Grand Circle Island Tour (Route)

Operating Schedule:
Availability: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday

Duration: 12 Hours Start time: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Pickup from resorts in Kona & Waikoloa

• Guided tour with narration by a local expert
• Visits to Volcanoes National Park and ʻAkaka Falls State Park
• Includes umbrellas and a cooler with non-alcoholic beverages & water refills
• Multiple stops at various points of interest
• Comfortable transportation in a small-group setting
• Provision of sanitary, motion-sickness, and first-aid supplies

7:00 AM – Pickup at Kona Resorts

8:00 AM – Pickup at Waikoloa Resorts

8:30 AM – Arrival at Waimea Country Area

9:00 AM – Scenic drive along Honokaʻa Coast

10:00 AM – ʻAkaka Falls State Park

11:30 AM – Scenic rainforest & waterfalls

12:15 PM – Lunch stop (on your own)

1:00 PM – Hilo

1:30 PM – Volcanoes National Park (Jagger Museum Overlook, Steam Vents, Thurston Lava Tube, Volcano House Gift Shop)

3:30 PM – Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach

4:00 PM – Snack & early-dinner stop at Punaluʻu Bakery (on your own)

4:50 PM – Paradise Meadows

7:00 PM – Return to Kona Hotels

8:00 PM – Arrival back at Waikoloa Resorts

1. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

2. Punaluu Black Sand Beach

3. Punalu’u Bake Shop

4. Tex Drive-In

5. ‘Akaka Falls

6. Hilo

7. Liliʻuokalani Gardens

Points of Interest

• Hawaiian Volcano Observatory

• Admission fees

• Meals

This comprehensive Big Island tour begins with a 7 AM pickup from major hotels along the Kona coast. The adventure proceeds north towards the Hāmākua Coast, offering picturesque stops with views of the Kona, Kaʻu, and Hāmākua coastlines. Participants will explore the rainforest, including visits to Akaka Falls State Park and the Waipi’o overlook, with an optional quick dip in a waterfall. After a short stop in Hilo, enjoy lunch before proceeding to Volcanoes National Park. In the park, guests will visit key sites such as Kilauea Iki Crater, steam bluffs, and the Thurston lava tube, with the route tailored for optimal lava viewing. The tour then heads south to the stunning Punalu’u Black Sand Beach to spot turtles, followed by a late afternoon snack at a renowned family bakery (don’t miss the sweetbread!). The day wraps up with a sunset drive back north, dropping off guests in Kailua-Kona and Waikōloa. This full day of sightseeing covers the island’s most popular attractions, returning in time for a late dinner.

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