Big Island Family Off Road Farm Adventure

Exploring the Big Island with the Family Off Road Farm Adventure

If you’re planning a trip to the Big Island and want to add a bit of off-the-beaten-path fun to your list, this Big Island Family Off Road Farm Adventure might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve gathered enough details to give you a clear picture of what it offers. It’s geared toward adventure seekers who enjoy a mix of scenic beauty, cultural stories, and a dash of muddy fun.

What I really like about this experience? First, it’s a way to get beyond the usual volcano and beach stops, into areas most visitors don’t see. Second, the guided aspect means you’re not just riding around aimlessly — your guide shares stories about native plants and culture, making it both fun and educational. One downside worth considering is that the farm’s animal sightings seem to be limited, based on reviews, but if your focus is scenery and culture, that shouldn’t bother you much.

This tour is best suited for families, friends, or groups who are looking for a relaxed, engaging adventure that accommodates a range of ages (3+). It’s accessible even if you’re new to off-road vehicles, thanks to the brief safety tutorial. If you’re craving an authentic, scenic, and interactive experience that connects you with the land and local traditions, this tour deserves a spot on your list.

Key Points

• Accessible for most skill levels with a quick safety briefing and practice ride
• Offers a variety of terrain, including open pastures, jungle trails, and muddy paths
• Includes cultural stops where you can plant your own Hawaiian ti plant and learn about local farming
• Great for families or groups of friends looking for a relaxed adventure
• Located just minutes from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, making it easy to incorporate into your day
• Affordable at $129, considering the mix of scenery, cultural insights, and hands-on activities

What to Expect from the Big Island Family Off Road Farm Adventure

Imagine jumping into a side-by-side UTV, feeling the cool air on your face as you wind through lush landscapes. That’s what this two-hour tour promises. It’s not a typical sightseeing bus trip; instead, you’re actively involved, riding along off-road trails, splashing through puddles, and exploring the farm’s backroads.

This isn’t just about the ride — it’s about learning and participating. Your guide is a local, eager to share stories about native plants, Hawaiian culture, and the traditions that shape this land. Expect to hear tales about farming practices like taro, coffee, and guava, which are integral to the island’s identity. A highlight is stopping at their Culture Center, where you can plant a ti leaf as a symbol of good luck and protection, leaving a piece of yourself on the island.

Itinerary Breakdown

Arrival & Check-In:
You’ll meet your guide at Ohana Ranch, where safety gear and helmets are provided. It’s a straightforward process and sets the tone for a relaxed experience.

Safety Briefing & Practice:
Even if you’ve never driven an off-road vehicle, don’t worry. The guide gives a quick tutorial, and a short practice ride ensures everyone is comfortable before heading out. This step is especially helpful for first-timers or those a little nervous about off-roading.

Guided UTV Ride:
This is the core of the experience. The route takes you through scenic trails, past open pastures, and into lush jungle paths. Based on reviews, you’ll enjoy the variety of terrain—riding through puddles and rugged stretches, soaking in views of the Big Island’s landscape. It’s a perfect balance of adventure and serenity.

Farm & Cultural Stops:
Throughout the ride, there are designated stops. You’ll have the chance to pick fruit like seasonal produce, and learn about the island’s agriculture. The Culture Center offers a hands-on activity—plant your own ti leaf—making the experience memorable and personal. One reviewer loved how the guide shared stories about Hawaiian farming traditions, adding depth to the adventure.

The Sum Up & Return:
After about two hours, you’ll head back to Ohana Ranch, remove your gear, and snap some final photos. It’s a casual wrap-up, leaving you with good memories and perhaps a new appreciation for island farming and culture.

What’s Included & What to Consider

Included in the price ($129 per person) are helmets, safety gear, and parking at Ohana Ranch. It’s a pretty reasonable price considering the range of activities packed into two hours. No meals are included, so plan accordingly if you want to grab food nearby afterward.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour is exclusively private for your group, which means a more personalized experience. The reviews note that most travelers found guides like Robert to be engaging and knowledgeable, making the cultural aspect stand out.

Potential drawbacks? One review mentioned that the road into the ranch was quite rough and that animal sightings were limited—only a few small goats. If wildlife is a primary focus, this might not be the trip for you. However, if scenery, culture, and fun off-road riding are your priorities, those points hardly detract from the experience.

The Review Highlights

Based on the reviews, the guide’s knowledge and friendliness stand out as major plus points. Christiana called her guide “amazing” and appreciated the storytelling. The scenic views are also frequently praised, making this a visual treat. One reviewer noted that even with a booking mix-up, the staff was accommodating, which speaks to good customer service.

While some found the animal sightings limited, that didn’t seem to be the main attraction. Instead, people valued the cultural insights and the fun of riding through diverse landscapes. Plus, the flexibility of the schedule and the chance to participate in planting a Hawaiian symbol make this a meaningful activity.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure works well for families with kids aged 3 and up, especially if everyone is interested in a hands-on, outdoor experience. It’s also ideal for groups of friends looking for something active but not overly strenuous. If you’re after a peaceful, scenic ride with cultural significance and a bit of muddy fun, this tour hits the right notes.

However, if wildlife viewing or more extensive animal encounters are your main goal, you might want to explore other options. Also, those with mobility issues should consider the terrain and activity format, though the tour is designed to be accessible for most.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed for ages 3 and up. It’s a family-friendly experience, but keep in mind that young children may need supervision during the ride and at the stops.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting a little muddy or dusty. Closed-toe shoes are recommended. The tour provides helmets and safety gear.

Are there any food options during the tour?
No, meals are not included. It’s a two-hour ride, so plan to eat before or after your adventure.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 2 hours, including check-in, safety briefing, the ride itself, and stops.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Ohana Ranch, located at 17 N Kulani Rd, Mountain View, HI 96771.

Is the experience private?
Yes, the tour is exclusive to your group, providing a more personalized experience.

What if I cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within that window are non-refundable.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Not particularly. The ride is designed for most skill levels, with a brief tutorial and practice ride.

Will I see animals?
You might see a few farm animals like goats, but animal sightings are limited based on reviews.

All in all, the Big Island Family Off Road Farm Adventure offers a well-rounded blend of scenic riding, cultural learning, and fun. It’s a great choice if you want to experience a different side of the island—away from the crowds—and connect with Hawaiian farming traditions in a relaxed, interactive way. Just be prepared for some bumpy roads and a muddy adventure, and you’ll likely come away with some unique memories and stories.