Top Big Island Attractions | Book Big Island Tours, Activities & Things to Do with HawaiiActivities.com
Search Activities
Currently Viewing
Top Big Island Sights & Attractions (95)
Most Popular
Most Popular on the Big Island (126)
Volcano Sightseeing Tours / Mauna Kea Summit Adventures & Stars / Waipio Valley Tours / Big Island Luau Tickets / Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel / Submarine & Glassbottom Boat / Sunset Cocktail Sails / Big Island Snorkeling Tours / ATV Tours & Off-Road Adventures / Horseback Riding Tours / Helicopter & Air Tours / Dolphin Tours / Sunset Dinner Cruises / Kayaking Tours / Zipline Adventures / Big Island Whale Watch Tours / Kohala Adventures & Things to Do
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (28)
Things to do near your resort (121)
Snorkeling Cruises & Tours Hawaii (40)
Sunset Cruises Hawaii (10)
Other Interests
Hawaii Private Boat Charters (10)
Helicopter & Airplane Tours (17)
Luau, Dinner Show & Entertainment (5)
Outdoor Adventures (36)
Hawaii Sightseeing / Guided Tours (44)
Watersports & Ocean Adventures (14)
Marine Life Tours & Cruises (30)
Inter-Island Day Trips (8)
Airport Services / Car Rental (3)
Seasonal & Holiday Activities (1)
Kids Friendly: Browse by Age (116)
Wheelchair Accessible (17)
Search by check-in location (146)

