I visited the Ocean Rider Seahorse farm on the Big Island of Hawaii. The tour was informative. Jasmine the guide was fun and knowledgeable. Facts about the potential loss of the seahorse were alarming. So were changes in the seahorse from wild to industrial production to "Preserve the Species": 1. Wild seahorses mate for life. Industrially produced products are polygamous. 2. Wild seahorses are hunters and only eat live food. Industrially produced products eat frozen food. Which brings to mind the question, are we saving the seahorse, by industrial production? Possibly, if industrial products go to pet aquariums or to supply alternative medicine, sparing native wild seahorses. If wild seahorses go extinct, will we be left with only industrial product seahorses? The tour was fun. You do get to see and hold seahorses. You see what they are being fed industrially (not what they eat in the wild). Interesting but pricey, in the off season approx. $75/ per adult. No kids go free, $5 discount? More expensive for the deluxe tour where you get to hold more than just one seahorse. The touchy feely tide pool was fun: sea urchins that collect things and decorate their bodies, clown fish, various starfish, the sea cucumber. Fun for kids. Step stools for kids. I saw several families there. Educational experience where you see & touch things. You even get to eat seaweed😬 Flat access with walkways. Handicapped access is fair. May require standing to see what is in large tanks. Some places too narrow for a wheel chair. Plenty of free parking. A bit difficult to find without google maps. Road there is bumpy.🤯 *Check out the photos!

We hesitated to book this one until our last few days on the island, knowing we had to fill out our day after checking out and before our flight. It seemed a bit steep for "holding a seahorse", but we figured where else would we get the opportunity? We booked only a day in advance with no issue. Easy to find out by the airport on the west coast of Kona, it was a small little building and from the front didn't look like much. However, our tour guide was very friendly and knowledgeable and every detail she shared was fascinating. The birthing and growth pools, the feeding, and the displays were all very fun and exciting. I was right, though, holding a seahorse was cool but... it was over in less than 60 seconds (I'm glad I didn't pay for the option to hold one twice - for four of us I think that would have cost an extra $160). I was glad we did it, and would recommend it for sure if you love seahorses and aquatic facts. And it felt good to support them as their initiative is to sell domesticated seahorses to prevent the capture of "wild" ones that are already endangered.

This was such a fun tour. They were so informative and it was neat to see the sea horses at all different stages of development. It was amazing to hold a little sea horse. They do great conservation work here!

We went to Ocean Rider’s Seahorse farm today and really enjoyed ourselves. So interesting to learn more about them and get to look inside the tanks and see them from little babies (fry) all the way up to adult hood. We even got to have a couple wrap their adorable tails around our fingers. They even had some Weedy Seadragons and you just can’t believe that they’re real. If you like seahorses then this is the experience for you!

What a great tour! While it's a bit pricey, I found it to be very informative and their operation very solid. The sea horses are simply amazing and also very healthy looking.

What a lovely find! Friendly employees and cutest gift shop EVER! This may be possibly a core memory for our 5 year old. For the next 4 days she showed everyone how to hold her hands and hooked a little rubber seahorses from the gift shop to her fingers just like her real life experience. While I am a beginner home aquarist myself, it was inspiring to learn of their husbandry practices and see their huge success rate in real life! Maybe one day! 😍 Would love to come back again.

The pricing is absolutely predatory. $48 for a seahorse stuffy!? $300 for a family of 4 for barely one hour!!!? During that hour, only 5 minutes of that was interactive: - 30 seconds of feeding a small cup of shrimp to a vat of seahorses from top down so there wasn’t much to see, - 60 seconds getting your hands ready for a seahorse, - 30 seconds of actual seahorse holding, - 3 minutes of sea urchins in a touch tank. Honestly this could have been just a short talk in the room with display tanks at the end showing shrimp (their food), babies, and adults; and then wash hands and hold the seahorses a few times (not just once). For half the price. However, giving this 4 stars because the kids were delighted that they held a seahorse and I don’t know anywhere else in the world where they can touch a seahorse.

Great Bay, the very Rocky beach is not easily enjoyable since there is no sand but it's all big rocks. But the view is worth the drive i. Oh by the way the phone map takes you through a private one lane road, very narrow, so please don't follow the road of the main highway if you're going north on hwy 11 don't take the first exit to 160 but the second exit. The Bay water was really clear we could see fish from the dock/stone wall barrier. It is absolutely a beautiful place/Bay, I enjoyed the little time I spent in there.

Lots of ways to visit the bay, cruises, hikes, kayaking, etc. A lovely location for snorkeling

Perfect water temperature and so many fish to see! Crystal clear water and beautiful coral.

Good beach to snorkel, not a ton of fish compared to 2 other places I went near by. Pretty black white lava rock beach near to it.

It's exotic bay that you could watch Captain cook! It takes about 15-20 minutes from the two step beach. Very peaceful and calm place. If you need to take a break with the sound the wave crush to the stones, you may need to consider this spot to visit.

The best snorkeling place at big island. It’s only reachable through foot (a nice hike to see the lava and the bay view), boat or kayaking. We hiked down and it’s totally worth it. One can even see the fishes from the shore. Things to take: water to drink, snorkeling set. Recommend to take: water shoes, hammock, reef safe sun protection.

Went on snorkel cruise here. Very dirty on top of water with leaves and bark. Saw alot of great fish and an octopus but were covered in dirty stuff

This place was not on any of the guidebooks or suggestion when coming to Kona. If you like learning about history or cultural information this spot is for you. Going in the morning is best if you don’t like to get too hot as there is minimal shade. There are a few benches throughout for sitting down but mostly you walk through to learn about the site. I watched the video the day before from the website which talked about the significance of the place of refugee and I think that helped me to understand where I was going and why it was so special. I am really glad we came here. They have some cultural classes during the week that looked interesting and we spoke with one of the staff who carved all the poles in the park that rope off the areas, it was nice hearing how important this place was to him.

Great history. If people were banned from their clan they had the chance to swim to the Place of Refuge to be forgiven from the priest and were safe there. Many people didnt make the swim. I went on a Sunday so it was free to just walk in and explore. TIP- be quiet when you enter this place as it was a sacred ground.

Absolutely love the history of this place. Very beautiful. It was during the government shutdown unfortunately but they had an audio tour you could do. No ticket needed. It’s a must see excursion

A lovely park loaded with cultural history and well-tended facilities. We stop here every time we're on Hawai'i because it changes based on weather, time of day, and season. Well worth a visit if Hawaii culture and traditions are of interest. One challenge was paying the entry fee online when the cell service there can be spotty. Good bathrooms, helpful rangers, beautiful scenery, informative displays. A+

My SIL from micronesia said she could live here. It was very authentic. There were many details that were implemented. Cordage was handmade, stakes were hand carved, tikis wère awesome, boat houses made in a accurate island tradition. Schools of fish visible from shore.

In February 2023, I visited Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park with my mom and dad, and it was one of the most peaceful and meaningful places we saw on the Big Island. Walking through the grounds, we admired the lava rock walls, reconstructed temples, and wooden kiʻi statues, while learning about the history of the “Place of Refuge.” The oceanfront setting was stunning, and the atmosphere felt both sacred and serene. It was a very educational and spiritual experience, and we left with a deeper appreciation for Hawaiian culture and history. 🌺🌊

We went here on July 28th 2025. It was like waking back in time. Tickets are purchased online, adults differ in price as well as children and age of child. You can use the QR code and listen as you go around each station. There's a gift store, bathrooms, cultural demonstrations. Very beautiful and a must see. Take your time to absorb scenery and feeling 🌜🙌🌛

This beach is absolutely stunning, offering a fantastic experience for families with children. The sand feels incredibly soft, like finely ground powder beneath your feet. It's also an ideal spot for various activities such as snorkeling, swimming, or simply lounging around. You can discover the beauty of marine life or just unwind and soak up the sun. Overall, it's a place where I want to keep coming back to! plus, there are showers and bathroom nearby! Parking- better to come early as it fills up quickly

Great beach. Snorkeled and saw a turtle along right side by rocks. Many fish. White sand, clear water and good waves for body boarding. Arrive early or late, or you will not get a parking spot.

This is a faily large and beautiful sandy beach. It's busy even on a Friday so I can't imagine what it would be like on the weekends but it wasn't hard to find a spot. Would have been amazing in the sun so that we could see the color of the water but it was great either way. The waves are rough (but do some cool curls), so be careful if you're not use to it and are going to stay in the water close to the sand where they break. Luckily there is a lifeguard here. A turtle quickly stopped by to say hello.

Super beautiful white sands beach with extremely clear water. Make sure you arrive early because parking's limited. And bring a parasol to stay out of the sun.

