From Hilo: Kilauea Lava Flow Tour with Lunch and Dinner

If you’re planning a trip to the Big Island and want to see some of Hawaii’s most dramatic natural phenomena, this Kilauea Lava Flow Tour from Hilo could be a solid option. It promises a full day of exploring active volcanoes, historic lava flows, and scenic spots, all topped with good food. Our look at this tour is based on reviews, the itinerary, and what travelers can realistically expect, so you can decide if it’ll suit your style.

What we like about this experience is how it combines hiking with sightseeing—giving you a chance to get closer to the volcanic landscape than just viewing from afar. Plus, the included lunch and dinner add value, especially on a long day like this. On the flip side, some reviews point out that parts of the trip can feel a bit rushed, and not everyone will enjoy the bus-heavy schedule. If you love adventure with a bit of comfort, this might be a good pick.

This tour is probably best suited for travelers who are comfortable with moderate walking and outdoor activities. It’s a good match if you’re eager to see lava flows, visit volcano-related sites, and enjoy some local food. Keep in mind, if you’re looking for a completely relaxed, scenic drive with minimal walking, this might not be your ideal choice.

• Active volcano exploration: Hike directly to recent lava flows from 2018, giving you a real sense of Hawaii’s volcanic activity.
• Historical and scenic stops: Visit the Painted Church and the black sand beach for some cultural and natural highlights.
• In-depth park visits: Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, including the Kilauea caldera and steaming bluffs, with some hikes involved.
• Food included: Enjoy a picnic lunch among pine trees and a dinner, which adds a lot of value for the price.
• Small group experience: With just up to 13 participants, the tour feels more personal and less rushed.
• Weather considerations: Some reviews mention rain and limited hiking time, so prepare for changing conditions.

The day kicks off with a drive through Hilo’s historic waterfront, a scenic way to start the adventure. You’ll then head out to Kalapana, an old fishing village famous for lava flows that have literally reshaped the landscape over the years. This area is a photographer’s dream, with rugged coastlines and recent volcanic activity on display.

Next, the tour takes you to Mackenzie State Recreation Area — a spot where you’ll hike along a now-closed highway, tracing the path of recent lava flows. The highlight here is walking across the pine forest to the cliffs overlooking a black sand beach formed by volcanic material. Imagine standing on a beach shaped directly by molten lava, a reminder of how raw this landscape is. You’ll have a picnic lunch here, surrounded by towering pine trees and the sounds of the ocean.

One of the most notable stops is a visit to the Star of the Sea Painted Church. This historic church has been moved twice to escape lava flows, making it a symbol of resilience. Its colorful interior and story are worth checking out, especially if you’re into local history or photo opportunities.

Then it’s time for the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll visit the Kilauea Visitors Center, get views of the Kilauea Iki Crater, and walk along the Steaming Bluffs. These spots provide a close-up look at volcanic activity, with bubbling craters and volcanic steam vents. The tour includes a hike out to Keanakakoi Crater and crossing the cracks and sinkholes left behind by the 2018 eruption. This part of the trip gives you a tangible connection to the volcano’s power.

Some reviews mention that the tour involves a fair amount of bus time, which can feel a bit frustrating if you’re eager to hike more or spend longer at each site. For example, one traveler said, “a lot of the time you spend on a bus, rarely interact with nature,” which is a valid point. The focus here is partly on sightseeing and the scenic drive, so if you prefer a more outdoorsy, hiking-heavy experience, you might find it limited.

The day wraps up with a delicious dinner, often at a local winery, where the wine tasting and meal are highly praised for their quality. One reviewer called the wine experience “a very good experience,” noting the variety of blends available. The dinner, described as tasty, is a nice way to relax after a full day of activity.

The Hike and Walks

The key hiking segment is across lava fields and volcanic craters. While the hikes are moderate—around 2 miles in some cases—they require closed-toe shoes and a willingness to walk over uneven terrain. Some guests mentioned being rushed through certain stops, especially in pouring rain, which can dampen the experience, literally and figuratively.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Food and Drink

The lunch is a picnic, typically featuring simple but satisfying fare like sandwiches, chips, and drinks. It’s a good way to refuel during the day. The dinner at the winery is noted as “meager and average” by some, but others found it quite enjoyable, especially for its wine tasting component. The meal and tasting add a touch of local flavor to the trip, making it more memorable.

The Guide and Group Size

The small group size (limited to 13 participants) is a definite plus, making the experience more intimate. Guides are generally knowledgeable and entertaining, according to reviews. One traveler appreciated the “spicy and talkative” guide, which added character, though others felt that the guide’s commentary could sometimes be overwhelming or inconsistent.

At $275 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive look at Hawaii’s volcanic landscape with meals included. When you consider the full-day length, the visits to multiple sites, and the meals, the cost seems reasonable. It’s especially valuable if you prefer guided tours that handle transportation, entrance fees, and food, so you don’t have to worry about logistics.

However, some reviews indicate that the experience might feel a bit rushed, especially considering the bus travel and limited hiking. If you’re expecting a deep, hands-on volcanic adventure, you might find it somewhat commercialized or packaged. But if you’re after a balanced mix of sightseeing, walking, and good food, it’s likely worth the price.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy guided excursions with a mix of sightseeing and hiking. It’s good for those who are comfortable with moderate outdoor activity and want to see the key volcanic sights without planning all the logistics themselves. If you’re into wine and good food, the dinner and tasting can be a highlight.

It’s not ideal if you’re looking for a completely natural, untouched experience without the bus rides, or if you prefer long, unhurried hikes over sightseeing. Also, travelers who are sensitive to weather should be prepared for possible rain and quick changes in scenery.

The From Hilo: Kilauea Lava Flow Tour with Lunch and Dinner strikes a decent balance between adventure and comfort. It offers unique access to recent lava flows and iconic volcanic sites, complemented by well-reviewed meals and a small-group vibe. The tour is best suited for those who want a structured day with knowledgeable guidance, rather than a purely exploratory outdoor experience.

While it’s not perfect—some may find the bus time excessive and the hikes limited—it remains a solid option for travelers eager to witness Hawaii’s volcanic activity up close. The inclusion of meals and a focus on highlights makes it a convenient way to see some of the Big Island’s most impressive landscapes without too much hassle.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour meeting point is at the Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting spot.

How much walking is involved?
There’s some hiking involved, including a walk across lava fields and to crater overlooks, generally around 2 miles. A comfortable pair of closed-toe shoes is required.

Can I expect rain during the tour?
Yes, some reviews mention rain, and weather can change quickly in volcanic areas. Pack rain gear and be prepared for possible wet conditions.

Is the tour suitable for families?
The description doesn’t specifically mention children, but since it involves walking over uneven terrain and some outdoor exposure, it’s best for older kids and teens comfortable with outdoor activities.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 9 hours, usually starting in the morning, giving you plenty of time to explore and enjoy the meals.

What’s included in the cost?
All entrance fees, a picnic lunch, and dinner are included. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of this package.

Embarking on this tour means witnessing one of Earth’s most dynamic landscapes, balanced with good food and guided insights. It’s a trip that offers a taste of Hawaii’s fiery heart, suitable for those who want just enough adventure without going all-in on strenuous hikes or remote exploration.