Big Island Double Valley Slingshot Private Adventure Tour

If you’re searching for a unique way to see the Big Island of Hawaii, this Double Valley Slingshot private tour might catch your eye. It promises a full day of driving a sleek Polaris Slingshot across some of the island’s most stunning and historic spots. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but from what travelers share and what the itinerary offers, it sounds like a fun, memorable way to explore—especially if you’re craving a bit of adrenaline and scenic beauty combined.

What we really like about this experience is the freedom it offers. With a full 8 hours of flexible time behind the wheel, you can set your pace, soak in the views, and stop where you want. Plus, the top-notch Polaris Slingshot comes with notable features like a bumping stereo system, waterproof design, and lockable storage—making the ride both comfy and practical. On the downside, it’s quite a price tag, and the experience may be better suited for those comfortable with driving and navigating on their own.

This tour feels like a great fit for travelers who want more than just a guided bus ride. If you enjoy driving, scenic routes, and exploring at your own pace, you’ll likely appreciate the flexibility and the chance to capture some excellent photos. Families or groups of two who enjoy a bit of adventure will find it especially appealing. Just bear in mind the requirement for a valid driver’s license and the age restriction for drivers.

Key Points

• Fully private experience—only your group participates, giving you flexibility
• 8 hours of adventure—ample time to explore the island’s highlights at your own speed
• Stunning scenery—including valleys, lookouts, beaches, and historic sites
• Unique vehicle—a Polaris Slingshot offering unobstructed views and a fun ride
• Includes a detailed itinerary—covering historic landmarks and natural marvels
• Cost reflects exclusivity and vehicle features—worth considering if you want a personalized adventure

Starting Point and Duration

This tour kicks off at 69-250 Waikoloa Beach Drive in Waikoloa Village. It’s a private experience, so your group will be the only ones on the Slingshot, creating a more intimate and tailored adventure. The entire journey runs around 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy all the stops, take photos, and relax without feeling rushed.

Most travelers find that booking about 57 days in advance helps secure a spot, which suggests this experience is popular with those planning ahead. The cost is around $424.24 for up to two people, which, when you consider the private nature, the guided stops, and the vehicle, offers a hefty but potentially worthwhile value.

What’s Included and How It Works

This isn’t just a rental; it’s a curated adventure that includes a fully integrated navigation system—meaning you can explore independently without worrying about missing the way or wandering off course. The Slingshot itself is waterproof, which adds a layer of practicality, especially if Hawaii’s weather turns unpredictable.

You’ll need a valid driver’s license from any country and be at least 21 years old to drive, due to insurance requirements. Passengers of any age can ride, but everyone must be able to sit securely. To reserve the vehicle, a refundable security deposit of either $750 or $1,500 is required at pickup.

Since the tour is private, you won’t be sharing your experience with strangers, and you can customize the stops a bit if needed, within the planned itinerary.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The itinerary is a thoughtfully curated mix of natural beauty, history, and local culture, starting with a visit to Puukohola National Historic Park. Here, you’ll see the ruins of a significant Hawaiian temple built under Kamehameha I, with its impressive hand-placed red stones transported over miles. The site’s importance is palpable, showing the strength of ancient Hawaiian craftsmanship and history.

Next, you’ll head to Mahukona Beach Park, a spot with historical significance as a former port for the sugar industry. The remnants of the harbor and sugar mill tell stories of the island’s economic past. It’s a quick stop, about 15 minutes, but enough to soak in the history before you hit the road again.

Then, the tour takes you to Hawi, a charming town famous for local food and souvenirs. It’s a perfect place to stretch your legs, browse shops, and maybe pick up a few Hawaiian keepsakes. Nearby, you can visit the King Kamehameha Statue, a classic spot for photos, and learn about the legendary king who unified the Hawaiian Islands.

The views really kick in at Pololu Valley Lookout, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of black sand beaches and lush valleys. The deep cut of Kohala Mountain and the striking contrast of black and yellow sand dunes provide great photo opportunities. This stop highlights the island’s volcanic and erosional beauty and offers insights into traditional taro farming.

