Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcano Safari Lava Caves, Falls and More
From$160
6 hours
Island of Hawaii, USA
About this activity
Experience Hawaii's volcanic wonders on a guided tour of Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls, and more, including black sand beaches and lava tubes.
Highlights
- Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- Visit Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls
- Discover Thurston Lava Tube
- Experience black sand beaches
- Learn about volcanic history from expert guides
Full description
Dive into the heart of Hawaii's volcanic landscape with this exciting shore excursion. Your adventure begins with a convenient hotel pickup, whisking you away to the renowned Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Here, you'll traverse the Kīlauea Iki Crater, marvel at the Thurston Lava Tube, and stand in awe before the towering Kīlauea Caldera. Next, journey to the stunning Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls, where cascading waters create mesmerizing rainbows. Feel the unique texture of black sand beneath your feet at Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, a haven for sea turtles. Throughout the day, your knowledgeable guide will share captivating insights into the island's geological history, ensuring an unforgettable experience. This tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, education, and natural beauty, making it a must-do for any visitor to the Big Island.
Included / Excluded
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Professional guide
- Transportation in air-conditioned vehicle
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
1
Pass by: This is the largest Japanese garden outside of Japan donated by Queen Liliʻuokalani in 1917. Throughout the gardens are stone lanterns, gazebos, and torii gates, recalling the Japanese immigrants who came to Hawaii.
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2
Pass by: Drive through the historical downtown Hilo as you will learn about the devastating tsunamis of the past
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3
Breathtaking 80 ft waterfall, Rainbow Falls. These beautiful falls get their name from the rainbow that is often visible in the mist that rises as the water cascades to the rocks 80 feet below.
Duration: 20 minAdmission: YES
4
Time to explore lava caves is next! We walk you down into a lava cave through a skylight, also locally known as a lava tube. Kaumana Caves was created by one of our largest volcanoes, Mauna Loa. The guide will explain how molten lava makes these spectacular lava tubes and the fascinating colors inside.
Duration: 20 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5
Pass by: On our drive we will drive through a quaint town called Pahoa. Once a booming plantation town and now a laid-back hippie town with old school artistry charm and wood-plank boardwalks. You will see the current lava flow that nearly wiped this town off the map.
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6
We will walk a trail among lava trees that looks somewhat of a petrified forest and look down into a deep fissure. This unusual volcanic sight is one stop that shouldn’t be missed.
Duration: 25 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7
**IMPORTANT ** As of June 12th 2025, there is a project to dredge the lava-covered area and restore the boat ramp. We will be replacing this black sand beach with an alternate one WALK ON THE NEWEST BLACK SAND BEACH IN HAWAII!! is truly an amazing creation by Kilauea’s lava flow. Let us show you the newest created black sand beach. Once in this location was the old boat harbor and ramp that you can still see and has now been cut off from the creation of a large black sand beach. There is no swimming at this location
Duration: 20 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
8
Several earthquakes cracked open the roads, lava fountains started spewing lava 300 ft into the sky and nearly 2,000 residents we evacuated. This amazing force even evaporated Green Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake in Hawaii. We will be showing you areas of mass destruction from Kilauea Volcano. Note: The order of stops on this tour may be adjusted to help provide the best experience.
Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
9
Local Deli for a lunch stop or a local vendor ( depending on the day, we use a different vendors for our lunch stop) Note: The order of stops on this tour may be adjusted to help provide the best experience for customers.
Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately for weather conditions.
- Children under 2 years old can join for free if seated on a parent's lap.
- This tour is wheelchair accessible; please inform in advance if assistance is required.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a light jacket, as temperatures can vary in volcanic areas.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Good to know
- Moderate tour - Involves walking over relatively unlevel terrain, possible gravel, lava, uneven ground and steep steps. Comfortable walking shoes recommended.
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately; light rain jacket or poncho
- A stop is made to purchase food
- Worry-free Shore Excursion Guarantee
- Exact departure time may vary depending on the cruise ship's disembarkation time
- We will ensure your timely return back to the ship in Hilo Pier for this activity. If your ship does not come into port , your money will be refunded. If is is delayed we will adjust our departure time to the ships itenerary. See our terms and conditions for full details
Traveler reviews
4.7420 reviews
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Jess was great, A Great Tour so much fun recommend you to take this
OnAir259396Jun 30, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Awesome trip!
Robert is a rock star! Great trip Mahalo
L7497YGpaulahJun 23, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Saw a lot in a short period of time.
Robert was unbelievable. Great personality and knowledge. Best I’ve ever had.
davidlV3043MWJun 23, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Amazing
The experience was great and entertaining
O4564IDalinabJun 22, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Remarkable day with Robert!
Had the best time with Robert today! He is extremely knowledgeable about all things Hilo, brings humor into the entire day, and absolutely has you leaving with a wealth of knowledge and a smile! Lucas and Madie felt so welcomed and blessed to spend the day in the company of some great people, absolutely stunning scenery, and of course Robert!!
802madiehJun 20, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Additional information
Moderate tour - Involves walking over relatively unlevel terrain, possible gravel, lava, uneven ground and steep steps. Comfortable walking shoes recommended.
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately; light rain jacket or poncho
A stop is made to purchase food
Worry-free Shore Excursion Guarantee
Exact departure time may vary depending on the cruise ship's disembarkation time
We will ensure your timely return back to the ship in Hilo Pier for this activity. If your ship does not come into port , your money will be refunded. If is is delayed we will adjust our departure time to the ships itenerary. See our terms and conditions for full details