Top Big Island Sights & Attractions

4.65
(3099)
The Big Island, officially named "Hawaii," is home to eight different climate zones, making it the most varied place in the world. Visit the snowy-capped tundra of Mauna Kea or the tropical rainforest of Waipio Valley. See the beautiful coral reefs at Kealakekua Bay or fly past the magnificent sea cliffs on the Hamakua Coast. Whether you're visiting Kilauea, a young active volcano, or Kohala, the oldest dormant one, you're sure to be amazed by the natural variety of the Big Island of Hawaii.
Top Big Island Sights & Attractions
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is Hawaii’s most popular attraction. Join a top rated Big Island volcano tour and visit one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Explore dynamic volcanic landscapes and see lava tubes, venture across lava flows from past eruptions and connect with the most unique place in Hawaii. Soar over Kilauea Volcano on an epic helicopter flight, or explore the park on a sightseeing tour. For outdoor adventure lovers you can also join a volcano hike or bike tour.
Mauna Kea Summit Adventures & Stars
The often snow-capped Mauna Kea stands as the tallest mountain in Hawaii and is considered the tallest mountain in the world when measured from the sea floor to summit. Traverse its cinder peaks for spectacular views and unparalleled stargazing opportunities. Stare deep into the expansive universe as you sip on delicious warming beverages and take in the crisp, sacred, and unforgettable surroundings of this spectacularly cold Hawaiian wonderland.
Waipio Valley Tours
Waipio Valley, located in north Hamakua, is Big Island's "Valley of the Kings" and remains one Hawaii's most unique and sacred native preservation sites. As the rain falls, see its' beautiful waterfalls pouring into a network of wet-land taro farms, over roads and black sandy shores. Horses run wild here and age-old Hawaiian traditions are passed on to new generations that inhabit the valley. An experienced guide and special 4WD vehicle is necessary to make it down the very steep valley road.
Kohala Adventures & Things to Do
The oldest of the five volcanoes that comprise the Big Island, Kohala is known for the impressive sea cliffs and deep valleys that cut into the area's eastern coast, the result of hundreds of thousands of years of tropical rainfall. Fly past these sea cliffs on a helicopter tour, take a sunset sail on a catamaran on the west side, or ride a horse on one of the many ranches built on the gentle slopes of Kohala. The north shore of the Big Island offers plenty to do!
Rainbow Falls
Waianuenue, Rainbow Falls, is a 80 foot tall waterfall that is part of the Wailuku River. Located just outside Hilo Town, the falls are a popular tourist attraction that gets its name from the commonly-seen rainbows appearing during sunny days in the mist just under the waterfall. The falls flows over a natural lava cave said to be the mythical home of Hina, a Hawaiian moon goddess. Look below for Hilo sightseeing tours that visit Rainbow Falls.
Scenic Hamakua Coast
A beautiful, lush landscape filled with waterfalls, valleys, rainforests, and black sand beaches, the Hamakua Coast exists in stark contrast with the rest of the Big Island's dry, arid climate. Fly past the stunning sea cliffs of the Kohala Coast, take a horseback tour of Waipio Valley to visit a hidden waterfall, or zipline over the famous Akaka Falls, plunging hundreds of feet to the valley floor. The beauty of Hamakua offers visitors adventures and panoramas like no other place on the island.
Hilo Town Attractions
The biggest town on the Big Island, Hilo has retained a lot of its small-town charm, with various cafes, restaurants, eateries, and boutique stores as well as a zoo and a museum. Nearby is the beautiful Hilo Bay, a protected coastline that used to serve as a fishing pond. Other nearby attractions include Akaka Falls, Kaumana Lava Caves, Liliuokalani Gardens, and the Hilo Farmers' Market, with the Puna district, Waipio Valley, and Volcanoes National Park within driving distance.
Sacred Honaunau National Park
Journey back to ancient Hawaii and take time to visit the Place of Refuge, also known as Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, resting on the coast of south Kona. According to Hawaiian history, lawbreakers could evade the punishment of death only by escaping to this sacred sanctuary where they could no longer be pursued. This 180-acre National Park has been beautifully preserved and offers visitors a great historical exploration around the Great Wall and Royal Grounds.
Black Sand Beach
Most of the coastline of the Big Island consists of lava rocks, but a few stretches of beach exist with jet-black sand created by finely crushed volcanic soil. These black sand beaches are a wonder to behold and a unique, must-see attraction for anyone visiting Hawaii's newest island. Punaluu Beach on the south shore is the most famous and is home to turtles that like to rest there. Waipio Valley, though remote, has its own black sand beach as well.
Akaka Falls State Park
Hawaii's most famous waterfall, Akaka Falls is a 442-foot waterfall located north of Hilo. The State Park includes a half-mile, paved hike that loops through the area to an overlook of the waterfall. While visitors are normally required to pay a parking/entry fee, the tours below allow you to see the magnificent Akaka Falls with all fees included!
