Adventure in Big Island of Hawaii!

Kona (Kailua Bay) Cruise Port

Why Visit?

Welcome to Kona, where the spirit of aloha meets adrenaline-pumping adventures! Embark on a thrilling tour crafted especially for adventure lovers, starting from the vibrant Kailua Bay.

Day 1: Dive into History and Manta Rays

Arrive at Kailua Bay Cruise Port, conveniently situated in the heart of Kona. Begin your adventure with a short walk to the historic Ahu’ena Heiau, a sacred site once used by King Kamehaha the Great. After soaking in some local history, prepare for an unforgettable night dive or snorkel with manta rays. Several local companies offer boat trips from the bay, typically departing before sunset. This unique experience allows you to see these graceful creatures up close as they feed in the illuminated waters.

Day 2: Volcano Adventure and Coffee Quest

Rise early and rent a car for a scenic drive to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, approximately 2 hours from Kona. Trek through surreal landscapes, witness active lava flows, and learn about the island’s geologic forces. On your way back, stop at a coffee farm in the famous Kona Coffee Belt, where you can tour the facilities and sample one of the world’s most coveted brews.

Day 3: Adrenaline on High

For your final day, head inland to zip line through the lush forests of Kohala. Companies like Kohala Zipline offer exhilarating courses that give you a bird’s eye view of waterfalls and gorges. Afterward, cool down with a dip at the nearby Pololu Valley, a stunning black sand beach accessible via a short hike, providing a serene ending to your action-packed visit.

Kona is more than just a scenic stop; it’s an invitation to experience the island’s robust spirit and raw beauty. From night swims with manta rays to traversing ancient volcanic landscapes, Kona promises an adventure that’s as rich in culture as it is in thrills.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Hilo Cruise Port

Why Visit?

Welcome to Hilo, the lush eastern gateway to Hawaii"s Big Island, where cascading waterfalls, dramatic volcanoes, and verdant rainforests beckon adventurers. As your cruise ship docks at Hilo Cruise Port, prepare for an exhilarating day exploring this vibrant locale.

Morning: Volcano Exploration

Start your day early by renting a car right at the port or joining a guided tour. Drive 45 minutes to the world-famous Hawai"i Volcanoes National Park ($30 per vehicle entrance fee). This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a rare opportunity to witness active volcanism. Trek along Crater Rim Drive, a journey that showcases the park"s dynamic landscape, including steaming vents and the Kīlauea Iki crater. Keen hikers can tackle the four-mile Kīlauea Iki Trail loop, a moderate hike that descends through a lush rainforest into a solidified lava lake, offering spectacular views and an insight into the geological power of the Earth.

Afternoon: Rainbow Falls

Return to Hilo and grab a quick lunch at the Hilo Farmers Market, where you can enjoy local specialties like poke or taro burgers. Post-lunch, drive 10 minutes to the enchanting Rainbow Falls. This iconic waterfall is known for the rainbows that magically appear in the mist of its 80-foot drop, especially when visited in the morning. The surrounding park provides excellent photo opportunities and a chance to relax amid native Hawaiian flora.

Evening: Stargazing at Mauna Kea

Cap off your adventure with a drive to the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station, about 1.5 hours from Hilo. Sitting at 9,200 feet, it offers free nightly stargazing sessions. The clear skies and high elevation make it one of the best places in the world to observe the stars. Note: Ensure to pack warm clothing as temperatures can drop significantly.

This whirlwind day in Hilo offers a blend of awe-inspiring nature and exhilarating exploration, sure to thrill any adventure lover.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Rainbow Falls

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilarating adventure to Rainbow Falls, one of Hawaii"s most captivating natural wonders, located in Hilo on the Big Island. Renowned for its 80-foot cascade and a stunning rainbow that graces its mist on sunny mornings, this gem provides a picturesque escape for thrill-seekers and nature lovers.

Day 1: Arrival in Hilo

Fly into Hilo International Airport and settle into your chosen accommodation. Gear up for a day of exploration and get a good night"s rest.

Day 2: Adventure at Rainbow Falls

Start early to catch the rainbow phenomenon that appears in the morning light. Rainbow Falls, known locally as Waianuenue, flows over a natural lava cave, the mythological home to Hina, an ancient Hawaiian goddess. Parking is ample and free, and after a short walk from the lot, you"re greeted by the thunderous sounds of falling water.

For the adventurous, take the path leading to the top of the falls. Here, you’re met with fewer crowds and a serene pool that feeds the mighty falls below—an ideal spot for contemplation amidst nature’s soundtrack.

