Nice views. The only downside is the ferry was late so the tour started late. Explore lava caves; stroll along the most recently formed black-sand beaches; feel the warmth from volcanic hot pools, and discover Rainbow Falls. Read more in our guide to start planning your trip to Hawaii. Take nothing but memories, leave nothing but footprints. Use the afternoon to jump on a tour, schedule a tee time, visit another town, or even take another trip out on the water. So even if you're on the island of Maui and would like to do a little day trip to the Big Island, also known as the Island of Hawaii, you can do so quite easily. I wish we had more time to spend listening to his stories. But even when the whales arent there, the Auau channel is still a playground. Click to enable/disable Google reCaptcha. As a paradise for active travelers it is rich in experiences that include nature, culinary discoveries, historic landmarks, shopping, nightlife and festivals. In an effort to make this an unforgettable experience, the tour operators will take you as close as possible to the volcanic activity. By the time you get all the way back down to sea level, it will probably be late afternoon. 2001-2023, VELTRA Inc. All Rights Reserved. WebMaui Discounts. There also happens to be an incredible number of interesting sites for the intrepid traveller seeking some insight into the islands past. WebMaui is beloved because it successfully offers a little bit of everything. Approximate drive from Iowa City: 1 hour. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson. and (3) whats the best time of year to come? Maui, Hawaii is a wonderful paradise. The major hubs of the island are Lhain, Khei, Kaanapali, Wailea, Kapalua, and Pia, among others (if youre having trouble deciding where to stay, see our Introduction to Maui). Hawaiis youngest island still has three active volcanoes, and one of the best places to learn about volcanic activityand witness it firsthandis at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson. Remember that youll need to carry all your water and snacks along with you. Enjoy a night at the drive-in theater. You're enjoying all the things that Oahu has to offer but you go, like, "Wow, it'd sure be nice to see the Big Island, see the volcanoes over there and the volcanic eruptions and all that's going on on the Big Island" or you might go, "Well, jeez, we haven't been to Maui in a long time, or ever, and it would sure be nice to see the road to Hana, I've heard that was really a fantastic thing to do" or you'd be going, like, "What is that about the Waimea Canyon on Kauai and that's supposed to be one of the most beautiful places in the world over there and it's so close but here we are kind of on Oahu, we didn't make arrangements to spend time and days over there". As dark sets in, enjoy a guided stargazing experience and marvel at the stars and planets using a refractor telescope and razor pointer. You'll see all of the island's best attractions, from a black-sand beach to a waterfall and, of course, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Falling on lava can result in nasty wounds. From beaches and trails to activities and cuisine, each island is distinct in topography and culture. They're going to start early, you'll meet at the airport, in some cases you may be able to be picked up at your hotel and then you'll get on a regularly scheduled airline, you'll fly over to the island of your choice, you'll be met over there to do the tour that you'd like to do, whatever it is, and then you'll be taken back to the airport and flown back to Honolulu and then taken back to your hotel. Central Maui. You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page. Location Name: Kahului Airport, Maui There are shuttles from the airports to the hotels (such as Roberts Hawaii), so if you prefer, you could go that route the first day and then rent a car later, on the days you intend to use it (many hotels have car rental locations nearby). In a 30-minute call we help you set up the trip of your dreams. Only a short flight away from Maui, on the north shore of Oahu, youll find one of the islands most popular and, indeed, most intriguing cultural attractions. There should have been a way to ensure both couples had the same ferry time before the trip began so that we would get our moneys worth. We are a full-service tour operator and travel agency based here in Hawaii. You'll explore the rainforests and waterfalls along Mauna Kea's Hamakua Coast and the summit of the active volcano Kilauea in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, before watching Kilauea's lava lake glowing after