All Reviews for Top Big Island Sights & Attractions

It's difficult to visit Waipi'o Valley without a tour. It's a very beautiful place. While horseback riding, you will splash through streams. However, horses are living creatures. They are well-trained, but they might graze, drink water, or stand still. If you can enjoy that aspect as well, it will be a very fun tour. The tour guides were really cool!

ツアー以外で行くのは難しいワイピオ渓谷。とても美しい場所です。乗馬では小川もじゃぶじゃぶと渡っていきます。ただし、馬は生き物。よくしつけられてはいますが、草をはんだり、水を飲んだり、じっとしていてはくれません。そこも含めて楽しめればとても楽しいツアーになります。ツアーガイドのお姉さんたち、とってもかっこよかったです。

This trip was a total disappointment. Didn't see the inside of any caves. I don't mind exercising but the work this trip took was brutal. There were seven in our group and we all felt the same way about trip! Don't book this activity!

It was a packed show, starting with hula, where we learned baton twirling on stage, got tattoos marked for us, and were taught how to make fish out of leaves. The appearance of King Kamehameha from the ship was impressive, and the food was delicious. It was a wonderful show that made great use of the beautiful location.

盛りだくさんのショーで、フラからはじまりバトンを舞台の上で教えてもらったり、タトゥーをマークしてくれたりや葉っぱでお魚をつくるやり方を教えてくれたり。船からカメハメハ大王が登場する演出はさすがで食事もおいしかったです。ロケーションの良さを生かした素晴らしいショーでした。

At the Onizuka Center, it was drizzling, but from around the 3000m mark, the weather cleared up beautifully. While looking down at the sea of clouds, we waited for the sunset. The orange sun painted the surroundings, and we could see pink clouds after sunset, which already made for an unprecedented experience that excited us. After that, we descended a bit for stargazing. We saw shooting stars and satellites, making it the best night ever. If you visit the Big Island, I highly recommend participating in this experience. The guides were wonderful, managing our health and explaining the night sky. If you decide to join, I suggest preparing for winter weather. Depending on the weather, it was quite cold at the summit. If I have the chance to visit the Big Island again, I would definitely want to do this once more.

鬼塚センターでは小雨でしたが3000ｍを超えたあたりから快晴。雲海を下にみながら、日没をまちます。オレンジ色の太陽があたりを染め、日没後のピンク色の雲も見られこの段階ですでに今までにない体験に興奮。その後少し下山して星空観測。流れ星も人口衛星も見られ、最高の夜でした。ぜひハワイ島にお越しなら、参加をお薦めします。案内の人も、体調管理から星空の説明等、素晴らしかったです。もし参加するのでしたら、冬支度をお薦めします。天気にもよると思いますが、山頂は寒かったです。
またハワイ島を訪れることがあったら、ぜひもう一度みたいと思います

Last year and this year, I visited the Big Island of Hawaii for two consecutive years. Last year, I went to Volcano National Park, but this year I challenged myself with sea kayaking and snorkeling in Keauhou. It was just the two of us and our three elementary school children, and we were able to have a private party, which allowed us to fully enjoy at our own pace. The morning sky and sea were richer and more vivid than those in Japan, and the sea breeze felt amazing while kayaking. The sea caves themselves are a natural wonder, and while they are impressive, my actual impression was just okay. Additionally, getting there was a bit hard for our young children, but the sea kayaking itself was a lot of fun. We didn't see any honu (sea turtles) or dolphins while snorkeling, but the water was very clear and beautiful. Although I'm not a poor swimmer, I had three children with me (I was responsible for two), and since it was their first time snorkeling in the deep open sea, I decided to wear a life jacket just in case. However, the current was quite strong, making it difficult to swim, which ended up exhausting my already limited stamina. So, for those who can swim a bit, a life jacket might not be necessary. But the staff, Noni and Kevin, were very kind and friendly, which made the experience really great. Thank you, Noni and Kevin!

昨年、今年と2年連続でハワイ島に行きましたが、昨年はvolcano国立公園に行ったのですが、今年はケアウホウでシーカヤックとシュノーケリングにチャレンジしました。夫婦2人に小学生3人の私たちでしたが、私たちだけのpartyにしていただき、本当に自分たちのペースでフルにエンジョイできました。朝早くの空と海は日本のそれよりもそれぞれに濃く鮮烈で、カヤックの上で体感する海風は最高でした。海中洞窟自身は自然の産物でそれはそれなりにすごいものの、実際の感想はまあまあです。さらに、結構そこまで行くのが小学校低学年の子供連れにはいささかハード（父親50がきつかっただけか？）ではありましたが、シーカヤックそのものがすごく楽しかったです。シュノーケリンではホヌ（ウミガメ）やイルカには会えませんでしたが、透明度は高く、非常に美しいものでした。私自身は泳ぎは不得手ではないものの、子供が3人おり（私の担当は2人でしたが）、3人が完全な深い外海でのシュノーケリングは初めてだったので、もしものことを考えてライフジャケットを着用したのですが、結構海流が速いので抵抗が強く、かえって泳ぎにくく、その結果、結構もともと少ない体力を消耗させる結果となったので、すこしでも泳げる人はラフジャケットは不要かもしれません。でもスタッフのノニさんとケビンさんは非常に親切でやさしくfriendryであったので、とってもよかったです。ノニさん、ケビンさんありがとうございました。

It was unexpected from the start. We were told to sit at the edge of the rafting boat, and they said the front was like a roller coaster! So, with our older child, we all moved to the back. When the boat started, I clung on tightly at first, thinking I might be thrown off, but as I got used to it, the wind felt absolutely amazing.

