USA · TOURS IN BIG ISLAND OF HAWAII

The 15 Best Tours in Big Island of Hawaii

75 tours  ·  from $25 a head

Every trip has one free day too few. These 15 tours in Big Island of Hawaii justify the slot, priced and timed so you can decide in minutes and get back to the fun part.

Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History - Kona coffee at Bay View Farm
Historical Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours in Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History

1.Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 6,569 reviews · 11 hours (approx.) · from $264Our pick

Spend about 11 hours circling Hawaii’s Big Island in a small group of up to 13. Your guide takes you from Kona coffee country and Punaluʻu Beach to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, lava tubes, waterfalls, and Waipio Valley, with lunch, hotel pickup, and a Mercedes Sprinter included.

“They will learn so much about the big Island of Hawaii. Folks will learn about the history, indigenous culture, plant life, animal life, etc. The tour is jam packed with information. The locations we stopped at were always interesting and beautiful. Our guide Dave was amazing. I think we were lucky to have gotten him.”

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Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel - Getting ready for the night snorkel
Evening Experiences, Snorkeling Tours in Big Island of Hawaii, Snorkeling, Shark & Manta Ray Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours in Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel

2.Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 5,656 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $84

Meet Hang Loose Boat Tours at Keauhou Bay for a short evening cruise, sunset views, and a guided night snorkel with manta rays. Bryce, Noah, Vince, Aden, Jordan, and other crew members are praised for safety and calm support. Gear, flotation aids, wetsuit tops, snacks, and water are included. You must already be comfortable swimming and snorkeling.

“Crew was the best Aden and Jordan. They made sure the passengers were ok or had any questions. They did their best with the weather situation.”

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Big Island: Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Tour in Keauhou Harbor - From Keauhou Harbor to the feeding site in three minutes
Snorkeling Tours in Big Island of Hawaii, Snorkeling, Shark & Manta Ray Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island: Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Tour in Keauhou Harbor

3.Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Tour in Keauhou Harbor

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 2,465 reviews · 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.) · from $25Best value

Meet at Keauhou Harbor, collect your snorkel gear, and take a three-minute night boat ride to Kona’s manta feeding area. Up to 30 minutes in the water brings you close to rays drawn by a 150,000-lumen light board. Guides such as Greg focus on safety, clear instructions, and calm support for nervous swimmers.

“The experience was wonderful and the workers very friendly and nice it was such a big success will recommend everyone to come”

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Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park & Black Sand Beach - Macadamia treats add a pleasant island pause
National Parks, Shore Excursions, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Big Island of Hawaii

Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park & Black Sand Beach

4.Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park & Black Sand Beach

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 2,338 reviews · 6 hours (approx.) · from $159

From Hilo Pier, ride in a 12 to 14 passenger van or larger minibus to Volcanoes National Park, Kilauea viewpoints, a lava tube, Richardson Black Sand Beach, and a macadamia nut stop. Guides such as Robert, Jess, Donna, Maggie, Geo, and Hannibal are known for lively island stories. Park access and port transport are included.

“The guide was informative and the transportation was adequate. Loved the sites especially the lava tube. Definitely recommend it.”

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Big Island: Captain Cook Snorkel On A Power Catamaran With Lunch - Snorkeling, flotation, and getting back aboard
Cruises & Boat Tours, Lunch Experiences, Sailing, Snorkeling Tours in Big Island of Hawaii, Snorkeling, Shark & Manta Ray Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours in Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island: Captain Cook Snorkel On A Power Catamaran With Lunch

5.Captain Cook Snorkel On A Power Catamaran With Lunch

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2,232 reviews · 4 hours (approx.) · from $85

Cruise from Honokohau Harbor to historic Kealakekua Bay aboard a power catamaran with Hang Loose Boat Tours. Captain Aiden, Captain Bryce, Jordan, Kiwami, and the crew may share local history, search for dolphins and winter humpback whales, and guide you to clear water filled with reef fish. Snorkel gear, lunch, drinks, a rinse shower, and boat slides are included.

“Super fun and knowledgeable! Very informative about the reef and marine animals. Staff was super friendly! Will definitely be coming back!”

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KONA Manta Ray Night Snorkel - FREE re-ride if no Sightings - What happens before you enter the water
Evening Experiences, Snorkeling Tours in Big Island of Hawaii, Snorkeling, Shark & Manta Ray Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours in Big Island of Hawaii

KONA Manta Ray Night Snorkel – FREE re-ride if no Sightings

6.KONA Manta Ray Night Snorkel – FREE re-ride if no Sightings

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2,212 reviews · 1 hour 20 minutes (approx.) · from $49

Join My Kona Adventures at 78-7138 Kaleiopapa Street for a short ride to Kona’s manta viewing area. On the 23-foot RHIB boat, guides such as Taco, Peyton, Mike, and Rocky explain manta behavior before you spend 25 to 30 minutes in the water. Snorkeling, fuel fees, and taxes are included. Wetsuits cost extra.

“Wonderful adventure! Capt Mike did great job and Taco told us all about the mantas. He was great and very informative. Keiki helped with everything else. Water was not too cold, boat ride short and amazing time in the water. Such beautiful majestic creatures.”

