Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Experience Departing from Oahu
Description
Take our one day tours from Oahu to the Big Island of Hawaii and experience the world’s most active volcano. Round trip Inter Island airfare gets you to the Big Island for a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Kilauea Volcano and other volcanic sites of Hawaii. Here is your chance to visit Hawaii’s only active volcano and see the youngest of the Hawaiian Islands. On this one day tour, you’ll visit the town of Kona, sites like Volcanoes National Park, and a discovery of the life of the world’s most active volcano. This exciting tour to Hawaii’s most distinct feature is sure to highlight your vacation. Book your tour today and witness the power of Kilauea volcano and the Big Island.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Greenwell Farms is a well-known coffee farm and producer located in the Kona region of Hawaii's Big Island. Established in 1850 by Henry Nicholas Greenwell, it is one of the oldest coffee farms in Hawaii and has a rich history tied to the development of Kona coffee, which is internationally recognized for its high quality. The farm is located in the Kona district on the slopes of the Mauna Loa volcano. The region's unique climate, with its rich volcanic soil, sunny mornings, cloud-covered afternoons, and consistent rainfall, creates ideal conditions for growing high-quality coffee.
Manuka State Wayside Park is a tranquil, 13-acre park located on the Big Island of Hawaii along the Hawaii Belt Road (Highway 11). Nestled on the slopes of Mauna Loa, the park features a diverse mix of wet and dry forest ecosystems, offering visitors a peaceful setting for picnicking and hiking. The park's 2-mile Manuka Nature Trail takes you through lush native forests, showcasing a variety of plant species, volcanic features, and providing insights into the area's unique geology and ecology. This lesser-known gem is home to various native Hawaiian plants and wildlife, including endemic bird species like the Hawaiian hawk and honeycreeper. With picnic areas and interpretive signs along the trail, Manuka State Wayside Park offers a serene escape into Hawaii’s natural beauty, making it an ideal stop for those exploring the southern part of the Big Island.
Punaluʻu Bake Shop, located in Naʻālehu on the Big Island of Hawaii, is the southernmost bakery in the U.S. and renowned for its traditional Hawaiian sweet bread, offered in flavors like taro, guava, and mango. Established in 1991, it’s a popular stop for travelers, featuring a variety of baked goods, a gift shop, and a beautiful garden. The bakery emphasizes sustainability and offers a delightful taste
Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach, located on the southeastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, is famous for its striking black sand, which is formed from volcanic basalt. The beach is surrounded by lush coconut palms and offers a unique and scenic environment for visitors. It’s also a popular spot for viewing Hawaiian green sea turtles, which often bask on the shore. While the beach's waters can be rough, making it less ideal for swimming, it’s a must-see destination for its natural beauty and cultural significance, providing a unique glimpse into Hawaii's volcanic origins
Visiting Volcanoes National Park offers an immersive experience into Hawaii’s volcanic landscape. Starting at the visitor center, you learn about the park’s geology and history before heading out to explore. At Halemaʻumaʻu Crater, you witness the awe-inspiring glow of molten lava, a powerful reminder of the island's volcanic activity. The Kīlauea Iki Rainforest Lookout provides a striking contrast, offering views of a lush rainforest surrounding a massive crater, where a trail leads through the remnants of a past eruption. Walking through the Thurston Lava Tube, you experience a natural tunnel formed by flowing lava, and at the active steam vents, you feel the heat rising from the earth, reminding you of the intense geothermal activity beneath your feet. Each stop offers a unique glimpse into the forces that continue to shape the island.
Mauna Kea Access Road is a steep, winding route that leads to the summit of Mauna Kea, Hawaii’s tallest volcano and the highest point in the state. Starting from the Saddle Road (Route 200), the road ascends through various climates, from grassy plains to barren, volcanic landscapes. As you climb, the air becomes thinner, and temperatures drop significantly.
The Kohala Coast is known for its beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and scenic views. The area has a drier climate compared to other parts of the island, making it ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring places like Mauna Kea, which is nearby.
