The Big Island of Hawaii stands out as a premier destination for those eager to explore Hawaiian culture, archaeology, and history. Unlike many tourist spots that focus solely on volcanoes or beaches, the island offers a treasure trove of historical sites, sacred landmarks, and intriguing stories. Whether it’s walking through ancient fishponds at Kaloko-Honokohau, paddling past Coconut Island with stories of old, or exploring the legendary Pu’ukohola Heiau, you’ll find plenty to satisfy your curiosity. For example, the Kona Shore Excursion: Sea Turtles, Historic Kona & Coffee is a fantastic mix of wildlife, culture, and coffee making, all packed into a 5-hour adventure.
If you’re after immersive and personalized experiences, several private tours, like the Private Big Island: History & Local Shopping, offer tailored insights with guides who bring a story to every stop. For those with just a few hours, quick cultural visits such as the Cruise Ship Shore Excursion of Historic Kona combine convenience with meaningful sights. Whatever your schedule or interests, the Big Island’s wealth of history is waiting to be uncovered.
1. Kona Shore Excursion: Sea Turtles, Historic Kona & Coffee
At number 1, this 5-hour tour is a balanced mix of wildlife, historic sites, and local flavor. Starting at Kailua Pier, it includes a visit to Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, where you can see both white sand beaches and black lava landscapes. The tour also features a stop at Greenwell Farms to learn about Kona coffee cultivation—an experience that’s especially engaging for coffee lovers. Plus, a visit to St Benedict’s Painted Church offers a charming look at biblical murals painted with house paint, which is as quirky as it sounds.
What makes this tour stand out are the diverse highlights: spotting Hawaiian green sea turtles, sampling world-famous Kona coffee, and exploring ancient fishponds and reconstructed Hawaiian huts. The reviews highlight how friendly and knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, with many praising the opportunity to see sea turtles up close. Priced at $139 per person, it offers excellent value considering the variety of activities, and the flexibility to choose activities based on your interests.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers with limited time who want a well-rounded taste of Kona’s natural and cultural history.
2. Kona Tour: Bee Farm, Kona Coffee, and National Historical Parks
Coming in at number 2, this 7-hour adventure delves deeper into Kona’s agriculture, sacred sites, and local legends. It begins with a visit to the Honokohau Beach where you might see monk seals and turtles in the wild, followed by a tour of a bee farm to taste local honey—something sweet for the senses and the soul. The tour also includes a trip to a coffee plantation, where guides explain Kona coffee’s journey from bean to brew.
The highlight is a picnic overlooking Kealakekua Bay, famous for Captain Cook’s historic landing. The tour’s small-group size (limited to 12 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience. Customers note the educational content and the friendly guides as major pluses, with one reviewer calling the bee stop “fantastic.” The price of $193.75 may seem steep for a full day, but the combination of culture, wildlife, and tastings offers good value.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who want a richer, more detailed exploration of Kona’s agriculture and sacred sites with personalized attention.
3. Historic Hilo Bay & Coconut Island SUP Adventure
At number 3, this 2-hour paddleboard trip is a refreshing way to see Hilo’s natural beauty from the water. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to combine history and scenery with a bit of exercise. Paddle past Coconut Island, known as Moku Ola, once a place of refuge, and enjoy the lush views of Queen Liliuokalani Gardens and Mauna Loa Crater.
What makes this experience unique is the personalized, small-group approach—a maximum of seven people means plenty of attention from guides. Reviewers mention how the knowledgeable guides and flexible timing made it a memorable, relaxed outing. At just $100.80, it offers a fun way to combine history, culture, and active recreation.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a hands-on, scenic experience of Hilo’s history with a dose of adventure.
4. Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History
Ranked #4, this 11-hour tour offers a comprehensive look at the island’s most iconic natural features alongside its history. Starting with a narrated drive from resorts along the Kohala Coast, it hits Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can stand next to steam vents, crater lookouts, and lava flow sites. The visit to Akaka and Rainbow Falls adds to the scenic lineup, while a Kona coffee farm visit gives you a taste of the island’s agricultural pride.
Guests rave about the knowledge of guides like Kona Chris and Henry, who make the long day enjoyable with engaging stories. The inclusion of lunch and small group size enhances the experience’s value. For $253.53, it’s a full-day immersion perfect for travelers eager to see the Big Island’s diverse ecosystems and volcanic landscapes in one go.
Bottom line: Best for those with a full day and a curiosity for the island’s geological and cultural highlights.
5. Historic Hilo Bay and Coconut Island Guided Kayak Adventure
This 2-hour kayaking tour is a quiet, personal way to explore Hilo’s coastline. The highlight is paddling around Coconut Island (Moku Ola), once a Hawaiian sanctuary and place of refuge. The small-group format—limited to eight people—means your guide can share in-depth stories about local legends and the island’s history.
Reviewers emphasize the friendly guides and the opportunity to see sea turtles feeding during the trip. With a cost of $100.80, it’s a reasonably priced way to experience Hilo from a different perspective—especially if you enjoy being on the water.
Bottom line: Suitable for active travelers seeking a personal, educational, and scenic adventure.
6. Historic Hilo Bay Waterfalls by Kayak
Ranked #6, this 2-hour guided kayak trip takes you past quiet coves, waterfalls, and tranquil beaches. It’s perfect for those who want a low-key, nature-focused experience. Paddle past iconic sites like Coconut Island and stop to cool off with a swim.
Reviews are glowing, especially about guides like Victor and Montana, who make the trip engaging and safe. The snacks and water included keep everyone energized, and at $160.10, it’s a good value for the scenery and serenity. It’s ideal for families or water lovers who want a gentle yet immersive experience.