My favorite beach for chilling and enjoying the beautiful view. Come early the waves are perfect

This beach is known for snorkeling and swimming. Parking is free and public restroom. There are showers ourside. There was a lifeguard on duty. We went just before a storm, and it was very windy. Nevertheless, there were people swimming. It is rocky to get to get to the sandy beach. I was glad that I wore water shoes. We spotted whales though far away.

Honestly, I would only give this beach a 1 star review if visiting on weekends or holidays when it is literally wall to wall people. But, I'm giving it 5 stars if you visit on a weekday. PROS: It's beautiful! The bright white sand against the neon blue water is dazzling! I swear the water looks like it's glowing! It's free to residents and visitors alike. It's manned with lifeguards. CONS: It's small! It doesn't accommodate crowds very well. It can be HORRENDOUSLY crowded at times, with people packed into a small area like sardines. And people can be unfriendly and rude. It's not handicap accessible and it can be treacherous to get down to the nice part of the beach for even able bodied people.

Loved visiting the cosy coffee farm and learning the process of how coffee is made. The experience is completely free and the guides are very knowledgeable. Not only do they grow coffee but they also grow black pepper, bananas and the property is also home to some many beautiful flowers and plants. They have lots of coffee to sample and purchase and other coffee flavored snacks.

We opted for the private tour & coffee tasting experience and thought it was FANTASTIC. All in all it took about 3 hours and was well worth the money. Our tour guide was incredible and so knowledgeable, we got to see so much more of the farm and operation than the free tour *and* try some fruits that were growing on the farm along the way. The coffee tasting was delicious and as a coffee fan, it was really neat to learn how roasters taste coffee and how the smell changes throughout the brew process. Highly recommend touring this farm, and their coffee is excellent too!

This place is a gem! We planned poorly and missed the tour, but still got delicious (free) samples of their coffees and were able to chat with the folks running the counter and purchase some bags of coffee. Delightful people in a beautiful setting, they were a joy to meet. I’m so glad we were able to stop by, and extra grateful for the one on one conversations. Totally worth a visit! (Photos are of a funny sign on the property and a gorgeous hibiscus flower near the shop!)

We had an awesome experience on the free tour here! Our guide was awesome and taught us a lot about the history of the farm, the coffee making process, and the different crops growing on the property. As someone who really enjoys coffee, I found it valuable to learn about all the different inputs and techniques that go into making something I take for granted every day. I would definitely come back to Greenwell and will highly consider booking a private tour in the future.

The complimentary tour was nice; they had a wide variety of coffee to taste. The farm itself is amazing and our tour guide was awesome.

We really enjoyed the free tour and coffee tasting. Our tour guide was funny and informative. We ended up buying a few bags to bring home with us.

Guided private tours here are an excellent way to learn more about Kona coffee production. Very friendly staff and the gift shop features some excellent local products such as coffee and black pepper.

Visited the plantation on a cool rainy day last weekend and loved every minute of our tour. Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable about the coffee production process and was even kind enough to answer my questions on some of the other random plants you can find around the plantation and nature trail. The coffee though…11/10, I purchased the peaberry after the tour and have found it to be the only coffee I have ever been able to drink black. Take the time and visit this place ASAP! Also, drop the extra $ and get the peaberry it is awesome!

Thank you for the wonderful tour and experience! We learned a lot about coffee during the free tour, makes me appreciate my cup of joe even more! We also decided to take the paid Natural Trail ($10 per party). The self guided tour book was so helpful, it explained each plants or scene along the way, you can really take your time and enjoy the nature while filingl in with some knowledge. Of course you cant miss the free coffee tasting and the gift shop! And if you're lucky like us lol, you'll have a chance to play and take some picture with Mr.Kitty while he is not asleep! 😻❤️

We visited the Thunder Mountain Coffee Plantation while visiting the Big Island. They're neat and organized business really fits the agra/ tourist model. They were doing free tours while we were there, and had a small store showcasing their products. I picked up a bag of their whole bean Expresso Dark which has good flavor , is very smooth, only not as bold as I would have imagined. Good stop while visiting , very nice landscape and flowers.

On a warm, rainy Thursday afternoon, we decided to explore Mountain Thunder Coffee—and what a hidden gem! Tucked up in the mountains, it was noticeably cooler than down by the coast, creating a refreshing and peaceful escape. The moment we arrived, we were welcomed with a tasting station offering four delicious coffee samples. The hosts were warm, inviting, and incredibly knowledgeable. Even with the rain, they had us covered—literally—with free umbrellas and $2 ponchos available in the gift shop. Our short walking tour was informative and fun, as our guide walked us through the process of making coffee from start to finish. We especially enjoyed seeing the roasting shed. And the best part? The tour was completely free. We didn’t get to explore the full coffee grounds due to the downpour, but there's clearly more to discover next time. There's a cozy lunch area, clean bathrooms, and a gift shop filled with great coffee and collectables. Between the misty jungle atmosphere, the cooler mountain air, and the genuine hospitality, it felt like a Jurassic Park adventure—in the best way possible. We’ll definitely be back. Mountain Thunder Coffee is a must-visit—great coffee, friendly staff, and a one-of-a-kind mountain experience. 5 out of 5! ☕🌿

Visiting this coffee farm in America’s only cloud forest was nothing short of magical. The free tour was incredibly informative — we learned all about the coffee-making process from passionate guides and got to sample some of the best coffee I’ve ever tasted. There’s a small shop where you can buy beans and local goods, and for just $10, you get a charming booklet and access to a peaceful trail through a garden that ends at a scenic observatory deck. We arrived in the morning with sunshine, and by the time we left, we were literally in the clouds with a light mist of rain — a surreal and beautiful shift that made the experience even more memorable. I can’t recommend this place enough. It’s authentic, educational, and absolutely worth the visit.

Fun experience. Coffee tour is free and describes the farming, cultivation, market and sale of Kona coffee. The mill itself was not impressive, but I found the presenters and staff to be true masters of their craft, with a high degree of knowledge. They were all extremely friendly and inviting. There is complimentary coffee that you can taste before and after the tour. Options include the light roast American, French, Vienna and my favorite, the Black & Tan (mix of the American and French). The only costs are the self-guided nature walk and of course any purchases from the gift shop. The tour was honestly quite short and modest, but I would do it again to support the business, and it’s only $10. I also had a bunch of samples, so I was rather eager to just “go.” I could fairly see others concluding otherwise.

We visited Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation in Kona and had such a great time. We took the free tour and it was unbelievably informative. Learned so much about how coffee is grown, harvested, and refined, and it was really cool to see how particular they are with their process. Our guide was amazing. She knew so much and answered every question in detail, even taking extra time to explain things further. You could tell she really loved what she does and made the tour super engaging. The shop was also really nice. We picked up a few coffee candles and they smell incredible. Excited to light them at home and bring a little bit of Kona back with us. If you’re in Kona, definitely worth a stop whether you’re a big coffee drinker or just curious about how it all works.

Excellent experience for kids and adults provided by world class professionals. When we arrived we lucked out with an upgraded room overlooking the dolphins. My daughter immediately drew to the view and asked about seeing them. As we planned her experience, the web site was useful. Read the instructions. Unlike some of the reviews, they specifically tell you to be there 30 minutes early for life preserver and dive mask fitting. This is mandatory. They also provide you some informative facts about their dolphins and the history of this site. If you can’t swim, no problem. They provide activities with dolphins in waste deep water but if you can swim, you’ll get the chance to swim with them. Digital photos were expensive but we took lots of pics with our phones as their staff took pics with quality cameras. Highly recommend for anyone.

The dolphin experience was so amazing and a once in a lifetime experience. All of the staff are exceptional and knowledgeable as well. The dolphins are very well taken care of and healthy too.

Such a fun wonderful experience for our 6yr old! She had a blast. The trainers were so kind with the littles. The dolphins rotated and gave her special memories that will last! I'm a veterinarian and take conservation seriously as well as acknowledging the high expectations this facility met with humane treatment of these beautiful animals. I felt comfortable allowing my child to experience this once in a life time interaction 🩷. Professional photos weren't really worth the $170 but they did capture the moment! Mahalo nui loa. Malama a hui hou kaua!

I visited at the end of October and the team could not have been better from the moment I called to set up my swim. When I initially called, Jayden answered the phone, then sent me over to Melissa to handle my specific needs. Upon my arrival, I met both Pat & Melissa herself, who were very welcoming. The dolphin training team was stellar, me mostly working with Patrick and Madi, but I also met Grace, Jessica, two Ashley’s, Krista, Kara, Kelly, Tanner, Erin, Stephanie. I am probably missing a few names but I did meet almost all the team in the two days I got the privilege of being there. I COULD NOT be more impressed, this is a facility I would definitely recommend to anyone because of their world class care as well as guest experiences. Keep up the amazing work!

Nice experience however it's a bit heartbreaking. The water is so shallow it's hard to believe the dolphins are happy and able to flourish in that environment. But it's a nice sight nonetheless.

