Hilo Shore Excursion: Safari Lava Caves, Falls and Highlights

Planning a visit to the Big Island of Hawaii and looking for an experience that combines natural wonder with a little adventure? This Hilo shore excursion offers a well-rounded look at some of the island’s most iconic sights, from fiery lava flows to lush waterfalls. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply curious about Hawaii’s volcanic landscape, this tour promises a memorable six hours.

What we particularly love about this trip is how it balances guided insight with enough free time to soak it all in. The tour includes round-trip transportation, which takes the hassle out of navigating unfamiliar roads, and the stops are thoughtfully diverse—covering waterfalls, lava tubes, and even black sand beaches. That said, one thing to keep in mind is the moderate physical activity involved, especially when walking over uneven terrain or exploring lava caves. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with some walking and a bit of adventure.

If you’re keen on learning about Hawaii’s volcanic history while seeing some breathtaking scenery, this tour offers a great value. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of the Big Island’s most striking features, without the need to plan every stop on their own. Families with older kids, adventure seekers, or anyone curious about the island’s volcanic landscape will likely enjoy this trip.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering waterfalls, lava caves, hot pools, and black sand beaches
• Expert guides providing detailed insights into Hawaii’s volcanic activity and history
• Hassle-free transportation from Hilo port or hotels
• Moderate physical activity involved, including walking over uneven terrains
• Great value at around $133 per person for six hours of exploring
• Ideal for travelers comfortable with some walking and uneven ground

What to Expect in Your Big Island Adventure

This tour is a well-structured mix of sightseeing and storytelling. From the moment you’re picked up at the Hilo cruise port or your hotel, the day is filled with diverse stops, each offering a different perspective on the island’s volcanic forces and lush landscapes. The journey is about 6 hours long, and with plenty of engaging stops, you’ll get a sense of how the Big Island’s volcanic activity has shaped its scenery and communities.

First Stop: Liliuokalani Gardens

Your journey begins with a peaceful stroll through Liliuokalani Gardens, the largest Japanese garden outside Japan. It’s a quiet, beautifully maintained space full of stone lanterns, gazebos, and traditional gates, all reflecting Hawaii’s multicultural heritage. It’s a calm start and a good way to get your bearings before diving into the more dramatic sights ahead.

Rainbow Falls

Next, you’ll visit Rainbow Falls, one of the island’s most photographed waterfalls. This 80-foot cascade is famous for often throwing rainbows into the mist on sunny days. It’s a place that truly feels magical, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch the perfect weather. The waterfalls are set in a lush, tropical environment, and the view over the rocks is mesmerizing. As one reviewer put it, “This was a magical place, and even when the sun wasn’t out, it was still beautiful.”

Lava Caves at Kaumana Park

One of the highlights is exploring Kaumana Caves, lava tubes created by Mauna Loa. These natural tunnels are fascinating—imagine walking through a dark, volcanic underground world. The guide will explain how lava flows form these caves, and you might get to walk partway into them, depending on comfort with uneven and sometimes steep terrain. A reviewer noted that “The steps to get into the lava tube are steep and uneven,” but also mentioned that you can skip going inside if you prefer.

The Impact of Recent Lava Flows

Driving through the island’s back roads, you’ll encounter the destructive path of recent eruptions, including the lava flow that led to the evacuation of Pahoa. Several reviews commented on the powerful scenes of lava meeting the sea, showing how dynamic and unpredictable volcanic activity can be. One traveler shared, “We saw the lava flows that nearly wiped out neighborhoods, which was both sobering and impressive.”

Lava Tree State Park

Next, you’ll visit Lava Tree State Park, famous for its tree molds left behind by lava flows. It looks like a petrified forest, with trees coated by cooled lava that has solidified into casts. A gentle walk here offers a unique perspective on how lava can reshape the landscape.

Black Sand Beaches and Hot Pools

One of the most captivating sights is Pohoiki Bay, where you’ll walk on newly formed black sand created by lava flows. The beach is raw and striking—perfect for a quick photo stop. Nearby, a small trail leads to a volcanically heated hot pool, a special experience since many hot ponds have been wiped out by recent eruptions. Travelers have raved about feeling the warmth of this natural feature, as one review noted, “The hot pool is quite special since the last lava flow wiped out all others.”