When we arrived at the spot, our tour companions started jumping in one after another, and we followed suit. It was simply beautiful! I lost track of time chasing fish with my 8-year-old son. We were surprised and satisfied to find small blue fish, round black fish, and even an eel! When we popped our heads out of the water, my older son was so excited that he got a nosebleed just before heading back to the boat. The boat captain kindly told him he would give him a cookie, so he could go back and enjoy the sea!

After taking a break with sandwiches and juice for lunch, we headed back into the water. Since the group that had arrived earlier had mostly left, we were able to swim leisurely. While our group was getting ready to leave and resting on the boat, a pod of dolphins came right next to us, which was a delightful surprise. On the way back, I was comfortably holding on with one hand, while my older son was sound asleep amidst the sounds, swaying, and wind. We only got to look at the lava caves, but overall, it was a tour with 120% satisfaction!

出発から予想外で。ラフティングボートは、ここへ座ってと言われたところはボートの縁、前はジェットコースター並だよ！と言われ、年長児連れの我が家はみんなで後方へ。ボートがスタートすると始めは振り落とされるかと思う勢いでしがみついて乗っていたものの、慣れてくると風がものすごく気持ちがイイ。
スポットに到着すると、ツアーの仲間はどんどん飛び込むので、つられるように飛び込むと、とにかく美しい！8歳の息子と魚を追ってると時間を忘れてしまうほど。小さな青い魚から黒い丸っこい魚、ウツボまで見つけてびっくりと満足！海から顔を出してみると、年長児の息子は興奮のあまり⁈鼻血を出しボートに戻るところだった。ボートのキャプテンは鼻血を出した息子にクッキーあげとくから海に戻って楽しんで来て！と対応してくれた。お昼にはサンドイッチとジュースでひと息いれた後また海へ。先に来ていたグループがだいぶ帰って行ったのでゆったりと泳ぐことができた。我がグループも帰る準備でボートに戻って休んでいるとイルカの群れがボートのすぐそばまで来るというれしいハプニング。帰りのボートは私は余裕で片手でつかまり、年長児の息子はあの音と揺れと風の中、熟睡していた。溶岩の洞窟は眺めるだけだったけど、とにかく満足度120パーセントのツアーでした！

On our last night in Hawaii, we decided to go to a luau. It was our first time, and I'm glad we went. We walked from a nearby hotel, and it's conveniently located in the town. We arrived early, and even 30 minutes before check-in, there was quite a line (the line is divided into one for extra fee and one for regular; if you arrive early for the regular line, you can get seats that are almost the same as the extra fee ones). There were hardly any Japanese people, possibly because the entire event was in English, and it seemed like most attendees were from the mainland and India. Although my child doesn't understand English, they enjoyed various experiences, starting with the shell lei received upon entry, the vibrant show, delicious food, and activities like making fish from coconut leaves and getting temporary tattoo-like stamps on their body. The show featured not only Hawaiian hula but also dances from various Polynesian islands, which felt quite impressive, and we enjoyed it nonetheless.

ハワイ島最後の夜はルアウに行こうと決めていました。初めてでしたが、行って良かったです。近くの別のホテルから徒歩で行きましたが、町中の便利な場所です。早めに行って、受付スタートの30分前でもかなりの行列でした（extra feeを払う列とregularの列に分かれて並びます。regularでも早めに行けば、extraとほとんど変わらない席に座れます）。全編英語のためか日本の方はほとんどいなくて、mainlandとIndiaからの方々が多かったようです。子どもは英語はわかりませんが、入るときにいただく貝殻のLeiに始まり、華やかなshowや美味しいお料理、そして、Hulaやcoconut leafでお魚を作る体験、体にtatoo風のスタンプを押してもらう体験などいろいろ楽しんでいました。ShowはHawaiian Hulaだけでなく、ポリネシアのいろんな島々の踊りがあって、かなりshow up された感じは受けましたが、それはそれで楽しめました。

This is our fourth time on the Big Island! We've participated in various tours each time, but the 'Captain Zodiac' was the best! The rafting and snorkeling tour on the rubber boat was amazing. The captain was a handsome guy like Johnny Depp from Pirates of the Caribbean. The female staff were beautiful, and the other participants included cheerful young American men and older ladies. We were the only Japanese family, but even with our limited English, we felt like we were abroad, and it was no problem! Before departure, we received a Japanese instruction manual, and communication through gestures worked well.