Amazing Experience! Dolphin Quest Hawaii was incredible! The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, and the dolphins were amazing to interact with. You can really tell they care about the animals and conservation. It was fun, educational, and unforgettable — a must-do in Hawaii!

The dolphins are beautiful, and the setting itself is nice, but the overall experience is disappointing. No one announces when the dolphin show will actually take place, so guests are often left waiting around or asking staff for details. When the show finally starts, it lasts barely 10 minutes—hardly worth the wait or the buildup. For the price and the hype, the experience feels underwhelming.

Hapuna Beach is an absolutely stunning coastal destination, renowned for its soft, powdery white sand that stretches for nearly half a mile. The crystal-clear turquoise waters create a vibrant contrast with the lush greenery surrounding the shoreline, making it a picturesque paradise. Gentle waves lap against the shore, inviting both swimmers and snorkelers to enjoy the ocean, while the expansive beach offers the perfect spot for sunbathing, picnicking, or simply strolling along the water’s edge. As the sun begins to set, the sky often transforms into a spectacular canvas of warm oranges and pinks, enhancing the beach’s natural beauty even further.

Nice beach. Has lifeguard, nice restrooms, volleyball court, plenty of grills and family eating areas. A lot of parking, but need to pay. Went on a weekend late morning and there was plenty of places by the water. A little windy the day we went with blo ing sand, and glad we went there.

Great spot for the entire family. Soft sand beach, great facilities (life guards, shower and foot rinse stations, clean bathrooms, picnic areas, etc.). Ocean variable on currents but overall good for swimming. Good size parking lot but can get full at peak hours. For non-Hawaiian residents there is a fee of $10 per car, plus $5 per person. Pay at the mobile station and put on your dash. The pass is good for the entire day and includes access to Beach 69 (Waialea Beach). Additionally, make sure you have Reef Safe sunscreen. Hawaii passed legislation requiring it. You can search for info on details.

Great beach to play in the sun and sand. We went on Tuesday and it was not very crowded. Water was calm in the morning and got a bit choppy in the afternoon. Cost $10. To park and $5. per person.

Lots of sand on this beach, probably the largest sandy beach on the island easily accessible by car. Clean restrooms two outdoor showers at the beach and one at the top near the parking lot. Non-residents must pay $20 for parking. A couple pavilions with picnic tables and a couple of satellite picnic covered picnic tables. Few shaded areas otherwise recommend bringing an umbrella and chairs.

This is my first visit to this stunning beach. Water was Aqua marin color(gorgeous). The Killer Sunset tonight! Was accompanied with my 70 yr old mother and 18 yr old daughter. Here are some pictures I took, not a professional, but I think I did alright.

Great beach at Hapuna. Not crowded in any way. Has amenities and lif guards. We'll kept. Gets windy but a delight to visit.

Everyone can go on this! I took my 80 year old Mother in Law and she had a blast. The guys were real good to make sure she could get down to the Waterfall and back up. They kept telling her to take her time. They were always smiling. I couldn't ask for better.

My husband and I booked this tour to view some of the farm land, cliffs, forest, etc. of the Big Island. When I called to book the tour the woman I spoke with was so friendly, told us exactly how to get there from our hotel (seriously turn by turn), and was so friendly. When we arrived for the tour we were greeted by one of our two guides- Tayvon. Tayvon helped all the parties get setup, take payment, complete waivers, get equipment, etc. he is a VERY kind young man with a great sense of humor and really made sure we were off to a great start. We then met our other guides Keli'i who was also great. He took the time to explain how to use the vehicles, was friendly, and had a great sense of humor. The two then made sure folks were comfortable on the atvs and those who needed help were then provided side by sides so someone else could do the driving for them. The tour took us to some gorgeous cliffs where Keli'i showed us just how close Maui was, explained the history of the area and island, and gave us some time to look around. From there we headed to a secluded waterfall where folks could swim or look around. While there Tayvon explained to us a bit more about the different regions on the island and the town we were in. Both Tayvon and Keli'l also gave us recommendations of other places to visit on the island, lunch spots, and sites to be sure not to miss. I would highly recommend this company, tour, and the guides to anyone looking to get outside, be around friendly people, and have a great time.

Fun ride but often rains in this area. Glad I had someone driving for me. They provide helmets and goggles for safety and plastic poncho when it rains.

We had a really good time taking the ATV tour here. We opted for the 1 and a half hour coastal scene ride. The ride was really fun and it was really easy to ride the ATV as a first timer. Keli'i and Tita were the coolest guides and were really awesome!

Our family of four booked this tour and came prepared with backpacks with towels in case we got to swim at the waterfall. We didn't get as muddy as we had liked actually! The guys in our group got to take the 4-wheelers (make sure your teen has their ID - they check), I drove a side-by-side with my young daughter. I didn't have to do anything but steer, accelerate, and brake. The guides will take care of switching over from 2WD to 4WD or changing the diff. We were also the last vehicle in the convoy with one guide behind so we let ourselves fall back just a bit to enjoy. My daughter took pictures using my Canon from the passenger seat. We didn't get to swim under the waterfall. They said it had rained the night before and that while the water levels were back down to normal, the run off was from pasture land and muddy. The steps to the waterfall and the boulders are very slick so don't wear shoes/boots that don't have some kind of traction!

Such an awesome experience. They have a private waterfall that is gorgeous! The tour guides were awesome too. Highly recommend!

We had so much fun with T$ and Austin, who happened to have the same birthday as my best friend! Happy 21st Austin! We did the waterfall and rainforest trail. So much beauty in 2 hours! We could see Maui, 26 miles away! Dont forget to TIP! And give the kitty scratches 😻😻

We went to this place 3 consecutive days for our morning coffee ☕️ they have free samples inside the shop as well. A very good concept to try the different flavour of manufactured coffees : It’s a coffee plantation. We didn’t do it, but you can also visit the area with a guided tour. We didn’t try the food, I think they are only selling muffins. Coffee prices was correct : around 6-7 USD for each.

Take a short, scenic drive through the lush Ka'u countryside, past dark macadamia nut forests and impressive stands of banana trees, and you will find yourself at this cozy welcoming center. Clean restrooms and a large outdoor pavilion adjoin this coffee shop/gift store. The owners are extremely generous with their coffee samples! There were six different flavors available to try (for free) on the day I visited. They provide several sweetening options, but unfortunately, no milk or creamer. If you want that, you'll have to purchase a beverage from their extensive menu. I really enjoyed browsing through all the high quality, locally made food items. The highlight was their signature brand chocolate bars. I got a Dark Chocolate Coffee Cream Bar, which was made with a few simple, clean ingredients and very reasonably priced for that caliber of chocolate. I loved how relaxed the atmosphere was. Nobody was pressuring me to buy anything, and I could just relax while happily sipping coffee and shopping.

While heading down to the coast, a large sign pointed at this coffee stop. Mainly, I was intrigued by the free restroom, for I am NOT a coffee person. However, what a great place! The landscape is so beautiful, and the store inside had me enamoured by the different coffee novelties that I almost have converted into a coffee person. I even tried a free sample of the macadamia vanilla coffee. Very tasty! They have several coffees to sample from. The atmosphere is very non-invasive: spacious and roomy. There is an outdoor seating area with the restrooms connected, and the restroom was very nice and free to use (no purchase required). I got myself a mango smoothie and chilled outside. It was a bit busy when I got there and was told it may take a while to get the smoothie, but the guy was speedy I guess and made haste to get me it pretty quickly. I was grateful. And smoothie price was fair, too.

During our time on the big island, we thoroughly enjoyed our visit here. We had the opportunity to sample various flavors and indulge in the gift shop. The guy who toured us was very knowledgeable about coffee. Additionally, we explored the property, observing coffee plants at various stages of the harvesting process. For coffee enthusiasts, this visit is a must-see experience.

I love this coffee farm, free tasting 😋. The lady working was very nice & helpful. The sitting area was nice & relaxing. Loved the nature of the farm. Coffee was great. Will go back again. A most go to when on the Big Island Hawaii.

Great place to see a coffee farm, get FREE coffee tasting, and buy handcrafted drinks. There are two free coffee farm tours a day at 11am and 1pm. They don't have coffee tours on the weekend though. The gift shop smelled like coffee heaven! There is outside seating to enjoy your drinks, and they have a very clean public restroom. They also have a store in Kona if you just want to get some of their coffee.

Free coffee samples and an okay tour. Coffee tasted good, but not quite as good Kona (on our humble opinion). Price was good though and the place is worth checking out.

Amazing lookout with trail and a sacred destination. Parking will be challenging so get here early, if possible. The hike to the bottom is steep with few switchbacks. I did see people of all ages walking the hike however do take cautions based on your physical condition. The views at the beach were amazing.

Beautiful scenic place with a black sand beach. Its a short hike down and not busy at all. Very much connected to nature and the ancestors here. The stillness is just breathtaking. Respect the rules of the park and stay on the path as it is private property.

