10 Historical & Heritage Tours in Island of Hawaii That You Shouldn't Miss

September 11, 2021 Leonarda Pillsbury

Life on the Big Island is a little bit slower… and locals like it that way. The natural beauty and ecological features of the island are a draw for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Test your chutzpah at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to the longest volcanic eruption in recorded history, or climb to the indescribably beautiful summit of Mauna Kea. At the end of the day, there’s nothing more refreshing than a quivering plate of fresh poke, followed by a fruity shave ice.
Restaurants in Island of Hawaii

1. Private Kona Coast to Hilo & Volcanoes National Park Mercedes Sprinter Van

Big Island VIP
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

The price listed is for the entire vehicle, the entire day and customized to you. All 11 seats in our new Mercedes Sprinter are yours and you explore at your pace, a great value if you have 5 or more in your group. The tour starts coastal town of Hilo, the Big Island's famous Waterfall Rainbow falls, and legendary Volcanoes National Park on this unique private adventure from the Kona Coast. Ride in a Mercedes Benz 11-passenger Sprinter van across the island between its two largest volcanoes, going from sea level to over six thousand feet and from dry sandy coasts to lush rain forest and moonlike volcanic territory. See simmering calderas and walk through a lava tube. This private tour. led by a professional guide photographer, is flexible to allow you to see all your top wish-list sites on the Big Island. This Tour is Private you have all 11 Seats in the Mercedes Sprinter van with DVD Media player, so you can see what you want to see when you want to see it.

Inclusions: Hotel/port pickup and drop-off, Professional guide, Bottled water, Chips, Air-conditioned vehicle, Private transportation, Photography of the days Tour on our cloud Free of Charge

Exclusions: Volcanoes National Park entrance fee $15 Per Person, Gratuities

Reviewed By Angus2002

We had a great day touring the Big Island with Rob. He worked with us prior to our visit to customize our time together and maximize our day. We were picked up at our resort in Waikoloa and took the southern route around the island making stops along the way to end up at Volcanoes National Park. After a fabulous day, Rob and Jodi got us safely back to our resort while we relaxed and watched some great videos in the van. We appreciated Rob’s knowledge of the island and the places we visited. His van was very comfortable and we enjoyed snacks and beverages brought along. We will definitely tour with Rob again on our next visit to the Big Island.

2. Hawai'i's Volcanoes National Park from Hilo Only

Malahini Tours
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5.0 based on 10 reviews

Get the most of your time in Hilo by having a local driver get you to the most popular attractions on Hawai'i Island. Get all your questions answered and have a new friend by the end of the day. This tour may be customized if communicated before hand. Duration time is considered as the importance when customizing.

Inclusions: Bottled water

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By justinsZ8465GX

This was our first time to Hilo, we got off the cruise ship and didn’t know what we were going to do. We ended up taking the free shuttle to rainbow falls and followed up with their tour to one of the 2018 fissure sites, macadamia nut tour, and black sand beach. We have been to many different destinations and been on many tours and Dan provided some of the best service and information. They went above and beyond to ensure everyone had a great time and was comfortable. We definitely recommend them to anyone visiting Hilo.

3. Circle Island Tour

Island of Hawai'i, Hawaii, USA Anuenue Rainbow Tours
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

Our flexibility and accommodating style set Anuenue Rainbow Tours apart. We tailor each tour to the desires of the group – where we go and how long we stay at any stop along the way is up to you. (We've listed only typical attractions and times spent at each; we happily accommodate what you want to do.) Your attentive tour guide will point out features along the way and delight you with her knowledge of local culture and history. Your guide is a 38-year resident of the island with a degree in Hawai'ian culture and history, a passion for sharing her love of the island, a great sense of adventure, and an abiding aloha spirit. Our air-conditioned Honda Odyssey comfortably accommodates 2 to 7 guests as we traverse the beautiful Island of Hawai’i and experience the sights, sounds and flavors of this incomparable tropical paradise. We are committed to delivering an excellent customer experience! PLEASE NOTE: Your $75 payment through Trip Advisor covers the 1st hour ONLY, as time is flexible.