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Manta Ray Night Snorkel at Kona, Big Island - A short ride to the manta feeding site
Evening Experiences, Snorkeling Tours in Big Island of Hawaii, Snorkeling, Shark & Manta Ray Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours in Big Island of Hawaii

Manta Ray Night Snorkel at Kona, Big Island

7.Manta Ray Night Snorkel at Kona, Big Island

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,758 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $44

Meet Dolphin Discoveries in Kailua-Kona, collect your mask, snorkel, and short-sleeve wetsuit top, then ride to Keauhou Bay for about 30 minutes in the water. You hold a lighted float while manta rays feed below and may pass within inches. Strong swimming skills, comfort in dark open water, and a metal-ladder climb back aboard are required.

“Amazing experience! Our guide Vinny was so knowledgeable and helpful! It was so beautiful and the manta rays came right up to us! If you have a bad back this could be hard on your back but our 11, 10 and 7 year old did it! It's a little intimidating jumping in but just an over phenomenal experience!”

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Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars - The ride up from Hilo, Waikoloa, or Kona
Evening Experiences, Tour Reviews, Tours in Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars

8.Big Island GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,706 reviews · 7 to 8 hours (approx.) · from $289

Spend 7 to 8 hours riding from Hilo, Waikoloa, or Kona to Mauna Kea with guides such as John, Chris, Kella, Val, and Tay. Watch sunset near the summit, then study stars and planets through a Celestron telescope at lower altitude. Jackets, gloves, snacks, hot drinks, and a night photo are included.

“This was a unique, beautiful and informative experience. We enjoyed the park Ranger visitor center learning about the telescopes at the Summit, the fabulous views and wonderful sunset at the Summit, and then we learned about a lot about stars constellations and the way the Polynesians used them for navigation. The last leg of the event, the van ride back to Starbucks, was unacceptable. .The van was overloaded. I was in the back corner, wedged up against the side of the van, did not have access to a seatbelt and my legs were jammed into the seat in front of me. One side of my butt was not even completely…”

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Small Group Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour - Punalu’u Bakery and the black sand coast
Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Big Island of Hawaii

Small Group Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour

9.Small Group Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,619 reviews · 12 hours (approx.) · from $297

Spend a long day crossing the Big Island with guides such as Felix, Derek, Todd, and Dreu. You’ll sample Kona coffee, visit Punalu’u Beach, explore Volcanoes National Park, eat two included meals, and finish under the stars. Expect a small group, Mercedes Sprinter transport, changing weather, and plenty of driving.

“It was a long day filled with a wide range of activities and experiences. It is a great primer for the Big Island so that one could decide later what else to explore or explore in greater detail. Our guide Felix kept us informed of other sites and activities along the way not on the trip to help with planning for other activities during out vacation. He was especially good at Volcanoes National Park taking us to many interesting spots to show different kinds lava flow features, the main caldera of Kileaua as well as now dormant fissures and volcanoes.”

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Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour - Meeting in Kona and setting out in a 4x4 van
Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour

10.Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,545 reviews · 8 hours (approx.) · from $329

Ride a 4x4 van with a small group to Mauna Kea’s summit for sunset, then descend to a darker, warmer viewing site. Your guide, such as Jeff, Jason, Wilson, or Eugene, explains Hawaiian culture, geology, and astronomy while you enjoy dinner, parkas, hot chocolate, and telescope views.

“This was hands-down our favorite tour/part of our trip. The experience was incredible and literally out of this world. John was the best.”

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Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit Tour with Free Night Star Photo - Meeting points and the long ride uphill
Evening Experiences, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island: Mauna Kea Summit Tour with Free Night Star Photo

11.Mauna Kea Summit Tour with Free Night Star Photo

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,449 reviews · 8 hours (approx.) · from $280

Ride a 4x4 van to Mauna Kea’s 13,796-foot summit with guides such as Chris, Wes, or James. Stop at 9,000 feet for dinner and warm clothing, watch sunset above the clouds, then use a telescope and laser pointer to study the night sky. Free DSLR photos are included when weather and moonlight allow.

“We had an excellent experience on the Mauna Kea Summit tour! Wes was an awesome guide — prompt at pickup, super informative on the drive up, and kept us updated the whole time when the rangers closed the road. On a clearer night, the experience was amazing. They provided warm jackets and pants, plus a sandwich, so everything was easy and comfortable. Wes took great sunset and stargazing photos for us, which was a nice bonus.”

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Kona Snorkel Tour: Captain Cook Reef Snorkel, Dolphin & Sea Caves - Why Kealakekua Bay matters
Dolphin & Manatee Tours, Snorkeling Tours in Big Island of Hawaii, Snorkeling, Shark & Manta Ray Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Big Island of Hawaii

Kona Snorkel Tour: Captain Cook Reef Snorkel, Dolphin & Sea Caves

12.Kona Snorkel Tour: Captain Cook Reef Snorkel, Dolphin & Sea Caves

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,411 reviews · 2 hours 45 minutes (approx.) · from $71

Join Kona Snorkel Tours for a small-group Zodiac ride from Kailua-Kona to Kealakekua Bay. You’ll snorkel near the Captain Cook Monument, cruise past sea caves and lava tubes, and hear island history from guides such as David, Chip, Sage, and Danielle. Pineapple, water, and basic snorkel gear are included.