Keauhou Bay
For guests staying near Keauhou Bay, on the southern edge of Kailua-Kona, this area is the birthplace of King Kamehameha III. Well known for its rugged sea caves and pristine ocean conditions, this protected bay is home to the sacred stone that is said to have revived a stillborn King, as well as an ancient warriors burial ground from a fierce battle in 1819. Explore Keauhou Bay's vast history and underwater paradise and every corner of its breathtaking landscape.
Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling Tours
Kealakekua Bay, located 13 miles south of Kailua-Kona, is a pristine marine sanctuary and preservation site filled with colorful marine life and coral. Tucked along this bay are ancient religious temples and also the historic monument where world explorer Captain James Cook met his fate. Archaeological sites are only accessible by rugged foot paths or by kayak. Go explore the history of Kealakekua and its underwater beauty through these tours featuring this stunning and sacred bay.
Volcano Sightseeing Tours
Explore Big Island's active volcanoes and the attractions at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on a half-day or full-day volcano sightseeing tour. Here's your chance to immerse yourself in the power of this living volcanic landscape, its misty rainforests, thermal ponds, waterfalls and even lava flows. Tours allow you to go with a group and meet new friends or get your own personal expert guide to introduce you to the volcano and visit areas seldom visited by other volcano tour companies.
Tell us about your travel plans.
Tell us about your travel plans.
Filter
95 Activities Availability varies by date for all activities.
Hawaii Horseback Riding Tour with Waterfall Swim at Umauma Falls-0
Hawaii Horseback Riding Tour with Waterfall Swim at Umauma Falls
4.90 (22)
USD 151.43
View details
Experience the history and culture of Old Hawaii on a 1 hour 45 min horseback riding adventure
Enjoy a 45-min picnic break and private access to swim at the beautiful Umauma Falls
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon
3 - 3.5 hour(s)
Mon / Tue / Wed / Thu / Fri / Sat Only
Kohala Zipline Treetop Canopy Adventure with Optional Waterfall Swim Upgrade-0
Kohala Zipline Treetop Canopy Adventure with Optional Waterfall Swim Upgrade
4.70 (31)
From USD 235.60
View details
Enjoy the fun and excitement as you make your way down 8 zip lines, 6 sky bridges, and a rappel
Upgrade to a full day Zip and Dip Adventure! Includes lunch, a short hike & waterfall swim
Pick-up Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon
3.5 - 10.5 hour(s)
Mon / Tue / Wed / Thu / Fri / Sat Only
Mauna Kea Summit Sunset & Stargazing Tour with Dinner - Hawaii Forest & Trail-0
Mauna Kea Summit Sunset & Stargazing Tour with Dinner - Hawaii Forest & Trail
4.60 (81)
USD 313.09
View details
Delight in the awe-inspiring Hawaiian sunset at Mauna Kea summit
After a picnic-style dinner, enjoy a narrated stargazing at the Mauna Kea Visitor Center
Pick-up Provided
Meal Provided
Afternoon
5 - 9 hour(s)
Mon / Tue / Thu / Fri / Sat Only
Hula Kai Kona First Class Snorkel Tour - 2 Snorkeling Stops, Breakfast & Lunch-0
Hula Kai Kona First Class Snorkel Tour - 2 Snorkeling Stops, Breakfast & Lunch
4.40 (36)
USD 204.82
View details
Embark on a 5-hour snorkeling tour and explore two unique snorkel locations along the Kona coast
Enjoy first-class amenities, paddleboards, and a freshly prepared plant-based breakfast and lunch
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
5.5 hour(s)
Mon / Tue / Wed / Thu / Fri / Sat Only
Kona Glassbottom Boat & Guided Coral Reef Tour with Marine Naturalist-0
Kona Glassbottom Boat & Guided Coral Reef Tour with Marine Naturalist
4.60 (30)
USD 65.63
View details
Enjoy a 50-minute cruise along the coastline of Kailua Bay within inches of the coral reef
With four crystal-clear glass windows, everyone on board will have incredible underwater views
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon
1.5 hour(s)
Daily
Deluxe Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkeling Cruise from Keauhou Bay - Hula Kai-0
Special Deals
Deluxe Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkeling Cruise from Keauhou Bay - Hula Kai
4.90 (15)
From USD 160.49
6% OFF
View details
Experience an incredible 1.5 hour Kona manta ray night time snorkeling experience
Includes wetsuits, snorkel gear, hot drinks and hot soup
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Evening
2.5 hour(s)
Mon / Tue / Wed / Fri / Sat Only
Ultimate Hawaii Circle Island Sightseeing, Kilauea Volcano & Waterfall Tour-0
Ultimate Hawaii Circle Island Sightseeing, Kilauea Volcano & Waterfall Tour
4.40 (5)
From USD 309.93
View details
See Big Island's top attractions! Less hiking and more sightseeing on this complete island excursion
Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Waipio Valley, Rainbow Falls and Punalu'u Black Sand Beach!
Pick-up Provided
Meal Provided
Morning
10.5 - 11 hour(s)
Sun / Mon / Wed / Thu / Fri / Sat Only
2.5-hour Dolphins & Whale Watch Raft Adventure Tour from Keauhou Bay [Dec-Mar]-0
2.5-hour Dolphins & Whale Watch Raft Adventure Tour from Keauhou Bay [Dec-Mar]
5.00 (1)
USD 107.63
View details
Join a 2.5-hour Kona coast tour to spot dolphins, whales, sea caves, arches, and lava tubes!
Include binoculars for wildlife viewing and underwater microphone to listen to whale sounds
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
