Kilauea Volcano Tour: Explore Hawaii's Natural Wonders

Embark on an inter-island excursion from Maui to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and witness the awe-inspiring power of Kilauea volcano. Explore natural formations, black sand beaches, and the world’s most active volcano.

Duration: 10 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Greenwell Farms - Greenwell Farms is a renowned coffee farm and producer situated in the Kona region of Hawaii’s Big Island. Founded in 1850 by Henry Nicholas Greenwell, it stands as one of Hawaii’s oldest coffee farms, with a rich history intertwined with the development of Kona coffee, celebrated globally for its superior quality.

The farm is nestled in the Kona district on the slopes of the Mauna Loa volcano. The area’s unique climate, featuring fertile volcanic soil, sunny mornings, cloud-covered afternoons, and consistent rainfall, provides perfect conditions for cultivating premium coffee.

  • Punalu’u Black Sand Beach - Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach, located on the southeastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, is renowned for its striking black sand, created from volcanic basalt. Surrounded by lush coconut palms, the beach offers a unique and picturesque environment for visitors. It’s also a popular spot for observing Hawaiian green sea turtles, which frequently bask on the shore. While the waters can be rough, making it less ideal for swimming, the beach is a must-visit for its natural beauty and cultural significance, offering a unique glimpse into Hawaii’s volcanic origins.

  • Manuka State Wayside Park - Manuka State Wayside Park is a serene, 13-acre park located on the Big Island of Hawaii along the Hawaii Belt Road (Highway 11). Situated on the slopes of Mauna Loa, the park features a diverse mix of wet and dry forest ecosystems, providing visitors with a peaceful setting for picnicking and hiking. The park’s 2-mile Manuka Nature Trail winds through lush native forests, showcasing a variety of plant species and volcanic features, offering insights into the area’s unique geology and ecology.

This hidden 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 tranquil escape into Hawaii’s natural beauty, making it an ideal stop for those exploring the southern part of the Big Island.

  • Punalu’u Bake Shop - Punaluʻu Bake Shop, located in Naʻālehu on the Big Island of Hawaii, is the southernmost bakery in the U.S. and famous for its traditional Hawaiian sweet bread, available 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 of Hawaiian hospitality and local flavors.

  • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park - Visiting Volcanoes National Park provides 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 offers a striking contrast, with 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 - 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.

  • Kohala Coast - 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 - 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.

What's Included
  • Round trip airfare to Kona International Airport from Kahului Airport on Maui
  • Engaging narration from a local guide, sharing stories and insights throughout your tour
  • Snacks
  • In-vehicle air conditioning
  • Hawaii Volcanos National Park Admission is Included
What's Not Included
  • Transportation to Kahului Airport on Maui is not Included
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

Seize this opportunity to explore Kilauea volcano, the youngest among the Hawaiian Islands. Through this Island-hopping adventure, you’ll get to enjoy the renowned Kona coffee belt, the extraordinary Punalu’u Black Sand beach, the Volcanoes National Park, and an insight into the existence of the world’s most vibrant volcano. Remarkable natural structures await you, such as the Kilauea Iki Steam Vents and the Thurston Lava Tube, along with the sequential history of the volcano at the Kilauea volcano visitor center. You also get to experience the Kilauea Iki rainforest and a view of Halema’uma’u Crater.

This exhilarating tour of Hawaii’s most unique feature promises to be a vacation highlight. Reserve your spot today and experience the majesty of Kilauea volcano and the Big Island.

