Public Circle Island Adventure Big Island in a Day

5.0 (one review) 9–11 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

one review

5.0

Public Circle Island Adventure Big Island in a Day — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Public Circle Island Adventure Big Island in a Day, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Experience an epic full-day Big Island adventure packed with waterfalls, lush valleys, volcanic wonders, and unforgettable island flavors. Start with fresh coffee and macadamia nuts, take in Waipiʻo Valley, and explore Akaka and Rainbow Falls. Sample local bites at the Hilo Farmers Market, visit Big Island Candies, then head into Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park to walk the Thurston Lava Tube, feel the steam vents, and enjoy crater views from Kīlauea and Volcano House. End at Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach, where honu often relax. It’s a big day with lots of driving, but no worries—your expert guide has done this route hundreds of times, so you’re in great hands. Don’t be discouraged by the few reviews—we’re just expanding beyond hotel concierges, who already know and love us! Feel free to ask anything, and book now for the ultimate Big Island adventure

Day Trips Nature and Wildlife Tours Full-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Small Group Short term availability Weather Dependent - Moderate

At a glance

Duration: 9–11 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 14 people
People per booking: 1–14
Guide: English
Operated by: Hawaii Island Time

Ages: Children (4–11 years) · Adults (12–102 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Bottled water
Included: Entrance fees: Entrance fee
Included: Snacks
Included: In-vehicle air conditioning: Air-conditioned vehicle
Included: Parking Fees

Not included

Not included: No lunch is provided other than snacks and drinks we have available. Please pack a lunch or purchase a lunch in Hilo or at a vendor.
Not included: Gratuities

Itinerary

Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site

Passing by

Glide past one of Hawai‘i’s most important historic sites: Puʻukoholā Heiau, a massive war temple built under the direction of King Kamehameha I. As we pass, you’ll learn how thousands of warriors carried stones by hand to construct this temple—an effort that helped Kamehameha unite the Hawaiian Islands. Take in sweeping coastal views as we continue along the Kohala coastline.
Stop 2

15 min

Start your day with fresh Hawaiian coffee and tasty macadamia nut treats. A perfect energizer before we hit the road.
Waipio Valley Lookout

20 min

Arrive at one of the most dramatic viewpoints on the island. Known as the “Valley of the Kings,” Waipiʻo is steeped in legend and lined with towering cliffs, taro fields, and waterfalls cascading deep into the valley. From the lookout, you’ll get postcard-perfect views of the lush valley floor and the black sand beach below. Photos here are a must.
Akaka Falls State Park

30 min Admission included

Take a leisurely rainforest stroll through bamboo groves, wild ginger, and giant ferns to witness the breathtaking 442-foot Akaka Falls, one of the island’s tallest free-falling waterfalls. The lush trail and tropical scents make this a favorite nature moment.
Rainbow Falls

15 min Admission included

A signature Hilo landmark, Rainbow Falls cascades over a lava cave said to be the home of a Hawaiian goddess. In the morning light, you may even catch shimmering rainbows in the mist. The overlook is easily accessible, making this a scenic and refreshing stop.
Stop 6

45 min

A paradise for food lovers, this bustling market offers a delicious variety of local lunch options. Pick up freshly prepared meals, poke bowls, plate lunches, island pastries, tropical fruits, and handmade treats.

Whether you self-pack or buy on-site, you’ll enjoy authentic flavors of the Big Island. Nearby is a full supermarket—perfect for snacks, drinks, sunscreen, or anything you might need for the rest of the trip.
Big Island Candies

15 min

A beloved Hawaiian institution, Big Island Candies is famous for its handcrafted cookies, dipped shortbreads, chocolates, and candies made with local ingredients. Watch artisans at work through the viewing windows, sample freshly made sweets, and browse unique gifts. This is also the last restroom stop before the volcanic region.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

1 h 40 min

Step into one of the world’s most unique landscapes—shaped by powerful geological forces and alive with Hawaiian culture and legend. Depending on weather conditions, here are the unforgettable destinations you’ll explore:

Steam Vents

Feel the heat of the earth rising beneath your feet as warm volcanic steam escapes from cracks in the ground.

Kīlauea Overlook

Take in sweeping views of the famous Kīlauea caldera—one of the world’s most active volcanoes.

Thurston Lava Tube (Nāhuku)

Walk through a remarkable lava tube created hundreds of years ago during a powerful volcanic eruption.

Volcano House Overlook

Visit the iconic Volcano House—Hawai‘i’s historic hotel perched right on the rim of Kīlauea. Step inside to enjoy the warm, rustic lodge atmosphere and take in one of the most famous vantage points of the caldera from its large picture windows. A perfect spot for photos and a moment of awe.
Ka'u Coffee Mill

15 min Admission included

Kaʻū Coffee (time permitting)

Kaʻū is one of Hawai‘i’s hidden coffee gems. Visit a genuine local producer and taste smooth, flavorful Kaʻū coffee—an under-the-radar favorite that many consider even richer than Kona coffee.
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

30 min

Walk along the famous black sands formed from ancient lava flows meeting the ocean. This striking beach is often home to Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) basking on the shore. Enjoy time to explore, take photos, and feel the unique texture of the volcanic sand beneath your feet.

Meeting point and pickup

The operator picks every participant up from their accommodation or the points below.

Pickup points

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection
Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Kings' Land Waikoloa
OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa
Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Tower Waikoloa Village
My Hawaii Hostel
Royal Kona Resort
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort
Fairmont Orchid - Hawaii
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Marriott’s Waikoloa Ocean Club

and one more pickup point

We will send a email message within 24 hours of start time and confirm approximate pick up time

Using your ticket

Please show your guide/driver upon arrival

Cancellation

Free cancellation

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

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.