“Danielle and David took us to where Finding Nemo and Moana got their inspiration and we can see why. The water was so calm and pristine, our best camera couldn't capture the beauty of it. You just have to be there truly. They were rather knowledgeable and told lots of stories and history tidbits about the region. My parents came to visit from China and don't swim very well. They were beyond patient and kind making us feel comfortable. This was the highlight of our 10 day Hawaiian trip honestly. PS: If David's mother is reading this, David is a terrific captain and really great at his job!!! 🌴”

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Big Island Historical Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay - Kealakekua Bay and Captain Cook’s Monument
Cruises & Boat Tours, Dining Experiences, Dinner & Sunset Cruises, Dinner Experiences, Historical Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours in Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island Historical Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay

13.Big Island Historical Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,279 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $189

Sail 12 miles down Kona’s coast to Kealakekua Bay aboard a catamaran, with a local historian pointing out landmarks hidden from land. Captain Erica and the crew may add lively island spirit, while dinner, Hawaiian music, sunset views, and one complimentary cocktail round out this three-hour evening.

“This was an amazing experience! Food was great, sunset was beautiful and the staff was amazing! A must do!”

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Glow of the Deep: Night Snorkeling with Manta Rays - Sunset from the upper deck
Evening Experiences, Snorkeling Tours in Big Island of Hawaii, Snorkeling, Shark & Manta Ray Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours in Big Island of Hawaii

Glow of the Deep: Night Snorkeling with Manta Rays

14.Glow of the Deep: Night Snorkeling with Manta Rays

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,254 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $80

From Honokohau Harbor, you cruise offshore for a Kona sunset, then spend about 45 minutes floating above a lighted board as manta rays feed below. Wetsuits, snorkel gear, flotation noodles, snacks, and water are included. You must know how to swim, but ride-along guests can stay aboard.

“Watching the Manta’s swim at you with their mouths open was other-worldly and a truly outstanding experience! We were all hypnotized by their majestical flips to eat the krill below us that the time just escaped us! We saw Mantas from the moment we hit the water until we left. This was an excellent trip that I would recommend to any family visiting Kona. Our crew took great care of us on and off the boat telling us unique and fun facts about the Manta’s to top off our experience!”

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Kailua Kona: Night Manta Ray Adventure on the Big Island - The 20-minute boat ride from Kailua Kona
Evening Experiences, Snorkeling Tours in Big Island of Hawaii, Snorkeling, Shark & Manta Ray Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours in Big Island of Hawaii

Kailua Kona: Night Manta Ray Adventure on the Big Island

15.Kailua Kona: Night Manta Ray Adventure on the Big Island

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 1,199 reviews · 2h 30m · from $121

Hang Loose Boat Tours takes you from Kailua Kona to a lit manta viewing site for a 150-minute night cruise and snorkel. You hold a light board while plankton draws manta rays close, often within inches. Crew members such as Aidan, Gary, Noah, Jordan, and Ula are praised for calm help in the water. A ride-along option is available.

“My husband and I booked this adventure for our honeymoon and are SO glad we did! It ended up being one of the best highlights of our trip. And this is coming from two people who can’t swim 😂 Our guides Aidan, Gary and Noah were hilarious and SO accommodating. We were initially fit with some snorkeling gear and quickly got on the boat to ride out about 20 min to the manta rays. We were given some life vests and noodle floats (to stay flat in the water). Even though I was panicked the first portion of getting in the water, our guides were always nearby & ready to…”

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New in Tours in Big Island of Hawaii

★ 4.5Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter TourFrom $202412 reviews
★ 5.0Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and GardensFrom $187393 reviews
★ 5.0Zodiac Raft Whale Watching AdventureFrom $113456 reviews
★ 5.0Whale Watching On The Big IslandFrom $98573 reviews
★ 5.0Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling Tour – 4 hour Kona Zodiac AdventureFrom $130508 reviews
★ 4.5Big Island, Hawaii: Volcanoes National Park SafariFrom $379545 reviews
★ 5.0Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour in Kailua-Kona, Big IslandFrom $125382 reviews
★ 5.0Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch Aboard a Luxury Catamaran from Kailua-KonaFrom $183797 reviews
★ 5.0Hawaii Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Beaches & Hilo Highlights Day TourFrom $186391 reviews
★ 5.0Snorkel with Manta Rays GuaranteedFrom $141738 reviews
★ 5.0Small-Group Big Island Tour: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Kona Coffee FarmFrom $209343 reviews
★ 4.0Big Island, Hawaii: Admission to Voyagers of the Pacific LuauFrom $190790 reviews
★ 5.0Manta Ray Snorkeling by Night in Kailua-Kona, HawaiiFrom $127672 reviews
★ 5.0Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona – Coral Reef Snorkel AdventuresFrom $125376 reviews
★ 5.0Polynesian Cultural ATV Tour in KonaFrom $187627 reviews

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