Page 62) Things to Do in Big Island in 2026 – Tours & Activities

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour - Small-Group Adventure from Keauhou Bay

Must do!

Reviewed by: Kate

Highly recommend this! The guides were knowledgeable and we saw lots of rays! Booked the 6:30pm trip but went out about 7pm which was perfect timing for sunset.

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Rating:
Packages:	Night Manta Discovery Adventure
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2021/07/16
Activity Date:	2021/07/13

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

Must go

Reviewed by: uuu

Originally the reason for us to book a tour instead of driving ourselves to Mauna Kea was because we didn't rent a 4WD car, but now I'm sooooo glad we made such a decision.
The view of sunset and milky way was breathtaking without saying. What I really want to mention is that our tour guide/driver/photographer Shoyo was amazing. He knew EVERYTHING about Hawaii, during the tour we learned a lot about Hawaiian history, the plants and animals, good restaurants to go, etc.. He also took great photos of us.

Reply from activity provider

Aloha, uuu

Thank you for participating in our tour. I am very happy that the weather was nice and everybody enjoyed the spectacular view from the summit of Mauna Kea.

Please join us on our tour next time again !!

Mahalo,

Hawaiian Eyes Tours

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Rating:
Packages:	Standard Package
Attended as:	Friends
Posted on:	2021/07/14
Activity Date:	2021/07/09

Volcano Highlights Tour, Rainbow Falls, Black Sand Beach, Coffee Farm with Meals

Kick off your vaca with this trip!

Reviewed by: Amanda

We had a great time with Jim! The trip was very informative and we learned much about the history of Hawaii. I would suggest taking this tour at the beginning of your vacation so that you can explore in-depth some of the places we visited. The winery and tea tour was amazing! I learn so much about tea and the winemaking process in HI!
Thanks so much!

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Rating:
Packages:	Standard Tour
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2021/07/14
Activity Date:	2021/07/12

Mauna Kea Summit Adventures Sunset & Stargazing Guided Tour with Transportation

Sunset and Stargazing Tour

Reviewed by: ElizD318

My husband and I, our 4 adult children, and their significant others had a wonderful time on the Mauna Kea Stargazing and Summit Tour. Everyone even liked the dinner.
Maka was a great guide. He picked us up promptly and was very friendly on the ride to Mauna Kea. We learned a lot about the surrounding area and volcanoes.
The best part was the sunset. It was like being on another planet and the colors were vivid and amazing.
Unfortunately, the amazing sunset was due to the clouds and it made for poor stargazing.
We were able to see the craters of the moon through the telescope and hear about the local names for some of the stars, in spite of the clouds. And I was glad we did not have to drive that windy road ourselves.
I would suggest checking on the cycle of the moon before booking and do not go during a full moon.
We still had a wonderful time and will never forget the Sunset on the summit.

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Rating:
Packages:	Mauna Kea Sunset & Stargazing Tour with Dinner
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2021/07/13
Activity Date:	2021/06/21

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

A bit of a let down

Reviewed by: Paula

Steph and Gin picked us up and they were even a little early!! They were great host and very friendly. Beyond that it was a little disappointing. We were suppose to get "dinner", we got a BLT, no chips, no cookie, only water and later a "hot beverage". The pictures our hosts took were great and they sent to us at no charge. We have taken this trip before with another company and we had a very nice sit down dinner, no fancy, but you felt like you had something to eat when you were done. After going to the summit, they set up a telescope and we look at many, many stars and it was explained to us all about that star. The guide was very knowledgeable and we spent close to an hour doing just that, it was fantastic. With this tour we only saw one star and I right now could not tell you what it was. The other tour showed us the rings of Saturn, the moons of Jupiter, etc. But this trip was so not that. I am sorry to say if we do this again it won't be with this tour. We really enjoyed our hosts, but that was not the purpose of the trip

Reply from activity provider

Aloha, Paula

Thank you for participating in our tour. I am sorry I did not meet your expectations.