Next, hike the surrounding trails that snake through the lush, tropical forest. The paths are well-marked and suitable for most skill levels, offering enchanting views of smaller cascades and the expansive rainforest. Keep your camera ready for snapshots of exotic flora and possibly a glimpse of the shy, wild Hawaiian hawk.

Day 3: Explore More

Consider a guided tour that includes kayaking on the Wailuku River to see the falls from a unique vantage point. Alternatively, venture to nearby Pe’epe’e Falls and Boiling Pots, where water tumbles into bubbling, cauldron-like pools, a testament to the volcanic activity that shaped this landscape.

Departure

After a thrilling exploration, pack your bags enriched with the sights, sounds, and spirits of Rainbow Falls, carrying memories of one of Hawaii’s natural treasures.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Kailua Pier

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilarating adventure at Kailua Pier, the gateway to the emerald waters and vibrant marine life of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. This famed pier is not just a picturesque departure point; it"s an adventure hub for those eager to explore the Pacific"s hidden wonders.

Start Your Day: Morning Snorkel and Dolphin Watching

Begin your adventure early in the morning to beat the crowds and to catch sight of the playful dolphins. Rent snorkeling gear from one of the local shops situated near the pier. Dive into the crystal-clear waters directly off the pier, or book a guided snorkel tour that will take you a little further out where the coral reefs teem with life. Keep an eyes peeled for the vibrant fish, sea turtles, and occasionally, manta rays.

Midday: Historical Exploration and Lunch

Post snorkeling, dry off and stroll through the nearby Hulihe"e Palace, once a vacation home for Hawaiian royalty. Learn about the island"s rich history and culture. For lunch, walk over to one of the food stalls near the pier for some fresh poke or loco moco, a local favorite.

Afternoon Adventure: Parasailing

In the afternoon, amp up the thrill with a parasailing experience. Book your slot with one of the vendors at the pier. Soar up to 1200 feet above the water and get a bird’s eye view of the Kona coast. The panoramic views of the Big Island are truly unforgettable.

Sunset at Kaila Pier

Conclude your adventure by watching a spectacular sunset right from Kailua Pier. The sky"s transformation into hues of pink, orange, and purple provides a perfect backdrop to reflect on your day’s adventures.

Getting There

Kailua Pier is centrally located in Kailua-Kona and is easily accessible by car or public transit from major points on the island. Public parking is available, but it"s wise to arrive early to secure a spot.

Interesting Fact

Kailua Pier also serves as the official starting and finishing point of the renowned Ironman World Championship every October, drawing athletes and spectators from around the world.

This itinerary offers a perfect blend of underwater exploration, cultural insight, and high-flying adventure, all centered around the bustling yet beautiful Kailua Pier.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Coconut Island (Mokuola)

Why Visit?

Adventure Awaits at Coconut Island (Mokuola), Hawaii

Embark on a thrilling day at Coconut Island, a hidden gem located in Hilo Bay, Hawaii. Known for its rich history and cultural significance, this small island promises a unique adventure accessible via a short and picturesque causeway from Liliuokalani Gardens in Hilo.

Morning: Kayak to Coconut Island

Start your day early by renting a kayak from one of the local shops along Banyan Drive. Paddle across the calm waters of Hilo Bay, enjoying the sunrise and the gentle ocean breeze. The short trip offers stunning views of Mauna Kea and the lush coastlines of Hilo.

Mid-Morning: Explore Historical Sites

Once on the island, take a leisurely walk to explore its historical significance. Mokuola, meaning "island of life," was once a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiians. Learn about its role in local folklore and how it served as a sanctuary where lawbreakers could be absolved of their sins.

Lunch: Picnic with a View

Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic under the swaying coconut palms. The island offers picnic tables and expansive green spaces perfect for relaxing and taking in the serene views of the surrounding ocean and Hilo’s coastline.

Afternoon: Snorkeling and Cliff Jumping

After lunch, gear up for some snorkeling around the island, known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. For the more daring, the island’s small cliff on the eastern side offers a thrilling spot for cliff jumping, a favorite activity for both locals and visitors.

Late Afternoon: Return and Reflect

As the day winds down, kayak back to Hilo, filled with unforgettable memories of adventure and natural beauty. Enjoy the changing colors of the sky as the sun sets, a perfect end to your adventurous day at Coconut Island.

Whether it"s through historical exploration, water sports, or simply enjoying nature, Coconut Island offers an exhilarating adventure for all.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.