Hawaii’s Big Island is an explorer’s paradise, offering an unparalleled range of tours and activities across its diverse landscapes. From lush rainforests and volcanic craters to pristine coastal waters and historic landmarks, the Big Island is both expansive and rich in natural beauty, culture, and adventure. With so many tours and excursions to choose from, it can be overwhelming for travelers to decide where to start. That’s why we’ve curated our top 10 favorite Big Island tours—perfectly suited for those looking to immerse themselves in the best this island has to offer.

Our selected tours cover a range of interests and budgets, with prices starting at just $20. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, a deep dive into Hawaiian culture, or a wellness escape, this list includes a diverse array of options.

Embark on a night snorkel with manta rays, explore volcanic craters and lava flows, experience a sound bath meditation journey, or sail the beautiful Kohala coast. Each tour provides a unique experience that showcases the Big Island’s beauty and cultural richness, making it an essential part of any Hawaii vacation.

These top 10 tours provide something for everyone, whether you’re an adventurer at heart, a culture seeker, or a wellness enthusiast. Discover why the Big Island is a world-renowned destination with these unforgettable experiences, thoughtfully selected to help you make the most of your journey.

1. Night Manta Ray Snorkel

Duration: 2 hours
Price Range: $90 – $120
Location: Kona Coast

Hawaii’s Kona Coast is one of the few places in the world where you can swim with manta rays at night, making the Night Manta Ray Snorkel an experience you won’t want to miss. After sunset, you’ll be guided into the warm ocean waters, where underwater lights attract plankton—and with them, graceful manta rays that glide close to the surface. Watching these magnificent creatures move through the illuminated water is exhilarating, as their wingspan can reach up to 12 feet! This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a unique and unforgettable marine encounter that brings them close to Hawaii’s underwater life.

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2. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Duration: Full-day (7-8 hours)
Price Range: $200 – $300
Location: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Discover the Big Island’s volcanic history with the Volcano Unveiled tour, which takes you into Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The journey includes visits to active lava flows, impressive craters, and even ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs, each site revealing the power and beauty of volcanic activity. Guides provide insight into the island’s formation and the ongoing impact of volcanoes on the land and people. This immersive experience lasts several hours and is perfect for travelers interested in geology, history, and the sheer awe of standing near active volcanoes.

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3. Kealakekua Bay Kayaking & Snorkeling

Duration: Half-day (4 hours)
Price Range: $100 – $150
Location: Kealakekua Bay

Located in one of Hawaii’s most pristine marine preserves, the Kealakekua Bay Kayaking & Snorkeling tour is a must for water enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Kealakekua Bay is not only famous for its vibrant reefs and abundant sea life, but it’s also home to the historic Captain Cook monument. You’ll paddle along the serene bay, taking in views of lush cliffs, before snorkeling in crystal-clear waters filled with tropical fish, coral, and sometimes even dolphins. This tour combines adventure with historical context, providing a balanced and enriching experience on the water.

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4. Guided Forest Sound Bath

Duration: 1 hour
Price Range: $20 – $50
Location: Kailua-Kona area

Escape the bustle and connect with Hawaii’s tranquil spirit on the Sound Bath Meditation Journey. This wellness experience takes place in a serene setting where sound therapy guides participants into deep relaxation. During the session, you’ll be immersed in resonant tones that help release stress and promote a meditative state. Perfect for wellness travelers, this sound bath offers a peaceful moment to rejuvenate, making it a great addition for those looking to unwind during their Hawaiian vacation.

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5. Big Island Helicopter Experience

Duration: 1-2 hours (flight times vary)
Price Range: $300 – $500
Location: Island-wide (departures typically from Hilo or Kona)

Take in the Big Island’s dramatic landscapes from a new perspective with the Big Island Helicopter Experience. This aerial tour offers a thrilling way to see the island’s varied topography, from volcanic craters and lava flows to lush rainforests and waterfalls. As you soar above iconic sites, you’ll get unmatched views of remote areas inaccessible by foot. This is a fantastic option for adventurers and photographers alike, as well as anyone looking to take in the island’s beauty from an unforgettable vantage point.

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6. Kona Coast Boat and Snorkeling Tour

Duration: 5 hours
Price Range: $150 – $200
Location: Kona area

Start your day with the Deluxe Morning Adventure, a half-day experience that blends scenic exploration with fun water activities. This tour takes you along Kona’s beautiful coastline, offering the chance to snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, encounter colorful marine life, and enjoy the peaceful morning ambiance. The tour is designed to make the most of the morning light and calm waters, making it ideal for those looking to explore Kona’s coastal beauty and marine ecosystems in a relaxed and refreshing way.

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7. Kohala Waterfalls Adventure

Duration: 4-5 hours
Price Range: $150 – $200
Location: Kohala region

Explore the lush greenery of Kohala on the Kohala Waterfalls Adventure. This guided hike leads you through tropical forests to a series of beautiful waterfalls, where you can swim in natural pools surrounded by vibrant plant life. You’ll also learn about the ecological and cultural significance of this region from knowledgeable guides. This adventure is great for those who love hiking, nature, and the refreshing experience of Hawaii’s hidden pools and waterfalls.

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8. Kohala Sailing

Duration: 3-4 hours
Price Range: $100 – $150
Location: Kohala Coast

Sail along the beautiful Kohala Coast on the Kohala Sailing tour, which blends relaxation and exploration. The tour takes you along one of the Big Island’s most scenic coastlines, offering views of volcanic cliffs and emerald waters. There are opportunities for snorkeling, dolphin watching, or simply enjoying the views from the deck. This is a wonderful choice for those looking for a leisurely day on the water, complete with sea breezes and panoramic vistas.

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9. Kona Sea Salt Farm Tour

Duration: 1 hour
Price Range: $20 – $40
Location: Kona Coast

Dive into the flavors of Hawaii with the Kona Sea Salt Farm Tour on the sunny Kona Coast. Here, you’ll see how sea salt is harvested directly from Hawaiian waters, learning about the sustainable process that goes into producing this unique ingredient. This tour is perfect for food enthusiasts and those interested in sustainable practices. After exploring the facility, you can sample the distinctive Hawaiian sea salt and see why it’s celebrated by chefs and food lovers alike.

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10. Hidden Craters Hike at Hualalai

Duration: 4 hours
Price Range: $150 – $180
Location: Hualalai, Kona area

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Hidden Craters Hike at Hualalai takes you into a rugged landscape of lava tubes, craters, and volcanic formations. This guided hike explores the lesser-known slopes of Hualalai, revealing hidden geological wonders. The tour includes moderate hiking, making it ideal for active travelers who want to delve into Hawaii’s volcanic history and natural beauty without the crowds of more popular sites.

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