Bottom line: A relaxing, scenic paddle for water enthusiasts and those wanting a break from crowds.
7. Kailua-Kona Haunted History Walking Ghost Tour
Number 7 on the list, this 2-hour ghost tour explores Kona’s spooky stories and legends. Walking through the historic streets, you’ll visit sites like Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark and Hulihe’e Palace, hearing tales of ghosts, miracles, and mysterious happenings.
Reviewers note the lively narration and the fascinating stories, with many saying it’s “very interesting and well-presented”. Priced at $59, it’s an affordable way to enjoy Kona’s supernatural side while learning about Hawaiian legends. It’s best suited for travelers who love stories with a bit of spine-tingling fun.
Bottom line: A fun, engaging evening tour for those interested in local folklore and ghost stories.
8. Cruise Ship Shore Excursion of Historic Kona
This half-day tour offers a convenient way for cruise travelers to get a taste of Kona’s cultural landmarks. It includes visits to Pu’uhonua o Honaunau and St Benedict’s Painted Church, with a focus on Hawaiian history and art. The highlight is the Kona Coffee Center, where you can see how coffee is processed and enjoy a free sample.
Rated at 4.0/5, reviews praise the professional guides and easy logistics. Priced at $79 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to fit cultural highlights into a limited schedule, making it ideal for cruise passengers or short stays.
Bottom line: Perfect for time-strapped travelers wanting a focused, insightful overview of Kona’s history and culture.
9. Historical Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay
Number 9, this 3-hour dinner cruise combines Hawaiian history, scenic views, and dinner entertainment. Cruising along the Kona Coast, you’ll hear stories about ancient kings and Captain Cook as you sail to the famous Kealakekua Bay.
The cruise features live Hawaiian music, a complimentary cocktail, and a dinner menu that varies but always highlights local flavors. With over 1,180 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, it’s clear this experience resonates with travelers. Many appreciate the informative narration and the chance to enjoy Hawaiian legends while relaxing aboard.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a romantic, scenic evening with a touch of storytelling.
$189.19 per person
10. Private Big Island: History & Local Shopping Tour
This 8-hour private tour offers a customized journey into the island’s sacred sites, historic landmarks, and local markets. Your personal guide will share stories at Kaloko-Honokohau and Pu’ukohola Heiau, while you also explore Hāmākua Macadamia Nut Company.
Because it’s tailored to your group, it’s great for families or small groups seeking a flexible, in-depth experience. The price of $1,595 covers up to four people, making it a premium option for those who want a private, immersive day.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting a personalized, comprehensive cultural experience with the flexibility to customize.
$1,595.00 per group (up to 4)
11. Kona Port: Private History & Farmer’s Market Excursion
Ideal for cruise visitors, this 6-hour private tour combines historic sites with local market shopping. It features stops at Kaloko-Honokohau and Hāmākua Macadamia Nut Company, with an emphasis on Hawaiian traditions and crafts.
This tour offers the advantage of flexible scheduling and private transport, perfect for avoiding crowds and tailoring your experience. The up to 4-person group size ensures a personalized touch. Reviewers mention that the guides make the history accessible and fun.
Bottom line: Great for small groups or couples seeking a private, relaxed cultural and shopping day.
$1,095.00 per group (up to 4)
12. Private Big Island: History & Local Market Tour (Up to 12)
Similar to the previous private tour but accommodating up to 12 people, this 6-hour experience explores sacred sites, petroglyphs, and local markets. It promises a personalized experience with storytelling at key landmarks like Pu’ukohola Heiau and the Waikoloa Petroglyph Preserve.
This tour is perfect for families or groups who want a private yet slightly larger group experience. The focus on cultural sites combined with local shopping appeals to travelers who want a well-rounded day.
Bottom line: Suitable for those wanting a personalized tour with a bit more company.
$1,195.00 per group (up to 4)
13. Private Kona Coffee and National Historic Parks Tour
Number 13, this 4-hour private tour combines a visit to a Kona Coffee farm with stops at Pu’uhonua o Honaunau and St Benedict’s Painted Church. It’s ideal for coffee aficionados and history lovers alike. The tour’s small group of up to two people ensures a highly personalized experience.
Highlights include learning about Kona coffee’s cultivation and exploring Hawaiian temples and refuges. Reviews are yet to be posted, but the focus on intimate, expert-guided exploration makes it attractive for those wanting a quiet, in-depth look.
Bottom line: Best suited for couples or small groups seeking a focused, private cultural and coffee experience.
$860.00 per group (up to 2)
How to Choose Your Perfect Big Island History Tour
When selecting a historical tour in Big Island, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If a short, convenient overview appeals, the Cruise Ship Shore Excursion offers a quick dose of culture, while those wanting an immersive, private experience should consider the Private Big Island: History & Local Shopping. For active travelers, paddleboard or kayak tours like the Coconut Island SUP Adventure and Waterfalls by Kayak combine history with outdoor fun.
Budget-wise, expect to pay from around $59 for a ghost walk to over $1,500 for private tours. Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, and always check if tours include lunch, entry fees, or extras to avoid surprises.
The Big Island offers a rich tapestry of history and culture for every kind of traveler. Whether you prefer a short cultural snapshot, an engaging adventure on the water, or a personalized deep dive, there’s a tour for you. For first-timers, a combination of iconic sites like Pu’uhonua o Honaunau and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will give a well-rounded experience. For those interested in local lore and ghost stories, the Haunted History Walking Tour is a fun pick.
Booking early helps secure your spot, especially for popular options like the Big Island in a Day or the Dinner Cruise. Whatever your interest, exploring Hawaii’s historical heart is a rewarding way to connect with the islands beyond their natural beauty.