In the past, when we went to snorkeling points by boat, I would get seasick, and when kayaking, I would get tired from paddling to the point. But this time was the best! The rafting on the rubber boat was exhilarating, bouncing over the waves. At first, I clung to the rope, but as I got used to it, I was screaming with excitement like on a roller coaster, enjoying the wind and the scenery.

We admired the streets of Kailua-Kona, the mountains of Kona's coffee farms, and the unique rock formations and caves created by lava, all while cheering at the thrilling, acrobatic steering that felt like we might flip over. Right after leaving the harbor, we encountered a pod of dolphins multiple times, jumping and swimming alongside the boat, so close that we could almost touch them.

At the snorkeling point, we fully enjoyed the underwater world. My high school daughter and college son swam freely to where they could touch fish and sea urchins while free diving. (We were warned by the captain not to touch or take anything, so we just observed, but it was still wonderful.) I had a past experience of getting sunburned on my back while floating face down, so wearing a rash guard was a great idea.

The lunch we had on the boat—chips, cookies, sandwiches, drinks, pineapple, and oranges—was absolutely delicious. The snorkeling tour from 10 AM to 3 PM was a lot of fun because the boat was small and fast, allowing us to reach distant waters in no time. It was an exhilarating experience, and I was 200% satisfied.

Rash guards, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential, but as long as you have those, you're good to go! On the way back, we dried off in our swimsuits, threw on T-shirts, and drove to downtown, enjoying happy hour drinks and seafood at a restaurant along the coast before returning to the hotel.

It was the most enjoyable day on the Big Island. I want to ride the 'Captain Zodiac' again next time!

ハワイ島は.家族で4回目！毎回いろんなツアーに参加してますが‘キャプテン・ゾディアック号’は、最高でした！ゴムボートでのラフティング＆シュノーケルツアー、船長さんは、パイレーツオブカリビアンのジョニーディップの様な男前♥︎女性スタッフも美しく、参加メンバーもスタッフかと思う程陽気なアメリカ人青年や年配のご婦人等、日本人は、私達家族だけですが、あまりわからない英語も、海外に来た感じを味わえて、問題無し！出航前に日本語の説明書がもらえるし、身振り手振りで通じるものです。

今まで、船でシュノーケルポイントまで行った時は、船に酔ったり、カヌーの時は、ポイントまで漕ぐのが疲れたり、いろんな思いをしましたが、今回は、最高でした！
ゴムボートでのラフティングは、海の上を跳ねて、始めは、紐にしがみついてましたが、慣れて来ると、遊園地のジェットコースターの様にキャーキャー言いながら、風を感じ景色を楽しみました。
カイルアコナの街並みを望み、コナのコーヒー農園の山並み、溶岩でできた奇岩、洞窟を見ながら、スリリングなひっくり返りそうなアクロバティックな舵さばきに歓声をあげました。
港を出てすぐ、イルカの群れに何度も出会い、ジャンプしたり、ボートに並走したり、手を伸ばせば触れる所をイルカが泳いでました。
シュノーケルポイントでは、海の世界を満喫しました。高校生の娘と大学生の息子は、素潜りで魚やウニにタッチできそうな所まで自由自在に泳いでました。（触ったり取ったりしてはダメと船長から注意があるので、見るだけですが、満喫しました）
シュノーケルに夢中になりすぎて、うつ伏せで浮いてると背中が日焼けで痛い思いをした過去があるので、ラッシュガードは、偉大です。
船で食べた、ポテチ、クッキー、サンドイッチ、ドリンク、パイナップル、オレンジの海の上でのランチは、最高に美味しかったです。
10時から3時までのシュノーケルツアー、ボートが小さく速いので、遠い海まで行けるし、アッと言う間で大変楽しかったです。ワクワク度200%大満足でした。
ラッシュガード、サングラス、日焼け止めは、必需品ですが、それさへあればOK!
帰りは、水着も乾いてて、Tシャツを羽織り、海から眺めたダウンタウンの街へドライブして、海岸沿いのレストランでハッピーアワーのドリンクとシーフードでお腹を満たして、ホテルへ帰りました。
ハワイ島で1番楽しんだ日でした。
また次回も‘キャプテン・ゾディアック号’に乗りたいです♪

The sea of clouds was truly wonderful. It was a very memorable tour. If I have the opportunity again, I would love to participate next time.

雲海がとてもすばらしかったです。大変思い出に残るツアーとなりました。また機会があったら次回も参加させていただきます。

I took a 4-night, 6-day trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, and this time I booked the Mauna Kea summit sunset tour with two different companies. The weather was different, and naturally, the guides were different as well, allowing us to enjoy each of their unique personalities. Both sunset and stargazing experiences were satisfying tours from both companies.

This time, we had two vehicles for the summit and stargazing; one vehicle had a telescope while the other handled meals. At the Onizuka Center, we were even allowed to have seconds on the miso soup, and it was great that they provided over-pants and other rentals, reducing the amount of luggage we had to bring.