  • 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 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
  • If you enjoy your tour tipping your guide in cash is always appreciated
  • 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
  • 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
Location
Greenwell Farms
81-6551 Mamalahoa Hwy
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.5
(18 Ratings)
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1 star
Mcward56
Aug 10, 2023
Senic, educational, and Mel was the best guide - Mel was the best. It was not only a scenic but extremely educational experience. Mel met us at the airport and made sure we got to him. With 10 years as a tour guide, a lifetime resident, and a family history going back 100s of years, he was an endless source of information. A scholar of Captain Cook, he shared the European discovery of the Hawaiian Islands in great detail, melding it with the culture Captain Cook encountered. He also provided a thorough, detailed explanation of the geology associated with the Hawaiian Islands and volcanoes. With only 2 couples on the tour, we had his undivided attention and he through in a quick visit to the beautiful Rainbow Falls in Hilo before taking us to the airport. I must admit that I was getting a little concerned about time, but he got us to our flight on time - as he promised. I had a lot of questions in preparation for the tour, and Jason was amazing. He even provided information and tips on sites and activities we weren't doing with Aloha Sunshine Tours. Definitely a quality, customer service oriented business.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
F1970fisarahl
Jul 10, 2023
Go see the volcanoes on the Big Island!!! - We did the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Experience from Maui, and it was INCREDIBLE!!! Mel was our tour guide for the day on the Big Island, and he was so knowledgeable and thorough!! His love for his island and people made the excursion so special!! He was so genuine and kind to me and my family. He was patient with our 9 year old and almost 4 year old daughters and their questions. He told us a lot of the history of the island and the science behind volcanoes and the formation of the islands. He was AWESOME & we had the BEST DAY touring Hawaii and the volcano national park!! The black sand beach was awesome too!! The flights from Maui to Oahu and then to Hawaii were seamless and set up by Aloha Sunshine Tours for us. Thank you for an incredible excursion on our vacation. We will never forget the awesome memories we made on July 6, 2023!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Candy_h
Jun 26, 2023
Excellent experience - Henry was excellent. Had a great time, learned a lot. Henry engaged with participants, pointed out highlights and took lots of photos for us. Was very knowledgeable and made our experience a great one! Would highly recommend
Review provided by Viator
Sean_m
Jun 9, 2023
Excellent tour! - We highly recommend this tour to couples and families. Our tour guide and driver was Mel, talk about the right guy for the job! Very knowledgeable, humorous & a very well spoken storyteller. He really made the trip for us among all of the sites that we saw. We were lucky enough to the the volcano erupting. More than half of the time is spent comfortably on the shuttle with entertainment from Mel. Water was provided on the shuttle, however snacks were not. Be prepared. We took 2 PB&Js each and we're glad we did. The lunch spot was pretty decent but very busy. Overall, enjoyed and money well spent.
Review provided by Viator
T7164ifdavep
Jun 7, 2023
Big Island departing from Maui! Amazing!! - The Big Island tour departing from Maui was awesome! Mel the tour guide is one of the best tour guides we have ever had in our many travels! We hit every place listed on the itinerary and never felt rushed for time. This was an amazing experience for all of us! Thanks Mel for making this a great day for us!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Explorer41237753203
Apr 14, 2023
Mel was terrific - What a terrific experience. Mel was our guide and not only did we go everywhere, but Mel was a terrific guide who gave us the cultural history of the native Islanders. Awesome experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Frank_l
Aug 20, 2023
Excellent tour, terrible support and attitude. - The tour was great. The guide knows his stuff but needs to know when to get off his script and listen. Don’t expect to speak with anyone at the tour company unless they call you. Your calls will go to recording and not be answere. Attitude is an issue too I expected more for $5k. But the tour itself and narration was excellent. Oh and did I mention almost missing by our flight back to HNL? I kept telling guide we had boarding at 5:30 and takeoff at 6. He insisted I was wrong and he knew better thst the flight took of at 6:30 and we had plenty of time to stop at and close some bakery at 5 then a waterfall and a slow ride to the airport. 7 of us made our flight by 2 minutes. Two of us had to take the next flight.
Review provided by Viator
Michael
May 13, 2023
Henry was a great tour guide! - The day started out a bit rough. had to fly from Maui to Honolulu, the catch a connecting flight to Kona. Well, we missed the connection. We got the next flight over. Henry picked us up and we got going. We packed a lot into a shortened tour. Henry knew a lot about the island and it's history. We got to learn so much along the way. The volcanoes were amazing. They were the main reason for hopping over to the Big Island. One of the highlights of our vacation this time. The east side of the island is pretty great. Not very touristy. I felt like we got to know the area a bit. Loved it. By the way, I had one of the best burgers ever at the Fairway Grill in Hilo. The 19th hole burger. Wow! Thanks Henry!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Christina_h
Aug 3, 2023
The tour guide Mel was... - The tour guide Mel was great. The roaches in rhe van ...not so much. It really ruined our day. My son was "bugging" out the entire day. We had to carry out bags out of the van at every stop. Instead of enjoying the beautiful island of Hawaii, we were worrying about the roaches getting into our stuff. Not worth the money or stress...very disappointing
Review provided by Viator
Cory_b
Apr 7, 2023
Don't book Sunshine Tours - The sites and itinerary were great. Unfortunately the ride was not up to par. The booking said we would have snacks and water provided which there was none thru the whole day. Also our van was invective with roaches. We spent most of the ride killing them at our feet while we drove.
Review provided by Viator
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October 2024
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