Magpie
4.8(2,725 reviews)

Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park and Rainbow Falls

From$169
6 hours
Island of Hawaii, USA

About this activity

Discover Hawaii's natural wonders on a guided tour of Volcanoes National Park and Rainbow Falls, including transportation from Hilo port.

Highlights

  • Explore Volcanoes National Park's volcanic landscapes
  • Marvel at the stunning Rainbow Falls
  • Learn about Hawaii's geological history
  • Experience the lush tropical rainforest
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean

Full description

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Hawaii's Big Island with this guided shore excursion. Explore the volcanic landscapes of Volcanoes National Park, home to active volcanoes and unique geological formations. Visit the majestic Rainbow Falls, where sunlight creates vibrant rainbows over cascading waters. Learn about Hawaii's rich geological history and experience the lush tropical rainforest that surrounds these natural wonders. This tour offers a comprehensive and engaging experience, perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Transportation from Hilo port is included, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey.

Included / Excluded

  • Guided tour of Volcanoes National Park
  • Visit to Rainbow Falls
  • Transportation from Hilo port
  • Meals and beverages

Itinerary

1

This Black Sand Beach is a local favorite, and is a great way to see how the ocean and volcanoes make fine black sand.

Duration: 20 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

Pass by: JUNE 1st 2026, this drive by area will be removed and replaced with an extra time and stop inside the Volcanoes National Park. 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
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: 15 minAdmission: YES
4

Drive through scenic orchards of Macadamia Nut Trees, sample tasting, browse, and select from an array of locally made island gifts. * This location is closed on Sundays if no cruise ship is in port. This stop will be replaced by Big Island Candies.

Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5

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: 35 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6

Pass by: Pass through the historic town of Hilo and see the King Kamehameha Statue learning the story how he has conquered Hawaii.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7

We will then make our way to the summit of Kilauea volcano at the Volcanoes National Park, the most highly regarded and revered volcanic area on Earth. The Park highlights two of the world's most active volcanoes--Kilauea and Mauna Loa--and offers insights on the birth of the Hawaiian Islands and views of dramatic volcanic landscapes. At the park, you will stop at the Visitor Center, witness the spectacular collapsed caldera, steam vents, sulfur banks, and fascinating scenic lookouts. No trip to Hawaii is complete without a trip to Volcanoes National Park. THE VISITOR CENTER IS CURRENTLY CLOSED DUE TO RENOVATION. EXHIBITS AND GIFTS HAVE BEEN MOVED TO KMC Guests may present a valid Park Pass at the entrance on our 14-passenger tours. Our company is still required to pay the commercial vehicle entrance fee and insurance. No refunds or credits will be issued

Duration: 1h 30mAdmission: YES
8

We will walk through a lava tube and the guide will share information with you on how it was formed by lava. This lava tube is .4 of a mile loop trail with low lighting. Gradual stairs descending into the tube ascending stairs coming out. Not all passengers may be physically fit in which they may stay in the vehicle or outside natural scenery for this portion of the tour.

Duration: 20 minAdmission: YES

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • Tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately for weather conditions.
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
  • Pets are not permitted on the tour.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
  • Bring a light jacket, as weather conditions can change.
  • Carry a camera to capture the stunning 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.

Accessibility

  • Infants Required On Laps

Good to know

  • Vehicle: 12-14 passenger van or mini bus max 25,29 pass mini bus
  • HOTEL : You can meet us at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel to join this tour.
  • CRUISE PASSENGERS : We have special permits to pick up directly from Hilo port
  • 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 delayed we will adjust our departure time to the ships itinerary. See our terms and conditions for full details
  • DEPARTURE TIMES: Because we are a shore excursion company we schedule our departure times around a ships arrival and departure.
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
  • Easy tour - Involves walking over relatively level terrain, possible gravel or uneven ground in some areas. Lava tube is .4 of mile long with descending and ascending steps. Comfortable walking shoes & light jacket recommended
  • WHEELCHAIR / WALKER or SCOOTER ? We must know prior to the tour date if you are bringing a mobility device in order to accommodate. (Please add note to comments box) The mobility unit must not exceed 45 lbs. For various reasons our guides cannot assist with mobility units. Guests must have someone with them to move the mobility device in and out of the vehicle. Our vehicles do not have a lift, so any mobility device must be collapsible to fit through the mini bus doors which is 32” wide.
  • Mobility Restrictions: Mobility devices cannot go into the lava tube, a trail to the crater is dirt path. Trail to black sand beach in ok but the beach is sand. Customers can stay in the vehicle at any time if they wish. Call us if you have further questions.

Traveler reviews

4.8
2,725 reviews
5
2,362
4
194
3
81
2
51
1
37

Jess was amazing!

We had a great shore excursion with Jessica. She was very knowledgeable and funny. Our cruise had immigration delays but they waited for us and we were able to not miss our tour. Even with the delay we had plenty of time to explore the island and made it back to the cruise on time. The views of the Volcano were amazing!

446yanirapMay 24, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Great Tour

We had an amazing experience. Jess is extremely knowledgeable and was fantastic guide! A definite do over!

MEBowenMay 24, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Wonderful experience!

Robert was an amazing tour guide. He had an extensive depth of information and was continuously full of energy and enthusiasm.

Terry499May 24, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Awesome excursion

Robert is amazing and very knowledgeable. He was really funny too and really engaged with our group. He had a great energy to him and he was a pleasure to spend the day with 😀

leightonh750May 24, 2026TRIPADVISOR

great experience

very good, a lot of information, robert great guide

J3344WOs_bastienbMay 24, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

Vehicle: 12-14 passenger van or mini bus max 25 pass mini bus _________________________________________________________ HOTEL : You can meet us at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel to join this tour. CRUISE PASSENGERS : We have special permits to pick up directly from Hilo port 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 DEPARTURE TIMES: Because we are a shore excursion company we schedule our departure times around a ships arrival and departure. Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately Easy tour - Involves walking over relatively level terrain, possible gravel or uneven ground in some areas. Lava tube is .4 of mile long with descending and ascending steps. Comfortable walking shoes & light jacket recommended WHEELCHAIR / WALKER or SCOOTER ? We must know prior to the tour date if you are bringing a mobility device in order to accommodate. (Please add note to comments box) The mobility unit must not exceed 45 lbs. For various reasons our guides cannot assist with mobility units. Guests must have someone with them to move the mobility device in and out of the vehicle. Our vehicles do not have a lift, so any mobility device must be collapsible to fit through the mini bus doors which is 32” wide. Mobility Restrictions: Mobility devices cannot go into the lava tube, a trail to the crater is dirt path. Trail to black sand beach in ok but the beach is sand. Customers can stay in the vehicle at any time if they wish. Call us if you have further questions.
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