Mahalo

Hawaiian Eyes Tours

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Rating:
Packages:	Standard Package
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2021/07/13
Activity Date:	2021/07/07

4.5-Hour Sea Paradise Premium Kealakekua Bay Snorkel Tour with Breakfast & Lunch

Worth the money!!

Reviewed by: Melissa Wheelock

This was definitely a highlight of our trip!
Captain Morgan and his crew were awesome. They made sure we had the best experience; anchoring the boat away from the larger boats packed with fellow snorkelers whenever possible. They were knowledgeable and friendly! Highly recommend.

Reply from activity provider

Aloha Melissa,

Mahalo for the wonderful review and recommendation. We are ecstatic to hear you had a great experience with us and we hope to see you on your next visit to the islands. Until then, A hui hou!

Helpful

Rating:
Packages:	Deluxe Morning Snorkel Cruise with 2 Snorkel Stops, Breakfast & Lunch [4.5 hrs]
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2021/07/12
Activity Date:	2021/07/09

Ocean Encounters Manta Ray Snorkel Tour - Sunset & Moonlight Cruise from Kona

Such a unique experience!

Reviewed by: Glenn

Crew was great, energetic and attentive. Such an amazing experience, I found myself holding my breath as I felt these magnificent manta rays swim under me.

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Rating:
Packages:	Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2021/07/12
Activity Date:	2021/07/10

Mauna Kea Stargazing Tour Experience with Free Professional Photos - Epic Tours

Amazing night!

Reviewed by: Monica

This was by far one of the best things I’ve ever done. I would do it again in a heartbeat if I was given the chance.

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Rating:
Packages:	Stargazing Tour - Starting times between 07:00 PM - 11:30 PM
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2021/07/12
Activity Date:	2021/07/10

Hawaii Manta Ray Sunset & Night Time Snorkel Experience from Kona - Iruka

Once in a lifetime experience

Reviewed by: Emily

For a list minute booking, this experience was amazing. The entire crew was very knowledgeable and helpful. We saw so many manta rays up close and personal. They are such majestic creatures. One of the best moments of our entire trip!

Reply from activity provider

Aloha Emily,

Yes, they are coming so close enough to touch!
We are so glad you enjoyed the tour and spend a great time with Manta Rays.

Mahalos

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Rating:
Packages:	Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2021/07/11
Activity Date:	2021/07/09

3-Hour Spirit of Aloha Kohala Coast Morning Snorkel Tour with Lunch & Drinks - Hawaii Nautical

Do it!

Reviewed by: Gina and Zachary

The day on the Spirit of Aloha was amazing! Doug, the captain was great! He is fun and funny, and he made us feel safe the entire time. Faith and Cole are two of the crew that work on the boat! What great people! We saw a turtle, eel, and spinner dolphins who swam alongside the boat! I definitely recommend this trip for anyone wanting to have a great day!

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Rating:
Packages:	Snorkel Sail
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2021/07/11
Activity Date:	2021/07/09

Island Breeze Luau at King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel with Show, Dinner & Drinks Included

Enjoyed our anniversary at the Island Breeze Luau!

Reviewed by: Danielle

Show itself was pretty good. Food was just ok. Happy there was a kids food table. Disappointed there was a small desert selection

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Rating:
Packages:	Ohana Package
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2021/07/10
Activity Date:	2021/06/15

Big Island ATV Tour & Ranch Off-Road Adventure from Hamakua - All About The View

loved it!

Reviewed by: Eva and Johnnie

I loved this excursion and can’t say enough good things about it. The views were fantastic. It was really nice to see a different side of the island and a working ranch. The family that runs it are some of the nicest ppl. will do again for sure

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Rating:
Packages:	2-Seater UTV Tandem Ride Package
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2021/07/10
Activity Date:	2021/07/08

Big Island ATV Tour & Ranch Off-Road Adventure from Hamakua - All About The View

Absolutely awesome!

Reviewed by: JDh

The 750 acre farm is beautiful, with spectacular ocean views. However the real highlight are the hosts. They are very knowledgeable about the land and Hawaii culture and history so you learn while enjoying the scenery. Cherry on top is supporting a local business that is truly part of the island. My entire family from ages 11-77 loved it. Highly recommend.

