Hilo Cruise Ship Excursion: Volcanoes National Park Rainbow Falls

If you’re stopping in Hilo and looking for a way to really take in some of the island’s iconic sights, this Hilo Cruise Ship Excursion offers a solid option. It’s a tour tailored for travelers who want a quick yet comprehensive look at two of the Big Island’s most dazzling natural attractions—Rainbow Falls and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park—without the hassle of planning or navigating on your own.

What we genuinely appreciate about this tour is how it combines the beauty of lush waterfalls with the awe-inspiring power of active volcanoes in just about four and a half hours. Plus, the price point is often more accessible compared to onboard ship excursions, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers. The tour also scores points for easy port pickup and the promise of being guaranteed on time back to your ship—a crucial factor when you’re on a tight cruise schedule.

However, it’s worth noting that because the tour involves visiting active volcanic areas and walking over uneven terrain, it might not be ideal for everyone—especially those with mobility issues or who prefer very relaxed sightseeing. Also, since it’s a moderate tour involving walking, comfortable shoes and a light jacket are recommended. This tour is especially well-suited for curious travelers eager to see the Big Island’s geological marvels with a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Value for money: This tour tends to be less expensive than some cruise ship options, offering a good bang for your buck.
• Well-organized and guided: You’ll get a professional guide sharing insights that enrich your experience.
• Variety of sights: Combines waterfalls, volcanic craters, steam vents, and lava tubes in one trip.
• Small group size: Maximum of 15 travelers means less crowding and more personalized attention.
• Convenient logistics: Ports pickup and drop-off make it simple to hop on and off without extra hassle.
• Weather-dependent: As with most outdoor adventures, weather can influence the experience—be prepared for possible changes.

What to Expect From This Tour

Starting Point and Ease of Access

The tour kicks off at the Port of Hilo, specifically at 80 Kuhio St. It’s a straightforward start—your guide will meet you there, and from that point, transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle. The small group size (up to 15 people) helps keep things personal and manageable, especially when navigating narrow park roads or stopping for photo ops.

The First Stop: Big Island Candies

Your journey begins with a visit to Big Island Candies, where you can snack on some of their famous Chocolate Dipped Macadamia Nut Shortbread Cookies. This stop is only about 20 minutes, so you won’t spend too long here, but it’s a nice warm-up before heading into the wilds. Plus, it’s a great chance to pick up souvenirs or gifts, as their shop offers quality Hawaiian treats.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Next up is the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, arguably the star of this tour. This is where you’ll get an up-close look at Kilauea and Mauna Loa—two of the world’s most active volcanoes. You can expect approximately 2.5 hours here, which is enough time to explore key sites like the Steam Vents Lookout, where you can witness volcanic steam billowing from fissures—an experience that’s both fascinating and slightly eerie.

The Visitor Center is included in your visit, providing exhibits that shed light on the park’s geology, environment, and cultural significance. From glowing lava (if active eruptions are happening) to volcanic landscapes that seem otherworldly, this part of the tour is a highlight for many.

The Halemaumau Trail and Crater View

The tour also visits the Halemaumau Crater, a pit within the larger Kilauea Caldera. This area is especially compelling if the volcano is erupting, as the glowing lava can be visible from a safe distance. The walk here is about 40 minutes, and while it involves some walking over uneven ground, many reviews mention that the guide is considerate of the group’s pace. As one traveler said, “Being in a volcano was a unique experience.”

Rainbow Falls at Wailuku River State Park

The last major stop is Rainbow Falls, a stunning waterfall that gets its name from the rainbows often visible in its mist. This is a much shorter stop, around 20 minutes, but it’s a great way to round out the trip with some breathtaking scenery. The falls are especially photogenic in the morning light, and the lush surroundings make it feel like stepping into a postcard.

The Experience as Reported by Travelers

Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides as a standout feature. One commented, “Grover was our driver/guide. He was pleasant and knowledgeable about all aspects of this tour.” Others appreciated the informative commentary and the way guides made the journey fun with humor and stories.

While a few travelers experienced minor setbacks—like bus problems—the staff handled these hiccups promptly. As one person noted, “Bus issues were quickly managed, and it didn’t take away from the overall experience.” The small group size meant that everyone could ask questions and get personalized attention, which many found valuable.

The value for money is a common theme in reviews. Several say it’s much more affordable than ship-organized tours, with one traveler noting, “This tour was less than $200, and the guide made it worth every penny.”

And of course, the scenery doesn’t disappoint. Travelers rave about the views of Rainbow Falls and the volcanic landscapes—many describe the experience as “fabulous” and “a must-do.”

Transport, Timing, and Practicalities

The 4.5-hour duration is well-paced, allowing enough time at each stop without feeling rushed. The moderate walking involved suits most travelers who are comfortable on level terrain, but if you have mobility concerns, it’s worth considering. The tour is suitable for most age groups, given the manageable pace and manageable terrain, but those looking for very leisurely sightseeing might find it a little active.

The price point of $154 per person is attractive, especially considering the inclusion of pickups, guide, and transportation. This is often cheaper than most cruise ship excursions, making it a smart choice for travelers wanting value. Remember, food, souvenirs, and tips are not included, so budget accordingly if you want snacks or to purchase mementos.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is great for curious travelers who want an up-close look at Hawaii’s volcanic activity and waterfalls in a relatively short time. It’s particularly suited for those interested in geology, natural beauty, and Hawaiian culture without the hassle of organizing multiple independent visits. Given the small group size and guided nature, it’s also good for travelers who appreciate a bit of personal attention and expert commentary.

If you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced experience or have mobility restrictions, you might want to consider other options. But for active, interested sightseers eager to see the Big Island’s most iconic sights in a few hours, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the moderate walking and short nature of stops make it manageable for older children comfortable with walking. However, very young children or those with mobility issues might find some parts challenging. Always check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, along with a light jacket since weather can change quickly in volcanic areas. Sunscreen and water are also recommended, especially if the weather is sunny or warm.

Will I see active lava eruptions?
The tour includes visits to active volcanic areas, but whether you see lava depends on current volcanic activity. The guide will inform you of current conditions; sometimes, lava might be visible from a distance, or the area may be safe to get closer.

How long is each stop?
Expect about 20 minutes at Rainbow Falls, around 20-30 minutes at Big Island Candies, 2.5 hours at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, including the visitor center and lava viewing, and about 40 minutes for the Halemaumau trail.

What happens if the weather is poor?
Since the tour is outdoor-focused, poor weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 56 days in advance, but as it’s a popular tour, booking earlier guarantees availability. The tour is designed specifically for cruise passengers, so availability aligns with cruise schedules.

Final Thoughts

This Hilo excursion from Roberts Hawaii offers a well-rounded taste of Hawaii’s volcanic might and waterfalls, all wrapped into a manageable four-and-a-half-hour trip. It strikes a nice balance between sightseeing, education, and scenic beauty, with a focus on value and convenience. The guided experience ensures you won’t miss the key highlights, and the small group makes it feel personal.

If you’re someone who loves natural landscapes, is curious about volcanoes, or just wants to see Rainbow Falls without the fuss of planning every detail, this tour is worth considering. Just keep in mind the terrain and weather, and you’ll be rewarded with some truly memorable Hawaiian scenery—perfect for adding some fiery and waterfall magic to your cruise adventure.

This tour is an excellent choice for travelers wanting a memorable, guided exploration of Hawaii’s volcanic heart and lush waterfalls without breaking the bank. It’s practical, interesting, and offers a good snapshot of what makes the Big Island so special.