Big Island Hawaii Self-Guided Driving Tour

If you’re heading to Hawaii’s Big Island and looking for an easy way to see its highlights without the hassle of big tours or strict schedules, a self-guided driving tour might be just what you need. This particular experience from Travel with Action offers a flexible way to explore the island at your own pace, using your phone and offline maps. It’s designed for travelers who love the idea of discovering hidden gems and major sights without being tied to a group or rigid itinerary.

What we appreciate about this tour is the ability to create your own rhythm and choose what interests you most. Plus, the cost is pretty affordable—around $17 for up to four people—which makes it a good deal, especially if you plan to return or extend your stay. One thing to keep in mind is that some users have experienced technical hiccups, especially with app connectivity in certain parts of the island. So, if you’re tech-savvy and prepared, you’ll likely find this a handy way to navigate the Big Island’s vast landscape.

This tour suits those who prefer a self-directed experience, genuinely want to learn about Hawai’i’s sights, and enjoy having the freedom to stop wherever they like. It’s especially useful if you’re comfortable using a smartphone for navigation and audio guides. If you’re after a carefully curated group experience or want to visit specific attractions requiring tickets, this might not be the best option. But if you’re adventurous, curious, and like the flexibility, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Flexible self-guided experience allows you to explore at your own pace.
• Cost-effective: One purchase covers your entire vehicle for a year.
• Offline maps and narration mean you don’t need cell connection once downloaded.
• Wide range of stops: From volcanoes to beaches, it covers the island’s highlights.
• Mixed reviews on app reliability suggest some users faced connectivity issues.
• Great for independent travelers who want to customize their trip.

A Deep Dive into What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This self-guided driving tour hits all the main points many travelers want when exploring the Big Island—dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, scenic coastlines, and cultural sites—while giving you the freedom to linger or skip as you please. For a price of just $16.99, this is a pretty good deal, especially considering it can be used for a full year and for up to four people in one vehicle.

How It Works

Once you purchase the tour, you download an app called Actions Tour Guide onto your phone. You’ll receive a password to access the content, which you should do while connected to good Wi-Fi or cellular service. After that, the app functions offline, guiding you via GPS to each stop with audio narration. The system is designed to play stories automatically as you approach each point of interest, so it’s hands-free and convenient.

It’s worth noting that many reviews praise the narration style as engaging and filled with fun facts, making the drive educational and entertaining. The app’s ease of use is usually highlighted; however, some users have encountered issues with Bluetooth or CarPlay, which can hinder the experience if you’re not prepared.

What’s Included

• An engaging storytelling experience that unveils the island’s sights and stories.
• Offline maps that work without a cellular signal.
• The ability to pause and resume the tour at any time, offering total flexibility.
• One purchase for an entire vehicle, making it more affordable than guided tours or multiple tickets.
• Compatibility with a smartphone app, making it accessible for most travelers.

What’s Not Included

• Attraction entry tickets or reservations, so plan those separately.
• Guided group experiences or live tour guides.

Analyzing the Itinerary

The tour covers a wide route, starting in Hilo and moving south, then looping around the island. Here’s a closer look at some of the stops:

Hilo and Volcanoes National Park

The journey begins in Hilo, where you can explore Wailuku River State Park and Rainbow Falls, known for their colorful mist effects. Nearby are the bubbling Boiling Pots, and just south is the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park with its rainforests and active volcanoes like Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Many visitors mention that this part of the trip provides a fantastic overview of Hawaii’s volcanic activity and lush landscapes.

One reviewer notes, “The landscape was beautiful and varied; the stories were interesting,” which hints at the engaging narration that accompanies the scenery. Others appreciate the opportunity to see the sights at their own pace, especially with the freedom to linger longer at favorite spots.

Scenic Stops and Cultural Sites

The tour includes stops like the Scenic Outlook Park, a tranquil place to sit and take in the views, and Honoli’i Beach Park, popular with surfers. While the beach isn’t ideal for swimming due to currents, surfers and spectators enjoy it immensely. Be aware, some sites like Honoli’i require climbing down stairs, so it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues.

The Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden and the Onomea Bay Trail are highlights for nature lovers. These spots offer peaceful walks and lush scenery, perfect for a quick escape into Hawaii’s botanical riches. The Botanical Garden is a nonprofit preserve, so visiting supports local conservation efforts.

Waterfalls and Historical Sites

You’ll see waterfalls on Sugar Mill Road and the Upper Waterfalls at the World Botanical Gardens, which many find impressive. The Laupahoehoe Train Museum and Laupahoehoe Point Cemetery are poignant stops that tell stories of the island’s history, including the devastating 1946 tsunami. Several reviews mention that these sites offer meaningful insights into local history and tragedies.

