Hilo and Volcano National Park Tour a Cruise Ship Excursion w/PU

Traveling to Hawaii via cruise can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when trying to choose the right shore excursions. The Hilo and Volcano National Park tour, offered as a full-day guided experience, promises a comprehensive look at some of the most iconic sights on the Big Island. Priced at $399 and lasting around seven hours, this tour aims to pack in a variety of highlights—from lush gardens and charming towns to the awe-inspiring landscapes of one of the world’s most active volcanoes.

One thing that stands out about this tour is its emphasis on natural beauty and scenic diversity. It includes visits to waterfalls, black sand beaches, local markets, and the breathtaking volcanic landscape of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The tour is designed for cruisers who want a structured, guided day that covers several key attractions without the hassle of planning.

A notable con, however, is the mixed review history—primarily because of a last-minute cancellation experienced by some travelers. It’s worth mentioning that the experience could vary strongly depending on the guide, weather conditions, and the day’s logistics. Still, if you’re keen to see volcanic activity and explore Hilo’s quaint charm, this tour might be a good fit. It’s best suited for those who appreciate guided storytelling, scenic drives, and quick yet meaningful stops.

Key Points

• Diverse Itinerary: Includes natural attractions, cultural sites, and volcanic landscapes in one day.
• Guided Experience: Led by knowledgeable guides who provide context and insight.
• Limited Time at Key Sites: Focus on highlights rather than in-depth exploration.
• Mixed Reviews: Some travelers face last-minute cancellations, so flexibility is necessary.
• Value for Sightseeing: Includes park admissions, transportation, and some snacks, but no dinner.
• Ideal for Cruise Passengers: Designed as a no-hassle, all-in-one shore excursion.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Richardson Ocean Park: A Natural Tapestry

The tour begins at Richardson Ocean Park, a black and green sand beach known for its stunning color contrast and abundant marine life. We loved the way the vibrant scenery sets a tranquil tone for the day. The lush greenery and sway of palm trees surrounding the beach create a peaceful setting, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the natural beauty. With free admission, it’s a great spot to stretch your legs and appreciate Hawaii’s volcanic origins.

Lili’uokalani Gardens: A Taste of Japan in Hawaii

Next, the group heads to Lili’uokalani Gardens, an expansive Japanese-style garden built to commemorate Japanese immigration. This space, with its arching bridges, koi ponds, pagodas, and a traditional teahouse, offers a peaceful, almost meditative experience. Visitors often comment on the meticulous landscaping—it’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a different world, even if just for 20 minutes. Admission is included, making this stop both beautiful and cost-effective.

Downtown Hilo: A Charming Historic Hub

A stroll through downtown Hilo reveals a historic, slightly retro town with buildings dating back centuries, echoing the island’s early days as a hub for farming and fishing. It’s a place where you can appreciate local culture, browse galleries, and perhaps pick up some handcrafted souvenirs. We appreciate the fact that this stop is free, giving a taste of local life without the pressure to buy.

Hilo Farmers Market: A Local’s Paradise

The market offers a vibrant look at Hawaii’s freshest produce, flowers, and crafts. Visitors often highlight the lively atmosphere and the opportunity to see local specialties. It’s a true taste of Hilo’s community spirit, and since it’s free to browse, it’s a perfect pit stop for a quick immersion into everyday island life.

Rainbow Falls: Nature’s Spectacle

No trip to Hilo would be complete without visiting Rainbow Falls. This 80-foot cascade is renowned for the rainbows that dance through the mist—hence the name. You can walk behind the falls for a closer view and enjoy a short hike around the pond. With a quick stop of about 20 minutes, you’ll get an impressive photo opportunity and a chance to feel the powerful force of nature. The inclusion of this stop in the tour is a highlight for many visitors.

Lunch Break at Waiakea Center Pavilion

The tour pauses for an hour at the Waiakea Center for lunch. Travelers need to pay for their meal, which allows flexibility to choose from local or familiar options. This is a good chance to relax and re-energize before heading into the volcano landscape. The convenience of a designated lunch stop is a plus, especially for cruise travelers wary of timing.

Big Island Candies: Sweet Local Flavors

A visit to Big Island Candies introduces you to Hawaiian-made chocolates, cookies, and candies. Their famous Macadamia Nut Chocolate Dipped Shortbread Cookies are a must-try. The tour includes a brief visit to the factory and retail outlet, allowing for some sampling and shopping. It’s a tasty break that also supports local artisans.

The Heart of the Tour: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The centerpiece of the day is the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Covering 230,000 acres, this park features Mt. Mauna Loa and Mt. Kilauea, the world’s most active volcano. We love that the park’s size means you get a broad view of volcanic activity and landscapes, from lava fields to steam vents.