The views are absolutely gorgeous. You have to park on the street and check in with the guides before hiking down to the beach. Parking and entrance are free. The hike down was about 20 minutes. Back up is about 30-40 minutes. Highly recommend bringing sturdy shoes and water. The hike back up was a little strenuous but totally worth it. There is also another 10 minute hike into the valley. I would recommend spending around 3 hours here.

Incredible views. The hike to the beach is really challenging (800 ft decent over a half mile) but was really worth it. Parking was a little hard. Would absolutely recommend bringing water as the climb back up was draining.

This was definitely worth a stop while exploring the north side of the Big Island. The drive alone to the lookout was worth the adventure, but views of Polulu Valley put it over the top. There was a lady working (volunteering?) by the parking lot who was extremely friendly and was more than obliged to answer questions.

Nice hike. Be careful of rain. Feels like another planet when you’re at the black sand beach. Not much parking.

A truly stunning and energetically powerful place! Unfortunately, the beach is polluted - so if you’re planning to visit, please bring a bag and take at least 30 minutes to help clean up. It’s a meaningful way to give back to our shared home - planet Earth. Thank you so much 🙏🏻

Absolutely incredible experience. We went on a national parks day so it was free; however, you can easily spend a whole day here and get your money worth. The 4 mile trail is not that difficult. I would recommend going clockwise. Start at the entrance near the lava tube and take the trail all the way across the crater and back up where you’ll end near the lava tube. The first part of the hike is all downhill, then you’ll have a trek across the crater which is incredible… if you take this route you’ll have a short stretch which is pure incline, climbing up steps, but you won’t have the .6 mile constant incline if you did it the opposite direction. Also, if you start by the lava tube, you descend to the crater and have the most incredible views of the crater and the lush treeline behind it!

Incredible Experience at Hawaii’s Big Island Volcanoes! Visiting the Big Island's volcanoes was an unforgettable highlight of our trip to Hawaii. From the moment we entered Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, the sheer scale and beauty of the landscape left us in awe. The contrast between lush rainforest and stark lava fields is something you truly have to see to believe. We were lucky enough to witness the Kīlauea crater at night, and the glow from the lava was absolutely mesmerizing. The park rangers were knowledgeable and passionate, providing great insights into the geology, history, and cultural significance of the volcanoes. We also hiked the Kīlauea Iki Trail, which takes you right across a cooled lava lake—such a surreal experience! The steam vents, sulfur banks, and Thurston Lava Tube added even more variety and fascination to the visit. If you're planning a trip to the Big Island, this is an absolute must-see. Be sure to check for current volcanic activity and weather conditions, and bring sturdy shoes and water. Whether you're into science, nature, or just jaw-dropping scenery, the volcanoes will leave a lasting impression. Highly recommend

Wow what an experience and we saw a small eruption too. Really a great experience. Definitely go for sunset so if there is Lava you can see it when it gets dark. But bring WARM CLOTHES for night time.

A must-visit spot! I recommend going both during the day and at night. Bring binoculars — you can actually see lava glowing between the cracks! Half of the fun starts in the dark ^^ Check out full view of the Kilauea Volcano: @threecontinents10

Visiting Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park was one of the most memorable experiences of my trip to the Big Island. There’s really no other place like it — where you can see steaming volcanic craters, walk through lush rainforests, and cross an actual lava field all in a single day. We started at the Kīlauea Visitor Center, which is a great place to get maps, check eruption updates, and talk to the rangers. The staff were friendly and full of good advice about which trails were open and how to make the most of our visit. From there, we did the Crater Rim Drive and stopped at several viewpoints — the views into Halemaʻumaʻu Crater were absolutely incredible. My favorite part was hiking the Kīlauea Iki Trail. It starts in the forest, then drops down into the crater where you actually walk across the solidified lava floor. It’s surreal — like stepping onto another planet. The contrast between the lush greenery above and the black rock below is something you’ll never forget. We also walked through the Thurston Lava Tube, which was fascinating, and explored the Sulphur Banks Trail to see steam vents and smell the volcanic gases (just a little!). The weather changes quickly here — one minute it’s sunny, the next it’s misty and cool — so it’s good to bring layers. Even though we didn’t see active lava during our visit, the whole park still felt alive. You can literally feel the energy of the Earth beneath your feet. It’s peaceful, raw, and powerful all at once. If you’re coming to the Big Island, don’t skip this place. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or just want to witness the power of nature, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is a must-see. Just plan ahead, check the conditions, and give yourself plenty of time — you’ll want to soak it all in. ⸻ Would you like me to make it sound a bit more casual and traveler-like (like a post someone would actually leave on Google Maps after a trip)? the most memorable experiences of my trip to the Big Island. There’s really no other place like it — where you can see steaming volcanic craters, walk through lush rainforests, and cross an actual lava field all in a single day. We started at the Kīlauea Visitor Center, which is a great place to get maps, check eruption updates, and talk to the rangers. The staff were friendly and full of good advice about which trails were open and how to make the most of our visit. From there, we did the Crater Rim Drive and stopped at several viewpoints — the views into Halemaʻumaʻu Crater were absolutely incredible. My favorite part was hiking the Kīlauea Iki Trail. It starts in the forest, then drops down into the crater where you actually walk across the solidified lava floor. It’s surreal — like stepping onto another planet. The contrast between the lush greenery above and the black rock below is something you’ll never forget. We also walked through the Thurston Lava Tube, which was fascinating, and explored the Sulphur Banks Trail to see steam vents and smell the volcanic gases (just a little!). The weather changes quickly here — one minute it’s sunny, the next it’s misty and cool — so it’s good to bring layers. Even though we didn’t see active lava during our visit, the whole park still felt alive. You can literally feel the energy of the Earth beneath your feet. It’s peaceful, raw, and powerful all at once. If you’re coming to the Big Island, don’t skip this place. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or just want to witness the power of nature, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is a must-see. Just plan ahead, check the conditions, and give yourself plenty of time — you’ll want to soak it all in.

An absolutely amazing visit! I was very lucky to be able to see one of the volcanoes erupting! The park was absolutely breathtaking even besides that! This is definitely a must for everyone who visits or even lives on the island!

Loved seeing the Volcano erupt! It’s an experience I will never forget. The national park is beautiful and would highly recommend you visit it.

Great hike from visitor center down the very steep road but not too difficult. The views are spectacular. This also a very sacred place for the locals so be respectful. Bathrooms and views form up to that do not require hiking are also worth the trip.

We didn’t do the trail as we were told it’s for residents/native Hawaiians only. Totally understandable. It’s a scared spot so go with respect for the land and its people but seems like hiking isn’t recommended for visitors. Ok to walk over the lookout and take in all the history of the area. It’s truly breathtaking.

This is an absolute gem of a place… In order to get on the beach you have to know a local and you need a four-wheel-drive car to get down into the valley. There is a beautiful exotic fruit stand right outside the area that you have got to stop at. My most favorite part was seeing the black sand and that the river end up connecting to the ocean. You can also camp out there. I’ve never been to such a magical place @TheAmericanMermaid_

Not a trail, pedestrians aren’t allowed on the road. You cannot drive to this valley unless you are a Hawaii resident. If you are not, the only way to get down there is to go with a tour company. The drive is super steep on a small windy road. We did a tour, $69/person which is quite pricy. It was beautiful down there.

This is one of the most beautiful places my family and I have ever visited. After we made it down the steepest road in all of America, we felt like we were transported into another time a place. It felt a bit like Jurassic Park, to be honest. From the free-roaming horses of the valley to the natural streams and towering waterfall, this is somewhere you absolutely must visit to enjoy the splendor of completely.

Amazing views, definitely worth going! The way down is very easy, the way up a bit more challenging but VERY doable - it's a very short hike. The valley is simply gorgeous! If you get there before 7 am, you can go down without a problem - no guards are there.

My wife and I were at first disappointed to learn that we were not allowed to hike on our own into the Waipio Valley because of a rule implemented in 2022. It forced us to book a tour with Waipio Valley Shuttle because it is the only way tourists are allowed to visit the valley floor. The experience was infinitely more enjoyable, educational, and rewarding than hiking on our own or visiting the scenic outlook (open to the public with free parking) would have been. Visiting the scenic overlook on your own for free is fine if you're short on time, but taking this tour is well worth the time and expense.

If there is one tour you must do this is it. The guides tell all the history of the land and show one of the most sacred valleys they have as well as beautiful waterfalls. These views are only accessible through this company. Best of all this tour didn’t feel like a tour at all when it came to driving. We got to fly down the dirt roads and plow through the mud puddles. Plan on getting dirty. Of course the reason the tour is so much fun is due to the stellar guides. It was a blast to be with them. Special shout out to Blake who is their certified Bad A**. A must do if you like beautiful views and having fun.