Destruction and Resilience: Leilani Estates & Green Lake

The tour includes a drive past Leilani Estates, an area heavily affected by recent eruptions, with roads cracked open and lava fountains still visible in the distance. It’s a reminder of the power of volcanoes and the resilience of local communities. Another site, the former Queen Bath, now submerged by lava, shows how nature reclaims its space.

Local Flavor at Malama Market

For lunch, you’ll stop at Malama Market, where you can choose from local vendors or a deli offering Hawaiian-inspired fare. This adds a nice touch of local flavor, letting you sample regional specialties and relax before heading back.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

This tour has consistently earned high praise, with many reviewers mentioning knowledgeable guides who make the story of Hawaii’s volcanoes come alive. One said, “Lori was very knowledgeable and friendly,” and another called the guide “exceptional and very well informed.” Such insights really elevate the experience, making the scenery more meaningful.

Some travelers pointed out that the lava caves involve walking over uneven or steep terrain, so comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must. If mobility is a concern, you might prefer to skip entering the caves, as the steps in some spots are quite steep. The tour’s physical demands are moderate—mainly walking and standing—but not suitable for those with mobility issues or who dislike uneven ground.

Price and Value

At roughly $133 per person for six hours, this tour offers good value considering the diverse stops and expert guidance. It’s more than just sightseeing—it’s an educational, immersive experience. The transportation is included, meaning you won’t hassle over navigating your own way around, and the group size is limited to 24, keeping the experience intimate and personalized.

Reviews Speak Volumes

Reviewers have raved about guides like Lori and Dave, praising their storytelling and knowledge. Many mentioned how the stops were well-paced, and the optional stops at lava tubes and hot pools added an extra layer of adventure. One traveler shared, “Our guide was the best. He took us to so many different areas and was very knowledgeable,” highlighting how much the personal touch adds to the trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

Adventure seekers and nature lovers will find plenty to love here, especially those who don’t mind a bit of walking on uneven surfaces. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive view of the island’s volcanic landscape, mixed with cultural insights. Families with older children or teens can enjoy this, but younger kids might find some parts physically demanding.

The tour is not meant to be a leisurely stroll—expect to stand, walk, and explore volcanic caves and lava fields. If your main interest is just relaxing at the beach or avoiding strenuous activity, this might not be the best fit. Also, it operates rain or shine—so pack a light rain jacket if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Hilo shore excursion offers a compelling mix of volcanic scenery, waterfalls, and local culture, all led by guides who know how to make it engaging. Its value lies in the variety of stops, from the breathtaking Rainbow Falls to the raw power of recent lava flows. The experience is about more than just sightseeing; it’s a chance to understand how Hawaii’s landscape has been shaped by fire and water.

While some parts involve walking over uneven terrain, most travelers find the moderate activity manageable and well worth the effort. The included transportation, expert guides, and scenic stops make this a straightforward, enjoyable way to explore the Big Island’s volcanic heart.

If you’re curious about Hawaii’s geological story and want to see its fiery side up close, this tour is a strong choice. It suits those who enjoy learning on the go and aren’t afraid of a little adventure. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring a rain jacket, and keep your camera ready for some truly spectacular sights.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s generally fine for older kids, the tour involves walking over uneven terrain and steep steps, especially at lava caves. It’s best suited for children who are comfortable with moderate activity.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about 6 hours, including transportation and all stops.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Hilo’s port or your hotel is included, making it hassle-free.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to uneven ground. Dress appropriately for weather, and bring a rain jacket if needed.

Is lunch included?
No, but there is a stop at Malama Market where you can purchase lunch from local vendors or a deli.

Are the lava caves accessible?
You can explore parts of the caves, but note that steep stairs are involved. If you prefer, you can skip entering the caves.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are on this tour?
The maximum group size is 24 travelers, keeping the experience intimate and personal.

In all, this tour offers a great way to experience the volcanic energy of Hawaii and see some of its most iconic sights. Whether you’re into geology, waterfalls, or just want a day of island exploration, it’s worth considering for your Big Island adventure.