Top Big Island of Hawaii Eco Tours

On this tour from Kona to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, experience some of the Big Island’s best sights in a small group capped at 14 people. In addition to stopping at Punalu’u Beach Park to walk down a black-sand beach, you have the chance to sip Kona coffee on the plantation right where it’s grown, as well as hike through a lava tube that was formed by Kilauea volcano.

On this exciting Kona submarine tour, dive deep below the cobalt waters just off the Kona coast, where an entire world of fish and marine creatures is waiting just below the surface. As the submarine descends towards the colorful reef, peer through the portholes at fish that swim to within inches of the submarine windows, and experience the sense of peace and calm in this world beneath the waves. This is a great way to explore underwater without even getting your hair wet, and, if you’re very lucky, there’s even the chance you could see a passing shark.

Enjoy a sunset and stargazing experience like no other on this small-group trip to Mauna Kea—the highest point in the Hawaiian islands. Following afternoon pickup, travel in a 4x4 van to the summit—you can change into a warm jacket and pair of gloves, and sip a hot beverage, as the sun starts to set. Then, learn why so many research telescopes are located here during a brilliant celestial show.

Fly away from Hilo Airport and into a world of volcanoes, rainbows, and waterfalls. With this family-run helicopter company—the longest-running on the island—you’ll meet your captain, get debriefed on safety protocol, and hop into your helicopter for a wild aerial adventure. With your captain doubling as guide, you’ll explore the volcanoes of the national park, lava flows, orchid farms, lush forests, and so much more.

The 13,803-foot (4,207.3-meter) peak of Mauna Kea is Hawaii's highest point, and a popular spot for star-gazing. With this tour, travel up to the summit with your guide, stop for dinner at the Onizuka Astronomy Complex, then arrive at the summit in time to watch the sunset. As dark sets in, enjoy a guided stargazing experience and marvel at the stars and planets using a refractor telescope and razor pointer.

See the steam vents and fiery lava streams of Kilauea during a Big Island aerial tour by six-passenger helicopter. View Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa while soaring over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park; hover above waterfalls cascading from the cliffs of Kohala; and marvel at the rain forest of the Hamakua coast. You’ll get a comprehensive look at Hawaii in a short time.

Hawaii is renowned for its coffee and chocolate, and this tour takes you behind the scenes of a traditional plantation. Learn how coffee is grown and produced, discover the chocolate-making journey from bean to bar, and have a chance to sample both delicacies. At the end of the tour, spend as much time as you like in the gift shop, where you can purchase homemade soaps and other products.

Explore the world’s most active volcano on a private eco tour around Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. These 3- and 6-hour, education-based explorations focus on the native flora and fauna, the geology and the amazing Hawaiian culture that still thrives on the volcano today. Experience the highlights of Kilauea’s summit area, including a sunset eruption viewing or hike to both the hidden and highlight areas of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Experience the Big Island’s beautiful volcanic landscapes on this full-day excursion. After a convenient pickup from centralized meeting locations, enjoy a scenic drive on Saddle Road, take a picturesque hike in Volcanoes National Park, and feast on a delicious complimentary lunch. Explore a magical lava tube, Kauhi Cave, while learning about the island’s fascinating history from an informative guide. Finish with a hearty, warm picnic dinner.

The Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary is all family stewarded, operated and forested since 1982! Come explore this unique ecosystem and microclimate. Learn about native species as well as rare species from around the world! Connect with the energy of the forest, relax and be present in nature, as you breathe the freshest air in the world! James Cameron's Avatar was filmed here!

A must-do for adrenaline junkies, this aerial adventure takes you over the island’s volcanic landscape, so you can peer into craters and spot lava. Plus enjoy views of waterfalls and other natural features of the Big Island while aboard.

Swim near a manta ray natural habitat on this 1.5-hour night snorkeling tour from Kona. Led by an expert guide, journey five minutes off the Big Island’s west coast where the mantas come to feast on plankton. Dive in the water, and swim in an area known for manta ray sightings. The area is lit by your vessels diving lights, so you can get a clear view even in dark waters. Afterward, dry off, and enjoy warm soup, bread rolls, and hot drinks as you recount your underwater adventures.

See the Big Island from the water when you hop aboard this Kona coastline boat tour. You’ll ride out into the Kealakekua Bay and set sail for the reef below the surface. Strap on the snorkeling gear provided and dive in to watch fish explore the ecosystem. Spend time in the water or sitting on the boat, taking in the beautiful blues and greens surrounding you.

Discover the history of old Hawai’i on a leisurely afternoon Hilo cruise complete with storytelling, waterfalls, sea cliffs, and more!