The 4 Best Full-Day Tours in Island Of Hawaii
Hawaii Island, or the Big Island, offers a rich mix of landscapes—from volcanic craters and lush rainforests to waterfalls and pristine beaches. Its diverse scenery makes it ideal for full-day tours that cover more ground and provide a deeper understanding of the island’s natural beauty and culture. Unlike shorter excursions, these full-day adventures let you experience the island’s highlights at a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and local cuisine.
What truly sets Hawaii apart are the off-the-beaten-path locations and hands-on experiences. Whether you prefer an active day of exploring waterfalls and ziplining or a scenic drive with cultural stops, there’s a tour that will match your interests. Planning ahead is key—especially for popular tours during peak season—so booking in advance guarantees your spot on these unforgettable adventures.
Quick Overview
We’ve compiled a list of the best full-day tours on Hawaii Island, with options that include adventurous waterfall hikes, ziplining combined with waterfall swimming, scenic sightseeing and waterfalls, and a comprehensive circle island trip. Each offers a unique way to see the island’s most iconic sights, tailored to different interests and activity levels.
1. Big Island: Full Day Adventure Tour of the Kohala Waterfalls
This tour combines gentle hikes, off-road exploration, and swimming in mountain streams—perfect for those who want a mix of activity and relaxation. It starts with a luxury 4WD Mercedes Sprinter van that takes you deep into the countryside, giving you a taste of Hawaii’s remote valleys and soaring sea cliffs. The guided walk through a private nature reserve showcases lush foliage and waterfalls, with the option to cool off with a swim beneath a cascading waterfall. A highlight is the picnic lunch, served with breathtaking views of the coastline and cliffs, giving you time to soak in the scenery.
This tour’s strength lies in its balance—easy walks, engaging cultural stops, and the thrill of swimming in natural waterfalls. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience truly memorable. With reviews noting that the hikes are manageable, and the waterfalls stunning, it’s ideal for anyone wanting an active yet relaxed day immersed in nature. The tour is priced at $261 per person for roughly 7 hours, offering excellent value considering the personalized experience and scenic stops.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a manageable hike, scenic beauty, and a taste of Hawaiian history—all wrapped into a well-organized, enjoyable day.
2. Big Island: Full-Day Kohala Zipline and Waterfall Adventure
At number 2, the Kohala Zipline and Waterfall Adventure offers a full-throttle experience that combines aerial fun with water-based escapades. Starting with an adventure-filled zipline course in Kohala, this tour is a hit for those who crave active pursuits. The zipline is guided by certified professionals, ensuring safety while giving you panoramic views of the lush mountains and valleys.
After soaring through the treetops, you’ll head to a secluded waterfall in a private reserve, where you can swim and relax. The day continues with a scenic lunch overlooking the landscape, followed by time to cool off under another waterfall or explore the area on foot. The tour’s 9-hour duration and inclusion of multiple activities make it a full-day adventure packed with variety.
Guests have praised the guides for their patience and Hawaiian hospitality, describing the guides as “amazing” and “knowledgeable.” The total price is $340, which includes transportation, ziplining, water activities, and lunch. It’s best suited for active travelers who want a combination of adrenaline and nature.
Bottom Line: For thrill-seekers who want a seamless mix of ziplining, waterfall swimming, and scenic views, this tour delivers a memorable and action-packed day.
3. Big Island: Full-Day Sightseeing & Waterfalls Adventure Tour
Designed for those who want a broader overview of the island’s diverse landscapes and key sights, this full-day sightseeing tour covers everything from lush gardens to volcanic vistas. Starting early, you’ll visit the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden, a cultivated paradise showcasing hundreds of native plants. From there, the tour takes you to the Waipio Valley Lookout, where sheer cliffs plunge into the ocean—a view that captures the island’s dramatic terrain.
The itinerary includes a stop at Akaka Falls State Park, where the 270-foot waterfall crashes into a lush gorge, and a swim at Kulaniapia Falls, a private waterfall surrounded by tropical flora. The tour also traverses the scenic Saddle Road and offers views of Mauna Loa, the world’s largest volcano. With a duration of about 10 hours and a price of $287, it’s a comprehensive way to see much of the island in one day.
Reviewers mention the guides’ helpfulness and the “amazing views,” though weather can impact visibility. If you’re interested in natural beauty and photo-worthy vistas, this trip is an excellent choice.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a full immersion into Hawaii’s botanical, volcanic, and waterfall wonders with a comfortable pace.
4. Big Island: Full Day Circle Island Tour From Kona
Finally, the Circle Island Tour is perfect for those who prefer sightseeing without much walking. Over approximately 12 hours, you’ll explore the island’s highlights—from black sand beaches to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The tour stops at key spots like the Waipio Valley Overlook and visits a Macadamia Nut Factory and Big Island Candies, giving you a taste of local flavors along the way.
This tour is well-suited for travelers with limited time or those less interested in strenuous activity. It’s a comprehensive, relaxed way to see the island’s diverse geography and attractions. The guide’s engaging commentary and the comfortable vehicle make for a smooth ride, with many reviewers noting the educational and enjoyable nature of the trip. Priced at $319, it offers good value for a full day’s exploration.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a broad overview of the island with minimal physical effort, but with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural stops.
How to Choose
When selecting your perfect Hawaii Island full-day tour, consider your interests, activity level, and budget. If you’re after an active adventure that combines hiking and swimming, the Kohala Waterfalls Tour offers a balanced experience. If adrenaline is your priority, the Zipline and Waterfall provides an exhilarating day. For a broader scenic overview, the Sightseeing & Waterfalls tour covers more ground with fewer strenuous activities, and the Circle Island tour suits those wanting a relaxed, comprehensive drive.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time and availability. Think about your fitness level—some tours involve walking or swimming, while others focus on scenic drives. Also, match your budget to your expectations; for example, the ziplining tour provides more activities but at a higher price point.
Final Thoughts
Hawaii’s Big Island offers a variety of full-day adventures tailored to different interests. Whether you prefer hiking to waterfalls, zipping through treetops, or simply sightseeing iconic locations, there’s a tour to match. The full-day adventure of Kohala Waterfalls and the ziplining experience are top choices for active travelers, while the comprehensive sightseeing tour appeals to those wanting a broader exploration. If you want the most complete overview with minimal walking, the Circle Island is ideal.
Plan ahead, choose what suits your style, and book early to ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Hawaii Island’s diverse landscapes and rich scenery promise a full day of discovery—so pick the adventure that excites you most.