Hands down, this was by far my favorite experience on a recent trip my family took to the Big Island to celebrate my mom's life who recently passed away. There were 10 of us ranging in age from 7 to 77, and we all loved the adventure. The children rode in side-by-sides with a parent while our older members rode with a guide in a buggy. The terrain is bumpy, but the guides are extremely safety conscious. The guides are fabulous. They become your friends. The kindness they showed my elderly father who could not get around very well was wonderful. They cared for him like he was family. The lead guide, I will call him "P" because I know I will butcher his name, was incredible. He is a true story-teller and his knowledge of the history, spirituality and culture of this area and native Hawaiians deeply enhanced what was already an emotional and spiritual journey for our family in saying goodbye to my mom. I simply cannot thank him enough for the gift that he gave us. As he told the stories at the various stops along the way, you could envision the people and the culture on that land at the various times. While the trails are bumpy and there are puddles of mud, they are wide and far safer than other ATV trails we've been on. Someone who has not previously driven an ATV can easily navigate them, and this ride is a perfect "first time" ATVing opportunity. You ride through fields of Eucalyptus and beautiful forests. You stop at multiple "look out" points along the way that are breathtaking. I highly recommend bringing closed toe swim shoes so you can go into the pond at the waterfall. You can strap down a bag of personal belongings on the back of your ATV. The view of the valley and the waterfall is one of the most beautiful views I've ever seen. That alone was worth it. I rode in a side-by-side with my 24 year old son so I could focus on enjoying the views. One minute I had tears streaming down my cheeks as I thought about my mom and understood why the Big Island was her favorite place, and the next minute I was laughing hysterically as my son made sure he hit the puddle just right to optimally splash us with muddy water. While we were by far the most covered in mud, the guide made sure my dad and aunt were kept quite clean. For me, the mud is part of the fun of the experience. While my mom never had a chance to see the Waipio Valley while she was alive, I'm certain she was with us that day and it became her favorite place on the island. "P", you and your staff have become part of honorary members of our family. Thank you for your compassion and time on August 9, 2017 and helping us say goodbye to my mom and celebrate her life while honoring the place she loved so much.

While on my honeymoon myself and my wife went on the Ride the Rim ATV tour of the Waipio Valley. We had a fantastic time. It was my wife's first time riding an ATV and she found it very fun. The instruction on how to operate the ATVs was top notch and there was a good safety culture from the company. The ATVs themselves appear to be very well maintained. We both enjoyed all the local history from the guides, they really know their stuff. The trails you ride are great and well maintained. One issue we did have was that other people on the tour caused delay to our tour as they didn't know who in their party was going to ride an ATV or a side by side etc. They also didn't listen to the instructions they were given. The guides did their best to keep things moving along and apologised for the delays. As the guides did their best to keep things moving I can't dock any stars for this. If we ever go back to the Big Island we will take this tour again. Note: we found out about the tour through the advert on Big Island TV.

This was one of the highlights of our trip to the big island! The history of the valley is so rich and it is breathtaking! We had a fun time on the trails because the day before our tour it rained, so going through the mud and puddles was pretty fun! Definitely recommend this to anyone who visits the island, it was an amazing experience! And our guides were great! They gave a lot of great information at each of our stops and did a great job teaching us about the history of the valley.

It was a really great time riding an ATV. I highly recommend doing an ATV ride with them or at least doing an ATV ride somewhere. They have it so you can be a single rider or a group. The staff is amazing and were so nice. They are very knowledgable about the area and you can ask them questions. They really took care of my Mom when she slipped and twisted her ankle. The views are spectacular along the ride and it was fun being in the jungle. They take you to a pit stop to see a small waterfall and pool along with a stop to see the Waipio Valley. Depending on the weather you can get pretty muddy so wear clothes that you don't mind getting dirty.

I was a first time ATV rider and felt well taken care of. Having to repeat the same info twice a day, every day could become tedious. You wouldn't know it with this group of guides. They were happy, patient and informative. It's not a complicated thing to ride an ATV, but never having done it I didn't know what to expect. It was a great tour. Long enough on the ATV's, with just enough stops to learn a little and enjoy the breathtaking views. As with any vacation tour it's expensive, but felt I got my money's worth. Tour guides have an "Aloha Jar". They are well worth a generous tip.

Went with my wife and inlaws and had a wonderful time. The guides were awesome and we learned a lot while we were having time in the gorgeous surroundings. The waterfall temp is cold but so great.

In a word... Breathtaking! It's 14,000 ft of stark, raw beauty with a myriad of telescopes. It's tough to get there. It's worth a trip. Since it is spectacular. It's truly an international community of people who arrive and enjoy. Bring warm clothes. Be patient. Both travel up and down and to wait for the sunset. Be sure to stop at the visitor center both up and down.

One of the best things to do on the Big Island! The Maunakea Summit at sunset is absolutely breathtaking. Watching the sun dip below the clouds from over 13,000 feet is an unforgettable experience. The sky lights up in incredible shades of gold, pink, and purple, and being above the clouds truly feels like standing on top of the world. I will definitely go again—it’s easily one of the most beautiful sunsets I’ve ever seen!

Great place for sunrise and sunset views. Definitely recommend to visit at 14000 ft. I did visit both morning and evening, noticed that evenings are generally cloudy so less chances of getting a good 360 view of the island. However, mornings are clearer and had good sunrise views. Also a lot less crowded in the mornings than in the evenings. When you come down, your break temperatures are checked, and needs to be less than 300 F otherwise you would need to spend a few minutes at the visitor center check in for the breaks to cool off. You break more often in the evening because of the crowd and end up with heated breaks requiring to stop on your way back. Altitude sickness is generally not much of a concern but one has to be cautious if any prior healt concerns exist. One would need to be at leat 1 hour at ahead ( 30 minutes at the visitor center to acclimate to the altitude and then another 30 minutes drive to the top). If you use a jeep 4X4 , they recommend to keep your drive train at 4LWD up and down, however, there are spots where there is a thar road and in those spots going at 4HWD is also fine and no problems if the weather is dry. Definitely worth a visit

We visited Mauna Kea about a week ago, and it was an incredible experience! Be prepared — it gets very cold at the top, around 2°C at just over 4,000 meters, so warm clothes are a must. The view, however, is absolutely breathtaking — you can see above the clouds, and the sunset is truly unforgettable. There are quite a few tourists, so you won’t be alone, but it’s still worth every moment. A useful tip: check online beforehand to see if the road to the summit is open, as it can sometimes be closed due to fog, snow, or safety conditions. Overall, an amazing and unique experience — highly recommended for anyone visiting Hawaii!

We rented Hybrid Jeep’s so that the decent down would be safe and prevent issues with braking. Beautiful sunset. It was 80 degrees when we started up and at the top it was 37 degrees. A must do! Research first because you can’t just show up in a regular vehicle etc.

Unbelievable experience, the view is like no other. I was short of breath for a few minutes while my body acclimated to the change in oxygen level and it was 38 degrees farenheit ar the summit whereas it was 80 at the beach, layer up or bundle up. 😂. We stayed there till night and got some amazing photos

By far one of the coolest experiences of my life. I love the stars and space and getting above the clouds and learning what the observatory looks for is so cool. The show put on by the visitor center is great and getting to the top of the mountain was amazing. Bring a jacket!

Great spot to view the lava flow from. We found it very educational for our two daughters. There is lots of history inside the musem area. Small gift shop indes aswell. We parked at the musem as there is plenty of parking there. From the musem it's a nice hike to the steam vents 1.7 miles. very scenic and great photo opportunities. Must see if you are visiting the Big island

Nice collection of lava samples. Great place to view the active crater, especially at night when you can see the glow from the magma. Bring warm clothing if you're going at night as it can get very cold. The parking lot can get very full at night so plan accordingly.

A nice stop while touring the park. Includes some science and also the latest updates in the lava flows for those planning to go see them. Look through the binoculars to see the birds flying around the caldera.

The museum was good but the best part was the lava lake views at night. The museum has a viewpoint of the Halemaumau Crater where the lava lake is on the surface as of November 2016. The views at night are spectacular. This place is a little windy but worth the wait. We stayed closed to the Hawaii volcano national park and we could drive to the museum multiple times under 10 min.

A great place to observe the active volcano crater in Mt. Kïlauea called “Hale Ma'uma'u,” which means Home of the Eternal Crater. If you are a tourist, then it’s 100% worth the visit at dusk. There are a lot of other places to visit within Volcanoes National Park. It’s been fun with my young toddler children.