3 hour(s)
Daily
Big Island Buggy Car Rental Service (4 and 8 hours)-0
Big Island Buggy Car Rental Service (4 and 8 hours)
5.00 (2)
From USD 167.21
View details
Cruise Big Island in style with VW Convertible Beach Buggies—unlimited miles, street legal & fun!
Choose 2 or 4-seat VW dune buggies with automatic or manual transmission for your adventure!
Pick-up Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon
Daily
Hilo Black Sand Beach Guided Snorkel Tour at Sea Turtle Lagoon-0
Hilo Black Sand Beach Guided Snorkel Tour at Sea Turtle Lagoon
4.60 (5)
USD 144.46
View details
3-hour Hilo snorkeling tour with turtles at a volcanic black sand beach
Fully guided and narrated beach snorkeling tour. Includes juice and snacks
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon
3.5 hour(s)
Daily
Kohala Coast Sunset Cocktail Sail Cruise with Open-Bar [Apr-Dec]-0
Kohala Coast Sunset Cocktail Sail Cruise with Open-Bar [Apr-Dec]
4.80 (20)
USD 165.00
View details
Join Ocean Sports on a fun 2-hour sunset cruise along the scenic Kohala Coast
Special deal! Kids ages 6-12 go for 50%, and kids under 6 sail for FREE
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Afternoon / Evening
2.5 hour(s)
Mon / Wed / Fri / Sat Only
Sea Quest Kealakekua Bay Snorkel Tour & Rafting Sea Cave Expedition-0
Sea Quest Kealakekua Bay Snorkel Tour & Rafting Sea Cave Expedition
4.90 (52)
From USD 124.87
View details
3 hour, 4 hour and 5 hour South Kona snorkeling tours
Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay and Honaunau Bay
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Provided
Morning / Afternoon
3.5 - 5.5 hour(s)
Daily
Kohala Whale Watching Tour by Ocean Sports | Kids 0-5 Ride for Free [Dec - Mar]-0
Kohala Whale Watching Tour by Ocean Sports | Kids 0-5 Ride for Free [Dec - Mar]
4.40 (85)
USD 125.00
View details
Look for whales as you sail within the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary
If you don't see whales, you can come back again for free!
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
2 hour(s)
Mon / Tue / Thu / Sat Only
Kohala Sunset Whale Watching Cruise with Open Bar - Ocean Sports [Dec - Mar]-0
Kohala Sunset Whale Watching Cruise with Open Bar - Ocean Sports [Dec - Mar]
4.80 (6)
USD 165.00
View details
Explore the Big Island ocean on a sunset whale watching tour and cocktail cruise
Grab a drink from the open bar, and enjoy a number of different refreshing local beverages
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Afternoon
2.5 hour(s)
Mon / Wed / Fri / Sat Only
Captain Zodiac Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling Tour & South Kona Sea Cave Expedition-0
Special Deals
Captain Zodiac Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling Tour & South Kona Sea Cave Expedition
4.40 (216)
From USD 145.82
5% OFF
View details
Embark on an exciting ocean raft adventure to snorkel at Kealakekua Bay! 4 or 5-hour tours available
Witness a stunning marine life spectacle! See playful dolphins, turtles, and vibrant tropical fish
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Provided
Morning / Afternoon
4.5 - 5.5 hour(s)
Sun / Mon / Tue / Thu / Fri / Sat Only
Hawaiian Canoe Paddling Tour Adventure from Waikoloa - Hulakai-0
Special Deals
Hawaiian Canoe Paddling Tour Adventure from Waikoloa - Hulakai
5.00 (7)
From USD 109.95
View details
Explore the ocean like the Polynesians explorers of the past on an authentic Hawaiian canoe ride
Take a 1-hour guided canoe ride along the Kohala coast, suitable for all skill levels
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
1.5 hour(s)
Tue / Thu Only
Big Island Horseback Ride - Hamakua Coast Trail from Mountain to Ocean-0
Big Island Horseback Ride - Hamakua Coast Trail from Mountain to Ocean
5.00 (1)
USD 156.66
View details
Embark on a 3-hour horseback ride adventure and discover all the beauty of the Hamakua Coast
Ride alongside the historic Hamakua ditch & see coconut orchards, banana groves, and fishponds
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon
3.5 hour(s)
Mon / Tue / Wed / Thu / Fri / Sat Only
Big Island ATV Tour & Ranch Off-Road Adventure from Hamakua - All About The View-0
Big Island ATV Tour & Ranch Off-Road Adventure from Hamakua - All About The View
4.90 (27)
USD 156.20
View details
Get ready for a fun 2.5 hour ATV ride at W.O.H Ranch. Listed price is per person
Drive solo or side-by-side tandem UTVs along the scenic Hamakua coastline
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon
3 hour(s)
Mon / Tue / Wed / Thu / Fri / Sat Only
Kona Manta Ray Snorkel & Night Dive Tour at Keauhou Bay - Sea Paradise-0
Kona Manta Ray Snorkel & Night Dive Tour at Keauhou Bay - Sea Paradise
4.40 (139)
USD 141.03
View details
Join Sea Paradise on a 2-hour night snorkel tour and swim with giant mantas at Manta Ray Village
If you don't see mantas, come back again for free! Includes light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Evening
1.5 - 2.5 hour(s)
Daily
Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour Adventure on a Hawaiian Sailing Canoe-0
Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour Adventure on a Hawaiian Sailing Canoe
4.90 (34)
USD 121.16
View details
Join Eka Canoes on a manta ray night snorkel experience (50-60 minutes)
Board a 40ft Hawaiian double-hulled sailing canoe & watch the manta rays glide through the ocean
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Evening / Late-Night
1.5 hour(s)
Daily
12345

