While many visitors associate the Big Island of Hawaii with raw volcanic activity, lava deserts, soaring mountains, and the bright white sand beaches of Kona, the Kohala region on the northern tip of the island is coated in rainforest and littered with waterfalls. This tour immerses guests in this wild coast, allowing them to take in the views of verdant sea cliffs and valleys and enjoy the cool waters beneath one of the waterfalls. To reach the trail, guests will 4×4 ramble through off-road terrain on our Mercedes Sprinters.

The Hike

This hike travels 1.5 miles through a private nature reserve, only accessible via this Big Island Hiking tour. The hike itself is moderate and takes about one to two hours to complete. Keep in mind that you’ll be traveling through the jungle, and conditions can often be muddy and wet. You’ll be rewarded with views of ribboning silver waterfalls and even the opportunity to wash away the Hawaiian humidity in the cool stream waters.

What’s Included

Transportation from the Kona and Waikoloa areas is included, and the round trip takes about 3.5-4 hours (total trip is 6-7 hours). Lunch from a local deli is also provided, as well as sunscreen, bug spray, and hand sanitizer. Wear good hiking shoes!  Guests will also gain invaluable knowledge of the history, geology, flora, and fauna of the area from their trail guide.

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Nearby Areas:
Kona • Waikoloa • Kohala

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Explore the natural beauty of the Big Island’s Holualoa forests on an exhilarating ATV tour. Aloha Adventure Farms offers an unforgettable off-road experience through lush landscapes, rugged trails, and scenic viewpoints, immersing you in the island’s untamed wilderness. With safety-focused guides, this adventure is great for both first-timers and experienced riders.

The Culture

Along the way, experience the Polynesian culture as knowledgeable guides share stories and traditions from Hawaiʻi, Tonga, Fiji, and Samoa. Enjoy unique stops with interactive cultural experiences like opening coconuts and learning about the history and people, making this more than just an ATV ride. It’s an educational journey through Polynesian heritage worth sharing with your ‘ohana.

Family Friendly

Designed for all ages, this tour is ideal for families looking for an adventurous outing.  As you’ll see in our video, we brought our kids, and they rode as passengers (and loved it!) The tour accommodates a range of skill levels, with a focus on fun and safety. Your kids will also love drumming, playing games, smashing pineapples, cracking open coconuts, and learning how to yell, “CHEEHOO!”

ATV and Wood Carving

For a complete Polynesian adventure, add the Carving Tour* to your Kona ATV experience! After an exhilarating ride, immerse yourself in Polynesian culture by learning traditional wood-carving techniques from local masters. This unique activity gives you the chance to create your own carved tiki to take home, making it a memorable and hands-on addition to the day. You can schedule the carving tour back-to-back with the ATV tour, or go on a different day.

*After you enter your information for the ATV tour and add it to your cart, you will be given an option to add a tour at a discounted rate.

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Nearby Areas:
Kona • Waikoloa • Waimea

Kona ATV Photos

Kona ATV Video

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This Kona luau is located adjacent to the Ahuʻena Heiau, traditionally known as Kamakahonu, and is often called the most historic site in Hawaii. Kamakahonu was home to Kamehameha the Great in his final years, and it was here where he eventually died. Kamakahonu was also the location of the great feast to celebrate the overthrow of the kapu system, a turning point in Hawaiian history. Additionally, Kamakahonu Bay was where the first missionaries came ashore in 1820. A portion of all Island Breeze luau ticket sales goes to help preserve this historic site.

Activities and Show

Enjoy a warm welcome and an array of activities upon arrival at our favorite Big Island Luau, such as meeting the performers and learning hula. After getting settled, witness the imu ceremony, where the roasted pig is uncovered from the underground stone oven. Shortly after, watch as the royal court arrives by outrigger canoe. Dinner is complemented by live music, followed by an outstanding Polynesian show.

Luau Dinner

Feast on an impressive buffet dinner featuring both traditional and modern Hawaiian dishes. Traditional dishes include kalua pig, Lomi-Lomi salmon, poi, island fish, sweet potatoes, and poke. Modern Hawaiian favorites such as teriyaki beef, BBQ chicken, macaroni salad, white rice, and more are also available. Dessert includes haupia, banana coconut bread, cake, and more. An open bar, Kona coffee, and tea are available.

Island Breeze Luau Check-In

The check-in desk is at the Aloaliʻi Cultural Resource Center & Marketplace in the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort.  Self-parking is free with validation. This is a fine example of one of the best Big Island Luaus.

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Nearby Areas:
Kona • Waikoloa

Island Breeze Luau Video

Island Breeze Luau Photos

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Set against the stunning backdrop of the Kohala Coast, the Hale Hoaloha Luau at Mauna Lani is nestled between five mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Guests enjoy the beautiful Mauna Lani Auberge Resort as the evening unfolds under swaying palm trees.