Ensure that you reach the place well before sunrise( say 5:15 am) and wait it out until sunrise. Completely worth waking up in the morning to see the Kīlauea cauldera from the lookout point. An advice is to probably book a room close by. We stayed at the lokahi lodge which was 10 min away(reasonably priced and a really good stay for a night)

Good place to brush-up your vulcanology knowledge. Little bit of history and a great site to view Kilauea's eastern slope AKA East Rift Zone. Up close and person to live crater. On a clear day, you can see smoke coming out to crater. There are times when rangers take time and share valuable incites of this place. This was one of the top place for Volcanic studies for a while. For time to time you may be able to see Scientists near by. Restrooms available and actual site is walking from parking area. You can cover entire site in 15-20 mins. We started our national park journey from this spot.

Good hike. Not too bad and very interesting to see the crater. The uphill is extremely difficult and it is not for everyone at the end of the trail. Going down into the crater was fun and there were mini short cuts you could take downwards. Make sure to apply sun screen and do it when rain isn’t expected (no way out if it starts to rain). Drink tons of water and be responsible while on this trail. Keep in mind you are literally going down hundreds of feet into the previous lava filled crater. Even some vegetation exists here. But overall, I recommend at least doing it once if staying in the area like the Volcano House.

We hiked clockwise and took the easy path down. The lush green forest is beautiful and the weather was cooperating when we went. The crater was surreal. Follow the rock piles and stay on the trail. Now, crossing over to finish the loop was a challenge. You have to hike up lava rocks that het steeper and more jagged. It's OK to turn around and cross the crater and come back where you came from. The other side has stairs and stairs and more stairs and if you are short and out of shape, it is going to be a tough time... but hey... take your time and you will get there when you get there. The counterclockwise offers an easier ending with NO stairs but you have to climb a long way down the uneven stairs... either way, if you want to do the full loop, stairs are in your future. Worth the experience, well maintained but take snacks, water, a hat that attaches to your head and sunscreen! Wear solid and secure shoes and cover yourself because the bugs and the sun are out to say hello! It was super windy in the crater when we went and people were chasing their hats!

The hike was a loop and took about 2 hours. Weather can change suddenly from sunny to pouring rain. We were glad that we had our rain coat on. Very rewarding hike and interesting to see the lava rocks up close in person.

We absolutely loved it !! Not many people start from the visitor center, but it is definitely worthy. You will walk through a tropical forest, past next to the lava tube trial, walk through the crater… strongly recommend it !

Very unique hike as you get to walk across the the crater. However, it’s not incredibly interesting as the landscape is pretty monotonous. We completed it in an hr hustling it.

From the trail map at the parking lot, I would recommend going left. Both ways are steep inclines/declines to get down into the crater but the trail off to the left is much higher in elevation so most would rather go down on that side. You will pass the lava tube parking lot, about 1/3 mile from the trail head parking lot, then you will start you descent down with plenty of switchbacks. Once on the bottom, you enter another world and every step you take is picture worthy. It is approximately 1.5 miles long in my estimation. The path is marked by stacked rock piles but you can also tell by the wear/discoloration on the rock from all the traffic. It is a great experience and a must do. Unless their is flowing lava in the park, I think this is the best thing to do, which includes the Thurston lava tube, which I loved as well. The decent up has a lot of rocky steps but it is shorter to go up this way. The path back to the parking lot/trailhead is much longer on this side (about a mile give or take) and has plenty of inclined and declines as you wrap around the crater edge. It also has some nice overlooks along the way. I would recommend coming here as early as possible. It does get crowded and the sun was high and on our backs by the end. There is no cover from the sun when you are in the crater. This is a MUST do!

Really fun hike. Plan 1-2 hours. Lots of variety of landscape. I recommend adding the lava tubes into your hike as well for even more variety.

A great experience, educational and so rewarding. Lunch includes lots of ways to include vanilla in appetizers, main course and side dishes. Tour was so amazing, followed by coffee and vanilla ice cream. Beautiful location. Great tour guide Zack, made it great.

Such a cool experience! We just happened upon this farm in our search of things to do on the Big Island, and we're so glad we did this! Zack was our guide and he is so knowledgable and passionate about the vanilla process. We also had lunch as part of the tour and it was delicious! Everything had vanilla in it, but it's not what you think--they've found ways for vanilla to complement the dishes. It's not a bunch of 'sweet' foods, so don't fret if you're worried about that!

Don't miss this very delicious, entertaining, and informative tour when you're on the Big Island! Starts with a lovely lunch laced with vanilla in many forms, then a walk down to the vanilla shade garden, where host Zak is possibly the most interesting, engaging tour guide on the island. A walk back up the hill to the restaurant/store for tasty vanilla coffee and a generous portion of vanilla ice cream. The gift shop- open to everyone, not just those on tours, has a variety of vanilla products and nicely designed tees, hats, mugs and more. You will learn fascinating vanilla facts, and leave with a smiling face and happy full belly.

AMAZING experience! We had Zak give us a group tour. We had a great food tasting, he walked us through the process of growing the vanilla, to how its cured and extracted, and how to use it in cooking. We came. We saw. We pet a goat! And we learned about how vanilla could be so not-plain-vanilla! We Cannot stress out how awesome the experience was!

The luncheon is definitely worth it!! Not only do you get a DELICIOUS lunch, there is soo much to learn about the process of vanilla and you get so try so many different vanilla flavored things! It definitely makes you appreciate REAL vanilla so much more!

We had a big party of eight and they were able to accommodate lunch tour! Fabulous lunch and fantastic tour with Zac! Great knowledge with a lot of passion and recipe tips were on point!

We did the Luncheon & Farm tour. The food was very good, so yummy 😋 Our tour guide Zak was amazing. He gave us a very interesting tour. We learned a lot about vanilla. We highly recommend this tour. It is a bit of a drive, but it is an amazing part of the island. It is totally worth it! Do it…

Cool lava tube, not too busy! Would have loved to have seen it at night too. The loop is nice, stairs down and somehow you end up above it when you come out. Restrooms near the entrance/exit of the loop - one of the few with running water so take advantage!

We went after dark so we had to use the flashlight from our phones up until we got to the actual tube. Very nice short walk. Beautiful scenery leading up to the very well lit tube. Walkable for little ones. I had my two second graders with me. Very cool experience to add to our volcano visit! 🥰🌋

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Volcano Tubes – An Unforgettable Experience in Hawaii Visiting the volcano tubes in Hawaii was truly one of the highlights of our trip, and I can’t recommend this stop highly enough. The entire hike leading to the lava tube is absolutely beautiful — a perfect blend of lush rainforest scenery, cool shaded pathways, and that peaceful Hawaiian atmosphere that instantly slows your pace and makes you appreciate every step. The trail is well-maintained, accessible to most visitors, and filled with vibrant greenery, birdsong, and the kind of natural beauty that feels straight out of a postcard. The real centerpiece, of course, is the incredible lava tube itself. Walking through it feels like stepping into another world. The cool air, the soft echo of footsteps, and the natural volcanic formations lining the walls make it a one-of-a-kind experience. The lighting inside is just bright enough to show the tube’s details while still preserving that mysterious, awe-inspiring ambiance. It’s amazing to stand inside a place formed by molten lava thousands of years ago and imagine the power that shaped it. Whether you’re a nature lover, hiker, or someone seeking a memorable adventure, the volcano tubes are an absolute must-see. As a Local Guide, this is exactly the kind of spot I love highlighting — unique, accessible, and unforgettable. Highly recommend!

Really cool experience and a beautiful, easy walk. Parking was limited - we were lucky to get a parking spot on a Friday at 130 PM. Otherwise, you have to walk a bit from the overflow parking down the road. Bathrooms are a plus. Overall, highly recommend!

Parking spaces were available around 9:30 am and when we hiked back here around 11 am it will as packed with many busses on the side too. The walk is pretty quick and it is a dark tube that gets lit up between 8 am and 8 pm but if you have trouble seeing in the dark or want to see more then bring your own flashlight. The walk is short but getting down to the tube can be steep for some. Be careful. It's a very short walk for the loop.

Nāhuku Lava Tube – Big Island An incredible natural wonder worth visiting! Walking through the lava tube feels like stepping into another world — cool, mysterious, and full of history. It’s an easy stop inside Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park and a great way to experience the raw power of nature up close. Definitely a must-see on the Big Island!

Just did a quick walk; do not wear flip flops here your feet will get wet! Hubby and kiddo both bumped their heads where some parts were low; it's pretty dark even with the lights so bring a proper flashlight; the mobile phone flashlights are pretty useless lol!

Nice drive, but on a cloudy day, you won't see much other than the inside of a cloud.

Drive to the end and back. Worth the scenic views and close to ocean. You get to see how the lava has engulfed the bay.

Wild sight

(Translated by Google) A vast lava plateau! You can really feel the earth. It was my first time seeing a rainbow that formed such a beautiful arch. I was so moved! (Original) 広大な溶岩台地！地球を感じられる。 こんなにもキレイなアーチを描く虹を初めて見ました。感動！

Love the beauty here. Lots of traffic.

