The Big Island of Hawai‘i is one of the most diverse adventure destinations on earth, offering unforgettable big island hawaii excursions across volcanoes, lush rainforests, world-class reefs, sacred cultural sites, and dramatic coastlines. Whether you’re searching for big island excursions, excursions on Big Island Hawaii, or planning your next round of Kona excursions, this guide brings together the island’s best adventures by land, sea, and sky.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the top tours and experiences—plus local insight to help you choose the perfect excursion for your trip.
Table of Contents:
- Land Excursions on the Big Island (Kona & Beyond)
- Hawaii ATV & UTV Adventures
- Local Farm, Coffee & Cultural Experiences
- Hiking & Volcano Adventures
- Sea Excursions on the Big Island
- Snorkeling & Manta Ray Night Dives
- Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruises
- Kayaking, SUP & Coastal Adventures
- Sky Excursions & Aerial Adventures
- Helicopter Tours
- Ziplining Tours
- Stargazing & Summit Tours
- How to Choose the Right Excursion for Your Big Island Trip
Land Excursions on the Big Island (Kona & Beyond)
ATV & UTV Adventures (Featuring Aloha Adventure Farms)
If you’re looking for thrilling Big Island excursions with a cultural twist, Hawaii ATV tours at Aloha Adventure Farms are a must. Located just south of Kona, these adventures combine adrenaline-packed riding with immersive Polynesian storytelling. Riders travel through lush trails, explore recreated Polynesian villages, and learn about the history and traditions of Tonga, Fiji, Samoa, and Hawai‘i.
What makes Aloha Adventure Farms unique:
- Guided ATV or UTV experiences—perfect for families and groups of mixed ages
- Stunning coastal and mountain views
- Hands-on cultural experiences and seasonal treats (like fresh, local fruit!)
- Small group sizes and friendly, knowledgeable guides
This is one of the top-rated Kona excursions for families, adventure seekers, and anyone wanting an activity you can only find on the Big Island.
Local Farm, Coffee & Cultural Experiences
Kona’s agricultural heritage runs deep, and touring its farms offers a relaxing yet enriching way to explore the island.
Top land experiences include:
- Kona Coffee Farm Tours – Walk the orchards, learn how world-famous Kona coffee is processed, and sample fresh-roasted brews
- Macadamia Nut Farms – See how mac nuts grow, how they’re harvested, and enjoy local-made treats.
- Historical & Cultural Tours – Visit sacred and historical sites such as:
- Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau (City of Refuge) – A profoundly spiritual Hawaiian place of sanctuary.
Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park – Fishponds, petroglyphs, and wildlife along a scenic coastal trail.
Hiking & Volcano Adventures
The Big Island’s landscapes are unmatched—from black lava fields to green sand beaches.
Highlights include:
- Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park – Explore craters, steam vents, lava tubes, and scenic drives across active volcanic terrain.
- Papakōlea Green Sand Beach Hike – One of only four green sand beaches in the world.
- Lava Cave Explorations – Walk through ancient lava tubes formed thousands of years ago.
For travelers who want land excursions full of adventure, geology, and pristine nature, this is the place. Discover our Top 7 Big Island Land Adventures.
Sea Excursions on the Big Island
Snorkeling & Manta Ray Night Dives
The Kona Coast is famous for crystal-clear waters and thriving marine life.
Top choices:
- Manta Ray Night Dives (Keauhou Bay) – Consistently ranked one of the top night dives in the world.
- Captain Cook Snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay – Brilliant coral reefs, spinner dolphins nearby, and calm waters perfect for beginners.
Both are unforgettable Big Island Hawaii excursions for ocean lovers.
Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruises
From December through April, humpback whales migrate through Hawaiian waters.
Expect:
- Breaching whales
- Newborn calves with mothers
- Spinner dolphins on morning cruises
Most tours depart from Kona, making them easy additions to your itinerary.
Kayaking, SUP & Coastal Adventures
For a calmer way to explore:
- Rent kayaks or SUP (stand up paddle) boards in Keauhou, Kailua Bay, or Hōnaunau
- Join guided eco-tours through protected bays
- Enjoy beginner-friendly conditions and gorgeous scenery.
These excursions are perfect for families and first-time ocean adventurers. Discover our Top 7 Big Island Water Activities.
Sky Excursions & Aerial Adventures
Helicopter Tours
Seeing the island from above is an entirely different experience. Flights often include:
- Mauna Loa & Kilauea — Volcanoes, lava fields, and craters
- Waipiʻo Valley — Towering waterfalls and steep green cliffs
- Hāmākua Coast — Deep valleys and dramatic coastline
Ideal for photography lovers and first-time visitors.
Ziplining Tours
Ziplining is one of the most popular Big Island excursions for thrill seekers.
Top zones include:
- Hilo Waterfalls – Soar over lush rainforest and waterfall valleys.
- North Kohala – Beautiful canopy tours with suspension bridges and panoramic views.
Great for teens, families, and anyone wanting an adrenaline-filled day.
Stargazing & Summit Tours
The Big Island has some of the clearest skies in the world.
Options include:
- Mauna Kea Visitor Center – High-elevation stargazing without going to the summit.
- Guided Summit Tours – Safe, narrated excursions to the 13,800 ft summit (the best sunsets on the island).
- Independent Stargazing Spots – Saddle Road pullouts and dark-sky areas.
Best time: New moon phase for the darkest skies.
How to Choose the Right Excursion for Your Big Island Trip
With so many options, spend some time considering the following:
Activity Level
- Do you want high adventure (ATVs, ziplining) or something relaxing (coffee tours, coastal SUP)?
- What type of activity level can everyone in your group participate in?
Age Groups
- Some activities have age or height restrictions—Aloha Adventure Farms offers both ATVs and UTVs to accommodate families.
Adventure vs. Relaxation
- Choose excursions that balance your trip: one high-energy day, one ocean day, one cultural day.
Location
- Kona – Best for snorkeling, manta rays, ATVs, coffee, and whale watching. Check out our Top 5 Kona Family-Friendly Activities on the Big Island.
- Hilo – Waterfalls, rainforest ziplining, volcano access.
- Kohala – Luxury resorts, calm beaches, coastal adventures.
Big island hawaii excursions offer access to one of the most diverse adventure destinations in the world—featuring land, sea, and sky experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, ocean exploration, volcano adventures, or heart-pumping thrills, Hawaiʻi delivers something for every traveler.
For a uniquely Polynesian experience found only here, don’t miss the ATV or carving adventures at Aloha Adventure Farms—where storytelling and adrenaline come together in an unforgettable way.
What excursions are the Big Island known for?
ATV tours, manta ray night dives, volcano hikes, coffee farm tours, ziplining, helicopter tours, and whale watching are among the most popular.
Where is the best place to book Kona excursions?
Most major tours depart from Kona, where you’ll find ocean cruises, snorkeling, cultural experiences, and ATV/UTV adventures like those at Aloha Adventure Farms.
What are the top-rated Big Island Hawaii excursions for families?
Aloha Adventure Farms’ ATV/UTV tours, dolphin cruises, Kealakekua snorkeling, farm tours, and gentle hiking trails are all family favorites.
Is it better to book excursions before arriving on the Big Island?
Yes. Popular activities—manta rays, ATV tours, ziplining, and volcano tours—frequently sell out, especially during peak seasons. Booking early ensures the best availability.