Participants from both vehicles gathered at the parking lot near the summit to gaze at the stars, listen to explanations about constellations, and we were shown Saturn's rings through the telescope. Every time we looked, we joked about whether it was a sticker! We also took commemorative photos against the starry backdrop, and while waiting for our turn at the telescope, we enjoyed cookies and warm drinks, making the time fly by without any boredom.

As expected from a renowned guide, it was a fun tour that kept us engaged throughout.

As a side note, bringing a small light with red cellophane can help reduce worries about footing during boarding, parking lot steps, etc. Also, the summit's basic restroom is quite dark after sunset!

4泊6日ハワイ島のみ旅行、マウナケア山頂サンセットツアーを今回は他社さんと2回入れました。天候が違いガイドさんも当然違いそれぞれの個性を楽しませて頂きました。サンセットと満天の星々星空観察の結果は両社満足できる良いツアーでした。今回も2台で山頂と星空観察、一台が望遠鏡もう一台が食事他の担当のようでオニズカセンターではお味噌汁のお代わりもOK、オーバーパンツ他貸し出しで持参する荷物が減るのはありがたかったです。2台参加者一緒に山頂付近の駐車場で星空を眺め星座などの説明を聞き望遠鏡で土星の輪っかを見せて頂き何度見てもシール？かと笑ながら、お話を聞かせて頂きました。そして星空をバックに記念撮影、望遠鏡他順番待ち中にクッキーや温かい飲み物を頂き退屈することなくあっという間に時間が過ぎてしまいました。さすが名物ガイドさんの案内、飽きること無い楽しいツアーでした。
蛇足ですが赤色セロファン張ったスモールライト等持って行くと乗降や駐車場の段差等足下心配減って良いですよ。と、山頂簡易トイレ日没後は暗いです〜。

Did not know how much fun this activity would be. First time ever snorkeling and it was a blast and exciting and we saw turtles!!!!! The staff went out of their way to accomidate our needs and were super friendly. The food was great also. Would highly recommend this activity and we would do it again.

I was a bit anxious about snorkeling for the first time in 10 years, but I had a great time being guided and it was really fun. I got to see dolphins!! They jumped right in front of me!! I want to participate again!!

10年ぶりのシュノーケルで少し不安でしたが、手を引っ張ってもらえてとても楽しくて良かったです。イルカに会えました!!目の前でジャンプしたのです!!また参加したいです!!

We participated in the tour as a couple. We were moved by the starry sky and the sunset! There was a zone where we couldn't sleep due to altitude sickness prevention, but the guide engaged us with interesting stories and played songs related to the stars (we arrived at our destination while listening to familiar tunes). They were considerate at every turn. At the summit, I didn't feel cold thanks to the gear we were provided. Thank you very much!

夫婦でツアーに参加させていただきました。星空とサンセットには感動しました！高山病対策で途中から寝てはいけないゾーンがあったのですが、おもしろいお話で話しかけてくださったり、星に関する曲をかけてくださったり（なじみの曲で聴いている間に目的場所に着きました）、都度都度配慮してくださいました。頂上は、貸していただいたウェアで寒さは感じなかったです。本当にありがとうございました！

I participated on August 6th. Last year, I joined a tour with another company, but unfortunately, I couldn't encounter any dolphins, so this year was a chance for revenge! After reading everyone's reviews, I decided on Aloha Kona Tours. I was worried about whether we could safely go on the tour since a hurricane was approaching, but it turned out to be calm, and the weather was nice, which put me at ease.

Above all, the swim guide Daisuke and Captain Nawata were wonderful people. My daughter, who was scared of snorkeling in deep water, was able to truly enjoy herself thanks to both of them. Following Daisuke and Nawata's instructions, we encountered over 100 dolphins up close! Every time we entered the water, we were able to meet them, and it was incredibly exciting. The blue of the ocean and the cuteness of the dolphins are unforgettable even after returning to Japan! Thank you so much.

We are talking as a family about wanting to join Aloha Kona Tours again next year to meet the dolphins!

8/6に参加しました。昨年他社のツアーに参加しましたが運悪くイルカに出逢う事が出来ず今年こそ！とリベンジでした。皆さんの口コミを見てアロハコナツアーズさんに決めました。ハリケーンが近付いていたので無事にツアーに行けるか心配でしたが、嵐の前の静けさだったのか波も穏やかでお天気も良かったので安心しました。何よりもスイムガイドのダイスケさんとキャプテンの縄田さんのお人柄がとても良くて、足のつかない所でのシュノーケルを怖がっていた娘もお二人のおかげで心より楽しむ事が出来、念願だったイルカちゃん達にもダイスケさん縄田さんの指示通りにするだけで物凄い近さで100頭以上はいたでしょうか？海に入る度に出逢う事が出来て大感激でした。海の蒼さとイルカ達の可愛さが日本に帰国しても忘れられません！本当にありがとうございました。
来年もアロハコナツアーズさんでイルカちゃん達に逢いに参加したいねーと家族で話しています。

We participated as a couple with our fourth-grade son. There were no explanations in Japanese, but we were able to borrow prescription masks, and there were no particular issues. The snorkeling point had very clear water, and we were able to see various fish, which our child enjoyed thoroughly for the entire time. The food was delicious, the staff were kind, and the boat was clean, which was great. We went to the designated parking area the day before as a preliminary check, but it was unclear where to park. When we asked the staff, they told us to park in front of the Sheraton Hotel. Since others were also parking there, I think it would be good to confirm this in advance. I recommend this tour.

