The 4 Best Lunch Experiences in Big Island of Hawaii
Big Island of Hawaii offers more than just stunning landscapes and active volcanoes—it’s a place where you can enjoy memorable lunch experiences that combine local flavor, adventure, and unique scenery. The island’s diverse geography means you can savor fresh seafood while watching dolphins, explore volcanic landscapes over a delicious meal, or relax aboard luxury boats with a view of the Pacific. Whether you’re after a quick taste of the ocean or a full-day tour with cultural insights, Big Island has options tailored for all tastes.
What makes these lunch experiences stand out is their mix of scenic beauty, authentic Hawaiian hospitality, and engaging activities. Each offers something special: snorkeling with turtles, exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, encountering marine wildlife, or learning about the history of Captain Cook. Below, we’ll walk through four top tours so you can find the perfect fit for your next trip.
1. Hawaiian Sea Turtles and Snorkeling Experience in Kona with Lunch
This tour combines the beauty of the Kona Coast with the thrill of snorkeling and comes with a hearty onboard lunch. On a 53-foot catamaran, you’ll cruise past dramatic sea cliffs and black and white sand beaches, with the chance to spot dolphins, migrating whales (seasonal), and, of course, Hawaiian sea turtles. The tour includes snorkeling gear and time to swim in clear waters, making it a favorite for underwater enthusiasts.
What makes this experience unique is the relaxed morning schedule with a late departure that allows you to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without feeling rushed. The crew is known for their friendly attitude and attentive service, and the onboard lunch features two alcoholic drinks, making it perfect for those looking for a leisurely ocean outing. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable crew and the personal attention, with one saying, “Captain Michael and First Mate Gretchen were amazing and made for an incredible experience.”
This tour is best suited for families or couples who appreciate a mix of wildlife viewing and comfortable sailing with excellent food. The price is $174.29 per person, which includes equipment, lunch, and drinks, offering good value for a half-day on the water.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, friendly snorkeling cruise with a generous lunch and wildlife spotting, ideal for relaxed boat lovers.
2. Big Island Half-Day Tour with Lunch
For those wanting a deeper dive into Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes, this half-day tour exploring Kilauea and surrounding sights is hard to beat. Starting with a visit to Rainbow Falls, famous for rainbows created by the mist, the tour then takes you through downtown Hilo and the lush Liliʻuokalani Gardens. But the highlight is the visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll see the smoking Kilauea caldera, walk through the Nahuku lava tube, and get a close look at steaming vents.
The tour includes lunch at Kilauea Lodge, featuring local flavors, and provides ample opportunity for photos and learning. Guides Desmond and Anthony are praised for their knowledge, with reviewers commenting on their ability to share Hawaii’s history and artifacts in an engaging way. During your drive, you’ll see charming spots like Rainbow Falls and the banyan tree, adding to the sense of discovering a living, breathing island.
This experience is suitable for those interested in geology, natural scenery, and cultural stories—long drives are involved, but travelers say the views and insights make it worthwhile. Costing $199 per person, it provides a comprehensive snapshot of Big Island’s volcano and lush greenery, ideal for curious travelers with a half-day available.
Bottom Line: An engaging, educational tour perfect for geology fans and those wanting a mix of waterfalls, gardens, and volcanic landscapes.
3. Kawaihae Luxury Snorkel Cruise & Wildlife Watch with Lunch
If you prefer your lunch experience with a touch of luxury, the Kawaihae cruise delivers just that. This 3-hour excursion takes you along the Koahala Coast, where expert guides point out marine life hotspots. You’ll have the chance to spot dolphins, whales (in season), and green turtles, as well as enjoy snorkeling with all equipment provided.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on guided marine environment commentary and the chance for in-water assistance. The crew prioritizes safety and comfort, making it a good choice for families or first-time snorkelers. The included lunch—a picnic with water, soda, and juice—adds to the relaxed vibe, and reviews consistently mention the attentive crew and the “luxurious” feel, especially with the well-maintained boat and excellent equipment.
Costing $205 per person, this tour offers good value, especially for those who want a more upscale experience. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a shorter, high-quality marine adventure that combines wildlife viewing with a peaceful, scenic cruise.
Bottom Line: An elegant, wildlife-focused snorkeling trip that emphasizes comfort, making it ideal for those wanting a luxurious marine experience.
4. Captain Cook Snorkel On A Power Catamaran With Lunch
At number four, the iconic Captain Cook Snorkel tour offers one of the most celebrated snorkeling adventures on the island. Departing from Kona, this 4-hour tour takes you to historic Kealakekua Bay, where Captain Cook was killed in a clash with Hawaiians. It’s a deeply historical spot, as well as one of the best underwater locations around.
The trip includes searching for dolphins en route and snorkeling over vibrant coral reefs with plenty of tropical fish. The boat’s design allows for easier access to the water, and the crew is praised for their professionalism and friendliness. Guests also appreciate the included lunch — sandwiches, chips, and drinks — which they find satisfying after exploring the marine world.
With over 1,800 reviews and a perfect 5.0 rating, this tour is a dependable choice. It’s best suited for travelers looking for a classic Hawaiian snorkeling experience with a dose of history and scenic coastlines. The affordability at $85 per person makes it a great budget option too.
Bottom Line: A reliable, historic, and lively snorkeling tour that balances fun, comfort, and value.
How to Choose the Right Lunch Experience on Big Island
Picking between these tours depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you love marine wildlife and prefer a relaxed, all-inclusive cruise, the Hawaiian Sea Turtles and Snorkeling Experience in Kona offers a fantastic combination of wildlife and scenery. For a deeper cultural and geological dive, the Big Island Half-Day Tour provides insights into volcanoes, waterfalls, and local history.
Those seeking a more luxurious day on the water should consider the Kawaihae Luxury Snorkel Cruise, which emphasizes comfort and wildlife viewing in style. Budget-conscious travelers or those interested in history and iconic sites will find the Captain Cook Snorkel the best fit, with its reputation and affordability.
Think about how much time you want to dedicate—half-day versus three hours—and whether wildlife, volcanoes, or history appeals most. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Big Island’s lunch experiences span a wide range of interests—from snorkeling with turtles and whales, to exploring volcanic landscapes, to enjoying a luxury boat ride. For a quick, family-friendly adventure, the Hawaiian Sea Turtles and Snorkeling offers excellent value. Travelers with a keen interest in geology and scenery might prefer the Big Island Half-Day Tour, while those wanting a combination of wildlife and comfort should consider the Kawaihae luxury cruise. Finally, for a historic yet lively snorkeling trip, the Captain Cook tour hits all the marks.
No matter which you choose, these tours promise memorable lunch experiences amid some of Hawaii’s most captivating scenery. Book early, pack your sense of adventure, and enjoy a delicious meal with a side of Big Island magic.