Lava Tours on the Big Island
Big Island Tours: Lots to Love, Including Lava
You’ve heard it before: the Big Island is open for business–and that includes a variety of amazing Big Island Tours. Of course, with Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park closed due to the recent Kilauea eruption, tourists are wondering if it’s still worth visiting the Big Island. They’re also worried if it’s safe, with scary words like lava bombs, ash plumes, volcanic glass, and acid rain making headlines. But not to worry, the answer to both is a resounding yes! Not only is it safe, but there’s plenty to do, see, and love about the Big Island today, including the lava! Guided Big Island tours are the perfect way to see all the exciting sights and attractions on the island. Not only do they take you to some of the most beautiful places imaginable, but tours provide peace of mind that where you’re going is safe and permissible under current conditions. Sightseeing with experienced, professional guides that know the island and are aware of any up-to-the-minute safety warnings or restrictions will put you at ease while you’re making wonderful vacation memories. Some of the most popular Big Island Tours begin in Hilo, which is about a 40-minute drive from Volcano Village Lodge, one of the island’s premier lodging experiences. Hilo is also a great place to get a bite to eat, shop, and visit area attractions like museums, beaches, waterfalls, and more. Be sure to spend some time in town before and after your tour! When it comes to Big Island Tours, there’s really something for everyone. Here are a few hiking, driving, helicopter, and boat tours that are not only operational, but exceptional!Big Island Tours for Land Lovers:
Native Guide Hawaii is a home-grown tour company owned and operated by native Hawaiian Warren Costa. His unique tours offer an intimate, personal perspective that makes them something truly special. Although tours inside Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park are currently off limits, there are still plenty of Big Island Tours offered. Here are some of Native Guide Hawaii’s best:- Hilo Birdwatching Adventure This tour is not just about birdwatching, it’s an adventure in its own right. In addition to looking at bird species that are both introduced and endemic to Hawaii, an amazing hike encompasses the district of Hilo from sea level to the slopes of Mauna Loa volcano. Along the way, you’ll pass through various historic lava flows and forested areas. The tour can also include visiting a lava tube, waterfalls, and a black sand beach. You’ll also be treated to the experienced native voice of a guide who will cover the geology, history, culture, and biology of the islands.
- Hilo to Hamakua Drive and Hike For those who want the best of both worlds, this tour combines a relaxing, scenic drive with a rigorous and challenging hike. According to Warren, not only will this tour test your physical and mental fortitude, but you’ll gain a better understanding of Hawaii along the way. The tour takes you on a drive along the Hilo and Hamakua coasts where you’ll explore one of Hawaii’s most awe-inspiring and storied valleys.
- Warren’s Ka’u Adventure In this magnificent tour, the Southern district of Ka’u is explored. You’ll enjoy the drive along the geologically active and unique area on the saddle between Mauna Loa and Kilauea volcanoes. Here, you’ll learn firsthand about past and current volcanic activity, explore a black sand beach, and visit the southernmost point of the island. Also, pending park approval, this tour also includes hikes in the Kahuku Unit of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.
- Puna Coastal Hike The lush Puna coastline is explored in this hike/swimming adventure tour. You’ll hike along the forested, jungle-like coast through breathtaking scenery. Not only will you experience history and nature on the hike, but if you choose, you can snorkel and swim in the crystal clear tidepools and thermally heated ponds along the way.