sunset. That's the policy that they have and so we also need to know things. They give the already beautiful falls a surreal ambience favoured among both professional and amateur photographers. After breakfast, prepare your daypack with plenty of water, sunscreen, close-toed shoes, and snacks. Recommended tour: Molokini and Turtle Town Snorkeling Adventure. Kahului as seen from Iao Valley, two popular destinations in central Maui. Here is a short list of the best Inter Island Tours in Oahu as determined by client reviews. One of the best things about visiting Hawaii is that its actually very easy to get from one island to another, with lots of boats and planes making journeys between the main islands on a very regular basis. Maui Unique Day Trips In Iowa Have the opportunity to admire wild manta rays in their natural habitat on this evening cruise. From volcanic peaks and lush valleys to island circumnavigations, here are the best day trips from Kailua-Kona. It is said that hula was also born here, and this ancient dance can be observed at the islands Ka Hula Piko event, where you can also experience an abundance of delicious, authentic cuisine. So, we can do these for you. Just because you are staying on Oahu does not mean your can't stay there and yet take one-day trips to the other Hawaiian Islands. We can arrange for a variety of different one day tours that will get you over to see what you want to see for the day and then bring you back. See Pearl Harbor, the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, Road to Hana, Mount Haleakala, or the famous Volcanoes National Park from any island, all without needing a hotel or rental car! Sound like it might be costly? Sustainable Travel guide and itineraries for the Big Island of Hawaii. With tasting sessions and complimentary souvenir pineapples, its an unmissable day trip for those with a sweet tooth. Experience big skies and incredible nighttime views on this Mauna Kea stargazing trip with a small group. There are few places in all of Hawaii more historic than Kealakekua Bay, as it's the spot where Captain Cook was killed in a skirmish with native Hawaiians, and the Hawaiian monarch, King Kamehameha III was born just a few miles away. One Day Trips From Oahu Snorkel tours to Molokini, Lnai, and various other sites around Maui are available any time of year. This is a dormant volcano that last erupted around 4,000 years ago. The morning is a great place to tie up any loose ends you may have leftover from your trip sneak in that last half day tour, take a final surf or snorkel, go shopping in Lahaina for souvenirs, or simply relax on the beach. Hawaii Tours Hawaii's Leader in Affordable Tours and Discount Activities. The beach is a beautiful, calm place in the morning, and it was made for coffee-in-hand strolls before breakfast. Enjoy a sunset and stargazing experience like no other on this small-group trip to Mauna Keathe highest point in the Hawaiian islands. Therefore, is it worth doing a day trip to big island for the volcanos? Island Day Trips, Hawaii tours As a paradise for active travelers it is rich in experiences that include nature, culinary discoveries, historic landmarks, shopping, nightlife and festivals. Its a place with a lot of history and a very unique culture, ensuring that every visitor has truly special experiences during their time on the islands of Hawaii and heads home with some magical memories to look back on. Big Island 5 Day Itinerary You CANNOT fly to Hawaii Island for the day, rent a car and go see Volcano National Park AND the 'top attractions"; whatever it is that people think are the 'top attractions". Then, hop in the car and make your way to the far south shore of Maui for a day of beach hopping, snorkeling, and mild hiking. Take a 1-day tour to Pearl Harbor, the Hawaii Volcanoes or Molokai and return to Maui that night. Read on to learn all about the best ways to plan and enjoy your day trip from Maui to the Big Island. If you really want to get after it, sneak in an hour surf, paddle, or kayak before breakfast. Day Trip From Maui Learn about the area's underwater flora, fauna, and ecosystem through guided commentary. Get the chance to mingle with these distinct Pacific cultures and enjoy a range of activities, from craft-making to canoeing. Our goal is to create memorable and stress-free experiences that will allow you to enjoy the unique features of each island. Sustainable Travel guide and itineraries for the Big Island of Hawaii. Families with kids will want to stop by to check it out, perhaps for a picnic lunch. Its also home to the worlds largest observatory. Another way to explore Haleakal is