Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Island

Our review of this self-guided audio driving tour promises an inside look at one of the most flexible and comprehensive ways to explore Hawaii’s Big Island. Designed for travelers who want the freedom to customize their adventure while gaining the benefits of a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a lot for a modest price.

What immediately caught our attention is how it works without WiFi—just your smartphone and GPS—making it perfect for remote areas where cell service can be spotty. We also appreciate how the tour combines rich storytelling with practical tips, helping travelers feel more connected to the landscape and history without the need for a big group or guided bus.

A potential consideration? Since this is a self-guided experience, you’ll need to be comfortable navigating on your own, especially in more remote or confusing areas. It’s best suited for those who enjoy some independence and are good at following directions.

This tour seems ideal for independent-minded travelers seeking value—those who want a full day’s worth of adventure, learning, and scenic beauty, all at a budget-friendly price.

Key Points

• Flexible, self-paced touring with no WiFi needed; download once and go.
• Over 460 points of interest with stories, tips, and directions automatically played via GPS.
• Affordable price point of just $19.99 per group (up to 8 people), offering great value.
• Can be used for half-day, full-day, or multi-day trips—you decide your pace.
• Suitable for independent travelers comfortable with basic smartphone navigation.
• Includes suggested itineraries and trip planners for easy planning.

A Deep Dive into the Big Island Audio Tour Experience

Starting Point: Easy Access and Downloading

The tour begins in Kailua-Kona, a lively town with plenty of character, and is designed to be simple to start. Once purchased, you’ll receive an email with instructions to download the GuideAlong app and your tour. The fact that it can be downloaded and used offline is a real plus—no worries about losing signal in remote spots like Volcanoes National Park or Pololu Valley. It’s a smart setup, especially given how many reviews praise its ease of use once downloaded. One reviewer noted, “You will need a map or Google map as well as the audio guide to find your way around. The information given by the app is interesting,” emphasizing the importance of a bit of prep.

The Itinerary: What’s on Offer?

This tour spans an impressive array of sights, roughly covering the entire island. It’s roughly an 8-hour journey, but flexible enough to extend or shorten based on your interests. Think of it as a choose-your-own-adventure with a professional narrator guiding you.

Akaka Falls State Park

Your first significant stop is the famous Akaka Falls, a 440-foot cascade that draws visitors from around the world. The walk to the falls is only 750 feet through lush rainforest, bamboo, and orchids, making it accessible for most. If you’re up for it, you can add an 800-foot hike to Kahuna Falls, which takes less than an hour round-trip—perfect for a quick nature break. Visitors often praise how the trail’s scenery is as spectacular as the falls themselves.

Chain of Craters Road and Volcano Views

One of the most iconic drives on the island is the 19-mile Chain of Craters Road from the volcano park entrance down to sea level. Along the way, you get sweeping views of past lava flows and volcanic landforms—an essential experience for understanding the island’s fiery geology. Reviewers highlight this drive as “well worth the visit,” with many noting how it vividly illustrates the island’s volcanic past.

Devastation Trail

A gentle walk through a volcanic cinder field, Devastation Trail offers a stark contrast of barren landscape dotted with resilient vegetation. The name is fitting, but the view of the dormant Gushing Hill cinder cone is quite striking. Feel the lightness of volcanic cinders in your hand and marvel at how nature reclaims even the most desolate terrain.

The Hamakua Coast and Small Towns

Travel north along the scenic Hamakua Coast, renowned for its waterfalls, rainforests, and botanical gardens. Small towns like Hawi and Kapaau provide a glimpse of old plantation life, with art galleries, boutiques, and historic sites. One reviewer mentioned, “Hawi and Kapaau are filled with art and history, and seeing the original statue of King Kamehameha is a highlight,” adding a cultural layer to your trip.

Hilo and Its Waterfalls

The vibrant town of Hilo is lush and green, thanks to frequent rain. Highlights include Rainbow Falls, known for its rainbow effect, and the Boiling Pots, a series of natural pools and waterfalls. The Lili’uokalani Gardens, Japanese-style and peaceful, are perfect for a relaxed stroll or picnic. One visitor notes, “It’s easy to fill a day in Hilo, and the scenery is just stunning,” which resonates with how much there is to explore.

Coastal and Ocean Highlights

On the western side, Kailua-Kona offers lively waterfronts, shopping, and beaches like Magic Sands for swimming and snorkeling. Further along, Kealakekua Bay is a protected marine area and historic site where Captain Cook met his end. Using the tour’s commentary, you’ll learn about its cultural importance while enjoying the beautiful bay.