Driving along Kohala Mountain Road offers a twisty, scenic ride to Waimea, a town central to ranching. Here, you can soak in the vast landscapes of Parker Ranch, one of the largest privately owned cattle ranches in the U.S. Waimea also hosts big events like the Fourth of July rodeo and Cherry Blossom Festival, adding a touch of local culture.

The tour culminates at Waipio Valley Lookout, arguably one of the most dramatic scenery points on the island. You’ll see waterfalls, taro farms, and the lush valley floor, descending from nearly 2,000 feet above. It’s an iconic view that has captivated visitors for ages. If time permits, you can hike down into the valley or just enjoy soaking in the scenery from above.

Finally, the trip takes a quick detour through Honokaa, a laid-back town known for local shops and Malasadas at Tex Drive-In. It’s a good spot for a last-minute browse and a snack before heading back.

What Travelers Say and Why It Matters

From the one review available, a traveler named Cheryl described the ride as “a lot of fun” and appreciated the “nice” check-in experience. She mentioned the GPS programming was a little unclear at first, but overall, the fun factor was high. The positive takeaway here is that, despite a minor hiccup, the experience was enjoyable, and the vehicle drew a lot of attention—an added bonus for those who love a bit of admiration on the road.

While detailed reviews are limited, the highlights seem to be the scenic views and the flexibility the private tour offers. Having eight hours behind the wheel allows you to linger at each stop and take better photos, making it a good choice for travelers who want to craft their own adventure rather than follow a group.

Practical Considerations and Value

This tour isn’t the cheapest Hawaiian activity, but it offers a level of personalization and freedom that can justify the cost. If you’re looking for a unique, self-paced exploration with a sleek vehicle and scenic stops, it’s likely worth considering. The full 8 hours means you can skip or linger at sites based on your interests, which is a big plus for those who dislike rigid schedules.

Note that the driver must hold a valid license and be 21 or older, which might exclude some younger or less experienced drivers. The security deposit is refundable, so no worries there, but it’s worth planning for the upfront cost.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits adventurous travelers who enjoy driving and want maximum flexibility on their island trip. It’s ideal for small groups or couples comfortable with navigating scenic roads and exploring independently. If you’re after historic sites, lush valleys, and stunning vistas, it ticks those boxes beautifully.

However, if you prefer a guided experience with a lot of commentary and less responsibility behind the wheel, or if you’re traveling with children who aren’t comfortable sitting in a car for long stretches, this might not be the best choice.

Final Thoughts

If you’re someone who loves the idea of driving through Hawaii’s beautiful landscapes in a sleek, open vehicle, this private Polaris Slingshot tour can offer a truly memorable day. It combines the thrill of the ride with the chance to explore historic and natural wonders at your own pace, making it a flexible and engaging way to experience the Big Island.

The stops are well-chosen and showcase the area’s rich history and stunning scenery. While the price might seem high for some, the private aspect, vehicle features, and freedom to explore make it a compelling option for those who want a personalized adventure.

Just remember that comfort with driving and a sense of independence will greatly enhance your enjoyment. If that sounds like you, this tour could be a highlight of your Big Island trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Passengers of any age who can sit securely can ride, but the driver must be at least 21 years old with a valid driver’s license. It’s best suited for adults or teenagers comfortable with the vehicle.

How long do stops last?
Each stop averages around 15 to 30 minutes, enough to explore, take photos, and enjoy the scenery. You have the full 8 hours to decide how long to spend at each location.

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, the driver must have a valid license from any country and be 21 or older. The license is necessary for insurance purposes.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the private tour, vehicle use, and the navigation system. It does not include entrance fees to sites, which are paid separately if applicable.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can probably adjust the pace and spend more time at places you love, within the planned stops.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t refundable.

Is the vehicle comfortable and practical?
Yes, the Slingshot features waterproof design, a stereo system, and lockable storage, making it both fun and functional for a day of sightseeing.

If you’re after a day of scenic discovery with a touch of adventure and a lot of flexibility, this private Slingshot experience might be just what you’re looking for. It’s a fresh, fun way to see the Big Island’s highlights and create your own Hawaiian story.