Kona: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour

The Kona: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour offers visitors an all-encompassing exploration of the Big Island’s natural wonders. From a Kona coffee farm to the black sand beaches of Punalu’u, this small-group adventure promises an unforgettable day. But the true highlight? Witnessing the raw power of Hawaii’s volcanoes firsthand within the awe-inspiring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. With an experienced guide leading the way, this 12-hour tour provides a unique glimpse into the island’s geological and cultural significance. What awaits beyond the tour’s itinerary highlights, however, is sure to captivate even the most seasoned traveler.

This experience made our article of Top 2 National Park Tours In Kailua Kona.

Key Points

1. This 12-hour Big Island tour offers an immersive experience through diverse landscapes, including a Kona coffee farm, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

2. Highlights of the tour include visiting a working Kona coffee farm, exploring Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, and discovering the volcanic activity and cultural significance at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

3. The tour includes hotel pickup, a picnic-style lunch, and all entrance fees, catering to a small group of up to 12 participants.

4. Guests can learn about the history and cultivation of Kona’s renowned coffee beans, as well as observe the coffee harvesting and roasting processes firsthand.

5. The tour is not suitable for individuals with respiratory issues or back problems, and closed-toe shoes are required due to the uneven terrain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Kona: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour offers an immersive 12-hour experience that takes visitors on a journey through the diverse landscapes of the Big Island.

An immersive 12-hour experience that takes visitors on a journey through the diverse landscapes of the Big Island.

Priced from $309.93 per person, the small-group tour is limited to 12 participants and includes hotel pickup, a picnic-style lunch, and all entrance fees.

The itinerary features highlights like a Kona coffee farm, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, and the iconic Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Travelers can explore volcanic sites, witness the aftermath of the 2018 eruption, and learn about the cultural significance of the region from a knowledgeable English-speaking guide.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to a working Kona Coffee Farm, where participants can sample 100% Kona Coffee while enjoying views of Kealakekua Bay.

The tour then stops at the southernmost bakery in America, Punalu’u Bake Shop, before exploring the nearby Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, where guests may spot Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles.

Weather permitting, a picnic-style lunch is served at the beach.

The tour continues to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, visiting the Kilauea Visitor’s Center, Volcano Art Center, and Sulphur Banks.

Highlights include hiking to Keanakako’i Crater and Mauna Ulu.

• Visit a working Kona Coffee Farm

• Sample 100% Kona Coffee with views of Kealakekua Bay

• Stop at Punalu’u Bake Shop, southernmost bakery in America

• Explore Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, look for Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles

• Picnic-style lunch at the beach (weather permitting)

Experience and Activities

As participants travel through the South Kona and Ka’u Districts, they’ll observe stark lava flows and Hawaiian dry forests.

Strolling along Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, they’ll be surrounded by coconut palm trees.

During the tour, they’ll learn about the volcanic activity and cultural significance of Mauna Ulu.

At Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, they’ll visit the Kilauea Visitor’s Center and Volcano Art Center, and hike to Keanakako’i Crater and Mauna Ulu to see the aftermath of the 2018 eruption, including sinkholes and cracks.

Kona Coffee Farm Visit

After departing from their pickup locations, participants make their way to a working Kona Coffee Farm, known as Bay View Farm.

At the farm, they:

Visitors sample freshly brewed Kona coffee, learn about the region’s renowned beans, and observe the harvesting and roasting processes.

• Sample freshly brewed 100% Kona coffee while enjoying views of the picturesque Kealakekua Bay.

• Learn about the history and cultivation of Kona’s renowned coffee beans.

• Observe the coffee harvesting and roasting processes firsthand.

• Explore the farm’s lush, verdant grounds and interact with the knowledgeable staff.

• Gain a deeper appreciation for the care and attention required to produce Kona’s distinctive coffee.

The Kona Coffee Farm visit provides an immersive and educational introduction to the region’s celebrated coffee culture.

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Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

Next, the tour heads to Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, one of the most renowned and visually stunning beaches on the Big Island.

Flanked by coconut palm trees, the beach’s striking black sand is the result of volcanic activity. Guests have the opportunity to stroll along the shores, spotting the endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles that often bask on the sand.

Depending on the weather, a picnic-style lunch may be enjoyed at the beach, providing a chance to savor the tranquil atmosphere and take in the breathtaking natural surroundings.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The tour then ventures into Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its volcanic landscapes and dramatic geological features.

Visitors will:

• Explore the Kilauea Visitor’s Center to learn about the park’s volcanic history and ongoing seismic activity.

• Visit the Volcano Art Center to appreciate the region’s cultural significance and artistic expression.

• Hike to the Keanakako’i Crater, offering a glimpse into the powerful forces that have shaped the islands.

• Witness the Sulphur Banks, where colorful mineral deposits and fumaroles showcase the dynamic nature of the landscape.

• Stand in awe at the Mauna Ulu, a shield volcano that erupted for over a year, leaving behind a vast expanse of hardened lava.

Volcanic Aftermath

The 2018 eruption of Kilauea Volcano left a lasting impact on the landscape of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Visitors can now observe the aftermath, including sinkholes and cracks formed by the eruption. These features provide a tangible reminder of the powerful volcanic forces that shape the Hawaiian islands.

Guests will learn about the significance of these changes and how they influence the local environment and wildlife. The tour guides’ expertise ensures an informative and eye-opening experience, allowing visitors to witness the dynamic nature of this volcanic region firsthand.

What’s Included and Important Information

The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a picnic-style lunch, and all entrance fees.

Guests are advised to wear closed-toe shoes, as the tour may involve hiking on uneven terrain. The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with respiratory issues or back problems, and open-toed shoes aren’t allowed.

Key information for guests includes:

• Bring closed-toe shoes

• Respiratory issues or back problems may prevent participation

• Open-toed shoes aren’t permitted

• Tips for the guide are optional

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Ask Away

Can I Bring Small Children on the Tour?

The tour may not be suitable for young children. It involves strenuous hiking and exposure to volcanic activity, which could be unsafe or uncomfortable for small kids. The tour operator advises against bringing children on this particular excursion.

What Is the Policy for Dietary Restrictions?

The tour doesn’t specify dietary restrictions, but visitors should let the company know in advance if they have any special dietary needs. The tour provides a picnic-style lunch, so accommodations may be possible with prior notice.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no information provided about extending the tour duration. The overview indicates the tour lasts 12 hours, and there’s no mention of an option to extend the time. Participants should plan accordingly based on the stated 12-hour itinerary.

Do We Visit Any Other Hawaiian Islands During the Tour?

The tour does not visit any other Hawaiian islands. It focuses solely on exploring the Big Island’s Kona and Ka’u districts, including Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Participants won’t travel to other islands during this 12-hour excursion.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or students. The price of $309.93 per person is the standard rate for all participants, regardless of age or student status. Discounts are not available for this particular tour.

Final Words

The Kona: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour offers an unforgettable 12-hour adventure through the stunning landscapes of the Big Island. Priced from $309.93 per person, this small-group tour includes hotel pickup, a picnic-style lunch, and entrance fees. Guests will explore highlights such as a Kona coffee farm, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, and the awe-inspiring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where they can witness volcanic activity and learn about the region’s cultural significance from a knowledgeable guide.

You can check availability for your dates here: