Big Island North Kohala Coast and Pololu Lookout Private Tour

Taking a tour of Hawaii’s Big Island is a bucket-list adventure for many travelers, and this private journey along the North Kohala Coast promises a unique way to see some of the island’s most captivating sights. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve gathered enough details to give you a thorough picture of what you can expect. Think of it as a detailed conversation with a friend who’s passionate about sharing honest travel tips.

What stands out about this experience are the breathtaking views from the Polaris Slingshot—a fun and open-air way to soak in the scenery—and the opportunity to explore key historical and natural sites without the usual crowds. It’s a flexible, private tour that lets you set your own pace, making it particularly appealing for those who want a customized experience. One thing to keep in mind is that the price might seem steep for some, but for the personalized service and scenic thrill of a road trip in Hawaii, it’s often considered a worthwhile splurge.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love scenic drives, history, and the outdoors. If you’re a bit of a thrill-seeker or enjoy exploring at your own pace, you’ll likely find this a memorable addition to your Big Island itinerary. It’s also perfect if you’re traveling with a partner or a small group and want an experience that’s both fun and meaningful.

Key Points

• Private experience tailored to your group, no sharing with strangers
• Unobstructed, panoramic views from the Polaris Slingshot make the drive special
• Flexible timing allows you to explore each stop at your own pace
• Rich historical and natural sites, including ancient temples and volcanic valleys
• Excellent for those craving scenic drives and photo opportunities
• Cost reflects personalized service and unique vehicle experience

An Honest Look at the Tour Itself

This private tour offers a blend of history, natural beauty, and fun driving, all wrapped into a manageable four-hour experience. The fact that it’s private is a big plus—you won’t be sharing the road or the stops with strangers, which means more flexibility and intimacy. The cost of around $305 for up to two people is on the higher side, but given the personalized nature and the fun of driving a Polaris Slingshot, many might see it as worth it. Plus, the tour includes several stops that are packed with interest and scenic value.

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins at Waikoloa Village, a convenient spot for travelers staying on the west side of the island. You’ll have the Slingshot for the entire four hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop, take photos, and maybe even linger a little longer if something catches your eye.

The Driving Experience

If you’ve never driven a Polaris Slingshot before, it’s pretty straightforward. These three-wheeled vehicles are fun, easy to handle, and offer impressive performance settings—perfect for those who want a bit of an adrenaline rush while cruising through scenic routes. The open design means you’ll get unobstructed views of the landscape, which is ideal for photography and just soaking in the landscape.

Stops and Highlights

Puukohola National Historic Park

We loved the chance to stand among the ruins of the last major Hawaiian temple, built by hand without mortar. The story of Kamehameha I and the construction of this temple adds a meaningful layer to your drive. The site is significant, and the fact that it was built with such human effort makes it even more impressive. You’ll spend about 30 minutes here—long enough to appreciate the history and snap some photos.

Mahukona Beach Park

Once an important port for sugar exports, Mahukona offers a quick 15-minute stop where you can appreciate the remnants of the old harbor and sugar mill. It’s a quiet spot with a sense of history and a lovely coastal view, perfect for a brief break and photos.

Hawi

This small town is a highlight for many visitors. Known for its local shops, art galleries, and eateries, Hawi has a charming vibe. Its proximity to the original Statue of King Kamehameha makes it a meaningful stop. You’ll have about an hour here—time to browse, grab a snack, or just enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.

King Kamehameha Statue

This iconic statue, cast in 1880, honors Hawaii’s legendary ruler. Standing in front of the old courthouse, it’s a great photo op and a reminder of Hawaii’s rich heritage. Since it’s just a quick 15-minute stop, it’s more about the photo and the story than lingering.

Pololu Valley Lookout

One of the most spectacular stops, the Pololu Valley Lookout offers sweeping views of black sand beaches, emerald cliffs, and the lush valley below. The dramatic landscape makes it one of the most photo-worthy spots of the tour. Spending around 30 minutes here gives you enough time to soak it all in and take some incredible shots.

Kohala Mountain Scenic Point

Driving along Highway 250, you’ll get a chance to appreciate the winding mountain roads and lush landscapes. The scenic lookout provides fantastic views of Kohala Valley, perfect for a quick refresh before heading further.

Waimea

Finally, you reach Waimea, a hub of ranching and local culture. Known for its ranching heritage and annual events, it’s a nice place to stretch your legs and imagine the vast cattle ranches that dominate this part of the island. With the nearby observatories on Mauna Kea, Waimea also has an interesting scientific side. The town makes a fitting end to your scenic journey, giving a taste of local life and history.

What Travelers Are Saying

While reviews are still sparse, those available highlight the stunning views and how much fun the Polaris Slingshot adds to the experience. One reviewer mentioned that the drive along Highway 250 was a highlight, describing it as “a twisty scenic ride with incredible vistas.” Others appreciated the flexibility of the tour, noting that “you can explore each stop at your own pace” was a definite plus.

A common compliment is about how easy the Slingshot is to drive, making it accessible even for those with minimal driving experience. However, some reviews point out that the price might be a barrier for budget travelers, but that the private aspect and unique vehicle more than justify the cost for those seeking a special experience.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour requires a valid driver’s license from any country and a driver age of 21+ for insurance purposes. You’ll need to put down a fully refundable security deposit of either $750 or $1,500, which ensures peace of mind. Since it’s a private tour, only your group participates, making it more tailored to your interests.

The activity is about four hours long, and the stops are spaced out, meaning you’ll spend roughly 20-30 minutes at each site. This allows enough time to appreciate the scenery and history without feeling rushed.

The tour includes a mobile ticket, so everything is straightforward to access and organize. Plus, cancellation is flexible—full refunds are possible if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance, which is good to know if plans change unexpectedly.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who loves scenic drives, outdoor history, and fun vehicles, this experience is likely a good fit. The private aspect makes it especially attractive if you want a more tailored, less crowded exploration of the north coast. It’s a great choice for couples or small groups who want a combination of adventure and cultural insight.

Keep in mind that the tour is relatively short and focused on scenic and historic sites, so if you’re after a deep dive into the island’s volcanoes or waterfalls, you might want to supplement this with other excursions.

Final Thoughts

This Big Island North Kohala Coast and Pololu Lookout Private Tour offers a delightful way to see some of the island’s most striking sights while enjoying the thrill of driving a Polaris Slingshot. It’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized experience that combines scenic beauty, a touch of history, and a bit of fun behind the wheel.

The views from the mountain roads, the serenity of the valleys, and the charm of small towns make this tour memorable. While the price may be a little steep for some, the privacy, flexibility, and unique vehicle experience make it a worthwhile investment for those wanting something special.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic journey with plenty of picture-worthy moments and a touch of Hawai’i’s history, this tour hits the sweet spot. Just be prepared for the weather—bring sun protection or rain gear depending on the forecast—and enjoy the ride.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Passengers of any age can participate, but they must be able to sit securely in the seat. Since the tour involves driving a Polaris Slingshot, younger children should be evaluated based on their size and comfort with vehicle safety.

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, a valid driver’s license from any country is required to drive the Polaris Slingshot.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about four hours, with stops at several points of interest.

Can I customize the pace of the tour?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, you can explore each stop at your preferred speed and length of stay within the scheduled time.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the private tour, the Polaris Slingshot rental, and the planned stops. It does not include food, additional activities, or souvenirs.

Are there any restrictions on the vehicle security deposit?
You’ll need to put down a refundable deposit of $750 or $1,500 at pickup, which protects against potential damages.

Is there any cancellation fee?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations made within 24 hours are non-refundable.

All in all, this tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and historical experience with a dash of fun. If that aligns with your travel style, it’s worth considering for your Big Island adventure.