via a stargazing tour, which begin before sunset and guide you through the Park and its night sky. The cost? Itineraries for the Big Island The history aside, it's also one of the best places to snorkel on the Big Island of Hawaii, and you'll have the chance to experience the beauty on this snorkeling tour from Kona. Quick View. This is the beauty of the Oahu one day tours to other islands. Big Island Day Trip Sunrise Tour From Maui Hotels Guided Group Tour With Breakfast Quick View. Oahu is the lively center and most visited of all Hawaiian Islands. We provide small group shared and private sightseeing tours. You can also change some of your preferences. Before your day is done, check out an ornamental Japanese garden, snack on treats at a local candy shop, and visit a gorgeous black sand beach. People from the Big Island make day trips to Oahu to see Pearl Harbor. Following afternoon pickup, travel in a 4x4 van to the summityou can change into a warm jacket and pair of gloves, and sip a hot beverage, as the sun starts to set. If you are staying on one Hawaiian Island but would like to visit the highlights of another island in the chain then the one-day inter-island flights and tours offered by Aloha Sunshine Tours are just what you're looking for. So these are very popular and they're really helpful for people that want to do island hopping and still have their base of operations and not have a change. Molokini (with Kahoolawe in the background) is one of the best places for snorkeling and scuba diving on Maui. Art Museums and kids dont often go together, but the Figge Art Museum is an exception. I would really love to see a volcano, but I understand there are not active ones on maui, but there are on big island. It is extensive and intriguing in its level of detail. Our itineraries help you make the most of your time on the Big Island of Hawaii. Or call us between 8 AM and 5 PM daily, Hawaiian time. If you keep driving south, the road will eventually end at La Perouse Bay. Tomorrow will be a longer, more active day. For visitors, it can be difficult to comprehend the vastness of the island's diversity but this tour offers the chance to immerse yourself in it. Most flights will land at Kona International Airport on the Big Island, but some are available to Hilo Airport as well. The Ahihi-Kinau Natural Reserve Area contains more than 800 acres of underwater protection to its reefs, lava tubes, and biological diversity. There are trailheads at the summit, including the Sliding Sands Trail, that we encourage you to explore. Tom's Tips - Inter-Island Day Tours from Oahu. To experience this magical place on the northern Hamakua Coast, ride an ATV through the Valley of Kings to see Hawaiis tallest single-fall waterfall and the longest black sand beach in the state. The name you enter at the time of booking must be exactly as appears on your photo I.D. Follow the 37-mile Haleakal Highway (which is one of our 4 favorite scenic drives on Maui!) There are drive-in theaters in Spirit Lake, Newton, Delmar, Blue Grass, and more. Hawaii is one of the world's most popular vacation destinations. WebHere is a short list of the best Inter Island Tours in Oahu as determined by client reviews. Along the streets of Makawao (Upcountry Maui). For help trip planning, see our guide to Mauis water activities, including the surf scene. Spend the day walking through the coffee fields of Kona, exploring active volcanoes and lava tubes at Volcanoes National Park, or even visiting the iconic Rainbow Falls in Hilo. Leave the area at once. See other notable Honolulu attractions, like Iolani Palace, Kawaiahao Church, and Punchbowl National Cemetery before returning to the Kona coast. Watch for shifting winds that can blow acid mist clouds over you. Maui: a GREAT Itinerary for First-Time The highlight of the park is the Iao Needle, a stunning volcanic spire that rises high above the flora and fauna around it, measured at around 1200 feet. You could certainly organize a plane flight to each, or any, of those islands, rent a car, arrange for a hotel room and then visit the area you want to see. The Big Island has two airports: Kona International Airport, which is situated just seven miles away from Kailua Kona and is the main airport for the Big Island, and Hilo International Airport, which is located on the eastern shore, just a couple of miles away from Hilo, and is mainly used for general aviation and small inter-island flights. Then, check out the nearby, budding town of Wailuku perhaps you can stop by one of its coffee shops on your way in or out of ao Valley. You have so many inter-island tour options departing from Oahu and most require a really full day to take the whole experience in. The valley was the site of one of the bloodiest battles in Hawaiian history, fought between the armies of Hawaii Island and Maui (Kamehameha and his army from Hawaii Island were victorious). All this happens in just one day and you are back at your hotel room and sleeping that same night. Slip into the water using the provided snorkeling gear to see vibrant schools of fish, living coral, and even pods of spinner dolphins. These inclusive tours simplify your itinerary and make your touring experience 'care free'. 