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Rating:
Packages:	2-Seater UTV Tandem Ride Package
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2021/07/10
Activity Date:	2021/07/08

4.5-Hour Sea Paradise Premium Kealakekua Bay Snorkel Tour with Breakfast & Lunch

Snorkeling adventure!

Reviewed by: Amanda

My husband and I had a great time. He was 12 weeks out from recovering from a pelvic reconstruction surgery and the staff were so accommodating! He enjoyed the boat ride and made it into the water for one snorkel spot! I even got inked on by an octopus! Great day on the water with attentive staff!

Reply from activity provider

Aloha Amanda,

Mahalo Nui Loa for the wonderful review. It sounds like an amazing day, it's not too often we get to spot an octopus! We hope to have the pleasure of you joining us on your next visit!

All smiles!

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Rating:
Packages:	Deluxe Morning Snorkel Cruise with 2 Snorkel Stops, Breakfast & Lunch [4.5 hrs]
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2021/07/10
Activity Date:	2021/07/08

Captain Zodiac Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling Tour & South Kona Sea Cave Expedition

The highlight of our Big Island trip!

Reviewed by: MJUm

We stumbled upon Zodiac Rafting after getting declined at two other places but everyone in our group said they would have regretted going with anyone else!

First of all, they have all COVID safety measures in place. Temp check, all staff with masks, smaller groups so we felt comfortable and safe.

Second, the staff! Jennifer at reception was so sweet and accommodating. And Captain Collen, he’s the best! Knowledgeable and experienced without being overbearing or too chatty. Made sure we had the best ride, safe snorkeling trip, took us to special locations to see the Big Island in all it’s beauty and kept checking that we were having a good time and no one was uncomfortable. And they even provided reef safe sunscreen which we thought ours was but Captain explained it was not. They’re really passionate not only but people having a good time but that the natural life on the Big Island is protected and safe. We really appreciated that.

And let’s not forget, we had a private boat because it was just our family on the trip. So it was even extra special!

So don’t waste your time elsewhere. Just go straight to Zodiac people!

Reply from activity provider

Aloha,

Thank you for such kind words. Our employees really do love the jobs they do. We are glad the private tour fit your families needs and made you feel comfortable as we come out of such a long pandemic period. I'm sure your captain and crew really enjoyed your family and sharing just how special our island is. Hope to have you all out again as there are more places on our island to see and snorkel.

Mahalo,
CZ Ohana

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Rating:
Packages:	4-Hour Deluxe Morning Tour (8:00 AM)
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2021/07/08
Activity Date:	2021/07/06

Mauna Kea Summit Adventures Sunset & Stargazing Guided Tour with Transportation

Amazing!

Reviewed by: Shalini Banerjee

This was the perfect ending to our Hawaii trip. It was awesome and the trip exceeded all our expectations. New even got to see Saturn and the entire thing was on time and perfect.

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Rating:
Packages:	Mauna Kea Sunset & Stargazing Tour with Dinner
Attended as:	Friends
Posted on:	2021/07/08
Activity Date:	2021/07/04

Ultimate Hawaii Circle Island Sightseeing, Kilauea Volcano & Waterfall Tour

Wonderful tour and guide!

Reviewed by: Mary A.

Hank was a wonderful guide and truly went above and beyond to ensure we had a great day! Would definitely recommend to anyone wanting an introduction to the island!

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Rating:
Packages:	Private Tour from Kona/ Kohala (up to 10 passengers)
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2021/07/07
Activity Date:	2021/07/05

Hawaii Zipline Tours - Big Island Waterfall & Rainforest Zip Adventure

Great value!

Reviewed by: Abby

This is a fantastic zipline tour that is very well priced (with all the research I did on other tours, this offered the most zip lining for a better price!). The experience itself is so fun and the guides teach you about local plants and culture along the way, also with a sense of humor! Very fun trip and so cool to zipline over a waterfall.

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Rating:
Packages:	Zipline Tour (7-Line Course)
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2021/07/06
Activity Date:	2021/07/01

Waipio Shuttle - An Exceptional Guided Sightseeing Tour of Waipio Valley

Fun and Friendly

Reviewed by: MSAL

We had a blast with the sightseeing tour. The driver was very friendly and took us all around the beautiful valley. Comfortable ride.

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Rating:
Packages:	Waipio Valley Shuttle & Off-Road Tour Package
Attended as:	Friends
Posted on:	2021/07/06
Activity Date:	2021/06/11

Big Island ATV Tour & Ranch Off-Road Adventure from Hamakua - All About The View

Such a fun day!

Reviewed by: Kelly B.

We had a blast on the ATV tour! The tour started at the Waipi'o on Horseback farm. We started off going uphill, past a fish pond and up to a beautiful spot overlooking the water. My son loved passing all of the horses and cows on the property. Then we headed down to the cliffs by the water which was beautiful! The guides were so nice and told us some interesting things about life on Hawaii. I highly recommend this tour! Quick tip- You will get quite dirty by the end, so bring some extra clothes if you have other plans after.

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Rating:
Packages:	2-Seater UTV Tandem Ride Package
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2021/07/05
Activity Date:	2021/07/02

Guided Waipio Valley Horseback Riding & Waterfall Tour [Closed]

The Best of the Valley

Reviewed by: Dee & Jake

I’ve taken this tour before and knew my family from the mainland would enjoy it as much as I did. They LOVED the tour from the very minute they met our guides, Chico and Tracy. We got the best of everything that day: weather, horses, views, guides and Hawaiian experience. We appreciated the high spirited personalities and the great knowledge Chico and Tracy, valley residents themselves, shared with us of life in the Valley of the Kings from times past to the life of today’s Hawaiian families. I don’t want to give any more details so it will be your own special experience. I guarantee you’ll have FUN and if you don’t, well then, you just don’t know how to have fun!
‘Oe! Chico! Tracy! A hui hou!

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Rating:
Packages:	Afternoon Ride
Attended as:	Families with Young Children
Posted on:	2021/07/04
Activity Date:	2021/07/02

Ocean Encounters Manta Ray Snorkel Tour - Sunset & Moonlight Cruise from Kona

Awesome experience!

Reviewed by: Wendy

We went on the sunset cruise and had a great experience. The crew/guides were knowledgeable, fun and helpful. When we got in the water, they knew where to take us for the best viewing.
The Manta Ray's were so cool to see. This should be on your must do activity list. I would recommend it over a regular day time snorkel trip. However, next time I would do the later night time trip. The Manta Rays seem to be more active the later it gets.

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Rating:
Packages:	Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel
Attended as:	Friends
Posted on:	2021/07/03
Activity Date:	2021/07/01

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

Amazing experience

Reviewed by: Vipin

Stephen and Jin did a great job in explaining things, showing places and clicking pictures.

And the sandwich was amazing

Reply from activity provider

Aloha, Vipin

Thank you for participating in our tour. I am very happy that the weather was nice and everybody enjoyed the spectacular view from the summit of Mauna Kea.

Please join us on our tour next time again !! Stefan and Jin are waiting for you !

Mahalo,

Hawaiian Eyes Tours

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Rating:
Packages:	Standard Package
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2021/07/02
Activity Date:	2021/06/30

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour - Small-Group Adventure from Keauhou Bay

Great time

Reviewed by: Amalia

My family had a great outing to the manta rays. The crew made us feel safe and made sure we had a great time. My 12 and 8 year old loved the experience as well. Would definitely recommend this crew.

Reply from activity provider

Mahalo for the shout out to your crew and the 5 star review! We are thrilled to hear that you had an amazing night. We appreciate your recommendation and hope to see you again next time!

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Rating:
Packages:	Night Manta Discovery Adventure
Attended as:	Families
Posted on:	2021/07/02
Activity Date:	2021/06/30

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

Mauna Kea Tour

Reviewed by: Anh

Our tour guide West is a really knowledgable fellow. He is very considerate and thoughtful. I highly recommend this tour to everyone.

Reply from activity provider

Aloha, Anh

Thank you for participating in our tour. I am very happy that the weather was nice and everybody enjoyed the spectacular view from the summit of Mauna Kea.

Please join us on Sunrise tour next time. Shotaro is doing Sunrise tour now !

Mahalo,

Hawaiian Eyes Tours

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Rating:
Packages:	Standard Package
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2021/07/01
Activity Date:	2021/05/27

Guided Waipio Valley Horseback Riding & Waterfall Tour [Closed]

The best adventure on the big island! Just do it

Reviewed by: M.S.

The best adventure on the big island! We did everything: a helicopter ride, volcano national park, zip lining, snorkeling, swimming with manta rays and this horseback ride through the beautiful waipi'o valley was our favorite activity, hands down. Micah and Eta were excellent and chill guides and just let us get our zen on with the ride while also providing info about all the fruits growing around us.

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Rating:
Packages:	Morning Ride
Attended as:	Friends
Posted on:	2021/07/01
Activity Date:	2021/06/29

Spirit of Aloha Waikoloa Sunset Cruise with FREE Cocktails - Hawaii Nautical

Best crew on the Pacific

Reviewed by: Adam H

Couldn’t have asked for a better trip. Capt Mike, Faith, Brandon and Rob were the height of professionalism yet still made it fun. They were knowledgeable of the area, sailing and were very personable. They made it their mission to make sure we were happy, comfortable and filled with liquid refreshment. Sunset was out of this world and different experience then watching it from land. You won’t regret a single minute on this boat!

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Rating:
Packages:	Waikoloa Sunset Sail
Attended as:	Couples
Posted on:	2021/07/01
Activity Date:	2021/06/28

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

Great experience!

Reviewed by: Michelle

The van was in great condition and the guide was amazing! defiantly would recommend this to anyone who wants to go up the Mauna Kea summit.

Reply from activity provider

Aloha, Michelle

Thank you for participating in our tour. I am very happy that the weather was nice and everybody enjoyed the spectacular view from the summit of Mauna Kea.

Please join us on our tour next time again !!

Mahalo,

Hawaiian Eyes Tours

Helpful

Rating:
Packages:	Standard Package
Attended as:	Friends
Posted on:	2021/06/30
Activity Date:	2021/06/16

Kailua-Kona Sunset Cocktail with Free Drinks - Honi Olani Catamaran

Best way to enjoy sunset in big island !!!

Reviewed by: Shankar

Great friendly staff. They took customer satisfaction to heart and made sure everyone had a great time. Loved it!!!

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Rating:
Packages:	Sunset Cocktail Cruise
Attended as:	Families with Young Children
Posted on:	2021/06/30
Activity Date:	2021/06/27

Atlantis Kona Submarine Tour & Undersea Adventure - Descend up to 100 feet

Great family activity!!!

Reviewed by: Shankar

Staff are super friendly and funny. Loved the experience of going to 150 ft inside the ocean and see the marine life !!!

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Rating:
Packages:	Kona Submarine
Attended as:	Families with Young Children
Posted on:	2021/06/30
Activity Date:	2021/06/28

Things to Do in Big Island in 2026 – Tours & Activities | HawaiiActivities.com

All Reviews for Top Big Island Sights & Attractions in Big Island

Overall Rating

Reviews

Must do!

Must go

Kick off your vaca with this trip!

Sunset and Stargazing Tour

A bit of a let down

Worth the money!!

Such a unique experience!

Amazing night!

Once in a lifetime experience

Do it!

Enjoyed our anniversary at the Island Breeze Luau!

loved it!

Absolutely awesome!

Snorkeling adventure!

The highlight of our Big Island trip!

Amazing!

Wonderful tour and guide!

Great value!

Fun and Friendly

Such a fun day!

The Best of the Valley

Awesome experience!

Amazing experience

Great time

Mauna Kea Tour

The best adventure on the big island! Just do it

Best crew on the Pacific

Great experience!

Best way to enjoy sunset in big island !!!

Great family activity!!!

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