THE FEAST

The Hale Hoaloha Luau offers a sumptuous buffet that showcases traditional Hawaiian cuisine. Guests can enjoy slow-cooked kalua pork, fresh ahi poke (many kinds!), teriyaki chicken, and some of the best desserts we’ve had at any luau. Locally sourced ingredients highlight the rich flavors of the islands, while tropical cocktails from the open bar flow throughout the evening.

THE CELEBRATION

The celebration begins with a warm Hawaiian welcome, as guests are invited to participate in traditional games and watch the imu ceremony. With incredible music and dance, you’re treated to an excellent show, but what really makes this incredible is the MC, who should really be on Broadway!  What a voice!  As night falls, torches light the way for a captivating performance of hula, live music, and storytelling that brings the history of Polynesia to life. The evening culminates with an exhilarating fireknife dance, leaving guests with memories of a night steeped in culture and entertainment. This is one of our favorite Big Island Luaus.

SEATING

The Hale Hoaloha Luau offers two seating options: the ʻOhana Package for general seating and the Aliʻi Package for premium front-row seats. Both seating areas provide spectacular views of the stage and ocean, ensuring all guests enjoy the riveting performances, delicious food, and an open bar in a breathtaking setting.

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Nearby Areas:
Kona • Waikoloa • Keauhou

Hale Hoaloha Luau Video

Hale Hoaloha Luau Photos

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This 7-8 hour tour departs Kona before climbing to the highest peak in Hawaii for a spectacular sunset. Settle in for a ride up Mauna Kea’s 4×4 access road in a custom-built off-road motor coach and explore the Mars-like, 13,800 ft summit. Weather permitting, guests will be rewarded with views of Mauna Loa, Haleakala on Maui, and both coasts of the Big Island. As the sun begins to sink, you’ll traverse back down to a more suitable elevation of 9,000 feet for a stargazing experience like no other. Brace yourself for why many people visit Hawaii: Big Island Stargazing!

What You’ll Learn

The early Hawaiians were expert navigators and relied on the stars to point them in the right direction. This tour highlights the incredible navigation techniques used by Polynesian voyagers. Guests will also learn about the early travelers through these towering mountains and the deeply sacred Mauna Kea.

What’s Included

In addition to a private star show and the opportunity to peer into the heavens through a Celestron optical telescope, transportation from Kona and Waikoloa to Mauna Kea is included. Guests are also provided with a hot picnic dinner, dessert, hot tea, and hot chocolate. Gloves and parkas are included as well.

What to Bring

The average temperature of the upper reaches of Mauna Kea sits at a crisp 32 degrees. Wear warm gear: long pants, socks, sweatshirts. Closed-toed shoes are also recommended, as this tour includes light walking over rocky, uneven terrain. Don’t forget water in a reusable bottle as well!

Give Back Wednesdays

Book on a Wednesday for an extra stop at the Waikoloa Dry Forest to give back to the aina (land). On this special tour, guests are allowed to help restore endangered native species in this protected Hawaiian forest before going up to Maunakea to see the stars. A portion of your ticket cost will also be donated to the conservation efforts of the Waikoloa Dry Forest. Do your part and Book The Summit & Stars Giveback Experience today!

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Nearby Areas:
Kona • Waikoloa • Waimea

Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Photos

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Towering above Kona at around 8,000 feet, Hualalai is the third tallest volcano on the Big Island. This Big Island Hiking tour takes guests on an exclusive journey along the slopes of this volcanic region, through an area that is not accessible to the general public that sits behind three locked gates. This tour is one of the only ways for members of the public to explore the slopes of Hualalai!

The Hike

This moderate, 3-4 mile hike travels through a native forest to the upper reaches of Hualalai. The trail is dotted with deep craters that once spewed molten lava, as well as other volcanic features like fissures, cinder cones, and lava tubes. Guests will have the opportunity to peer into dizzyingly sheer craters and take in the vistas of the Kona coastline spread out before them. The hike comes to a close with a descent into a lava tube.

What’s Included

In addition to access to private land, this tour includes transportation from the tour center to the trailhead, as well as walking sticks, warm wear, and day packs. This tour offers a unique look at the unique geology and volcanology of the area, as well as a peek into the native flora and fauna of this region via a passionate tour guide.

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Nearby Areas:
Kona • Waikoloa • Waimea

Kona Volcano – Hualalai Hike Video

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Situated on 22 gorgeous oceanfront acres at Keauhou Bay, Feast and Fire Luau is perfectly set between the mountains and the sea. With the raw beauty of Kona as a backdrop, guests are afforded views of the verdant slopes of Mauna Loa, as well as the setting sun. The celebration itself is set among native Hala trees. Amid pulsing drums and traditional cuisine, guests are instantly transported to the Hawaii of old.

THE FEAST

You can expect food to take center stage at Feast and Fire. Mouthwatering fares are plentiful at this celebration, from slow-cooked savory kalua pork served alongside taro rolls to delectable lilikoi cheesecake and haupia. Libations (read: mai tais) flow from the open bar throughout the night.