Top-Rated Activities for Big Island

card image
1
Dolphin Quest Hawaii - Dolphin Swim & Encounter at Hilton Waikoloa Village
From USD 240.84
card image
2
Legends of Hawaii Luau Dinner Show with Open Bar at Hilton Waikoloa Village
From USD 225.13
card image
3
Waipio Shuttle - An Exceptional Guided Sightseeing Tour of Waipio Valley
USD 75.39
card image
4
Spirit of Aloha Waikoloa Sunset Cruise with FREE Cocktails - Hawaii Nautical
USD 152.11
card image
5
Oceanfront Royal Kona Luau with Open Bar - Voyagers of the Pacific Show
USD 177.59
card image
6
Big Island Highlights Tour - Volcano, Waterfall, Black Sand Beach, Coffee & Wine
From USD 292.15
card image
7
Deluxe Big Island ATV Tour & Waterfall Swim at Umauma Falls
From USD 187.64
card image
8
Mauna Kea Summit Sunset & Stargazing Tour with Meal, Transportation & Guide
From USD 260.00
card image
9
Island Breeze Big Island Kona Luau at King Kamehameha Hotel with Open Bar
From USD 183.25
card image
10
Twilight Volcano Tour with Stargazing, Black Sand Beach & Coffee Farm
USD 271.20
card image
11
Deluxe Captain Cook Snorkeling Tour at Kealakekua Bay - Fair Wind Cruises
From USD 143.93
card image
12
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters Discover Hilo Tour - Volcanic Landscapes & Waterfalls
From USD 439.00
card image
13
Big Island Spectacular Circle Island Helicopter Flight with Landing Option
From USD 719.00
card image
14
Mauna Kea Summit Adventures Sunset & Stargazing Guided Tour with Transportation
From USD 314.13
card image
15
Hawaii ATV Ride Tour at Kohala Coast - Sea to Mountain Off-Road Adventure
From USD 344.40
card image
16
Grand Circle Island Tour - Volcano, Black Sand Beach, Waipio Valley & Waterfalls
USD 239.79
card image
17
Kona Sunset Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay with Live Entertainment | Body Glove
USD 189.19
card image
18
Hawaii Zipline Tours - Big Island Waterfall & Rainforest Zip Adventure
USD 246.07
card image
19
Mauna Kea Evening Stargazing & Daytime Solar Viewing Tour with Dinner
From USD 240.73
card image
20
Doors-Off Four Volcanoes & Waterfalls Air Tour - Big Island Rainbow Helicopters
From USD 775.00

Latest reviews of Top Big Island Sights & Attractions

Mauna Kea Summit Sunset & Stargazing Tour with Meal, Transportation & Guide

Had a great time

2025/05/07 Families Kara

As older folks we were nervous about elevation, but this tour makes sure your comfortable and taken care of.

Grand Circle Island Tour - Volcano, Black Sand Beach, Waipio Valley & Waterfalls

Wonderful day

2025/05/07 Families Kara

Kilauea was just amazing, I could go every day if it was possible!

Deluxe Big Island ATV Tour & Waterfall Swim at Umauma Falls

Intense ride to an amazing waterfall

2025/05/03 Couples Jo

If you like adventure in an area you have not explored before, this is for you. We had a side-by-side thrilling ride to an amazing waterfall. The view is breathtaking and the water so refreshing. Water was great to cool ... more

Close
Waipio Shuttle - An Exceptional Guided Sightseeing Tour of Waipio Valley

Best Big Island activity

2025/05/03 Couples Joe

Found our tour guide Shaun (sp?) to be very informative about the area and Island history. Great scenery and an awesome education!

Mauna Kea Summit Sunset & Stargazing Tour with Meal, Transportation & Guide

Mauna Kea is a Must!

2025/04/27 Couples Jennifer

My husband and I had a tour with James through Hawaiian Eyes Tours and absolutely loved it!! The sunset was beautiful and the star gazing was such an eye opening experience! James was very knowledgeable about the sights ... more

Close
Big Island Highlights Tour - Volcano, Waterfall, Black Sand Beach, Coffee & Wine

Big Island Tour

2025/04/25 Families Paule965

The tour guide was great. We really enjoyed ourselves

Top Big Island Attractions | Book Big Island Tours, Activities & Things to Do with HawaiiActivities.com
The Big Island, officially named "Hawaii," is home to eight different climate zones, making it the most varied place in the world. Visit the snowy-capped tundra of Mauna Kea or the tropical rainforest of Waipio Valley. See the beautiful coral reefs at Kealakekua Bay or fly past the magnificent sea cliffs on the Hamakua Coast. Whether you're visiting Kilauea, a young active volcano, or Kohala, the oldest dormant one, you're sure to be amazed by the natural variety of the Big Island of Hawaii.
Please wait while loading