North and West Coast Highlights

Traveling north, you’ll pass the Kohala Coast, famous for lava fields and luxury resorts. The Anna Ranch Heritage Center in Waimea offers a glimpse into ranching history, while Hapuna Beach is often listed as one of the top beaches in the region.

Further along, the Kings Highway Foot Trail and Kekaha Kai State Park provide opportunities for short hikes and beach visits. The Kiholo Bay and Black Sand Beach are scenic spots where volcanic activity has shaped the landscape.

Kona and South Kohala

Driving through Kona, you’ll find Kona Coffee Farms—famous for their premium beans—and the Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, a significant cultural site. The Hulihe’e Palace and Magic Sands Beach are notable for their historical and natural appeal.

Some travelers, however, point out that certain sites on the Kona coast may be less accessible or require additional planning, making it important to research ahead if specific attractions are a priority.

Final Stretch and Return

The tour ends back near Kailua-Kona, giving you the chance to explore more or relax at the beaches. The Hawaii Belt Road encircles the island, providing a scenic drive that many enjoy.

Travel Experience and Practicalities

Based on reviews, the app’s narration is generally engaging and informative. Several travelers comment on the fun facts and helpful tips, which enhance the drive and help uncover hidden corners of the island. The ability to pause and restart the tour makes it easy to take breaks or explore side attractions.

However, some users have experienced technical issues. A few reviews mention that the app stopped working or didn’t connect in certain regions, particularly in the south, which is frustrating when you’re half-way through the journey. We advise downloading the entire tour well before you start, while on strong Wi-Fi, to avoid missing out.

The price is a standout feature. For less than $20, you get a comprehensive, year-long, multi-person license to explore the island on your terms. This makes it a much better value than guided tours or multiple attraction tickets, especially for travelers who prefer a self-paced approach.

Duration and Flexibility

The tour is designed for about 2 to 4 hours, but with the ability to extend your stops and explore the island at your own speed, you could easily spend a day or more. Travelers report doing the route over multiple days, which allows for a more relaxed experience.

Who Would Enjoy This?

This experience is ideal for independent-minded travelers comfortable with smartphones and GPS. It’s perfect if you want to get out of the car to explore more intimately, or if you prefer the convenience of having stories and facts narrated without joining a group. It’s not suited for those who rely heavily on guided tours with fixed schedules or who prefer tickets and reservations for attractions.

Final Thoughts: Is It Right for You?

If you’re someone who loves the idea of a personalized island tour, this self-guided experience offers incredible value. You’ll appreciate the flexibility to stop wherever you want, the engaging narration that makes history and geography come alive, and the cost-effectiveness of a single purchase that lasts a year.

It’s especially well-suited for confident travelers who enjoy using smartphone apps and want to avoid the crowds. For those concerned about app reliability, it’s worth noting that some users have faced issues, but many found it easy to troubleshoot and still enjoyed the experience. Remember to download everything beforehand, and consider supplementing it with your own research on sites you don’t want to miss.

In sum, this tour offers a practical, budget-friendly way to see the Big Island’s core attractions, learn interesting facts, and enjoy the scenery on your own terms. It’s a smart pick for adventurous solo travelers, couples, or small groups who value independence and a bit of local insight without the hefty price tag.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What do I need to start the tour?
You’ll need to purchase the tour, download the Actions Tour Guide app, and enter the provided password. Make sure to do this while connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data.

Is the tour suitable for multiple people in one vehicle?
Yes, the purchase covers up to 4 people in one vehicle and can be used for a full year.

Do I need to buy attraction tickets separately?
Yes, the tour does not include attraction passes or reservations. You’ll need to buy tickets for specific sites if required.

How long does the tour usually take?
The core route takes about 2 to 4 hours, but you can spend more time stopping at sites or taking detours.

Can I do this tour over multiple days?
Absolutely. Many reviewers mention that they extended the trip over several days to explore more leisurely.

What if I encounter technical issues?
Support is available via the app or your tour voucher. It’s recommended to download the entire tour beforehand to minimize connection problems.

Is the app easy to use?
Most users find the app straightforward, but some experienced app users have noted occasional connectivity issues.

Can I start the tour at any time?
Yes, you can start whenever you like between 6:00AM and 9:00PM; the tour is flexible and self-paced.

If you enjoy a mix of scenic drives, cultural insights, and the freedom to explore on your own terms, this self-guided Big Island tour could be a great addition to your Hawaiian adventure. Just come prepared, and you’ll find it a valuable, budget-friendly way to see the island’s highlights.