THE CELEBRATION

The celebration of Hawaiian culture begins the moment you arrive. Before the entertainment kicks off, wander through the Artisan Village. Here, Hawaiian culture, art, crafts, and traditions abound. Pick up a hand-crafted souvenir, make a flower lei, or observe a poi-pounding demonstration. As the sun sets, the torches are lit, and the conch sounds as the celebration unfolds. Watch as Hawaiian history comes to life through dance and mele. Ancestral stories of Hawaii are told by the accomplished cast- some of whom are direct descendants of Hawaiian royalty. It’s safe to say that guests of Feast and Fire are in good company.  This is one of our favorite Big Island Luaus.

SEATING

The Feast and Fire Luau features two seating options. The Aliʻi Private Seating option grants guests exclusive seating near the front of the stage, while general seating offers socially-distanced communal seating. Regardless of where you’re seated, unobstructed views, great food, an open bar, and riveting entertainment are on offer for all guests every Monday and Thursday night at Feast and Fire.

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Nearby Areas:
Kona • Waikoloa • Keauhou

Feast and Fire Luau Photos

Traditions Hawai’i

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This nighttime tour brings adventurous individuals closer to one of the ocean’s most graceful giants: the manta ray. Departing from Honokohau Harbor, this two-hour tour heads just offshore to find the best location for manta ray viewing. Once the rays are spotted, guests climb into the warm Hawaiian waters and surround a custom-built snorkel boat equipped with bright lights. An experienced guide will accompany you as you hang on to the boat, float, and watch the spectacular manta ray ballet. This tour is open to anyone over the age of five with adequate swimming skills. All the necessary gear for viewing the rays will be provided.

Kona Manta Rays

There are hundreds of manta rays that call the waters off Kona home year-round. These rays can grow to be humongous, weighing up to 1,000 lbs with a wingspan of up to 16 feet. Unlike stingrays, manta rays do not have stingers and are harmless, gentle creatures. The number of manta rays around Kona can vary, depending on how much plankton (their main source of food) is in the water.

Free Manta Guarantee

Manta rays are abundant in Kona, but just like whales, dolphins, and turtles, rays are wild animals, and their presence is not guaranteed on every tour. However, if no mantas are seen on your tour, you are free to try your luck on a different night, depending on availability. This rarely happens, but this offer never expires in the event of a manta-less night.  Want to experience the best of Big Island snorkeling? Check out this tour!

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Nearby Areas:
Kona • Waikoloa • Captain Cook

Nighttime Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Tour Photos

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After a stop at Mauna Kea Recreational Area, you’ll head into the heart of Volcano National Park. Here, you will explore 2-3 miles of moderate hiking trails through Kilauea’s rugged volcanic landscape and get a look at some of the park’s most well-known sites. During your hike, your guide will also provide a detailed look at how the latest eruption and seismic activity dramatically shaped the park and what it looked like before it was forced to close in 2018.

Chocolate Farm

After spending a few hours exploring Kilauea, you will head to a private cacao farm to enjoy an interactive “tree-to-chocolate” experience. See how cacao becomes chocolate, where and how it grows, and sample some of the delicious results. The grounds are beautiful and full of tropical fruit, plants, and other exotic Hawaii flora. Fees and lunch are included on this tour. After lunch and chocolate, you will head to Rainbow Falls to enjoy some epic scenery before finishing the tour and returning to your accommodation.

What’s Included

Breakfast, lunch, beverages, and afternoon pupus are included on this Big Island Hiking tour. National Park and Private Chocolate Farm entrance fees are also included in the price of the tour. Your guide will also have walking sticks, flashlights, day packs, warm wear, helmets, and rain ponchos available for use. This tour offers pick-up and drop-off from the Kona and Waikoloa resort areas as well.

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Nearby Areas:
Kona • Hilo • Volcano

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This Kona manta ray snorkel tour is one of the most popular activities on the Big Island. After sunset, immerse yourself in warm Pacific waters for an experience unlike any other- a feeding frenzy among gentle giants. Aboard one of Kona’s most unique tours, guests are shuttled into the night seas for a once-in-a-lifetime chance to swim with graceful manta rays. Once you arrive at your swimming destination outside of Keauhou Bay, spotlights are pointed into the deep to attract plankton, which in turn attract the rays. Accompanied by a Coast Guard-certified crew, guests simply float above these mammoth creatures and watch the unforgettable show.

Manta Rays

Although massive, manta rays pose no threat to humans. These creatures can weigh up to 1,000 lbs and have a wingspan of up to 16 feet. Despite being so huge, mantas feed off of microscopic organisms called plankton. In Hawaiian, manta rays are called “hahalua”, and the Kona coast is the only place in the world where you can view these graceful giants via tour at night!

What’s Included

In addition to an experience of a lifetime, this tour provides all the fixings for a comfortable nighttime adventure. Although warm in comparison to other places in the world, the nighttime water temp can be a bit chilly. Wetsuits and hot chocolate are provided to help stay warm, as well as flotation devices and snorkel gear (including prescription masks) to ensure proper viewing. Big Island snorkeling is like NO OTHER!  Book today!

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Nearby Areas:
Kona • Waikoloa • Captain Cook

Kona Night Manta Ray Snorkeling Tour Photos

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