Big Island of Hawaii offers more than just stunning volcanic landscapes and lush rainforests — it’s also a place where exploring on foot unlocks rich flavors, stories, and local secrets. Whether you’re a foodie eager to sample Kona’s best bites, a history buff curious about ghost tales, or a farm lover craving fresh tropical fruits, walking tours here are a fantastic way to experience the island intimately. We especially like the Kona Walking Food Tour for its delicious stops and cultural insights, and the Hamakua Coast Farm Tour for its hands-on farm experience and fresh tastings. These tours allow you to immerse yourself at a relaxed pace, making the island’s vibrant culture and natural beauty more personal and memorable.
If you’re debating which tour suits your style, we’ve rounded up the best options below. From lively culinary strolls to spine-tingling ghost stories, there’s something for every type of traveler in this list.
1. Kona Walking Food Tour
At number 1, the Kona Walking Food Tour stands out for its combination of culinary discovery and Hawaiian history. For approximately $155, you get about 2 hours and 45 minutes of small-group exploration through Kona’s top eateries and historic sites. Limited to just 12 people, this tour ensures a personal atmosphere where you can really connect with the guide and fellow food lovers.
The tour covers 7 stops, including iconic spots like Hulihe’e Palace and Mokuaikaua Church, blending local history with tastings of Kona’s best foods. You’ll sample diverse flavors from craft cocktails to seafood, and enjoy stops featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives. The guide shares stories about Kona’s past, adding context to the vibrant food scene. One standout is the brief stops at Kailua Pier and Ahuena Heiau, offering both scenic views and cultural insights. With high ratings and rave reviews praising the knowledgeable guides, this tour delivers a well-rounded introduction to Kona’s culinary scene and history.
Bottom Line: Ideal for foodies who want a small, engaging tour with a mix of history and local eats, this tour is a tasty way to kick off your Kona visit.
2. Hamakua Coast Farm Small-Group Walking and Tasting Tour
At number 2, the Hamakua Coast Farm Small-Group Walking and Tasting Tour offers a completely different experience — a hands-on visit to Nakihalani Farm. For around $33, you get roughly 2 hours exploring the farm’s crops and learning about Hawaiian agriculture. The tour is limited in size, providing an intimate setting to discover the farm’s story of restoration after its plantation days.
Highlights include tastings of fresh Lilikoi (passion fruit), Mamaki Tea, sugar cane juice, and house-made treats. The farm’s owner shares the story of reclaiming this land, which was once a plantation, and now grows a variety of tropical fruits and herbs. Visitors walk through fields of pineapple, citrus, avocados, and even see sheep wandering among the plants. Post-tour, you’re encouraged to explore the farm at your own pace, with opportunities to purchase products like Lilikoi syrup and Mamaki Tea. The reviews emphasize the guide’s warmth and knowledge, making it clear that this is more than just a tasting; it’s a chance to see real Hawaiian farming life.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers and foodies who want an authentic farm experience without breaking the bank. It’s a relaxed, informative glimpse into local agriculture.
3. Kailua-Kona Haunted History Walking Ghost Tour
Number 3 on our list is the Kailua-Kona Haunted History Walking Ghost Tour. For $59, you’ll spend about 2 hours wandering through Kona’s most haunted spots, learning spooky stories and local legends. The tour’s smaller size and focus on ghost tales make it a captivating choice for those interested in the island’s mysterious side.
Starting at Kailua Pier and moving through points like Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark and Hulihe’e Palace, you will hear tales of ghostly encounters, ancient curses, and supernatural happenings. The stories are brought to life by guides who share personal experiences and local lore to add depth. Notable stops include the Kona Inn Shopping Village and Mokuaikaua Church, where legends linger around the old buildings. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides and engaging storytelling, making this an ideal evening activity. It’s a fun, slightly eerie way to uncover Kona’s hidden stories after the sun sets.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those with a taste for the supernatural and local legends, this tour offers a memorable mix of history and ghostly intrigue.
4. Hawaii: 1.5hr Private Walking Tour with the Ghosts of Kailua-Kona
Finally, the Hawaii: 1.5hr Private Walking Tour with the Ghosts of Kailua-Kona provides an exclusive experience for up to 8 people. Costing $590 per group, it’s more of a personalized ghost tour, perfect for those who want a tailored story session. This private tour focuses on Kailua-Kona’s haunted spots, including the Hulihe’e Palace and the Kona Inn Shopping Village, with a local guide sharing tales of supernatural activity.
The tour’s shorter duration makes it an efficient way to hear spooky stories while strolling through Kona’s streets. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a quiet, personalized experience rather than a larger group tour. Since reviews aren’t available yet, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a premium price for a private guide and tailored storytelling.
Bottom Line: This is a good pick for those interested in a private, customizable ghost tour experience, especially if you’re traveling with a small group or family.
$590.00 per group (up to 8)
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour in Big Island of Hawaii
Picking the right walking tour depends on what you want from your visit. Food lovers might prefer the Kona Walking Food Tour for its delicious stops and cultural insights, especially if you want a small-group experience and local restaurant favorites (see more here). If you’re keen on Hawaii’s agricultural side, the Hamakua Coast Farm Tour offers a relaxed, farm-focused outing with tastings of fresh fruits and drinks (more details). For those intrigued by spooky stories and local legends, the Kailua-Kona Haunted History Tour or the private Ghost Tour provide a fun, atmospheric experience (see options here and here).
Consider your budget, health level, and interest in history, food, or ghost stories. Tours like the Kona Food Tour are great for a more immersive cultural experience, while the farm tour suits those seeking a hands-on, relaxing day. Ghost tours are perfect for evening entertainment or if you love storytelling with a spooky twist.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred date. Think about combining a food tour with a ghost walk for a full day of exploring Kona’s flavors and folklore.
Final Thoughts
Big Island walking tours cover a wide range of interests — from tasting Kona’s best bites to uncovering haunted stories. For a well-rounded taste of the island’s culture and flavors, the Kona Walking Food Tour is hard to beat, especially with its small-group intimacy and historic stops. For something more laid-back and farm-focused, the Hamakua Coast Farm Tour offers fresh tastings and a look into Hawaii’s agricultural revival. And for fans of the mysterious, the ghost tours provide a spooky, memorable twist.
Ultimately, your choice depends on what kind of experience you’re after — whether it’s food, history, or spirits. Whichever you pick, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these engaging ways to see Big Island beyond its landscapes.