Private 5-Hour East Hawaii Tour — Waterfalls, Lava Tubes & Black Sand Beaches
Cover Hilo’s most arresting east‑side sights in five flexible hours: Rainbow Falls, the Onomea Bay scenic drive, Akaka Falls, a lava tube, and black sand shores. This private tour is tailored to your pace and interests while covering geology, culture, and short walks.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring layered rain protection
East Hawaii is microclimate country — a light waterproof jacket and quick‑dry layers keep you comfortable between sunny bays and wet rainforest trails.
Sturdy shoes for mixed terrain
Expect paved boardwalks, stairs, and uneven lava or rocky shoreline — trail runners or hiking shoes are ideal.
Headlamp for the lava tube
Flashlights are provided but a personal headlamp frees both hands for steadying on slick surfaces and makes the cave easier to navigate.
Plan for port or hotel logistics
Cruise passengers must provide ship names and timings at booking to ensure pickup and return are coordinated with disembarkation windows.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Stop at a roadside taro loʻi for a quick cultural snapshot and photo
- •Coconut Island (Moku Ola) offers calm Hilo Bay views and a short beach walk away from busier sites
Wildlife
- •Hawaii ʻamakihi and other native honeycreepers
- •Honolulu or black‑tipped reef fish along tidepools and coastal reaches
Conservation Note
Stay on marked trails, avoid collecting volcanic glass or coral, and respect private property and cultural sites; water resources and coastal habitats are sensitive to foot traffic.
The Hamakua Coast and Hilo area are shaped by successive volcanic eruptions and centuries of Hawaiian agriculture; waterfalls and springs supported ancient taro cultivation and settlements.
Photographer's Notes
- • Rainbow Falls observation deck
- • Onomea Bay scenic drive overlooks
- • Akaka Falls loop viewpoint
What to Bring
Waterproof jacketEssential
Protects against sudden rainforest showers and coastal spray.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Provides traction on wet boardwalks and uneven lava fields.
Headlamp or small flashlight
Useful for exploring lava tubes and low‑light areas; one is provided but personal light is handy.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated during coastal drives and short hikes; bottled water is also supplied.
Common Questions
How flexible is the itinerary?
This is a private tour so the guide can adapt stops and pacing within the five‑hour window; confirm must‑see sites at booking.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Minimum age is 13; younger children are not permitted on this tour.
Do I need to bring a flashlight for the lava tube?
The operator provides flashlights, but bringing a headlamp is recommended for hands‑free navigation.
Can we see the 2018 lava flow?
Time and conditions permitting, the guide can drive toward Pāhoa to view accessible 2018 flow areas, but active lava viewing is not guaranteed.
Are restrooms and food available during the tour?
Public restrooms exist at major stops like Akaka Falls; food is not included — bring snacks or plan a stop in Hilo if desired.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if cancelled at least 24 hours before departure; same‑day cancellations are nonrefundable.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Hilo, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short walks up to 1 mile and some steps/uneven ground.
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