Inclusions: Private transportation, Air-conditioned vehicle, Good weather! (Tour will be rescheduled or cancelled and fully refunded if weather is bad.), Cost covers 1st hour of tour ONLY. Payment for additional hours arranged at time of booking.

Exclusions: Cost of additional hours beyond the 1st hour

Reviewed By Brisbeachmom

Shelby, the owner, is an amazing tour guide. We spent 2 days with her and was a highlight of our 2+ week Hawaiian adventure and she did our airport transportation as well. (See my North and South Island reviews.) These were some of the best private tours I have ever gone on. She is very reasonably priced, takes to places you want find on your own, tells the island's history in a really fun way - totally recommend if you want to really get a sense of the Big Island. Mahalo Shelby - Eva

4. Kohala Tour (North Island)

Island of Hawai'i, Hawaii, USA Anuenue Rainbow Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Our flexibility and accommodating style set Anuenue Rainbow Tours apart. We tailor each tour to the desires of the group – where we go and how long we stay at any stop along the way is up to you. (We've listed only typical attractions and times spent at each; we happily accommodate what you want to do.) Your attentive tour guide will point out features along the way and delight you with her knowledge of local culture and history. Your guide is a 38-year resident of the island with a degree in Hawai'ian culture and history, a passion for sharing her love of the island, a great sense of adventure, and an abiding aloha spirit. Our air-conditioned Honda Odyssey comfortably accommodates 2 to 7 guests as we traverse the beautiful Island of Hawai’i and experience the sights, sounds and flavors of this incomparable tropical paradise. We are committed to delivering an excellent customer experience! PLEASE NOTE: Your $75 payment through Trip Advisor covers the 1st hour ONLY, as time is flexible.

Inclusions: Private transportation, Air-conditioned vehicle, Good weather! (Tour will be rescheduled or cancelled and fully refunded if weather is bad.), Cost covers 1st hour of tour ONLY. Payment for additional hours arranged upon booking.

Exclusions: Cost of additional hours beyond the 1st hour

Reviewed By Brisbeachmom

Shelby, the owner, is an amazing tour guide. We spent 2 days with her and was a highlight of our 2+ week Hawaiian adventure and she did our airport transportation as well. (See my North and South Island reviews.) These were some of the best private tours I have ever gone on. She is very reasonably priced, takes to places you want find on your own, tells the island's history in a really fun way - totally recommend if you want to really get a sense of the Big Island. Mahalo Shelby - Eva

5. South Island Tour

Island of Hawai'i, Hawaii, USA Anuenue Rainbow Tours
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

Our flexibility and accommodating style set Anuenue Rainbow Tours apart. We tailor each tour to the desires of the group – where we go and how long we stay at any stop along the way is up to you. (We've listed only typical attractions and times spent at each; we happily accommodate what you want to do.) Your attentive tour guide will point out features along the way and delight you with her knowledge of local culture and history. Your guide is a 38-year resident of the island with a degree in Hawai'ian culture and history, a passion for sharing her love of the island, a great sense of adventure, and an abiding aloha spirit. Our air-conditioned Honda Odyssey comfortably accommodates 2 to 7 guests as we traverse the beautiful Island of Hawai’i and experience the sights, sounds and flavors of this incomparable tropical paradise. We are committed to delivering an excellent customer experience! PLEASE NOTE: Your $75 payment through Trip Advisor covers the 1st hour ONLY, as time is flexible.

Inclusions: Private transportation, Air-conditioned vehicle, Good weather! (Tour will be rescheduled or cancelled and fully refunded if weather is bad.).), Cost covers 1st hour of tour ONLY. Payment for additional hours arranged upon booking.