小学校4年生の男の子と夫婦で参加しました。日本語の説明などはありませんでしたが、度付きのマスクも貸してもらえ、特に問題はありませんでした。シュノーケルポイントもとても透明度の高く、色々な魚を見ることができ、時間一杯子供も楽しみました。食事も美味しく、スタッフも親切で船も清潔でよかったです。下見を兼ねて前日に駐車場に指定されている所に行きましたが、どこに停めてよいか、わかりにくく、スタッフに聞くと、シェラトンホテルの前に停めるように言われました。他の人たちもそこに停めていたので、事前に確認されるといいと思います。お薦めのツアーです。

Great time! The snorkeling was beautiful and the guides were nice and laid back. If you get sea sick/motion sick easily don't kyack on the ocean.

Amazing sunset from the summit and a very informative evening all round. The meal en route was pretty average but the pause in the journey for the meal made the transition
to 14000 feet more manageable. The views are out of this world and it was a relief not to have to drive ourselves to and from the summit, even though on our trip the minibus broke down and it took an hour to get the replacement bus up to us. It was handled well though and overall was a very worthwhile trip.

We chose this tour because of the Japanese guide. On the day of the tour, we were the only participants, so it felt like a private experience♪

Unfortunately, we didn't see any dolphins, but we had a lot of fun snorkeling! The pineapple we had afterward was incredibly delicious! One of my friends seemed to get seasick from kayaking, so I recommend taking motion sickness medication if you're prone to it. Also, it gets quite sunny, so having a hat, sunglasses, and a rash guard would be a good idea.

Despite feeling sick, my friend said kayaking was really fun and expressed a desire to join again.

The photo is of the guide diving. I couldn't help but take a picture because it looked so cool (^▽^;)

日本語のガイドさんということで、こちらのツアーに決めました。
当日は私たち1組だけの参加で、貸し切り状態♪

残念ながらイルカは見れませんでしたが、シュノーケルもできて楽しかったです♪
終わった後にいただいたパイナップルがすごく美味しかったです！
友達はカヤック酔いをしてしまったようで、乗り物酔いしやすい方は酔い止め必須かと。
あと、かなり焼けるので帽子、サングラス、ラッシュガード上下があった方がよさそうです。

友達は酔ったにもかかわらず、カヤックが相当楽しかったようで
ぜひまた参加したいと言っていました。

写真はガイドさんが潜っている写真です。
かっこよかったので撮ってしまいました(^▽^;)

On August 9th, my family of three, including my 9-year-old son, participated in the dolphin tour, which was the main highlight of our trip. We were worried that the sea might be difficult due to the hurricane's impact, but we were able to participate safely by shifting our schedule by one day.

Our guide, Daisuke, was easy to talk to from the very first impression, and the ride to the location felt like no time at all! Each of his words was heartfelt, making for a truly enriching experience.

It was a miracle that we were able to set sail that day, and on top of that, we encountered a pod of nearly 150-200 dolphins. I was genuinely moved when I saw the lively wild dolphins up close, including their cheerful calls, parents with babies, and playful youngsters. The view of the deep blue sea and the mountains of the Big Island of Hawaii was also incredibly beautiful.

That same night, my son and I participated in the manta ray tour. He eagerly shared how great it was.

I’m really glad we were able to join this tour after various coincidences! I definitely want to come back to the Big Island and this dolphin tour again. Thank you for the wonderful experience!

8月9日、9歳の息子を含む家族3人で参加しました。
今回の旅のメインだった、イルカツアー。
ハリケーンの影響で、海は難しいかなと心配しましたが、日程を1日ずらして無事に参加することができました。

ガイドのダイスケさんは、第1印象から話しやすくて、送迎の道中もあっという間！一つ一つの言葉に心がこもっていて、とても濃い素敵な時間でした☆

この日は出航できただけでも奇跡、その上、イルカには150-200頭近くの群れと出逢えました。元気な鳴き声、赤ちゃん連れの親子、じゃれあう子供たち、野生のイルカの生き生きした姿を間近に見られた時は本当に感動しました。
船からの真っ青な海、山を抱いたハワイ島の景色もとてもきれいでした。

同日夜のマンタにも、父子が参加。
こちらも良かったと、息子が一生懸命様子を話してくれました。

いろいろな偶然を経て、今回のツアーに参加できて本当に良かったです！
ハワイ島、そして、このイルカツアーにもまたぜひ来たいと思います☆
素晴らしい体験をありがとうございました。

I had such a great time. The beautiful sea of Hawaii Island was so healing. Thank you, Kevin and Noni! I really appreciate your help.

