2 Days Private Cruise Shore Excursions to Hilo and Kona

Introducing the 2 Days Private Cruise Shore Excursions to Hilo and Kona

If you’re considering a trip to Hawaii’s Big Island and want to experience it without the chaos of big tour groups, this private 2-day cruise shore excursion might be just what you’re after. It promises a tailored adventure, with your own group of up to 14 people, and a chance to explore both the lush Hilo side and the sun-drenched Kona coast at your own pace.

What really catches the eye here are the flexibility of a private experience—no strangers along for the ride—and the comprehensive itinerary that covers volcanoes, waterfalls, beaches, and local flavors. The tour balances iconic sights with authentic local stops, making it a strong choice if you want a well-rounded taste of the island without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

One thing to consider is the price—at nearly $2,480 for a group, it’s an investment. But when you think about the exclusivity, personalized attention, and the variety packed into just two days, it can be good value especially if you’re traveling with a group or family. Still, it’s not a comprehensive accommodation or meal plan, so you’ll want to plan for meals around the tour.

This experience suits travelers who love a mix of nature, culture, and scenic drives, and who prefer having a dedicated guide to customize the day around your interests. It’s ideal for those who want a private, flexible, and comfortably paced adventure on the Big Island.

Key Points

• Private & Personalized: Only your group of up to 14, meaning more flexibility and intimacy.
• Wide Range of Highlights: Volcanoes, waterfalls, beaches, coffee, and local history, all in two days.
• All-Inclusive Aspects: Admission fees, transportation, snacks, and drinks are covered.
• Focus on Authentic Experiences: From Black Sand Beach to Kona Brewing, you get a taste of local culture.
• Time-Friendly: Well-designed for travelers with limited time who want a full island overview.
• Consider the Cost: It’s a significant investment, but the private, curated experience offers good value.

The Journey: What You Can Expect from this Private Big Island Tour

This tour is designed as a two-day adventure that hits multiple highlights, giving you a taste of the Big Island’s diverse landscapes and cultural sites. The focus is on creating a flexible, intimate experience—no crowded buses or shared groups—just your own crew enjoying the sights.

Day 1: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, and Black Sand Beaches

Your first day kicks off in Hilo, the wetter, lush side of the island. You’ll start at the Hilo Farmers Market, a cheerful spot packed with exotic fruits, local crafts, and fresh flowers. It’s a relaxed way to soak in the local vibe and pick up some souvenirs if you wish.

Next, a short drive brings you to Rainbow Falls, a well-known waterfall famous for rainbows in its mist. It’s a quick stop, but you’ll love the photo opportunities here. The walk is easy—a short paved path from the parking lot makes it accessible to most.

Then, you’ll visit the Big Island Candies shop, which is more than just a sweet treat stop. Watching artisans dip cookies in chocolate and browsing gift-worthy confections makes for a fun indoor break.

The highlight of the day is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You can expect to see the incredible volcanic landscape, walk through the Thurston Lava Tube, and experience the raw power of active volcanoes. The lava tube walk is described as “moderate”—meaning it involves some stairs and uneven footing but is generally manageable. You’ll also visit Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, where the striking volcanic sand and sea turtles basking in the sun are a strong visual memory.

Finally, the day wraps up at Ka’u Coffee Mill, where you can sample award-winning Hawaiian coffee and browse local treats. It’s a tasty, laid-back conclusion to a busy day.

Day 2: Culture, Beaches, and Local Flavors

The second day starts with Pu’ukohola Heiau, a historic Hawaiian temple built by King Kamehameha I, which offers insights into the island’s history and importance. It’s a brief stop, but one that adds depth to your understanding of the islands’ past.

Next, you visit Hmkua Macadamia Nut Company—a working nut processing facility where you can see how macadamia nuts are sorted, roasted, and packaged. Sampling a variety of flavors makes this stop both informative and delicious.

The Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area is the day’s highlight—ranked #1 in the USA for 2023, it’s a near-perfect stretch of white sand and turquoise water. Two hours here give you ample time to relax, swim, or just soak up the scenery.