Volcanic Wonders: Kilauea and Kilauea Iki

The Kilauea Volcano area is a highlight, with views into Kilauea Iki crater—a former lava lake site—along with trails that take you into the caldera. Even when inactive, the area’s volcanic history is palpable, and the storytelling makes it all more meaningful. The tour helps you visualize the volcano’s power, even if eruptions are rare nowadays.

Northern Landscapes and Pololu Valley

Driving north again, the Pololu Valley Lookout offers a stunning view where black sand beaches and lush cliffs meet the ocean. The steep trail down to the beach is not for everyone, but the view from above is worth the detour. Reviewers mention the “beautiful scenery”, though advise travelers to be prepared for muddy or steep terrain if they choose to hike down.

Wrapping Up with the Waipio Valley

Finally, the Waipio Valley offers a jaw-dropping vista from the lookout—immense cliffs and a long canyon reaching to the ocean. It’s a fitting end to a day of exploring the island’s diverse landscapes.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Most reviewers emphasize the depth of information and the ability to explore at your own pace. “We loved the way the stories made the scenery come alive,” one reviewer shares. The narration is well-paced, and the app’s GPS-triggered commentary ensures you’re always learning as you go.

The Price and Value

At just $19.99 per group, this is a budget-friendly way to get a guided experience without the cost or schedule constraints of traditional tours. Considering the number of stops, the quality of information, and the flexibility, it’s a strong deal. That said, having a map or Google Maps as backup is advisable, especially for less obvious turns or remote areas.

Real-Life Tips from Reviewers

Many mention that downloading the guide beforehand is key—”familiarize yourself with the app” and “bring a charger” to keep your device powered. A few noted minor technical hiccups, but support from GuideAlong is available, and most found it manageable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for independent travelers, families, or groups who enjoy crafting their own adventure. It’s especially suited for those who like flexibility and learning during their road trips or who want to avoid the crowds while still covering extensive ground. If you appreciate local stories and scenic drives that feel personal, this tour delivers.

Those with a sense of adventure and a bit of tech-savvy will find this a valuable tool. It’s not a guided tour with a person in front of you, but for many, the narrated GPS experience offers a richer understanding of the island’s natural and cultural landscape.

FAQs

Can I use this tour offline? Yes, once downloaded, it works entirely offline, perfect for remote areas like Volcanoes National Park or Pololu Valley.

Is this suitable for a half-day trip? Absolutely. The tour can be tailored to your schedule, with suggested half-day, full-day, or multi-day itineraries.

How many people can join on one booking? Up to 8 people in your vehicle can share the tour for the one-time fee of $19.99, making it very affordable.

Do I need a separate park pass or entrance tickets? Some stops, like Akaka Falls State Park, do not include admission fees. For others, like Volcanoes National Park or Kealakekua Bay, entrance fees or permits might be required, but these are not included in the tour price.

What if I encounter technical issues? Support is available via phone, chat, and email. Reviewers mention that support is prompt and helpful when needed.

Can I start the tour at any time? Yes, there are no fixed time constraints. You can start, stop, and resume the tour at your convenience.

Is this a guided group tour? No, it’s a self-guided experience, giving you control over your schedule and stops.

Will I learn about Hawaiian culture? Yes, the narration includes cultural and historical insights, including sites like Kealakekua Bay and the statues of King Kamehameha.

Do I need to plan my own route? While the tour provides suggested itineraries and points of interest, you can create your own route or follow the recommended paths.

Final Thoughts

This self-guided audio driving tour of Big Island offers a practical and engaging way to explore Hawaii’s diverse landscapes and cultural sites. The combination of rich storytelling, flexible pacing, and affordability makes it particularly appealing for travelers who prefer independence. Whether you’re aiming for a quick overview or a comprehensive day-long adventure, this tour adapts to your needs.

The price point and offline capability mean you get a lot of value—no expensive guide or group tour required. The ability to stop and explore at your leisure, combined with constantly updated stories, makes it a rare find among self-guided options.

If you’re someone who values authentic experiences over tourist traps, and you’re eager to learn while you explore, then this tour will serve you well. It’s best suited for curious, independent travelers who don’t mind a bit of driving or navigation, and who want to soak up the Big Island’s stunning scenery without the hassle of schedules and large groups.

In summary, this tour is a smart, budget-friendly way to make your Big Island visit more meaningful and personalized. It combines practical features with engaging storytelling, creating an experience that feels both educational and fun. For those who love to explore at their own pace, and want to avoid the typical crowds, it’s a compelling choice that delivers on both value and quality.