On the day of our trip, the sea was rough after the hurricane, so we decided to cancel the underwater cave exploration for safety and to consider our stamina. Instead, we enjoyed kayaking and snorkeling. As soon as I dove into the water while snorkeling, I was thrilled to see a school of needlefish swimming right in front of me. The underwater world is truly a different realm. It was amazing to see a world that I had only ever seen on television right before my eyes.

At one point, my wife got seasick while kayaking, so we split into two groups for the second half: the men went back out to the open sea with Kevin, while the women had a lovely time with Noni. Although we couldn't do the cliff jump that we were looking forward to, Noni quickly came up with a plan to jump from the dock in the bay! Every time I look at the photos you sent, I vividly remember that moment, and my whole family had a truly satisfying time.

But I still want to go to the underwater cave, so I declare that I will participate again next time. Mahalo!

いやぁ～楽しかった。ハワイ島のきれいな海に癒されました。
ケビンさん ノニさんありがとう！お世話になりました。
当日はハリケーン一過で、海は荒れ模様でした。安全と私たちの体力を考慮して海中洞窟は
中止とし、カヤックとシュノーケリングで楽しみました。シュノーケリングでは海中に潜るやいなや、目の前にサヨリの群れが回遊しており、大興奮してしまいました。海の中は本当に別世界ですね。今までテレビの中でしか見たことの無かった世界が目の前に広がり感激でした。
途中、妻がカヤック酔いでダウンした為、後半は男性陣、女性陣に別れ、男性陣はケビンさんと再度大海原へ。最後までカヤックとシュノーケリングを楽しみました。女性陣はノニさんと女子会に花が咲いた様です。また、楽しみにしていたクリフジャンプも出来ませんでしたが、急遽ノニさんが機転を利かせてくれて湾の桟橋？からジャンプ！送っていただいた写真を見るたびに、鮮明に当時の様子が思い出され家族全員、本当に大満足の時間を過ごせました。
でも、やっぱり海中洞窟にも行きたいので、次回も参加します宣言をさせていただきます。Mahalo!

This was the best activity I had. I stayed with friends and did everything with local families but I just had to take this tour! My pilot Scott was great. He made sure everyone got great photo oppertunities. He was very infomative and funny.

On August 2nd, my spouse and I participated in the tour.

We rode in the Matsuzaki vehicle, one of the two cars operated by Masashi Nature School. During the journey, they announced points where we could see wild black goats, making the trip enjoyable as we looked around without getting bored.

The lunch at the Onizuka Center was quite substantial, and the miso soup was served in a bowl! While acclimatizing to the altitude at the Onizuka Center, we were able to see the rare alpine plant, the silver sword, which can only be found in three places in the world. The one-hour break flew by.

The warm clothing provided included not just jackets but also ski pants, gloves, and knit hats. Even though I had forgotten my warm clothes in Japan and had to manage with a thin long-sleeve T-shirt and a hoodie, I was able to enjoy the starry sky without feeling cold until the end.

I was worried about whether we would be able to see the stars due to the bad weather the day before, but both the sunset and the starry sky were beautifully visible! I didn't have a professional camera to take photos of the stars myself, but Matsuzaki took some great pictures, and they were uploaded the next morning.

It was a thoroughly satisfying tour where we could fully enjoy the magnificent scenery of Hawaii!

8月2日に夫婦で参加させていただきました。

マサシネイチャースクールとして2台の車で実施されているうちのマツザキさん号に乗りました。
参加者の皆さんをピックアップする道中でも野生の黒ヤギさんがいるポイントでアナウンスしてくださったりと、退屈することなく外をきょろきょろ見て楽しめました。

オニズカセンターでのお弁当もしっかりボリュームで、お味噌汁はなんとお椀で出てきました！
オニズカセンターで高所に身体を慣らしているときも、世界でも3箇所でしかお目にかかれない高山植物の銀剣草を見ることができたりと、1時間ほどの休憩時間もあっという間。
貸していただける防寒着もジャケットだけでなくスキーパンツ、手袋、ニット帽となっており、暖かい洋服を日本に忘れて現地で生地が薄めのロンTとパーカーを何とか調達した私でも、寒さに音を上げることなく最後まで星空を堪能することができました。

前日の悪天候で星空が見れるか心配していましたが、サンセットも星空もバッチリきれいに見れました！
本格的なカメラを持っていなかったので、自分では星空写真を撮れませんでしたが、マツザキさんがいいお写真を撮ってくださり、翌朝にはもう写真がアップロードされていました。

ハワイの雄大な景色を存分に味わうことができた大満足のツアーでした！！

I participated on the morning of July 29, 2014. It took less than an hour to drive from Waikoloa Beach Resort to Kahua Ranch by rental car. Along the way, as we ascended towards the ranch, we enjoyed a wonderful drive with views overlooking the coastline.

When we arrived at 9:30, the ranch was truly vast. We were the only participants, so we quickly chose helmets and boots (both optional) and got ready. Our bags and cameras could be placed in bags provided by the ranch that hang on the horses' backs. They also lent us parkas, which were just right for horseback riding in the cool ranch with wind at high altitude.