1. If you are unsure how to divide your time, or just want someone else to make the tough decisions during your vacation, you will love this section! With a population of less than 75,000, Kauai is truly a small-town island, littered with open space, protected preserves, and old plantation history. If you have specific interests, you can use this day to pursue them as well, such as golf, horseback riding, or other land activities (see our guide to land activities here). Historical Pearl Harbor and the fascinating music, dance, and people of the Pacific featured at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Travel with Circle Island Tours stress free. or See two of the largest volcanoes in the world and stop at one of the most active on this full-day, small-group excursion. On a day trip to Oahu from Kona, visit the site of the Japanese attack that thrust the country into World War II. Plan to be out for the majority of the day. We were greeted by splashing dolphins on the way to Lanai. The best Day Trips in Big Island of Hawaii according to Viator travelers are: These Big Island of Hawaii experiences are providing additional COVID-19 safety measures: These hidden gems in Big Island of Hawaii may have limited interaction with crowds: What are the best Day Trips in Big Island of Hawaii? WebAll Day Trips From Maui To The Big Island Below you will find all the options for day trips starting on Maui and ending on the Big Island. You wont waste your time or money choosing us. An unmissable day trip for beach lovers, the pristine white sands of Hookipa Beach Park attract all manner of visitors. Experience some of the Big Islands top attractions during this day trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the sights around Hilo. Touring the Big Island of Hawaii loses a little magic when you are crowded onto a bus with lots of strangers. Known as a prime destination spot as far back as the 1800s, when it was used by Hawaiian royalty, Waikiki is famed for its white sand beaches, world-class surf, and spectacular hikes that are enjoyed by locals and travellers throughout the year. Today youll experience the infamous Road to Hana, the all-day stop-and-go scenic drive around Mauis north shore and east coast. Spend the day walking through the coffee fields of Kona, exploring active volcanoes and lava tubes at Volcanoes National Park, or even visiting the iconic Rainbow Falls in Hilo. WebCategory Vendors Search Term Hawaii Island Hopping. Maui Tours We will make sure you are taking the right tour on the right day (on the right island!). The laidback island is close enough to some of the other islands that you can easily visit them in the space of a day, opening up the possibilities of discovering volcanoes, a myriad of beaches and sites of historical and cultural interest. .. read more. We share our favorite tips and images on Instagram, click here to go to our instagram account. Hawaii consists of eight separate islands, each with their own unique attractions. With most tours consisting of a catamaran trip to the legendary dive site, you can expect a day of sun-drenched ocean views and captivating underwater vistas. The 13,803-foot (4,207.3-meter) peak of Mauna Kea is Hawaii's highest point, and a popular spot for star-gazing. Trip Wailea Beach cant shake the resort feel but sometimes thats just what makes a beach special. Inter Island Tours on "The Big Island" of Hawaii, a day trip to visit the Hana Coastline on Maui, a day trip to Father Damien's Leper Colony onMolokai, a boat ride down the Wailua River on Kauai to visit the famous Fern Grotto. While you can certainly explore the island faster than that, a week would set a proper pace. As some of the best dive sites in the world, these destinations are unmissable day trips easily reachable from Maui. Front Street in downtown Lhain serves as a historic landmark. Another spectacular highlight happens once the sun has set, when the cloudless sky fills with billions of stars for you to gaze at. ao Valley is one of the most dramatically scenic places on Maui, and it also