best Historical Tours in Big Island of Hawaii
Exploring the Big Island of Hawaii offers more than volcanoes and lush landscapes; it’s a journey through centuries of rich stories, sacred sites, and ancient traditions. The island’s diverse past is written into its archaeological sites, historic landmarks, and cultural tales. Whether you’re interested in Hawaiian legends, early settlements, or colonial history, Big Island’s tours bring these stories vividly to life. Many tours offer hands-on experiences, from tasting Kona coffee to paddleboarding past historic sites, blending education with authentic adventure. With so many options, finding the perfect way to connect with the island’s past means considering what aspects of history excite you most.
The tours listed here balance cultural insights, archaeological exploration, and scenic storytelling. Some focus on iconic landmarks like Pu’uhonua o Honaunau or the Kona Heritage sites, while others incorporate active experiences such as kayaking and paddleboarding in historic areas. Many tours include opportunities to sample local foods, such as Kona coffee or Hawaiian chocolate, adding a flavor of the island’s culinary history to your trip. Planning ahead and choosing the right tour for your interests and schedule will ensure a meaningful and memorable experience.
Quick Overview
This list covers a range of cultural, archaeological, and active historical experiences. From half-day cruise excursions to full-day adventures, each tour offers insights into Hawaii’s past in different ways. You’ll find walking ghost tours, kayak adventures, and even chocolate tasting, making it easy to pick an experience aligned with your interests. Let’s take a closer look at each.
1. Kona Shore Excursion: Sea Turtles, Historic Kona & Coffee
This 5-hour Kona shore excursion offers a well-rounded taste of Hawaii’s natural beauty and cultural sites. It’s perfect if you want to maximize your limited time. The tour covers Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, a place where white sand beaches meet striking black lava formations, showcasing Hawaii’s volcanic history. You’ll see traditional Hawaiian fishponds and reconstructed huts, giving insight into ancient life. Spotting green sea turtles in their natural habitat is a highlight, as is visiting the Painted Church with its colorful biblical murals created with house paint—an unexpected artistic gem.
A key part of the tour is learning about Kona coffee’s journey from bean to cup at Greenwell Farms. The farm visit might vary, but the focus remains on Hawaii’s small-scale coffee production, which is unique to the U.S. The tour also offers flexibility for different interests, such as beach visits or additional activities. With reviews praising the engaging guides and well-planned stops, this tour offers a lively, family-friendly introduction to Kona’s heritage.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, half-day adventure that balances wildlife, archaeology, and coffee—ideal for travelers who want a taste of everything.
2. Kona Tour: Bee Farm, Kona Coffee, and National Historical Parks
For those wanting a deeper dive into Hawaiian culture, agriculture, and sacred sites, this 7-hour Kona tour is hard to beat. It begins with a visit to Honokohau Beach, where you might catch sight of Hawaiian monk seals alongside green sea turtles, providing a memorable wildlife experience close to ancient sites. The highlight is exploring Pu’uhonua o Honaunau, a sacred place of refuge where ancient Hawaiians sought sanctuary from lawbreakers.
The tour includes a visit to a bee farm, where you can taste local honey and learn how bees contribute to Hawaii’s ecosystem. A stop at a coffee plantation offers a full explanation of Kona’s coffee cultivation, harvesting, and roasting process. The itinerary also features a scenic picnic overlooking Kealakekua Bay and stories about Captain Cook’s historic connection to the island. With limited groups, the tour maintains an intimate feel, and reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides and engaging storytelling.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history enthusiasts and food lovers who want a mix of sacred sites, local flavors, and cultural narratives with personalized attention.
3. Historic Hilo Bay & Coconut Island SUP Adventure
This 2-hour SUP (stand-up paddleboard) adventure combines active fun with historical insights, especially appealing if you enjoy water-based history lessons. Paddling around Hilo Bay, you’ll enjoy magnificent views of the lush surroundings and volcano peaks like Mauna Loa in the distance. As you cruise past Coconut Island—once a sacred healing site—you’ll learn about its significance as a refuge for lawbreakers in ancient times.
This tour is highly rated for its small-group setting, ensuring personalized attention, with guides sharing stories about the area’s cultural legends. It’s suitable for adults and children over 8, making it family-friendly. The paddleboard experience offers a unique perspective on Hilo’s natural and cultural landscape. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the fun of seeing the coastline from the water.
Bottom Line: Active, educational, and scenic—ideal for travelers wanting to combine physical activity with island stories on a beautiful water route.
4. 10 Bar Hawaiian Craft Chocolate Tasting Experience
If you love sweet history, this 1.5-hour Hawaiian craft chocolate tasting at Honoli’i Orchards is a must. It’s a rare chance to explore Hawaii’s cacao heritage, with expert-led seminars on chocolate’s origins and its role in local culture. The farm produces award-winning bars recognized at the Salon du Chocolat in France, and you get to sample over 10 different Hawaiian chocolates, including cacao nectar and fresh fruits.
This experience is perfect for those curious about Hawaiian artisanal food and wanting a hands-on tasting session. The farm’s multigenerational family heritage ensures authentic storytelling, and the curated selection of chocolates allows you to appreciate subtle regional flavors. Reviews highlight the passion of the hosts and the educational aspect of the tasting.
Bottom Line: Ideal for sweet-tooths and foodies interested in Hawaii’s cacao story, offering both education and delicious samples.
5. Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History
This full-day Big Island tour is a comprehensive look at Hawaii’s geological and cultural landmarks. It’s suited for travelers who want an intensive exploration of multiple highlights, from lush waterfalls like Akaka and Rainbow Falls to the mighty Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. You’ll visit steam vents, craters, and lava tubes, with expert guides explaining the island’s volcanic activity and its influence on Hawaiian life.
The tour includes lunch and covers the island’s natural and historic sites, making it ideal for those with limited time but a desire to see a broad spectrum of Big Island’s features. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides and the well-paced itinerary. It’s a full day, but the variety and depth of information make it worthwhile, especially for those with a keen interest in geology and history.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a rundown of natural and cultural history in just one day.
How to Choose Your Best Big Island Historical Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, time availability, and budget. For a balanced introduction, the Kona Shore Excursion offers a great mix of wildlife, archaeology, and coffee. If you prefer a more immersive cultural experience with fewer people, the Kona Tour: Bee Farm, Kona Coffee, and Historical Parks is excellent. Active travelers might lean toward the SUP adventure, while foodies will enjoy the Chocolate Tasting Experience. For those eager to see Hawaii’s volcanic wonders and waterfalls, the Big Island in a Day combines all in one.
Booking early is advised, especially for tours with limited group sizes or popular times. Also, think about your physical activity level—some tours involve walking or paddling, while others are more relaxed.
Final Thoughts
Big Island’s rich past is woven into its landscapes and stories. Whether you want to explore ancient Hawaiian sites, taste local foods, or paddle through historic waters, there’s a tour that fits your curiosity. For a short but meaningful visit, the Kona Shore Excursion is an excellent choice. If you have more time and want a deeper cultural experience, the Kona Tour or the full-day volcano and waterfall tour will serve you well.
Whatever you pick, these tours promise a fascinating look at Hawaii’s ancient roots and historic landmarks, making your trip to the Big Island truly unforgettable. Be sure to book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular adventures.