The 8 Best Bike Tours in Big Island of Hawaii
The Big Island of Hawaii isn’t just about lounging on the beach or soaking in volcanic views — it’s a perfect place for cycling adventures. The island’s diverse terrain, from lush forests and lava fields to historic ranches and waterfalls, makes it an ideal backdrop for bike tours that combine natural beauty with cultural insights. With options ranging from e-mountain biking to private guided explorations, there’s a ride here for every type of traveler—whether you want a quick thrill or an immersive experience.
Unlike many destinations, Big Island’s climate and topography allow you to ride through volcanic landscapes, rainforests, and even historic sites, all without feeling like you’re in a car. Plus, the availability of electric bikes means you can cover more ground with less effort, making these tours accessible to different fitness levels.
If you’re after a guided experience, a private tour, or simply want to rent a bike for your own exploration, the island offers a variety of options. Ready to pedal through some of Hawaii’s most striking scenery? Here’s a careful look at the top bike tours on Big Island.
Quick Overview
This list covers guided e-mountain bike adventures, private electric bike and lava hikes, full-day mountain rides, bike rentals at Volcanoes National Park, and private custom tours. Each offers unique access to Big Island’s volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and cultural sites, ensuring a memorable ride for all interests and skill levels. Now, let’s break down each tour to help you decide which fits your adventure style best.
1. E-Mountain Bike Tour in South Point Hawaii
Discover the raw volcanic beauty of Big Island’s south coast on this guided E-Bike adventure. Riding on top-of-the-line Scott E-Bikes, you’ll explore lush forests, ancient lava flows, and rugged trails that are simply inaccessible by car. This tour offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and adventure and can be tailored to your skill level, making it suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.
The itinerary features a stop at Paiaha’a Bay, where you’ll see Hawaii’s iconic sea turtles and enjoy a shaded break. The guide, Nathan, is praised for his patience and local knowledge, adding a personal touch to the experience, which is highly rated at 5.0/5 from 10 reviews. For those who want a shorter, more scenic ride, this two-hour tour provides a manageable yet exhilarating introduction to Big Island’s volcanic south.
What makes this tour stand out is its accessibility and focus on hiking and wildlife viewing—a chance to spot sea turtles along the coast. It’s perfect for travelers who want a active, scenic experience off the beaten path.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a fun, flexible, and nature-focused ride on rugged trails with expert guiding.
2. Private Electric Bike Tour with Lava Hike in Pāhoa
This private e-bike tour combines the thrill of riding through lava landscapes with an up-close hike of the 2018 eruption sites. Exploring the Pāhoa neighborhood on e-bikes, you’ll learn about the volcanic eruption that dramatically reshaped the area. The tour includes storytelling about how the community was affected and a hike to see Fissure 8, one of the most active points during the eruption.
Rated 5.0/5 from 8 reviews, visitors praise the personalized experience and expert guidance. The tour is well-suited for anyone interested in Hawaiian volcanic history combined with outdoor activity. The e-bikes make traversing the lava fields easier, while the hike offers a tangible connection to the island’s recent geological history.
Costing just $88 per person, this tour offers an affordable, intimate way to experience the volcano’s power. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a combination of biking and hiking or want to focus on geology and eruption stories.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those interested in volcanoes, geology, and a personalized, behind-the-scenes look at recent volcanic activity.
3. Hawai’i E-Mountain Bike Ride
For a more comprehensive mountain biking experience, the Hawai’i E-Mountain Bike Ride at Anna Ranch offers an extended four-hour tour. This historic ranch, once a training ground for King Kamehameha’s warriors, provides a scenic ride across green rolling hills at the base of the Kohala Mountains. The tour includes views of Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and the Pacific Ocean, giving you a rich mix of history and natural beauty.
This tour is family-friendly but also challenging enough for more experienced riders. It emphasizes Hawaiian history and culture along with the landscape, offering a well-rounded experience that appeals to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The highlight is the waterfall ride and the scenic vistas, making it an ideal choice for those wanting to combine cultural insights with adventure.
Rated 5.0/5 from four reviews, the tour’s value lies in its combination of history, stunning views, and moderate challenge. It’s best suited for travelers who want more than just scenery — those who seek a cultural connection with the land.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families and history lovers wanting a moderate mountain ride with memorable views.
4. Fat Tire E-Bike Rental – Volcanoes National Park
If you prefer to explore at your own pace, the Fat Tire E-Bike Rental at Volcanoes National Park offers a flexible way to see the park’s iconic scenery. As the only provider with fat-tire e-bikes, you can effortlessly cover long distances on park roads and trails, whether you want a half-day or multi-day outing.
Rated 4.5/5 from 14 reviews, this rental is praised for friendly staff and easy pickup and drop-off. The bikes are designed to handle rough terrain with ease, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned riders. It’s a great way to explore lava fields, volcanic craters, and rainforests without the physical strain—especially useful if you want to spend more time sightseeing and less pedaling.
