Hawaii: South Big Island Self-Guided Driving Tour
ID: GYG410059-744061
Category:
Country: United States
Description
Take an unforgettable self-guided driving tour around the south side of Hawaii’s largest island. See the Big Island's volcanoes, jungles, and beaches on your own terms.
Experience Hawaii's Big Island at your own pace with a self-guided driving tour.
Your tour of the Big Island is split into 2 halves. The first half begins outside the quaint town of Kailua-Kona, to see the historic Hulihe’e Palace, once the vacation home of the island’s royalty. Then continue south to Magic Beach, where the sand sometimes simply disappears.
After that is Kahalu'u Beach, a perfect place for snorkelers, followed by the sacred Lekeleke Burial Grounds. Next, pass the remnants of Hikiau Heiau, an important religious site in ancient Hawaii. Beyond that is the Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park.
Then see the Honaunau Rodeo Arena and learn all about Hawaii’s cowboys. Next up is Pebble Beach, to get to know the Hawaiian volcano goddess Pele. Have the option to check out the Kula Kai Caverns, left by ancient volcanic activity.
Reach the startling Punalu'u Beach, which features totally black sand. The route then passes an old sugar plantation, followed by the huge volcanoes Kilauea and Mauna Loa. This half of the tour concludes by Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can explore the island’s volcanoes up close.
The second half of the tour picks up farther to the east, in the picturesque town of Hilo. Then, cruise through the scenic Liliuokalani Park and Gardens.
Watch surfers catch waves next at Honoli'i Beach. After that is Onomea Bay, featuring a hiking trail with incredible views. Then, admire the astonishing flora at the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden. Arrive at the surprising sight of the Honohina Hongwanji Mission, a historic Buddhist temple.
Pass the Laupahoehoe Train Museum before reaching Laupahoehoe Point, a spectacular ocean vista. Do not forget to snap some photos. Anyone hankering for a snack will definitely want to stop at the Hamakua Harvest Farmers Market before continuing on to the cowboy town of Waimea.
Up next are 2 beaches, Hapuna Beach, the largest white sand beach on the island, and Beach 69, beloved by locals. Arrive at the Kings Highway Foot Trail, to have the chance to see the ancient Waikoloa Petroglyphs.
After that are another few scenic overlooks, followed by the beautiful Kekaha Kai State Park. Your tour concludes here, just north of where the first half began.
Highlights
- See lush greenery and exotic flora at the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden
- Make a breathtaking journey up a volcano used by NASA to practice missions
- Dive into the fascinating culture and mythology of the ancient Hawaiians
- Explore geologic wonders left by Hawaii’s dramatic volcanic past
- Experience the Big Island's south side at your own time and pace
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
This is a self-guided tour, no guide will accompany you. The app functions as a guide, an audio tour, and a map all in one
Arrange for a vehicle before you take the tour. You only need to book one tour per vehicle, not per person
After the booking, you will receive an email with a link to the app and a unique password to access the tour within the app
This tour is valid forever from the moment of booking. You do need to change the booking if your travel plans change
You must keep social distance while in vehicles
You are required to bring and wear a mask
This is a self-guided tour. It begins at the Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park. Be sure to check your email before you begin driving to download the app, enter your unique password, and access your tour. From there, simply follow the audio instructions and the route.
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 48 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 48 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.