has a lot of history to go along with its natural beauty, meaning it has something to offer everyone of all abilities. Here youll find the Seven Sacred Pools, which are a network of swimmable pools and waterfalls. We recommend scheduling a lau for tonight. Delve into Hawaiis history and prepare to get wet on this full-day waterfall adventure tour of the Big Islands Kohala coast. The Big Island of Hawaii has a diverse ecosystem unlike anywhere else on the planet, and on this day-long nature tour, experience the beauty of its black-sand beaches, thundering waterfalls, and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Renting a Jeep to Explore the Island A guide, park entrance fees, and round-trip port transport are included. There are two museums: the Road to War and the Attack Museum, which depict the events of the Second World War. Cruise through the protected marine sanctuaries of Red Hill, home to more than 600 species of enchanting ocean wildlife. Breakfast and lunch are included! If you arrive before dark, go for a walk on the beach, and if your arrival corresponds with the sunset, even better. When youve had your fill of natural beauty and culture, you can head on to enjoy some unbeatable retail therapy at the Royal Hawaiian Centre. Both have small, locally-run restaurants and cafes. Return Location: Returns in the evening, exact time to be provided during tour re-confirmation. Visit the Jagger Museum. WebDay trips from Maui to Big Island and day trips from Maui to Pearl Harbor are just two of the relatively unknown time and money saving options that are available for visitors vacationing on Maui. From there, you can rent a car with ease and you'll be on the western side of the island, so you can explore the Kailua Kona area, visiting local landmarks like the Mokuaikaua Church, Kailua Bay, Hulihee Palace, and the Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark. Sit back, put the top down, and enjoy a unique end-of-the-day experience at the drive-in theater. from Maui Whether its Kaanapali, Lhain, Khei, Pia, or Wailea, there are world-class beaches to check out within minutes of your hotel or rental (see our guide to Mauis beaches). Facebook Pinterest Twitter Instagram Subscribe to our Newsletter, list of our favorite small outings on the Big Island, step-by-step overview for planning your trip to the Big Island, click here to go to our instagram account, ATV Tours on the Big Island (BIG list of all tour operators), BIG LIST of Kona Coffee Tours on the Big Island, Stand Up Paddle (SUP) boarding: Rentals, Classes and Tours. If you prefer non-motorized sports, consider a cultural-based active adventure from a company like Hawaiian Paddle Sports. The Pearl Harbour Visitor Center gives you the chance to go on narrated tours to various nearby areas, such as Ford Island or the USS Oklahoma memorial center. You can travel to both of these airports from Maui, and you can choose to fly out of either Kahului Airport, which is the biggest airport on Maui, or Kapalua Airport, which is much smaller. Big Island In a 30-minute call we help you set up the trip of your dreams. We need 2 cookies to store this setting. Topping out at 13,796 feet (4,205 meters), the peak is Hawaiis highest point and home to an observatory offering some of the best stargazing in the archipelago. 1: Kauai Overview 2: Things to Do 3: Where to Stay 4: Popular Sights and Destinations 5: The Npali Coast 6: Kauai Itinerary 7: Kauai blog posts. Fly from Kahului to Honolulu and experience Oahu from the iconic Waikiki beaches to the world-famous surf breaks and snorkeling on the North Shore. BE AWARE, STAY ALERT, AND USE CAUTION AT ALL TIMES, DO NOT TAKE CHANCES. MAUI DAY TRIPS AND EXCURSIONS, HAWAII. The following pointers will help you find the content on the Love Big Island website that is most relevant to your specific situation: The itineraries described in this section highlight the most special features of the Island of Hawaii and are meant as suggestions. Either way, Maui is spread out, so if you plan to adventure, youll need wheels to explore. Though youll need to catch a flight, the journey only takes around one hour, and the falls themselves are one of the most iconic in Hawaii. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. Dont resist. Not only will there be expenses involved but also time, hassle and planning involved. After a long day in and out of the car yesterday, its time to get away from land completely and experience why Mauis Auau Channel is so beloved. On the tour, visit Hawaiis only active volcano as well as sights like Hilo Town and Rainbow falls. The drive is not far in terms of distance, but with the turns, views, and tendency for people to drive slow, you should expect the drive to take at least two hours or more. WebExperience some of the Big Islands top attractions during this day trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the sights around Hilo. More Info / Buy Now, One of the very largest sightseeing tour companies in all of Hawaii is Polynesian Adventure Tours. The Hana highway, more famously know as the Road to Hana. The trip also includes a guide and a hooded parka to keep you warm. If you want to throw snowballs in the morning and build a sandcastle at sunset, plan a day trip to the summit of Mauna Kea. These island hopping packages will take you to each island's most popular places to see and things to do. On a guided tour to this popular Big Island attraction, visitors might find themselves strolling with sea turtles on a black sand beach, standing inside a lava tube, or watching the glow of lava inside Halemaumau Crater from the Jaggar Museum observation area. Return to your local beach or find a waterfront restaurant for happy hour. Make the most of your time with a varied tour encapsulating Hawaiis history, natural beauty, wildlife and culinary culture. As you will see, our website has changed dramatically. We will never forget our roots and that is to deliver wonderful island experiences every day. Travelers based on the Big Island shouldnt miss out on one of Hawaiis top attractions, Pearl Harbor. The colors in the sky at dawn are just as beautiful as they are during the sunset at night. Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson. WebA casual, 0.4-mile hike takes you strolling through an orchid-filled rainforest filled with lush ferns and bamboo trees. - Getting Around - Most visitors to the Big Island will arrive at Kona International Airport. In the case of Maui to the Big Island, however, your options are more limited. Beverages purchased in the sterile area must be consumed before boarding because they will not be permitted onboard the aircraft. This new surface is unstable and may collapse at any time without warning. The battle was so bloody that they say the river ran red that day. BOOK NOW. Everything else is included. We've enhanced the navigation and generally made it easier to find what you need quickly and efficiently. Big Island Day Trips Then relax with a cocktail from the premium cash bar and enjoy the timeless beauty of the Kona coastline on the return trip. Interested? Just because you are staying on Maui doesnt mean you cant easily fly out to another island for a day. Found in the town of Haliimaile, tours involve learning about the process of growth, cultivation, and harvesting of the delicious pineapples found on Maui. From five-star, oceanside luxury resorts to backcountry cabins atop a 10,000-foot volcano, Maui can offer you both extremes and everything in the middle. Our travel recommendations are based on our personal experiences and research, written by locals and travel experts with deep familiarity with the destination. Sharp lava cracks and holes, loose rock, and thin crust greatly increase your risk of getting hurt. Admire the several Kohala waterfalls and cool off with a dip under the final cascade, a picnic lunch is included. Full-day volcano trip to the Big Island's Volcanoes National Park from Maui, Closest approach to the lava flows from Chain of Craters Road, Explore Thurston Lava Tube and Kilauea Iki Crater, Scenic drive through Hilo Town and Banyan Drive. It will be significantly colder at the summit than down at sea level sometimes as much as a 50-degree difference so be sure to bring a jacket, layers, long pants, and closed toed shoes. Most people recommend at least 9 nights. See green sea turtles, learn how Kona coffee is made, and visit archeological sites. Suppose you wanted to visit the volcanoes on the Big Island, the Hana Coastline on Maui or the Waimea Canyon on Kauai. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site. Airborne particles are a hazard to your eyes and lungs. Home Travel Guides United States Hawaii (HI) 15 Best Day Trips from Maui. If you've realized that you made your hotel accommodations on a different island from something you wanted to see don't fret. Chances are, after a day in the sun on the water, you will be pleasantly tired come sunset. But the name of the game here is, without a doubt, ocean sports. The views from the summit into the volcanos crater are what you came for, so enjoy the walking paths and overlooks. Many of the people that visit the Big Island, also spend time on one of more of the beautiful islands of the Hawaiian island chain. Day trip from Maui