Exclusions: Cost of additional hours beyond the 1st hour

Reviewed By Brisbeachmom

Shelby, the owner, is an amazing tour guide. We spent 2 days with her and was a highlight of our 2+ week Hawaiian adventure and she did our airport transportation as well. (See my North and South Island reviews.) These were some of the best private tours I have ever gone on. She is very reasonably priced, takes to places you want find on your own, tells the island's history in a really fun way - totally recommend if you want to really get a sense of the Big Island. Mahalo Shelby - Eva

6. Остров Вулканов — Обзорная Экскурсия на Большой Остров Гавайи

Russia Hawaii Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

ЭКСКУРСИЯ ПО БОЛЬШОМУ ОСТРОВУ ГАВАЙИ — ОСТРОВУ ВУЛКАНОВ Мы увидим аллею баньянов в парке Лилиокалани и Радужный водопад. Побываем на уникальном и неповторимом чёрно-песчаном пляже, понаблюдаем за большими морскими черепахами. Совершим прогулку через джунгли к водопадам Акака и Кахуна, и посетим плантации орхидей. Посетим Гавайский национальный парк вулканов, пройдёмся по подземному тоннелю Thurston Lava Tube, сфотографируемся на фоне панорамной кальдеры — Килауэа и извергающегось дымом и огнём кратера Халэмаумау. Посетим родники пара, побываем в Old Volcano House hotel и проведаем музей вулканологии имени Томаса Джагера. Bозвратимся вечером на корабль или в отель в Хило. Ярчайшие незабываемые впечатления на всю жизнь!

Inclusions: Parking Fees, Local licensed guide, All entrance tickets of the route including Reserves and National parks, Swimming on the best tropical beach, Private transportation

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Reviewed By nataliya170

Very positive, helpful and fun couple Ilia and Natalia.Hawaii is an amazing place with lots to see. Recommend Russia Hawaii Tours to everyone! Unforgettable memories.

7. Kayak Snorkel Capt. Cook Monu. See Dolphins in Kealakekua Bay, Big Island (5 Hr)

82-5674 Kahau Pl, Captain Cook, HI 96704, USA Aloha Kayak Co.
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5.0 based on 42 reviews

Aloha Kayak Co. exclusive tour permit to launch and land on both sides of the bay has a limit of 12 guests per guided tour. We are permitted for 2 tours daily, one afternoon, and one morning. Once on the water at one of the most pristine kayaking locations in the world, you will visit a protected Marine Life Conservation District (MLCD) while being narrated about the history and culture of the area. Along the way to our destination you will have the opportunity to see clear blue waters, Ancient Hawaiian Temples, Burial Caves, Towering Sea Cliffs and watch the Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins play and rest in their natural habitat. We will spend time exploring the Captain Cook Monument snorkel area, snorkeling one of the most pristine coral shelves in the world, abundant with wildlife and breathtaking underwater landscapes.We will visit the monument and walk trails with historical sites all around us.

Inclusions: Certified lifeguard guide, Sandwich lunch: Ham or Turkey or Veggie, Bottled Drinking water, Kayaking and Snorkeling equipment

Exclusions: Private transportation, Air-conditioned vehicle, Towels, Shoes, Gratuity

Reviewed By lj991

We did both the manta ray tour and the captain cook snorkeling tour. Iwa and Rabbit are fantastic! I was a bit afraid when jumping into the water, and we were also behind the group when kayaking. Rabbit and Iwa were incredibly patient. I felt very safe with these guys. Captain Cook has a mile of kayaking. Our upper body felt sore the next day! But it's so worth it. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience and the other snorkeling sites can't come close. The coral was amazing. Water was crystal clear.The tropical fish was abundant and lovely. Some one in our group saw an octopus. Comparing to boat tours, kayaking is more fun and I also felt more connected to nature this way. In addition, it's great to support this small business with these two amazing guys!

8. PRIVATE Turtles, Whales, Waterfall & Volcano with Delicious Lunch & Bakery Stops

Hele-On Mo'oheau Bus Terminal, 329 Kamehameha Ave, Hilo, HI 96720, USA HANG OUT WITH A LOCAL
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

A cruise ship-friendly activity. Contact Tara Pruett @ HANG OUT WITH A LOCAL with questions, for pickups outside of the range listed herein, and for more private tours! ALOHA! We offer a playful, genuinely local experience with a local guide. On this epic tour, you will see the major sites like the volcano, lava tube, and waterfall. You'll also enjoy lunch at an awesome lunch place and visit our beautiful Carlsmith Beach Park to scout for turtles and whales - all in one day - a rare find! As you're guided by our light-hearted, and knowledgeable local guide, you'll hear about daily living in Hawai'i and Hawaiian customs. You will be delighted with local snacks during the tour (the snacks are free), and we stop at the best place for lunch plus at a delicious bakery where we point out local favorites. Delicious and interesting! After that, we will go to a beautiful beach for spotting fish, turtles, and even humpback whales when in season! *Route may be altered based on the weather

