This post contains affiliate links
Aloha!
I assume you’re here because you’re planning a trip to Hawaii’s Big Island, but you’re not sure what to do while you’re there?
You’re in the right place!
Deciding what excursions to spend your money on can be a big challenge. A trip to Hawaii isn’t inexpensive to start, and as amazing as sitting on the beach enjoying the warm ocean breeze can be, you may want to get off your lounge chair and see more of the island during your stay. To help you with that, I’ve put together a few recommended activities to hopefully make the decision easier for you.
As a Travel Agent, I use and recommend my clients book activities through Project Expedition, which has verified and highly rated excursions available throughout the world. Today, though, we are focusing on Hawaii’s Big Island.
Night Swim with Manta Rays
This is one of the most popular activities for visitors to the island of Hawaii.
Photo by Max Gotts on Unsplash
Tours leave from the Kailua-Kona area at 7:00 pm, 7:40 pm, 8:20 pm, 9:00 pm, and 9:40 pm, depending on the date. You’ll spend plenty of time in the water swimming with these gentle giants, who range in size from 3ft to a whopping 15ft across! Average “wingspan” for manta rays on this tour is between 5ft and 8ft. Life jackets, snorkel masks and wetsuits are provided. Snacks are, too! The price is $115.72 for ages 12+, and $83.40 for 5-11 year olds. For more information, or to book, go here.
Epic Island Volcano Journey
Now that Kilauea is no longer actively erupting, Volcanoes National Park is open for business!
Spend your day exploring all the must see sights of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Search for sea turtles as you stroll the fine crystal black sands of Punaluu, and venture into a private cave system to learn how lava tubes are formed. You will enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast, Kona coffee samples and a farm tour at an award winning Kona Coffee farm. This 12 hour tour will also take you to view the Rainbow Falls in Hilo. Minimum age is 8 years old. The price is $209.42 for ages 8-12, and $235.60 for anyone over 12. For more information, or to book, go here.
Wild Dolphin Swim & Snorkel
YES, you can start your morning by swimming with wild dolphins, and end your trip snorkeling with sea turtles!
Begin your day of adventure by diving into the ocean, and swimming with wild spinner dolphins, to experience their energy and curiosity with humans. Afterward, you’ll travel south to explore the sea caves along the Kona Coast, then go snorkeling in the calm waters of Kealakekua Bay Reserve, which is only accessible by boat. Snorkel gear & flotation aids are provided. As are snacks & beverages. $170 for ages 12+, $145 for ages 0-11. Have someone in your party who wants to join in the fun, but without getting in the water? The ride along rate is $100. For more information, or to book, go here.
Zipline Adventure
Ziplining is one of the most popular activities on the islands, and this is The Big Island’s longest course!
Have fun flying down the longest zipline course on Hawaii Island, which covers nearly two miles, and a 1,000 foot drop, of gorgeous tropical river gorges! This 8 line zip course is fun for the whole family.After your zipline adventure enjoy a Hawaiian style BBQ lunch and swim in a private waterfall! Light snacks and water are provided through out the tour. Minimum age of 5 years old, and must weigh between 35 and 275 pounds. $300.52 for ages 12+, and $295.13 for those under 12. Anyone not able or willing to participate in the zipline can “walk along” for $171.26. For more information, or to book, go here.
Hakalau Forest Reserve Birdwatching Exclusive
For those looking for a little less adventure, and a little more of a connection with nature, this is the tour for you!Gain entry into a restricted access National Wildlife Refuge
You’ll gain entry into a restricted access National Wildlife Refuge, and discover rare native plants and animals, including carnivorous caterpillars and spiders. Search for native & endangered birds including Amakihi, Apapane, Elepaio, and see Akepa, Akiapolaau, and Iiwi. Your interpretive guides are expert bird trackers. You’ll hike for 2-4 miles, and the minimum age is 8 years old. Includes continental breakfast, lunch & beverages. Cost is $225.13 for all participants. For more information, or to book, go here.
I hope this gave you some good ideas, and if you are looking for even more options, be sure to check out Project Expedition’s website, which has many, many more available tours for you.
As always, if you need any assistance in booking your Hawaii vacation, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I have partnerships with amazing companies and am always happy to help book my clients a memorable Hawaii vacation!
I also have a list of recommended activities for Oahu and Maui!