The guide was a young girl who didn't speak Japanese, but she seemed accustomed to Japanese people. The horse prepared for me was matched to my weight and height, which I had communicated in advance. After a brief explanation of how to handle the horse, we mounted and set off. I was anxious as a beginner, but the experienced girl said, "They are well-trained to be able to be handled with one hand." As we started walking, I quickly felt that was true and was able to relax. My horse was named Stormy, and being young, it always wanted to stay right behind the guide, sometimes trotting to overtake other horses, but other than that, it was very well-behaved.

At certain spots on the ranch, we were able to gallop, and the experienced girl enjoyed it. When I asked the guide to stop for photos, she kindly accommodated my request and took pictures for us.

Overall, we spent an hour and a half riding around the vast ranch, with the grass swaying in the wind, and along the way, we encountered sheep, cows, and free-range horses, which was very relaxing. (For my backside and back, I think the hour and a half course was just right! (laughs))

I truly felt liberated and had a wonderful time. Thank you very much.

２０１４年７月２９日午前中に参加しました。
ワイコロアビーチリゾートからレンタカーでカフア牧場へ１時間弱。途中、牧場に向けてどんどん高度があがっていくと、海岸線を見下ろす素晴らしい眺望のドライブができます。
９時半に現地に着くと、そこは本当に広大な牧場でした。参加者は私達だけで、さっそくヘルメットやブーツ（両方とも任意）を選び準備支度。荷物やカメラは、牧場側で用意している馬の背中にかけるタイプのカバンに入れて持って行けます。パーカーも貸してくれ、高所で風も吹く涼しい牧場で、ちょうど良く乗馬ができました。
ガイドさんは若い女の子で、日本語はできませんが、日本人に慣れている様子でした。
あらかじめ連絡しておいた体重、身長にあわせた馬が準備されていて、まず簡単に馬の操り方の説明があり、すぐに馬に乗って出発です。私は初心者で不安でしたが、経験者の娘は「片手で操れるようになっているのでよく調教されている」と言っていました。歩きはじめて、すぐにその通りだと感じリラックスできました。私の馬はストーミーという名前で、若いのか、いつもガイドさんのすぐ後ろに付きたがり、他の馬を追い越すためにトロット（速足）になったりしましたが、それ以外はとっても良い子でしたよ。
牧場の一定の場所ではギャロップ（駆け足）も可能で、経験者の娘は楽しんでいましたし、写真を撮るために止まってほしいとガイドさんに頼むと、写真を撮ってくれたりと、希望に沿った対応をしてくれました。
とにかく、牧草が風にたなびく広大な牧場一周を、１時間半かけて馬とともに回れ、途中、羊や牛、放し飼いの馬に出会いながら、のんびり癒されました。（お尻や背筋にとっては、１時間半コースでよかったと思います（笑））
本当に気持ちが解放されて、楽しい時間を過ごすことができました。ありがとうございました。

I was worried about altitude sickness and the cold during the tour because I have a 12-year-old daughter, but the guide from Masashi Nature was incredibly attentive and kind. While other tours were competing with each other, he calmly guided us to the best spots. Even for stargazing, while most other tours observed near the Onizuka Center, Nature took us to a special private spot where we had the night sky all to ourselves. His knowledge about constellations and celestial bodies was outstanding. Thank you so much, Konno, for being such a young and hardworking guide!

12歳の娘がいるので、ツアー中は、ずっと高山病や寒さを心配していましたが、マサシネイチャーさんのガイドさんは、とーっても気配りしてくれて、優しい方でした。他のツアーが争うように行動する中で、冷静に絶好ポイントを案内してくれました。星空観測でも、他のツアーほとんどがオニヅカセンター付近で観測するのに対して、ネイチャーさんは、とっておきのプライベートポイントで夜空を独り占め。星座や天体に関する知識も抜群で、若くて努力家の今野さん、本当にありがとう！

Welcoming, good food and safety aware. i would recommend this to anyone of any age including families with young children. Crews knowledge of the area and the marine life was good.They were helpful and demonstrated awareness of the impact that man can have on such an environment.

A fabulous experience with such a friendly crew, no one was left unattended. The sunset was particularly beautiful including the cloud colouring over the volcanoes. A lovely adventure worth every penny,i would recommend it to anyone!

I attended the luau as a reluctant adult. I booked the luau so that my 12 year old goddaughter would see Pacific Island dances and experience some Hawaiian and South Pacific culture. It was way beyond my expectations! Of course it is touristy, but it is also a good overview of Pacific culture, dance, music and food. I also liked the light-heartedness of the event and it was super educational for my goddaughter. The food was much better than I expected and the activities were fun for both my 12 year old and myself. Thank you for a wonderful evening.

The boat we boarded felt like a large rubber dinghy with a propeller. I'm not sure about the capacity, but it looked like it could hold about 12 to 14 people. We sat on the edge of the rubber boat and set off! It felt like the American Navy landing from an aircraft carrier. After a little over an hour of crossing waves, we arrived at the snorkeling point. Looking back, this round trip was like sea rafting. Compared to rafting on the Yoshino River, considering there were small children on board and the sea was calm, it might be understandable. However, the term "rafting" still felt a bit off.

