Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Experience from Oahu: Visit Active Volcano Kilauea

Experience the power of Kilauea, Hawaii’s most active volcano, on this inter-island excursion. Visit the famous Kona Coffee belt, Punalu’u Black sand beach, and more.

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.

  • 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). Positioned on the slopes of Mauna Loa, the park boasts a diverse mix of wet and dry forest ecosystems, offering visitors a tranquil setting for picnicking and hiking. The park’s 2-mile Manuka Nature Trail guides 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 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 peaceful retreat 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.
  • 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, 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.
  • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park - 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 - 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
  • Engaging narration from a local guide, sharing stories and insights throughout your tour
  • In-vehicle air conditioning
  • Inter Island airfare to Kona International Airport from Honolulu International Airport is Included
  • Hawaii Volcanos National Park Admission is Included
  • Snacks
What's Not Included
  • Transportation to the Honolulu Airport is not included
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

This tour gives you an opportunity to explore Kilauea, the most active volcano on the Big Island. Your itinerary will include key attractions such as the renowned Kona Coffee belt, Hawaii’s Volcano National Park, and Punalu’u Black sand beach. Take delight in tasting sweet bread at the Punalu’u bakery, observing active volcanic steam vents, walking through the Thurston lava tube, viewing the Kilauea Iki rainforest lookout, and touring the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, among other activities in this comprehensive inter-island excursion. Experience the force of the volcano and get a view of all five volcanoes on the Big Island of Hawaii.

  • 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 8. Visitor Center
  • 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
  • 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
4.6
(28 Ratings)
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Jennifer_p
Feb 25, 2024
Worth it - Traveling with someone who knows the local ins and outs is the way to go. It really enhanced the experience rather than trying to do it on our own. It also made it efficient so that we could get so much done in one day.
Review provided by Viator
Debby411
Feb 23, 2024
Volcano experience - Mel was excellent and very knowledgeable of the volcanos Nd the Hawaiian culture great job I highly recommend
Review provided by Viator
Minchiec
Jan 26, 2024
ALOHA SUNSHINE TOUR - Johnny Aloha is the BEST TOUR GUIDE.. he’s very cool guy and learned a lot from him!! He is best recommended, 100% satisfaction! Awesome tour indeed!!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Vojtech_u
Oct 3, 2023
Amazing day trip to the Big Island - I did this trip from Oahu. Everything was perfectly organized. We visited southern half of the Big Island, especially the Volcanoes National Park. Mel was a great tour guide.
Review provided by Viator
Ann_a
Aug 13, 2023
Fabulous - Fabulous trip. Wonderful tour guide. Detailed geographic explanations. Reliable. Convenient. On time.
Review provided by Viator
F6482yfjanetc
Jul 13, 2023
We learned so much!!! - Our family toured the Big Island and it was amazing. The black sand beach was beautiful, the sweet bread bakery had delicious marsaladas, and the volcanoes were simply astounding. However, it was our tour guide Mel that made this tour so remarkable. He has a depth of knowledge in all aspects of this island…the culture, history, science, and his own familial roots is what brought this tour to life. His willingness to share his passion for the island is what will stay in our minds for forever!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Daniela_c
Jan 17, 2024
What an amazing experience! - This trip was amazing, Mel is super knowledgeable, funny and keeps you informed about every site you visit. The places are amazing and I loved every single thing about it! I can’t recommend Mel enough, he’s that person you can find 1 in a million!! He picked us up and dropped off at the airport on time. You NEED to take this trip if you’re willing to see the Kilauea! The only con is that it says it includes snacks, water, juice and soda, it DIDN’T. We only had water, so we needed to do some stops to get our own snacks. I think the tour provider should change the “included” section!
Review provided by Viator
Kathryn_j
Aug 27, 2023
Wonderful experience would recommend! - Our family of three with two adults and one 11 year old all enjoyed this tour! It's a long day as we did inter-island travel but each stop was so interesting with beautiful views that we didn't feel the fatigue! There was so much history to every site and our guide Mel was happy and eager to share it all with us. Even other people on other groups tried to follow ours after overhearing Mel describe what we were looking at so thoroughly. Great job Mel and great tour! Coolest part was the lava tube!! And the coffee is DELICIOUS!
Review provided by Viator
Srikanth_p
Aug 10, 2023
Mel is great - Mel was great in sharing his culture and history with us on this tour. We didn't get a chance to see the waterfalls, but that was partly due to some flight delays and construction. Overall, would recommend this tour for those looking for a one day tour of Hawaii Island.
Review provided by Viator
Nina_s
Feb 13, 2024
Disappointing - First they rescheduled it from 2/12/2024 due to “technical difficulties with the van” to 2/13/2024. Paid for transportation myself from the hotel to the airport and got rescheduled twice for flights and finally after 3 1/2 hours get informed that Kona airport is not accepting any flights as they are fixing the runway. This could have been communicated to 8 individuals early. Very disappointing. Better communication needed.
Review provided by Viator
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September 2024
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