Kilauea Visitor Center: An Intro to Volcanoes

The visit begins here, with exhibits explaining the park’s geology, landscape, and history. It’s an educational start that prepares you for the sights ahead. The center provides helpful context for understanding what you’re about to see, making the experience more meaningful.

Kilauea Overlook and Steam Vents

The overlook offers a rare glimpse of the active volcano, with views of recent eruptions and flowing lava. Nearby steam vents give you a literal taste of the geothermal activity—hot water vapor escaping from the earth, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. Travelers often express awe at the raw power displayed in these vents and vistas.

Chain of Craters Road and Pauahi Crater

This scenic drive is a highlight, taking you 18 miles through volcanic landscapes, petroglyphs, and lava crossings in the sea. Pauahi Crater, with its recent eruptions visible on the floor, adds a geological story to your journey. The road’s end at the sea showcases the stark beauty of lava flows meeting the ocean, a spectacular sight.

Kealakomo Overlook and Thurston Lava Tube

From Kealakomo, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific and lava fields. The Lava Tube is a fascinating natural tunnel, believed to be 400 years old. Walking through its dark, cool space with lush ferns and volcanic formations feels like stepping into a subterranean universe. It’s a unique experience that many find unforgettable.

The Practicalities: What to Expect

The tour is designed for convenience, with round-trip transportation from the Port of Hilo, ensuring you don’t have to worry about logistics. The vehicle is air-conditioned, and bottled water is provided, enhancing comfort during a long day of sightseeing. The small-group size (max 24 travelers) offers a more intimate experience compared to larger bus tours.

However, it’s important to note that timing can be tight. The itinerary moves quickly, giving just 15-20 minutes at many attractions. While this maximizes sightseeing, it might feel rushed for those wanting more in-depth exploration.

The tour’s price includes park admission and guided commentary, which adds value—especially if you’re keen to learn about Hawaii’s volcanic activity and natural history. Conversely, the absence of included meals means you’ll need to budget for lunch, and dinner isn’t provided, so plan accordingly.

The Cautionary Tale: Mixed Reviews

While the tour’s highlights are compelling, the only review available mentions a last-minute cancellation with no explanation, which is frustrating for travelers who plan months in advance. The response from the provider indicates that cancellations are rare and often due to weather or minimum traveler requirements, but it’s a reminder that tours like this are susceptible to unforeseen issues.

If you decide to book, ensure your plans are flexible enough to accommodate potential changes or cancellations. Confirming your reservation closer to the date and maintaining communication with the provider can help avoid surprises.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This guided tour is ideal for cruise passengers who want a structured, all-in-one overview of key Big Island sights without the hassle of self-driving or multiple bookings. It’s suitable for those with limited time but still eager to see waterfalls, local markets, and volcanoes. If you prefer a leisurely exploration with ample time at each stop, this might feel a bit rushed, but it’s a solid choice for a broad overview.

Travelers keen on learning from knowledgeable guides will appreciate the explanations provided at each site. However, if your focus is on witnessing volcanic activity up close and in detail, you might want to verify that the specific sites are active during your visit and that the itinerary matches your expectations.

Final Thoughts

The Hilo and Volcano National Park tour offers a rundown of the Big Island’s natural and cultural highlights in a single day. Its value lies in the guided narrative, the convenience of transportation, and the diversity of sights—from waterfalls and gardens to lava fields and steaming vents.

While some travelers have faced frustrations around cancellations, those who experience it as scheduled will find a well-organized trip that covers many must-see attractions efficiently. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want a taste of Hawaii’s volcanic grandeur without the stress of planning.

If you’re excited about seeing lava flows, waterfalls, and lush gardens, and you value having a knowledgeable guide to enrich your understanding, this tour can be a memorable part of your Big Island adventure.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the itinerary is designed to be accessible. However, some stops involve walking or short hikes, so consider your group’s mobility.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. There is a stop at Waiakea Center Pavilion where you can purchase your meal. It’s a good idea to bring snacks or extra water.

What should I bring on this tour?
Bring sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, camera, and bottled water. Weather can vary, so a light rain jacket might be helpful.

How long is the drive from the cruise port?
The tour includes about 45 minutes of travel time, including pick-up, so you’ll want to arrive early and be prepared for a full day of sightseeing.

Are the views at Volcanoes National Park worth it?
Absolutely. Many travelers find the volcanic landscapes, steam vents, and lava crossings breathtaking, offering a rare chance to see active geology up close.

Can I expect to see lava flows?
While the tour includes views of the active volcano, whether you see flowing lava depends on volcanic activity during your visit. The scenery, including steam vents and recent lava formations, still provides a spectacular experience.

In summary, this tour offers a practical way to see some of Hawaii’s most iconic sights if you’re short on time or prefer guided travel. It combines natural beauty, cultural sights, and volcanic marvels, making it a worthwhile option—just be mindful of the possibility of cancellations and the quick pace.