The value here is high for those who want maximum flexibility. You can set your own itinerary, making it perfect for independent travelers, couples, or families. The only downside might be the need for an initial safety briefing and some familiarity with riding bikes.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking independent exploration with powerful bikes that require minimal effort.
5. Fat Tire E-Bike Tour for Cruise Guests – Volcanoes National Park
This specialized tour is designed for cruise passengers, offering a five-hour experience that takes you from Hilo to Volcanoes National Park. It combines a short drive with a guided e-bike tour through the park, providing a rundown of the volcanic landscape without the fatigue.
Rated 5.0/5 from 2 reviews, travelers mention guide Kaylon’s expertise, particularly in Hawaiian history and culture. The tour includes a training session before riding and takes in key sights like the park’s craters and lava fields. Perfect for those on a tight schedule but wanting a full-of-knowledge and active experience.
The best value is in the guided commentary and convenience. As a cruise-only option, it’s tailored for those wanting to maximize their limited time ashore while still enjoying a full, engaging ride.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise travelers wanting an educational, active, and well-organized volcano experience.
6. Electric Bike Rentals with Delivery
Looking for flexibility and convenience? The Electric Bike Rentals with Delivery service provides luxury e-bikes delivered directly to your accommodation. You can explore at your own pace for 1 to 3 days, making this ideal for spontaneous exploration or longer sightseeing days.
Rated 5.0/5 from a single review, users appreciate the personalized service and quality bikes. This option works well if you want to craft your own route to places like Waimea, Kona, or Hilo, without the constraints of scheduled tours. It’s perfect for independent travelers who want freedom but don’t want to deal with logistics.
The value for money lies in the ease of use and customization. Plus, having a luxury bike can make longer rides more comfortable. Keep in mind, this option is best if you are comfortable navigating the island roads on your own.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for independent explorers wanting customized, flexible biking days.
7. “Bespoke” Private E-Bike Tour Volcano and Waterfalls
For travelers who want a tailored experience, the Bespoke Private E-Bike Tour offers a custom itinerary combining visits to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Onomea Bay. You’ll enjoy a personalized guided tour of Hale Ma’u Ma’u Crater, Lava Tubes, and scenic stops, with the chance to ride along the Onomea Scenic Route on your own using a detailed map.
Rated 5.0/5 from just one review, this luxury private tour is designed to match your interests and pace, with lunch included. It’s perfect for travelers who want flexibility and exclusivity, and it suits those interested in both geology and scenic coastal rides.
The main advantage is its customization—the itinerary is flexible, and you get dedicated guide service. It’s best for adventurers with specific interests or those celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a personalized, in-depth exploration combining volcano and coastal scenery.
8. Umauma Falls eBike Tour in Hakalau
This shorter tour focuses on Umauma Falls, one of Hawaii’s most stunning waterfalls, visible right from the property. The 1.5 to 2-hour ride includes a narrated journey through native trees and plants with insights into Hawaiian culture and traditional uses.
Rated 4.5/5 from 4 reviews, riders appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the chance to swim or just relax after the ride at a private waterfall. The focus on cultural stories and native flora makes it ideal for those interested in Hawaiian traditions.
It’s a more relaxed ride, great as a half-day activity that combines scenery, culture, and easy pedaling. The inclusion of a waterfall swim adds a fun, refreshing element to the trip.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a short, cultural, and scenic ride with an optional swim.
How to Choose the Best Bike Tour for You
When selecting a bike tour in Big Island, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. For full-day adventures with cultural and scenic highlights, the Hawai’i E-Mountain Bike Ride offers great value. If you prefer a private, customizable experience, the Bespoke Private E-Bike Tour is excellent. Budget travelers or those who want flexibility should look at the electric bike rentals** or volcano park rentals.
For those interested in volcanoes and lava, the Lava E-Bike & Hike Tour provides an exciting combination of biking and hiking. Cruise ship travelers will find the Volcanoes National Park tour a well-organized, insightful option.
Timing-wise, early booking is wise, especially in peak season (winter months and summer). Remember to clarify your fitness level and interests to pick the ride that offers the best value and enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
The Big Island’s bike tours range from short cultural rides to full-day mountain adventures, with many incorporating volcano views, waterfalls, and Hawaiian history. For a guided, active experience, the E-Mountain Bike Tour in South Point is highly rated for its scenery and personalized approach. For a comprehensive volcano adventure, the Volcanoes National Park** rental offers unmatched flexibility.
If you want a luxury, private trip, the Bespoke Private E-Bike Tour is your best bet. And for independent explorers, the electric bike rentals provide freedom and convenience.
No matter your style, Big Island’s bike tours promise an authentic way to see the volcanic, lush, and culturally rich landscapes. Book early, pick the ride that matches your interests, and enjoy pedaling through one of Hawaii’s most fascinating islands.