Inclusions: All Fees and Taxes, Bottled water, Air-conditioned vehicle, Private transportation, Port / Hilo Hotel pickup and drop-off, Professional local guide, Snacks

Exclusions: Gratuity, Pickups beyond Hilo avail (fee based on location) - Tara Pruett HANG OUT WITH A LOCAL for info

Reviewed By gregertel

Very customer oriented and friendly!! Tara was extremely helpful and friendly on the phone - she gave us some great advice and suggestions that led to an outstanding day. We have been to the Big Island several times, but would have missed out on a great experience if we had not received great advice from Tara, definitely recommend for your island trip, ALOHA Greg

9. PRIVATE Volcano-Turtles-Whales-Waterfall w Delicious Lunch Stop

Target, 74-5455 Makala Blvd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA HANG OUT WITH A LOCAL
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

*A cruise ship-friendly activity. Contact Tara Pruett @ HANG OUT WITH A LOCAL with questions, for pickups outside of the range listed herein, for private tours & for last-minute tour requests! See the volcano, walk through a lava tube, visit a waterfall, plus scout for turtles and whales - all in one day - a rare find! We offer a playful, genuinely local experience with a local guide. As you're guided by our light-hearted, and knowledgeable local guide, you'll hear about daily living in Hawai'i and Hawaiian customs. You will be delighted with local snacks during the tour (the snacks are free), and we stop at the best place for lunch where we point out local favorites. Delicious and interesting! Search Tripadvisor for our listing: "Turtles, Whales, Waterfall & Lava Excursion with Epic Lunch & Bakery Stops" to find our glowing 5-star reviews.

Inclusions: Professional local guide, A visit to Kilauea Volcano on the Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, A stop at Kilauea volcano steam vents, A walk through the Nahuku - Thurston Lava Tube, A stroll to the Volcanoes National Park sulfur vents, A viewing of a Kilauea volcano eruption when open to the public, A stop at a gorgeous black sand beach for turtle and whale watching (whale season: Nov- early May), A stop at the beautiful Rainbow Falls, A walk back in time in Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau where we will experience the Hawaiʻi of yesterday., A local’s insight - an orientation - into top things to see & places to eat on the island, A free sampling of chocolate-covered macadamia nuts, and other local snacks, Transportation by air-conditioned car, minivan or passenger van, Convenient pickup and drop-offs from Kailua-Kona and Waikoloa hotels, Bottled water

Exclusions: Gratuity, Lunch, Route may be altered due to weather and when stops are closed to the public, Nature - lava, turtle and whale sightings - can not be guaranteed, Whale watching starts in November and ends in early May, Bakery goods

Reviewed By Resort735314

Toured with Tara and had a great time. Not only did we see fabulous spots in and near Hilo like the volcano, waterfalls and beaches with turtles but she explained a bit about the Hawaiian culture as well. The coffee, donut and candy shop interspersed were great little respites from the walking part if the tour. I highly recommend “Hanging with a local” to anyone visiting the Hilo area. You will not be disappointed.

10. Hawaii Big Island Circle Small Group Tour: Waterfalls - Hilo - Volcano - Black Sand Beach

Hawaii Outdoor Guides
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5.0 based on 64 reviews

This tour is perfect for the traveler that would like to see most of the island of Hawaii! We travel most of the climate zones and learn lots about the history, culture and geology! Our groups are kept small in our 15 passenger high roof van.

Inclusions: National Park fees, Lunch, Water, Snacks, Live commentary on board, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By ye0nmi85

Katie is a phenomenal tour guide. She asked what we would like to see (when I booked the reservation) then gave us an itinerary. We decided on 2 waterfalls, black sand beach, volcano, and Kaumana Caves. We got poured on at Akaka Falls but she said it was the best waterfall she has seen. She was totally prepared; an umbrella for me, a raincoat for my husband...she is super knowledgeable and a great person to spend the day with. We crammed a lot into 12 hours. I would definitely use her again! Thank you, Katie!

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