Big Island of Hawaii is a place that impresses with its diversity—volcanoes, rainforests, marine life, and more. It’s a natural playground where a full day can be filled with adventure, relaxation, or discovery. Whether you’re into fishing, birdwatching, exploring volcanic landscapes, or trying something more daring like waterfall rappelling, the island offers options that turn a day into a memorable experience. Our favorites include the Full Day Sportsman/Enthusiast Charter for anglers, and the Volcanoes Hawaii Wonders National Park tour for those eager to walk through volcanic history. We especially appreciate tours that combine expert guides with personalized experiences, making each trip not just a sightseeing stop but a story you’ll remember.
The Big Island’s vast terrain and rich ecosystems mean that the best tours are often tailored for specific interests. For example, if you’re a bird lover, the Hakalau Forest Reserve Bird Watching Adventure gives you the chance to see rare native birds in a private forest. Looking for action? The Full Day Private Waterfall Rappelling Adventure offers a hands-on chance to get wet and climb. For those seeking a thrill and a challenge, the Private Full Day of GT Fishing targets giant trevally—an excellent choice for seasoned anglers. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of these top tours to help you pick the right adventure.
1. Full Day Sportsman/Enthusiast Charter
At number 1, the Full Day Sportsman/Enthusiast Charter is perfect for anglers of all skill levels who want a private, personalized fishing experience. This tour takes you aboard the Kona Cowboy, which can hold up to four anglers, making it ideal for families or small groups. The tour lasts around 8 hours, giving plenty of time to chase big-game fish like Blue Marlin, Mahi Mahi, Yellowfin Tuna, and more. The guide—Captain Gaige—brings 25 years of experience and shares his expertise to help you learn new angling skills or simply enjoy the thrill of the catch.
What makes this tour stand out is its private nature, meaning you’re not sharing the boat with strangers. The reviews highlight how friendly and knowledgeable the captain is, with one reviewer calling it an “awesome experience” and recommending Captain Gaige for his fishing expertise. The price of $1,575 per group (up to 6) offers good value for a full day of fishing with all equipment provided. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a flexible, hands-on adventure with a focus on big-game fishing.
Bottom line: If you love fishing or want to try your hand at catching a marlin, this private charter offers expert guidance and a memorable day on the water.
2. Full-Day Hakalau Forest Reserve Bird Watching Adventure
Number 2 on our list is the Full-Day Hakalau Forest Reserve Bird Watching Adventure, a true nature lover’s dream. This 12-hour tour takes you into a private Hawaiian rainforest where endemic bird species like Akepa, Apapane, Omao, and rare spiders and caterpillars await. The tour is led by a naturalist guide who will take you to several carefully chosen locations within the reserve, including the Pua Akala tract, where spotting rare birds is almost guaranteed.
This tour stands out for its focus on native flora and fauna, with reviews praising the guide’s deep knowledge—one mentions how their guide, Garry Dean, helped spot three of Hawaii’s four rarest birds in a single day. Binoculars, lunch, snacks, and drinks are included, making the experience comfortable and hassle-free. The price is $287.96 per person, which is a fair investment for such an in-depth encounter with Hawaii’s unique ecosystem.
Bottom line: Perfect for birders or anyone interested in Hawaii’s native plants and animals, this tour offers a rare chance to see the island’s wild side up close.
3. Volcanoes Hawaii Wonders National Park – Full Day
Number 3 features the Volcanoes Hawaii Wonders National Park tour. This 10-hour journey explores Hawaii’s volcanic heart, including stops at the Kilauea Visitor Center, Steam Vents, Kilauea Crater, Thurston Lava Tube, and a challenging hike along the Kilauea Iki Trail. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who share insights into the active volcanoes, lava formations, and Hawaiian legends tied to the landscape.
The tour’s highlight is walking through the lava tubes and steaming craters, bringing you face-to-face with the raw power of volcanic activity. You’ll learn about the geological processes shaping the island and get a sense of Hawaii’s fiery origin story. The $1,400 price is reasonable for a full-day guided experience with all admission fees included and a chance to walk across the glowing landscape of an active volcano.
Many reviews mention how the tour’s narrative enhances the experience, making it more than just sightseeing. It’s perfect for travelers curious about geology and natural forces but also wanting a comfortable, guide-led exploration.
Bottom line: For those fascinated by volcanoes or looking for a comprehensive, educational trip, this tour offers a deep dive into Hawaii’s volcanic past and present.
4. Private Full Day of GT Fishing
Number 4 is the Private Full Day of GT Fishing, a specialized trip targeting Giant Trevally (GT)—a species known for its size and fighting spirit. This is a one-of-a-kind adventure, combining big game fishing with the thrill of a lifetime. The tour is private, with pricing at $1,800 per person, emphasizing exclusivity and personalized attention.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on GT fishing, which is rare in Hawaii’s waters and highly prized by anglers. The guide is experienced in targeting this species, and the tour promises a full day of action—perfect for serious fishermen or those wanting to challenge themselves. Since there are no reviews available, the value lies in the uniqueness of this experience and the promise of a once-in-a-lifetime catch.
Suitable for seasoned anglers, this trip demands some level of fitness and fishing experience. It’s less about sightseeing and more about intense fishing action, ideal for those who want to push their limits and come home with bragging rights.
Bottom line: If your priority is big-game fishing, especially for GT, this private charter gives you an unmatched chance to land a trophy fish.
$1,800.00 per person
5. Full Day Private Waterfall Rappelling Adventure
Number 5 is the Full Day Private Waterfall Rappelling Adventure, offering an adrenaline-filled day of climbing, jumping, and exploring. This tour is tailored to your group’s interests and ability levels, with a price of $649 per person. It’s suitable for all ages and experience levels—meaning it’s accessible whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned canyoneer.
The tour involves private access to waterfalls, where you’ll rappel down cascading drops and explore hidden pools. The guide contacts you afterward to customize the experience, ensuring it aligns with your comfort and skill levels. It’s a fantastic choice for families, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting to combine outdoor fun with a bit of a challenge.
While reviews are not available, the personalized approach and flexibility make this a compelling option. The tour’s main appeal is the exclusive access and tailored experience, making it perfect for those who want something truly unique.
Bottom line: For an adventure that combines nature and adrenaline, this waterfall rappelling tour is hard to beat, especially if you want a private experience.
$649.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing among these fantastic options depends on your interests, budget, and physical readiness. For those who want to fish for big game, the private Full Day Sportsman/Enthusiast Charter or the Private Full Day of GT Fishing are excellent. If you prefer connecting with nature through birdwatching and native flora, the Hakalau Forest Reserve tour offers a rare look at Hawaii’s endemic species.
Explorers of volcanic landscapes should consider the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tour for its guided hikes and geological insights. Adventure lovers seeking a physical challenge might opt for the Waterfall Rappelling to combine outdoor fun with a sense of achievement.
Booking early is advisable, especially for tours with limited availability or high demand, like the private fishing charters. Consider your fitness level, whether you’re traveling with children, and your specific interests when making your choice.
Final Thoughts
Big Island offers a wide range of full-day adventures that suit different tastes and energy levels. For a relaxed but unforgettable experience, the bird watching tour or the volcano park trip are top picks. For a high-energy day, the waterfall rappelling or big-game fishing options deliver excitement and challenge.
If you’re planning your trip, we recommend booking early—these tours fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. Whether you’re a fisher, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, Hawaii’s Big Island has something special waiting for you. Take the time to choose what excites you most and enjoy a day that truly captures the spirit of the island.