Hilo, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, boasts a rich history and vibrant cultural scene. The town features attractions such as the Lyman Museum, which showcases Hawaii’s natural and cultural history, and the Hilo Historic District, where visitors can explore preserved early 20th-century buildings. Additionally, the Pacific Tsunami Museum offers insights into the impact of tsunamis on the region, while Liliuokalani Gardens provides a serene setting to honor Hawaii’s last reigning monarch, Queen Liliuokalani. The Hilo Farmers Market, though not historical, is a lively hub that reflects local culture and history through its diverse range of goods and produce. These elements together make Hilo a fascinating destination for those interested in Hawaii’s heritage and natural beauty.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Upon arrival to Kona International Airport meet at the lot behind Alaska Baggage claim B-2
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Weather Variability - The weather can change quickly, especially at higher elevations. Bring layers, including a rain jacket, as it can get cool and wet
- Sturdy Footwear - Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven and potentially sharp volcanic terrain. Flip-flops or sandals aren’t recommended
- Volcanic Hazards - The park is an active volcanic area, so be aware of potential hazards like volcanic gases, which can be harmful, especially for those with respiratory issues. Follow all safety guidelines and stay on marked trails
- Pack Essentials - Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat. There are limited services within the park, so it's important to be prepared
- Respect Sacred Sites - The park is home to many culturally significant sites for Native Hawaiians. Show respect by not disturbing or removing anything from these areas
- No or Limited Cell Service - Cell phone service is limited or nonexistent in many parts of the park, so plan accordingly and download maps or guides in advance
- Leave No Trace - Help preserve the park’s natural beauty by not leaving any trash behind. Follow the "Leave No Trace" principles to protect the environment
- All entry tickets to the attractions will be provided by your driver on the morning of your tour
- Meals are at your own expense
- We stop for lunch at Punaluʻu Bake Shop where you can enjoy a variety of lunch options including sourdough sandwiches, Kalbi beef, and Hawaiian plate lunches, all complemented by their fresh baked goods and local treats
- Bring cash for roadside stands, food trucks, and local shops—many are cash-only
- If you enjoy your tour tipping your guide in cash is always appreciated
- Car seats are available for children ages 4 years and under
- People with Respiratory Issues -The park can have high levels of volcanic gases, like sulfur dioxide, which can exacerbate conditions like asthma or other respiratory problems
- Those with Mobility Challenges: Many trails and viewpoints require walking on uneven, rocky terrain, which can be difficult for individuals with limited mobility or those who rely on wheelchairs or walkers
Reviews(259)
Mel Was our guide for the day. He is aboriginal to Hawaii and so knowledgeable. Van of 12 people was very comfortable! We flew in from Oahu to Kona, and out of Hilo. the floods/rain from February affected some of the stops (didn’t stop at macadamia farm at all, lava tube is being repaired -you still go in but not very far 35 yards or so. Don’t let it discourage you- it was very cool. The volcano “erupts” every 2-3 weeks so we were in between events but the steam and views were incredible! A must do experience!
I love the Big Island and have done this tour before a few years ago. The sights from the tour were great, but the description of the tour was deceiving. First, the stops were not listed in order. I understand that there was a flood last year so they could not take us to the coffee farm the first thing in the morning, but I wish that had been communicated to us prior to the tour so that we could have had coffee and breakfast before leaving Oahu. Instead the first stop was at a grocery store which was a little disappointing. Second, although the guide was pleasant he did not really provide any sort of narrative regarding the Big Island - he just drove us around the island. Third, we ended up paying more than the advertised price for the flights. I get that is in the fine print, but considering how expensive this tour is for what little it provides, we were surprised that we were each asked to pay about $75 more for the flight. We have been on other tours and they have never requested additional airfare. Overall, the Big Island is beautiful and we enjoyed seeing the sights, but we probably could have booked our own flights and rented a car and received an equally enjoyable experience at our own pace for less than what we ended up paying for this tour.
We saw an erupted volcano!!! Driver was so nice too!!! We are was so happy to witness it! I would recommend it !!!
My family and I thoroughly enjoyed the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Experience Departing from Oahu. Our tour guide, Henry, who grew up on the Big Island, was extremely knowledgeable and a skilled storyteller. We learned so much and noticed that other people who weren't on our tour would gather around and listen to Henry's narration. We were amazed to discover that part of this national park contained volcanic craters and lava rock, while the other part featured a lush rainforest. Walking through the lava tube was a fascinating experience. We additionally visited a black sand beach with sea turtles and enjoyed eating treats that were produced locally on the island. This is a unique, once in a lifetime opportunity that should not be missed!
A fantastic experience! Although it did feel like the guide was rushed and did not share his conversation with the larger group. All stops along the way were well chosen.
We had an amazing time exploring the Big Island! From the coffee farm, volcano, lava tunnels, black sand beach along with sea turtles, and waterfall to some of the most unique landscapes I’ve ever seen, every stop was incredible. 🌋☕️🌴✨ A special shoutout to our tour guide, Henry, who made the experience even better. He was incredibly knowledgeable and shared so much history and culture about the island in a fun and engaging way. You can tell how passionate he is about Hawaii, and it made the tour that much more memorable. I would definitely recommend Henry to anyone looking for an amazing adventure on the Big Island. We learned so much and had an unforgettable day! 🤍
Aloha Sunshine Tours provided a fantastic day trip experience. Jayson personally called me to confirm the details. They took care of our flights from Honolulu to the Big Island. I liked the way they had us fly into Kona and out of Hilo. Mel, our local guide and driver, was excellent, providing a wealth of insights. The day was perfect.
Driver Mel was very knowledgeable about the tour and helpful throughout the trip. Yes he stopped and gave us enough time to visit the locations.
Excellent tour with a great guide Henry. Coffee farm black sand beach volcano and rainbow falls. Great big island tour
Volcanoes are gnarly and Mel took great care of us with deep knowledge and stories. We were on the fence about this tour due to the cost, but I’m so glad we went. And it was an absolutely fantastic adventure, and we were so glad to see another island.
