Private Big Island Tour:Coffee, Beaches,Volcanos & Waterfall

Planning a trip to Hawaii often involves a ton of options, but if you’re after a way to see the island with flexibility and a knowledgeable guide, this Private Big Island Tour by Wild Hawaii Tours might just be what you need. This is not your cookie-cutter sightseeing bus — it’s a highly customizable experience designed for small groups that want to dig into what makes the Big Island so special.

What caught our eye about this tour? First off, the fact that it’s completely tailored to your interests means you’re not stuck with a rigid schedule. You get to choose how long you linger at each location, which is a huge advantage if you’re someone who prefers to soak in scenery rather than rush through it. Second, the reviews highlight how knowledgeable and engaging the guides are, making the entire day both fun and educational.

The one thing to consider is that this is a full-day adventure, running about 11 hours. So, if you’re not used to long days on the go, it’s worth thinking about your stamina and whether you’re comfortable spending that much time on a tour. Also, since it’s a private experience, it comes at a higher price point — $1,200 per group of up to six — but many reviews suggest the value is well worth it.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a personalized, relaxed, and in-depth exploration of the island. Whether you’re a first-timer or someone who’s visited Hawaii before and wants to see beyond the usual spots, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Flexible Itinerary: You can customize your day, choosing how long to stay at each location.
• Expert Guide: The guide’s in-depth knowledge enhances every stop, from volcanoes to coffee farms.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Includes hotel pickup, snacks, drinks, rain jackets, and park admission.
• Value for Money: For a private, all-day tour, many find the cost reasonable given the personalized experience.
• Wide Range of Stops: From lava tubes and black sand beaches to waterfalls and botanical gardens.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for those traveling with children, especially given the transport and flexible pace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What You Can Expect from the Tour

This tour promises a completely tailored experience, which means the day can look very different depending on your preferences. Once booked, the operator reaches out to discuss your interests, and then your guide crafts a plan. It’s a rare chance to have that kind of input into your day, rather than following a preset schedule. Expect to visit some of the most iconic spots on the island, but also hidden gems that only locals know.

The Morning: Coffee and Culture

Many travelers kick off their journey with a visit to the Greenwell’s Coffee Farm, established back in 1850. It’s a lovely way to start, tasting fresh Hawaiian coffee while learning about the cultivation process. Several reviews emphasize how much they appreciated the private tour of the coffee farm — a step beyond just tasting. It’s a mellow, scenic way to step into island life.

Volcanoes National Park: The Heart of the Island

One of the main highlights is the trip to Volcano’s National Park, where you’ll see steam vents, lava tubes, and maybe even some active lava if the conditions allow. Including admission to the park makes this a hassle-free experience. Guides often share insights about the island’s volcanic activity and geology, making the visit both interesting and educational.

Beaches and Waterfalls: Nature’s Best

Next, you’ll likely visit Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, known for its iconic dark sands and sea turtles lounging in the surf. The Rainbow Falls, a stunning 82-foot waterfall, offers fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to relax in lush surroundings. For those seeking a splash of adventure, the Two Step Beach offers excellent snorkeling options, often praised in reviews for its clear waters and abundant marine life.

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Unique Attractions and Local Flavors

Depending on your interests, the tour can include visits to Pu’uhonua o Hnaunau National Historical Park, a sacred site of refuge, or the Hawaiian Vanilla Company to learn about local vanilla cultivation. For a taste of local life, many opt for a visit to one of the farmers markets or the Punalu’u Bakery for their famous Malasadas, sweet Hawaiian donuts loved by all.

Additional Adventures

Some travelers include optional extra excursions, like exploring Waipio Valley or visiting Pohoiki Black Sand Beach—site of the 2018 eruption. These are usually discussed during planning, allowing you to prioritize what excites you most.

The Guide and the Personal Touch

Multiple reviews highlight that Gary, the guide, makes all the difference. He’s described as knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating, with a knack for reading the group’s energy and adjusting the pace. Whether it’s providing snacks, discussing Hawaiian history, or showing off off-the-beaten-path spots, his approach leaves many travelers feeling genuinely cared for.

One review states, “Gary was an amazing guide. He allowed us to tailor the day, while providing suggestions along the way. The best part was the ability to do this as a family, in a van and cater to us!” That kind of flexibility is hard to find on larger group tours.

Comfort and Convenience

Transport is in a clean, comfortable van, with amenities like rain jackets, umbrellas, and car seats included, making the experience smooth regardless of the weather or group needs. Hotel pickup and drop-off further streamline the day, so you can focus on enjoying Hawaii.

Is It Worth the Cost?

$1,200 for up to six people breaks down to about $200 per person, which many consider a solid value for a full day of private touring. Considering the inclusion of park entry fees, snacks, drinks, and the personal attention from an expert guide, it’s a good deal for travelers who want to avoid large crowds and rigid schedules.

Several reviews mention that the experience exceeds expectations, especially in terms of customization and guide knowledge. They note that it’s especially valuable for families or groups wanting to make the most of their time, rather than following a typical tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you:

• Want a personalized, flexible day on the Big Island
• Appreciate learning about Hawaii’s culture, geology, and history from a passionate guide
• Are comfortable with long days on the road (about 11 hours)
• Seek value for money in a private, intimate setting
• Have a small group or family that benefits from a custom itinerary

However, if you prefer shorter, more leisurely outings or are traveling solo, this might be less ideal due to the price point and the group size limit.

The Bottom Line

For travelers looking to truly experience Hawaii’s natural beauty and cultural richness at their own pace, this private tour offers a compelling mix of flexibility, expert insight, and convenient logistics. The promise of being able to customize your day means you can prioritize what interests you most, whether it’s volcanoes, waterfalls, or local food.

The glowing reviews about guides like Gary underscore how much a knowledgeable, personable guide can elevate an already beautiful day. It’s a great choice for families, small groups, or couples who want a tailored, immersive adventure without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

While it’s a longer day and at a premium price, many find the experience to be worth every penny, especially given the high level of customization and the quality of the sights visited. If you’re after a highly personalized tour that covers the Big Island’s highlights and hidden gems, this could be the perfect fit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s described as a private, family-friendly experience. The comfortable vehicle, flexible pace, and included amenities make it suitable for traveling with children, especially if they’re comfortable with a full-day outing.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be exploring diverse terrains. The tour provides rain jackets and umbrellas, so you don’t need to worry about weather surprises.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 11 hours, which gives plenty of time to see a variety of sites without feeling rushed. It’s designed to be flexible, so the actual length might vary slightly depending on your interests.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. Once booked, the guide will reach out to discuss your preferences. You can choose how long to stay at each location and what sites to visit, making your experience truly your own.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, park admission, snacks, sodas, water, rain gear, umbrellas, and car seats. Extras like additional excursions or meals are not included and are discussed during planning.

Is this a good value compared to group tours?
For a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide, many reviewers say yes. The private setting means more flexibility, more attention, and the ability to focus on what interests you most — often worth the extra cost for those who value a tailored day.

If you’re after an in-depth, customizable way to explore the Big Island’s volcanoes, waterfalls, beaches, and local farms, this tour offers a thoughtful, well-reviewed option. It’s a chance to craft a day exactly how you want it, with expert guidance to enhance every stop. Perfect for travelers who prioritize quality, flexibility, and memorable experiences without feeling rushed.

You can check availability for your dates here: