Hilo Shore Excursion — Kilauea Caldera, Rainbow Falls & Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
A compact half-day tour that takes you from Hilo’s bayfront through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to Rainbow Falls and Punaluʻu’s black sand—lunch included. Expect steam vents, a lava tube walk, and turtle sightings along a route rich with geology and Hawaiian history.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring a rain shell
Hilo’s microclimate produces fast-moving showers—pack a lightweight waterproof layer to stay comfortable at overlooks and the lava tube entrance.
Wear sturdy, grippy shoes
Surfaces include wet boardwalks, uneven volcanic rock, and about 15 stairs inside the lava tube; closed-toe shoes with traction are recommended.
Carry water and snacks
The tour includes lunch but having a refillable water bottle and a light snack keeps energy up during walks and drives between stops.
Give turtles space
Punaluʻu is frequented by green sea turtles—observe from at least 10 feet and never touch or feed them; it’s both law and best practice.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Onomea Bay Trail (less trafficked coastal path near Hilo)
- •Kilauea Iki overlook and the short loop trail for a quieter volcanic perspective
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtles (honu)
- •Hawaiian hawk ('io) and native forest birds
Conservation Note
Stay on marked paths, avoid removing sand or rock from Punaluʻu, and give marine life space—local guides emphasize minimizing impact and supporting park conservation fees.
Kīlauea has been an active center of Hawaiian culture for centuries and features prominently in Pele mythology; plantation-era history also shaped Hilo’s coastal communities.
Photographer's Notes
- • Kilauea caldera overlook
- • Thurston Lava Tube entrance and interior
- • Punaluʻu shoreline near the turtle viewing area
What to Bring
Light rain jacketEssential
Protects against Hilo’s frequent brief showers and keeps you dry at overlooks.
Sturdy closed-toe shoesEssential
Needed for slippery boardwalks, lava tube stairs, and uneven terrain.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Humidity and walking make hydration essential; refill at stops or bring a filtered bottle.
Camera with wide-angle lens or smartphone
Captures expansive caldera views, waterfalls, and black-sand shoreline scenes.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and where does it start?
The tour runs about 6–7 hours and departs from Moʻoheau County Park/Bus Station in Hilo with pickup available at many Hilo hotels and the cruise terminal.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No. The itinerary includes moderate walking, uneven surfaces, and about 15 stairs inside the lava tube, so it is not wheelchair accessible.
Will we see active lava?
Active surface lava is episodic; the tour visits steam vents and recent flows visible from overlooks, but actual flowing lava is not guaranteed and depends on volcanic activity.
Are meals and dietary options provided?
Yes. Lunch at Kilauea Lodge is included and offers vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options—note any dietary needs when booking.
Can I get close to the turtles at Punaluʻu?
No. Keep a respectful distance (at least 10 feet). Approaching or touching sea turtles is harmful and often illegal.
What should I bring for photography?
Bring a wide-angle lens or smartphone, extra batteries, and a small tripod for low-light shots; sunrise/late afternoon yield the best light.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–7 hours
Location
Hilo, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to walk on uneven ground and climb short stair sections; suitable for most active travelers.
Topics
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