The snorkeling was great! It lasted about two hours, including lunch. We were able to see fish up close without them swimming away. For those who are not good at swimming, they provide floatation devices and life jackets.

On the way back through the cave... I'm not very good at English, but they mentioned it was where lava had flowed out and that it had been eroded by the waves! I was a bit disappointed because I had imagined rafting would progress through the cave based on the photos... my assumptions were mistaken.

After that, for the brave, there was a spot to dive from a cliff about 7 to 8 meters high. A young American was taking on the challenge.

When we docked, we saw people who had gone marlin trolling coming ashore, so we watched. Once we reached the pier, we were free to disperse.

By the way, it seems that depending on the season, you might encounter whales. Unfortunately, we didn't see any dolphins this time, which was a bit disappointing.

For future reference, I think of this as a two-hour snorkeling tour with a boat ride over the waves. Also, there were very few Japanese people. This is because the captain, who is a cheerful and handsome guy who loves jokes, doesn't speak any Japanese and there is no shuttle service. Oh, and there isn't really a place to change, so you go in your swimsuit and come back in your swimsuit.

乗る船は大きなゴムボートにスクリューが付いている感じでした。定員は定かではないですが、見た感じ12〜14人位？という大きさでした。ゴムボートの淵に座って出発進行！イメージはアメリカネイビーが母艦から上陸する時のような感じです。波を超えること1時間ちょっとでシュノーケリングのポイントへ到着〜。終わってから思えばこの行き帰りがシーラフティングでした。吉野川などのラフティングに比べると・・・小さな子が乗っていたことと、海が穏やかだったことを考えると仕方ないのかも。ただ、やはりラフティングという言葉は・・・でした。
シュノーケリングは良かった❗️昼食等を含めて2時間ほど。魚が逃げることなく近くで観れました。泳ぐのが苦手な人には浮き具とライフジャケットも貸してもらえます。
帰りの洞窟・・・?あまり得意ではない英語ですが、溶岩が流れ出ていたところってことと、波で削られたんだよ〜！って言ってました。写真を見てラフティングが洞窟の中を進むんだろう！と勝手に思っていた私には残念でした・・・私の思い込みが悪い。
その後、勇気のある人はどうぞ〜！っと7〜8メートル位の断崖からダイブできるところへ。アメリカ人の若者が挑戦してました。
寄港したらカジキのトローリングに行ってた人が陸揚げしてたので見学〜
桟橋に着いたら自由解散でした。
ちなみに、時期によってクジラと出会えるらしいです。今回はイルカにも出会えず、ちょっとだけ残念でした。
今後の方の参考に。2時間のシュノーケリングツアーにボートの波乗り？着きというイメージの方が思います。ちなみに、日本人は少ないそうです。なぜなら船長はジョーク大好き、陽気なイケメンだけど、日本語は一切なく、送迎もないから。あ、着替えるところもところも特に無いので水着で行って、水着で帰る感じでした。

Our guide, Mr. Yo, provided detailed and enjoyable explanations, which were fantastic. I was very satisfied with the service of being able to download photos of the starry sky with my family. It's not something amateurs can capture. The kids were also very pleased with Mr. Yo's humorous explanations of the constellations. Thanks to him, the father's reputation for choosing this tour has greatly improved.

ガイドの葉（ヨウ）さん説明が詳しくてかつ楽しくて最高でした。　このツアーのサービスで家族と星空の写真のダウンロードできて大満足。素人では星の写真はとれませんので。　子供達も葉（ヨウ）さんのジョーク交えた星座の解説に大満足。おかげでツアー選んだ父親の株が大きく上がりました。　　

Hello!
Thank you, Captain Taka and Daisuke, for the wonderful time with the dolphins.

My elderly mother was at the sea for the first time in about 30 years, and everyone, including her, was understandably anxious. Thanks to Daisuke's support, everyone was able to focus on the dolphins with peace of mind. I was especially happy that my mother, who was looking forward to this the most, was the first to meet the dolphins, even before my sister.
I appreciate being able to dive in a safe area without any bull sharks, and I thank Taka for taking the boat out for one last chance.

The digital camera was waterproof up to 12 meters (I mistakenly thought it was only 3 meters like my wristwatch).
Though the footage is not great, I am posting it with gratitude.

こんにちは！
キャプテン　タカさん・ダイスケさん　イルカとの素敵な時間をありがとうございました。

高齢の母は約３０年ぶりの海で、本人はもちろん全員が不安でした。
ダイスケさんが母をサポートしてくれたおかげで、全員が安心してイルカちゃんに集中できました。
一番楽しみにしていた姉より誰よりも早く１番先に母がイルカちゃんに出会えた事が何よりもうれしいことでした。
イタチ鮫の居ない安全な海域でダイブさせていただいたこと、タカさんが最後のチャンスに懸けてボートを出してくださったことありがとうございました。

デジカメは１２ｍ防水でした。（腕時計の３ｍ防水と勘違いしていました。）
つたない映像ですが、感謝を込めて投稿させていただきます。