The Island of Hawaii offers more than just breathtaking landscapes and active volcanoes; it’s a fantastic place to enjoy memorable lunch experiences that combine local flavors with unique adventures. Whether you prefer relaxing on a boat, exploring the island’s diverse terrain, or hiking up a volcano, there’s a culinary outing that suits your style. We especially like the Big Island: Kona Half-Day Boat Tour with Snorkeling & Lunch for its perfect blend of easygoing ocean views, marine life encounters, and a tasty deli-style meal. It’s a great way to enjoy the coast without feeling rushed.
For travelers who want a more comprehensive exploration of the Big Island, the From Waikoloa: Big Island Tour with Lunch offers a full-day journey covering coffee farms, black sand beaches, and Volcanoes National Park. If you’re interested in seeing active lava flows and hiking across volcanic landscapes, the From Hilo: Kilauea Lava Flow Tour with Lunch and Dinner provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each tour to help you choose the best lunch adventure for your trip.
1. Big Island: Kona Half-Day Boat Tour with Snorkeling & Lunch
On this half-day boat tour, you cruise along the spectacular Kona Coast—an area renowned for its clear waters and abundant marine life. The tour includes snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay and Honaunau Bay, where you can expect to see vibrant coral reefs and Hawaiian sea turtles. The boat is a rigid inflatable, making for a smooth ride, and your captain shares fascinating facts about the sea caves and lava tubes along the way.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of adventure and relaxation—you can explore underwater worlds, then sit back and enjoy a deli-style lunch with tropical snacks and beverages. The reviews rave about the calm waters and the chance to spot marine creatures, with a 5/5 rating based on 30 reviews. It’s ideal for travelers who want a short, engaging excursion that offers both snorkeling and good food without taking up your whole day.
Bottom Line: If you’re after an easy, fun, and scenic outing that includes lunch and snorkeling, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those short on time but wanting a taste of adventure.
2. From Waikoloa: Big Island Tour with Lunch
This full-day tour is designed for those eager to see the best of the Big Island in a single trip. Starting from Waikoloa, it takes you to a Kona coffee farm, where you learn how coffee is grown and processed—tasting included. Next, you’ll visit a black sand beach to watch for sea turtles, a must-see for any nature lover. The day concludes at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can marvel at the active Kilauea volcano and its lava flows.
The tour’s highlights include learning about local history, culture, and cuisine as you go. The lunch is included and is thoughtfully prepared to keep you energized through your busy day of sightseeing. With a 4.8/5 rating from 13 reviews, it’s praised for its comprehensive itinerary and knowledgeable guides. It’s perfect for travelers who want an immersive day tour that balances scenic beauty, cultural insights, and good food.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a deep dive into the island’s diversity and is suited for travelers with a full day to explore and a curiosity for Hawaiian culture and natural wonders.
3. From Hilo: Kilauea Lava Flow Tour with Lunch and Dinner
For those interested in Hawaiian volcanic activity, this 9-hour tour is the ticket. It begins with a hike to recent lava flows from 2018, giving you a chance to see the raw power of Kilauea. During the day, you’ll visit the Painted Church in Kalapana and explore the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll witness active eruptions and volcanic landscapes.
A highlight of this tour is the inclusion of a picnic lunch, followed by a dinner—a real treat after a day on your feet. The tour has a 3.5/5 rating from 8 reviews, with some guests loving the experience’s authenticity and others citing the longer duration and physical activity involved. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable hiking and want an immersive look at Hawaii’s fiery side.
Bottom Line: If you’re curious about volcanoes and don’t mind a physically active day, this is an unforgettable way to see Hawaiian lava flows and enjoy included meals along the way.
$275 per person
How to Choose Your Lunch Experience
When deciding between these tours, consider your time availability, fitness level, and interests. For a quick taste of snorkeling and sea life, the Kona boat tour is perfect. If you want a full-day adventure that covers multiple sights and local culture, the Waikoloa tour offers excellent value. For those fascinated by volcanoes and active lava flows, the Hilo lava tour combines hiking and spectacular scenery with meals.
Think about whether you prefer relaxing on the water, exploring on land, or hiking actively. Also, check the reviews and included amenities—some tours offer more cultural insights, others focus on natural wonders. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the boat trip, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
The Island of Hawaii provides a diverse range of lunch experiences that showcase its natural beauty and authentic flavors. Whether you choose a snorkel cruise, a full island tour, or a volcano hike, each offers a memorable way to enjoy local cuisine. For travelers short on time, the Kona boat tour offers a compact but immersive experience. Budget-conscious visitors may prefer the half-day outing, while those with a whole day to spare will love the comprehensive Waikoloa tour.
If you’re a foodie, an adventurer, or a culture seeker, these tours will enrich your Hawaiian vacation. Be sure to book early, plan according to your interests, and get ready to enjoy some of the best lunch experiences the island has to offer.