A nice little hike that's paved. Beautiful tall waterfall and beautiful tropical surroundings. Kahuna Falls on the same trail couldn't be seen due to plant overgrowth. Must pay to park $10 and each person pay to enter $5/person. There are attendants there to help with the payment process. There are bathrooms near parking lot.

I loved all the tropical foliage and the Akaka waterfall was beautiful. The other waterfall was not visible when we visited. The trail is moderately difficult with many stairs. If you have trouble walking or climbing I would suggest going straight to the fall on your left and not right which takes you all the way around.

Very cool waterfall. Definitely recommend doing the whole loop (counterclockwise) for a nice walk through some beautiful jungle. Street parking is free, but the parking lot and admission are paid before going down the stairs. Get there early before the tour buses arrive.

for someone younger and not very athletic, the walk/trail is paved with railings and A very doable walk. (was able to finsih walk in comfy walking flip flops! (flora is beautiful if your a plant person!)

First time to visit the falls. On an excursion form Carnival cruise. Beautiful park with all sort of exotic plants and water falls. It reminds me of a Jarassic park without the dinosaurs🤣🤣🤣

ʻAkaka Falls is a magical place. The trail winds through lush rainforest and leads to a truly spectacular waterfall. This is the real Hawaiian jungle, it might rain while you’re there, but the showers are short and only add to the atmosphere. The entrance fee is $5 per person plus $10 per car, though you can park just outside the gate to save the parking fee

We loved the Akaka Falls Park. We parked on the road and walked down. Entry fee is like 8 or 9 bucks a person. Very botanical garden vibes, we loved all the frogs and pathways leading you to the falls. Quite a bit of stairs going down, and then back up(very doable, we took my grandpa 78 very fragile and he did amazing! One step at a time.)

Beautiful water pretty much in town. Can pull up and see it from different points near the parking lit or climb up some stone steps and view the falls and the river from above. Best first thing in the morning, very serene! Highly recommend, makes a great quick stop before heading over to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park if you're staying in Hilo.

Beautiful place to visit in Hilo, Hawaii. There is not a lot of parking so you may have to wait for a parking space but it does not take long to get a space since the falls is a viewing area that people leave pretty quickly but it is worth seeing.

Totally worth a visit - fairly easy and well groomed trail - good for families. The upper falls view has 3 view points. Don't miss the steep steps down to the viewing platform (it looks steep but worth it - trust me). Note that this is different than the lower falls sign which points to the left which path goes another 0.6 miles to another smaller falls view (not really worth it in my opinion). Enjoy the falls - good lunch spot

Awesome waterfall from a waterfall junkie!!! The two observation spots are perfect for different views of the falls. The <5 min walk up to to see the banyan trees and top of the waterfall is worth it. Rainbow Falls stayed true to its name with beautiful rainbows. For those with accessibility concerns, you can see the waterfall from the parking lot. Bathrooms were available. We visited around 1 PM on a weekend in November and it wasn't crowded. We stayed around 30 min. 10/10 would recommend.

Quick stop to see a waterfall in the town of Hilo. Best to see rainbow in the morning. Can view waterfall from level ground steps away from parking lot or you can take uneven, natural rock steps to view waterfall from above.

👉We went here in July 2025. Beautiful and lovely waterfalls great picture ops. A must see‼️

Great waterval near Hilo. You can just drive to it and parm 100 feet away. If you go in the morning you may see the rainbow the falls were named after.

Zip lining was super fun! Great crew and beautiful surroundings. The ride was short and the lines were strong. Totally hands free and they treated us well. One of my favorite activities we have done on the Big Island and I would highly recommend it.

We went ATV riding here. The course was awesome. There were enough ridges to make it challenging yet doable for many. The UTV allowed others who are not comfortable driving an ATV to ride along. The views were awesome. The course is over five miles, so it provided a long enough time to enjoy riding the ATV or UTV. There was a bathroom break and opportunity to swim in a stream by the waterfalls. Afterward, we got to go to the lookout on our own to see the grand view of the three-tier waterfalls. Awesome experience.

Fun place with so many different activities to do. We did the 9 route zip lines. Check in was great. I forgot her name but she was so friendly and helpful. Our guides were cool, fun, personable and professional. After zip lines we also did the lunch at the ponds. Nice little waterfall. Very peaceful. Kayaking and paddle boarding was included. We would do it again. Next time the ATVs. Highly recommend.

$10 per person to look a small fall. I don’t recommend. But there are a lots of strawberry guava. It’s so delicious.

My husband and I opted for the e-bike tour at Umauma and we throughly enjoyed it. We had two guides (Keely and Chandry, I hope I spelled their names correctly) and they had a weatlh of information to share. I love hearing the history and myth behind the different types of trees we saw. The motorized bikes were very comfortable and easy to use. The views we were able to see were stunning. In the middle of our tour, we were able to go to their private waterfall pond to take a swim. That place was magical and so serene. They had paddle boards and kayaks to use, if you didn't want to swim. Highly recommend this place.

The highlight of our Big Island visit — totally worth it for the excitement and the unforgettable memories! The guides are super energetic, friendly, and clearly know what they’re doing. The whole time it felt super safe and secure to do the zip lines. My six-year-old adventure-junky son loved coming back here for the second time. We appreciated that he got to go the first time as a five year old kindergartener. This time around, he had even more courage and tried some of the lines upside down — double the fun and thrills! We lucked out with perfect weather and got to ride all nine lines. The guides kept things lively with their humor and jokes throughout the experience. Soaring over 100–200-foot drops and gliding above the five-tier falls was truly otherworldly, with stunning scenery all around. I also loved the music the guides played over the speakers — it made the whole adventure even more fun and exciting. Delicious dole soft serve in the cafe after the adrenaline rush!

So much fun and gorgeous views! A couple of lines were closed but we got a discount for it. The crew was great!

AJ and John were great guides. Very informative about the various flora. The zip-lines were were very fun especially as the layout required minimal walking (helped my knee a bunch). The views were great when you looked down; zigzaging across the creek was wonderful. We wish there were more flowers but I blame that on the wrong time of year. Overall, Botanical World Adventures was great. After zip-lining we visited the maze which was fun also. What a beautiful location. Highly recommended!

Aloha, My sister is visiting from the mainland and we decided to do a zipline. We had the best time at this Botanical World Gardens. Our tour guides were so friendly, amazing and fun. I definitely would bring more of my guest for this zipline. ( I forgot to take a pic of their names) we booked the 1:00 pm tour. Much mahalos and keep up the great work and spirit. Aloha. CRoll.

We booked our adventure through Big Island Outdoor, and Botanical World Adventures absolutely exceeded our expectations! The setting is breathtaking, but what really made the experience unforgettable was the staff. Every guide and team member we met was professional, incredibly well trained, and went above and beyond to make sure we felt safe, confident, and ready for fun. They explained everything clearly, answered all our questions, and made even the more adventurous activities feel comfortable and exciting. You can tell they truly care about every guest and take pride in providing a top-notch experience. If you want to explore the beauty of the Big Island with amazing service and expert guidance, book through Big Island Outdoor and head to Botanical World Adventures — you won’t be disappointed!

This was so amazing! Our group of 3 young at heart (65+) had a fabulous time and the guides were so helpful, fun, and great at what they do. 8 Zips? What? All good but don’t miss #8. That waterfall! Thanks guys for a great time.

Zipping here was a truly amazing experience!!! In fact, I’ve done it 3 times with different people and each time I’ve learned something new and epic about the Big Island!! Make sure you don’t miss the “shy” leaves- they physically retreat when you touch them!!! Mayra and Ipo are the best guides. MAHALO!!!

This tour was amazing!!! The ziplines were so much fun and we learnt so much about the local flora and fauna thanks to our spectacular guides Reed, John, and Myra! They were so funny and engaging with everyone and made my mom and I feel super safe. We also got to eat the leaves and fruit of the plants that were on our way in between the lines which was so cool and they were all delicious! I would 1000% recommend this activity to everyone!

Jordan and Echo were sun fun zipline guides! They kept the energy goofy while also keeping us safe. We got to try tasty fruit picked right off the trees along the route. Lovely views.

Yes yes and yes. Everything one could want from a local market. Many many options all fresh genuine and local. Mangosteen, 🍯 honey, ☕️ coffee, 🥥 coconuts, 🍫 chocolates, rare fruits and vegetables they have it all. Also an AWESOME, craft and artist, creators market in tandem next door.

Had a great time exploring this little gem. Met some very cool artist and conscientious eco friendly minded advocates. A great visit to support the local vendors.

Visited on the big Wednesday Market. Overwhelming array of fresh fruits and vegetables, with a lot of items I have never seen before. Very friendly vendors and lots of handmade craft items. Highly recommended. There was even live music that realy sets the mood. Great location and plenty of free parking.