Later, you might explore historic sites like Mokuaikaua Church and Hulihee Palace, both offering glimpses into Hawaiian history and royal life, with oceanfront views that make for memorable photos.

Your tour ends at Kona Brewing Company, where you can unwind with a craft beer after a day of sightseeing. It’s a relaxed, social way to cap off your Big Island experience.

The Practical Details

This tour begins at 9:00 am, with all transportation included in an air-conditioned vehicle—ideal for comfort during the island’s warm days. It’s a private experience, so your group’s pace is prioritized, and you won’t be sharing the vehicle or stops with strangers.

The price covers all the essential fees: admission, parking, fuel surcharge, and snacks/drinks throughout the day. Meals are not included, so plan for some lunch and dinner on your own, though the stops at local spots like the coffee mill and brewery provide great options to sample local flavors.

Given the flexible nature of the itinerary, you can expect a mix of walking (mostly easy), sightseeing, and some time for relaxing or quick exploration. The tour ends back at the start point—convenient for planning your evening.

What’s Not Included

As the tour doesn’t include meals, you’ll want to budget for lunch and possibly dinner, depending on how your day unfolds. Snacks and drinks are provided, but if you’re a big eater or craving a full meal, bringing extra snacks or planning ahead is wise.

Suitability

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, intimate overview of the Big Island, without the rush of a big group tour. It’s perfect for those who appreciate being able to customize their pace and focus on sights that interest them most. While not explicitly family-focused, the stops are generally accessible for most ages, and the relaxed pace makes it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

The Real Talk: What Our Research Tells Us

While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed itineraries show it offers a well-rounded experience. The emphasis on exclusive access and flexible timing makes it stand out from larger, cookie-cutter excursions. Travelers appreciate the variety of stops—from natural wonders to cultural sites—and the inclusion of all fees and snacks adds a lot of convenience.

One reviewer mentioned that the tour “covered key highlights and was a good value for a private experience,” emphasizing the overall satisfaction with the balance of sightseeing and comfort. The inclusion of the Hapuna Beach stop, ranked as the best in the country, is a major draw for beach lovers.

However, keep in mind that this is a two-day commitment, and with a price tag approaching $2,500, it’s an investment. But for those seeking a private, curated experience that hits multiple highlights without the hassle of planning each detail, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck.

Final Thoughts

This private tour provides a thoughtful, flexible way to experience the Big Island’s most iconic sights and hidden gems in just two days. The focus on exclusivity and personalized pacing makes it stand out from larger group excursions, giving you a more relaxed, tailored experience.

It’s a good fit for travelers who want to see a lot without feeling rushed, especially if you’re traveling with a group or family and prefer a more intimate setting. The variety of stops—from volcanoes and waterfalls to beaches and cultural sites—ensures a well-rounded visit that captures the spirit of the island.

While the price might be a barrier for some, many will find that the convenience, comfort, and private nature of this tour justify the cost. If you’re looking for a memorable, customizable adventure on the Big Island, this could be just what you need.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the stops generally involve easy walking and interesting sights, so older children and teenagers could enjoy it. Be mindful of the walking involved at certain sites like lava tubes and beaches.

What is included in the tour price?
The cost covers all admission fees, parking, fuel surcharge, private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and snacks and drinks throughout the day.

Are meals provided?
No, meals are not included. You’ll want to arrange for lunch and dinner on your own, though stops at places like the coffee mill and brewery offer good options.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can likely accommodate your interests and pace, focusing more on sites you love or skipping some.

How long are the stops?
Most stops range from 15 to 30 minutes, with some longer times at beaches or scenic areas like Hapuna Beach.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking are recommended. Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are also advisable, especially for outdoor stops.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, which helps beat the heat during busy days.

What if it rains?
Hawaii’s weather can be unpredictable. Many stops, like the candy shop and coffee mill, are indoor, and the tour can adapt to changing conditions.

How far in advance should I book?
Since it’s a private experience, booking a few weeks ahead ensures availability, especially for peak travel seasons.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Less notice means fewer options, so plan accordingly.

If this sounds like the right fit for your Big Island trip, it offers a blend of sights, culture, and comfort in a way that’s hard to beat. Happy planning!