Waikoloa Village offers a fantastic mix of outdoor adventures and unique experiences that highlight the natural beauty and quirky charm of Hawaii’s Big Island. Its central location makes it a perfect starting point for exploring volcanic landscapes, lush coastlines, and even the night sky. Among the many tours available, some stand out for their memorable scenery and insider access. For example, the Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Star Tour with Photo takes you to the highest peak in Hawaii for a sunset and stellar show, making it a favorite for those wanting a true bucket-list experience. Meanwhile, the Kohala Coast Helicopter Adventure offers breathtaking views of waterfalls and sea cliffs that are hard to match from the ground. For those who prefer a more personal thrill, renting a Polaris Slingshot is a fantastic way to explore the island at your own pace, feeling the wind in your hair and the Hawaiian sun on your face.
If marine life or night skies are more your style, Waikoloa has options for you, too. Whale watching tours are perfect from January through April, and the Big Island UFO Tours Night Sky Watch combines astronomy with a bit of the mysterious for those curious about extra-terrestrial visitors.
1. MaunaKea Summit SUNSET and Star Tour with Photo
This tour is a standout for travelers seeking a mountain adventure combined with stellar views. The 8-hour experience takes you on a 4×4 journey to the summit of Mauna Kea—the highest point in Hawaii. You’ll witness a spectacular sunset from this lofty vantage point, which offers some of the most dramatic scenery on the island. What truly sets this tour apart is the inclusion of a free professional photo of you with the sunset and stars using a DSLR camera, giving you a memorable keepsake. After sunset, the tour continues into the night for a star-gazing session with a refractor telescope and laser pointer, revealing planets, stars, and constellations.
The tour is rated 4.8/5 from 155 reviews, with many travelers praising the expert guides and the breathtaking views. The altitude and weather can be challenging, so moderate fitness and warm clothing are recommended. It’s ideal for those wanting a full immersive experience in Hawaii’s volcanic landscape combined with astronomy. The only downside? The price ($280 per person) reflects the logistics and equipment involved.
Bottom Line: A fantastic, once-in-a-lifetime experience for adventure seekers and stargazing enthusiasts willing to venture high into the clouds.
2. From Waikoloa: Kohala Coast Helicopter Adventure
If you want unmatched aerial views of the Big Island, this helicopter tour is the way to go. The Kohala Coast Helicopter Adventure offers a 50-70 minute narrated flight over dramatic sea cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ancient Hawaiian settlements, giving you a bird’s-eye perspective that ground tours simply can’t match. The helicopter, an Eco-Star model, is praised for its comfort and wide viewing windows—perfect for photography.
This tour is rated a perfect 5/5 by four reviewers, who highlight the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. What’s special here is the ability to see the coast from above, catching sights like the famous sea cliffs and lush valleys in one smooth flight, with plenty of time for photos. It’s suited for those with a moderate budget willing to spend $419 per person for an hour of awe-inspiring views. The only caveat is that this experience is relatively short, so it’s best for those who want a quick but impactful scenic flight.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers craving spectacular aerial photos and a rundown of the Kohala coast’s geology and lush landscapes.
3. Big Island, Hawaii: Polaris Slingshot Rental
For travelers wanting flexibility and fun, renting a Polaris Slingshot is a top pick. For $283 per group (up to two people), you get a 4-hour to full-day adventure exploring the Big Island at your own pace. The open-top vehicle gives you unobstructed views of Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and tropical plants, all while enjoying the warm Hawaiian sun and ocean breezes.
This rental is rated 5/5 by two reviewers who love the freedom to explore without a set itinerary. It’s perfect for those who enjoy self-driving tours or want to visit spots like Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the coast, or local towns with ease. The highlight is the sense of personal adventure—you’re in control of where to go and how long to stay. The main drawback is that it’s only suitable for comfortable drivers and those comfortable with an open vehicle.
Bottom Line: A great choice for independent travelers or couples seeking a DIY adventure with stunning views and the freedom to explore on your own terms.
4. Waikoloa: Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour
This helicopter tour is designed for those who want an immersive aerial experience. Over 105 minutes, you’ll fly over Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, and waterfalls, with a rare landing at the secluded Laupahoehoe Nui for a photo opportunity. The helicopter’s wide viewing windows ensure you don’t miss a detail of Hawaii’s dramatic terrain.
Rated 4.4/5 from five reviews, this tour emphasizes the visual spectacle of flying over active volcanoes and the Hamakua Coast’s lush forests. The highlight is landing at an off-the-beaten-path location, which offers a rare perspective of Hawaii’s interior. It’s suited for those with a moderate to high budget ($719 per person) seeking a comprehensive scenic experience. The tour’s longer duration and exclusive landing make it more expensive but also more luxurious.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a full, panoramic view of Hawaii’s volcanoes, forests, and waterfalls with a touch of exclusivity.
5. Hawaii: Waikoloa Whale Watch
If you visit during whale season (January-April), this whale watching tour offers a straightforward yet memorable experience. For $119 per person, you’ll spend 1.5 hours on a boat close to the water, with a “whales guaranteed” policy—meaning you’ll see these magnificent creatures or get your next trip free. The tour is designed for relaxation and close-up views of humpback whales breaching and spouting.
Rated with no reviews yet, the tour’s main draw is its focus on marine life, with ample time on the spacious deck to soak up the sun and listen to the ocean sounds. It’s an excellent choice for families, first-time whale watchers, or anyone wanting a short, easy outing. The value is considered good given the close encounters and the guarantee, which offers peace of mind.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and those looking for a relaxing ocean experience with the chance to see whales in their natural habitat.
$119 per person
6. Waikoloa Village: Big Island UFO Tours Night Sky Watch
For something truly different, this night sky tour combines astronomy with a taste of the mysterious. Led by Galactic Ambassador Dr. Lisa Thompson, you’ll view the sky using advanced Gen 3 military night vision goggles, revealing the unseen universe. The tour lasts between 1.5 and 3 hours, with a focus on UFO phenomena and the history of Earth’s galactic visitors.
Rated without reviews, this tour appeals to curious travelers, science buffs, or those interested in UFO lore. The highlight is the night vision goggles, which make the stars and potential UFOs appear in a way that’s impossible with the naked eye. The experience is highly educational and invites you to expand your understanding of the universe.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for those intrigued by the mysteries of the night sky and eager to learn about UFO phenomena from a scientific perspective.
$131 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour in Waikoloa Village
When selecting your tour, consider your interests and time available. If you’re eager to stand on a volcanic summit and gaze at the stars, the Mauna Kea Sunset and Star Tour offers a rare, awe-inspiring experience. For breathtaking aerial views, the helicopter adventures (Kohala Coast or Big Island Spectacular) are unbeatable.
If you prefer more control and freedom, renting a Polaris Slingshot allows you to explore at your own pace, perfect for those who love driving and discovering hidden spots. Marine lovers should opt for a whale-watching tour during peak season, enjoying a relaxing day at sea with guaranteed sightings.
For curious minds and night owls, the UFO Night Sky Watch offers a unique look at the universe beyond what the naked eye can see, blending science and mystery.
Booking early is recommended for popular tours like Mauna Kea and helicopter adventures, especially during peak seasons or holidays. Think about your budget, fitness level, and interests to pick the best fit—Waikoloa really does have something for all.
In summary, whether you want to conquer a volcano, soar above coastlines, encounter whales, or peek into the cosmos, Waikoloa Village offers a diverse lineup of tours. For a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and education, the Mauna Kea Summit and Kohala Coast Helicopter tours stand out. But if you’re traveling with family or seeking a laid-back experience, whale watching or renting a Slingshot can make your trip memorable. With options this varied, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on your perfect Hawaiian adventure.