Our trustworthy driver brought us safely from Kona all the way to Hilo for our fun-filled day of sightseeing, and she wanted to check this place out and hopefully purchase stuff. ATMOSPHERE: The market is spread out over gravel lots in downtown Hilo under pop up tents, across the street from Mooheau Park. Parking is all street, or on a small gravel lot off of Beckley Street. There was also a small eatery within the grounds with outdoor seating full of people, but I didn't check it out. THE MARKET: Because we came on a Sunday at around 2pm, only 1 tent was occupied, and not even 50% at that. We were told the more bustling days were on the weekdays and Saturday. The maybe 10 or so vendors there were selling almost similar products, including vegetables, fruits, and crafts. One particular fruit that caught my eye was called "rambutan" which has a unique exterior similar to a protea flower, with the inside fruit tasting similar to a lychee but not as sweet, or so I was told. I was hoping to find fresh gandule beans in the pod but no one was selling them. My friend on the other hand, found fresh pohole ferns that were even cheaper than on Maui where we live. She lugged them back on the plane and eventually made her infamous pohole salad.

This market has a tonne of great vendors! It’s mostly fruit and jewelry. I wish that the vendors were set up in time though, as it was listed to start at 7am but didn’t actually start until after 9am. That’s my only complaint. Otherwise it was great!

Love this place when we visit the Big Island we go to Hilo and visit the farmers market there gret papayas the best taste in the world also we eat at Pineapple restaurant is a local restaurant with craft beer and great food.

Wednesday and Saturday are the best days of the week to go. Those 2 days each week have the most vendors. It's the best place to shop! Lots of bargains!! They even have the best shaved ice! All natural! It's called Kulas!

Safe place!!!

(Translated by Google) They don't charge for parking. And there is a van that takes you to where they rent bicycles and/or vans that take you as close as possible to the volcano. If you go with children it is recommended, with said rental they give you water and flashlights (Original) No cobran por estacionar. Y hay una combi que te lleva hasta donde alquilan las bicicletas y/o camionetas que acercan lo más posible al volcán. Si van con chicos es recomendable, con dicho alquiler te dan agua y linternas

The park is stunning! I can't believe it's all free and has plenty of parking. I'd definitely check it out if you want to stretch your legs in Hilo.

Beautiful walk around gardens. Fun to see the many textures and plants mixing with lava flow. There are benches in the shaded area. If you can coax the sun out, makes for great memories.

Very beautiful gardens. This place was amazing. 8 bus loads of people, but had plenty of space to wonder around without tripping on everyone. The gardens just happened to have a contest on flower designs. I tried to capture of of them , but it started to rain harder, then a light drizzle, so I made my way back to the bus.

Beautiful grounds without a Tea Garden (but 2 restaurant/grills on site.) High water levels did not permit access to all the features and the bridge was also "off limits." However, still a recommended spot for walking, banyan and other tree/flora appreciation.

Great place to spend some time walking around and enjoying the greenery. Has a bridge where one can walk to coconut island. However, the bridge recently collapsed and is probably under renovation. Has restrooms

One of the most beautiful amazing park befitting for a Queen! It was actually made for the last Queen of Hawaii. Definitely worth the time to visit

Beautiful peaceful park but often flooded when there has been lots of rain

Great selection of prepared food and locally grown produce and fruits. Just missed the opportunity for freshly made papaya salad. Should have joined the line as soon as I got there. Something for next time. 😊

Beautiful farmers market with a great variety of stalls and a lovely atmosphere! We really enjoyed our visit — there’s everything from fresh vegetables and delicious food to handmade clothing and crafts. There was even live music, which made the experience even more special. Parking was easy and only $2, totally worth it. A great place to spend a relaxed morning, grab a bite to eat, and support local vendors. Definitely worth a visit!

One of the best Farmerʻs market iʻve ever been too! Live entertainment and amazing vendors! A must do, if youʻre traveling through!

This is a pretty great market in the Pahoa area that happens every Sunday from 7-1. Live music, local vendors, crafts and food. Great place to see people and be seen. Only bummer, I wish all the vendors had to say where their produce comes from and prices have been creeping up, but Iʻd rather pay farmers than some corporation, right? See you there!

If there’s one farmers market that you’re going to go to on Big Island, this is the one!!!They have live music, the vendors are incredible and so kind; I had so many good interactions. The vendors selling ready to eat food all had so many amazing options. I got an elk breakfast burrito from the Hilo lunch club stand and it was a 13/10. MUST try the chocolate from Kokoleka Puna!!

My favorite farmers market on the island, hands down! Can’t beat the combination of good live music, plenty of shaded spaces to eat, a massive variety of killer food options, and so many wonderful local crafts & goods. The fresh green papaya salad seen in this video is the best I’ve ever had! Crepes, Filipino food, tamales, grilled teriyaki ahi sandwiches, the list of good food options is almost endless. Then there are the local crafts and goods. It is so wonderful to get the chance to support local Hawaiian agriculture, farms, homesteads and family businesses. Local honey, tropical jams, rare fruit trees for planting, tons of fresh produce, kava, handmade hemp clothing, and even a booth entirely devoted to goods made with lavender! Can’t say enough good things about this place. Pro tip- you can go to a stand and get vouchers for your EBT to buy food and goods from lots of vendors, including fruit trees that are several years old and will be producing before too long! Best use of snap benefits I can imagine if you have the space to grow. If you are anywhere in the area on Sundays, do yourself a favor and make a stop here!

Lots of awesome vendors, not all take card so make sure to bring cash or check out the Food Cash near the entrance. The fruit is fresh and tasty, especially the mango vendor near the back with this massive sign with all the mango varieties. Lots of parking, $2 per vehicle entry fee. There’s areas to sit and eat which are shaded but they’re on the opposite side of the food markers which is strategic to get people to buy more but also pesky if you’re walking with lots of food.

The visitor center itself doesn’t have much just restrooms, a small selection of merchandise, and a very brief explanation of the area. We mainly went to see the sunset, and I recommend walking up the mountain in front of the visitor center for the best view. Just be prepared it’s windy and gets cold, so bring a jacket. We stayed after to see the stars, but you’ll need to wait around 45 minutes to an hour after sunset for it to get dark enough. There’s no designated stargazing area, so most people gather in the parking lot or nearby. The only downside is the car lights going on and off, which makes it a bit hard to fully enjoy the stars but they are absolutely beautiful!

We visited just before sunset and walked up to the viewpoint near the Visitor Center with our 4 year old. It took around 20 minutes at a steady pace and the track was manageable, even with a young child, though we took our time. Reaching the top was absolutely worth it. The views stretched right across the island, with the colours of the sunset spilling over the clouds and the mountain ranges. It felt peaceful, almost otherworldly, and gave us one of the most beautiful moments of our trip. As the evening set in we joined the free stargazing session. The night sky here is unlike anywhere else, the stars are so clear and bright you feel immersed in them. It was stunning to see constellations and planets with the naked eye and with the telescopes provided. Our child loved it too, which made it even more special as a family experience. The Visitor Center itself is welcoming with friendly staff, restrooms, a small shop and cultural displays that explain the significance of Mauna Kea. The team there gave us good advice on acclimatising to the altitude and on driving conditions. If you have the right vehicle you can continue on to the summit, but even if you stay at the Visitor Center the beauty, the views and the night sky make it an unforgettable stop that we highly recommend.

We stopped at the Visitor Center on our way to the summit for the recommended 30 min altitude acclimation. We used the restroom and refilled our water bottles. On our way out of the Visitor Center to go up to the summit to watch the sunset, the Rangers gave us a safety briefing. Everything went well. It was early August, and the summit temperature was in the 40s, very cold and windy. It was a beautiful sunset. Definitely worth the trip.

Both times we visited the island we stopped here. It's a beautiful place to watch the sunset above the clouds. After dark an astronomer gives a talk with a laser pointer showing you highlights of the night sky. If you have a vehicle that is 4x4, good health, and extra time; go to the top with the telescopes. If you don't have all of those, this is a great stopping point worth the trip to experience the dark sky and sunset above the clouds. If you're going to be there after sunset, bring warmer clothes. At an elevation of over 4000 feet, it's colder than the rest of Hawaii. If you are going to the top, you'll stop here for at least a half hour to acclimate. There is a gift shop here..

Absolutely breathtaking experience! The Maunakea Visitor Information Station is one of the best spots on the island for stargazing. The skies here are unbelievably clear, and you can see more stars than you ever imagined. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they provide great tips about the mountain and night sky. It’s also a good place to acclimate before heading up to the summit. Highly recommend stopping here if you want to experience the magic of Maunakea and the stars above Hawaiʻi.

There are a lot of information signs to read during the day and a fantastic view of the sky at night. Even if you don't go up to the summit, you can enjoy the Milky Way from here plus more stars than you can imagine. Make sure to bring your credit or debit card because they don't accept cash for souvenirs.

Worth the drive! Breathtaking views! We went for sunset, it was beautiful! Then the night starry sky was a memorable experience. Feels like another universe.