Big Island ATV Tour

Imagine cruising scenic trails on a personal ATV, surrounded by lush tropical crops and open fields with views that showcase the island’s natural beauty. That’s exactly what you get with the Big Island ATV Tour near Volcano National Park. For just $120 per person, this 2-hour guided experience combines fun, education, and a taste of local culture.

What makes this tour special? First, you’ll ride your own ATV, which is accessible to all levels—no previous experience needed. Second, you’ll get to pick seasonal fruit, meet friendly farm animals, and learn about sustainable farming practices straight from the locals. It’s a hands-on way to connect with Hawaii’s agricultural roots, all just minutes from one of the Big Island’s most iconic natural sites.

One thing to keep in mind is that the access road to the farm is a bumpy gravel route, part of the charm and history (dating back to the 1800s). While it’s safe and traveled regularly, travelers with back problems or those seeking a high-adrenaline ride might find this a bit relaxed. This experience suits families, first-time riders, or anyone curious to see a more authentic, farm-based side of Hawaii.

Key Points

• Accessible for all: No prior ATV experience required, beginners welcome.
• Cultural insight: Learn about Hawaiian crops, farming, and sustainability directly from local guides.
• Hands-on activities: Fruit picking and animal encounters add a personal touch.
• Scenic routes: Ride through lush fields, tropical plants, and gentle hills with beautiful island views.
• Flexible scheduling: Tours available in the morning and afternoon, rain or shine.
• Small groups: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Big Island ATV Tour in Detail

The Location and Setting

The tour takes place just outside Hilo, on a real Hawaiian farm close to Volcano National Park. This isn’t a generic ride through a theme park or a commercial trail; it’s a working farm where locals grow coffee, taro, guava, and other tropical crops. The farm’s unique location offers beautiful vistas of Hawaii’s lush landscape, and the experience feels rooted in the island’s agricultural traditions.

Meeting Your Guides and Getting Started

Your adventure begins at the Ohana Ranch, where you’ll check in, meet your guide, and receive a safety briefing. Guides like Kanoe and others are praised for their knowledge and friendliness—they take the time to explain the local farming practices and ensure everyone feels comfortable. You’ll be fitted with a helmet, and the guide will go over basic ATV operation, making sure even beginners feel confident.

The ATV Ride: Scenic Trails and Open Fields

Once geared up, you’ll hop onto your own ATV—easy to operate and suitable for all ages 12 and up. The guided ride takes you through scenic trails on the farm, passing open fields and tropical plants. The trails are described as beginner-friendly—wide, gentle, and with plenty of space—perfect for those new to riding.

Traveling at a relaxed pace, you’ll enjoy the beautiful landscape and perhaps spot native plants or learn about local crops. Several reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides make the ride engaging and educational, providing context about Hawaiian farming and sustainable practices. One reviewer mentioned, “Kanoe was an amazing instructor, thorough and caring,” which speaks to the quality of guidance offered.

More Great Tours Nearby

Fruit Picking: A Tasty Intermission

Midway through, your guide will stop at a fruit-bearing tree where you can pick seasonal fruit like guava or other tropical offerings. Tasting fresh fruit right from the tree adds a delicious local flavor and a memorable touch to the adventure. It’s a simple activity but one that offers instant gratification—and photos of you holding ripe fruit in a Hawaiian farm setting.

Encounters with Farm Animals

The tour then makes a stop to meet friendly farm animals—goats, sheep, chickens, and Hawaiian cattle. These encounters are often a highlight, especially for kids or animal lovers. The guides are praised for their warmth and knowledge, sharing stories about the animals and their role in Hawaiian farm life.

Learning about Hawaiian Culture and Sustainability

Throughout the ride, your guide will share insights into local culture, explaining the significance of crops like taro and coffee, and discussing sustainable farming methods. Several reviewers appreciate how this tour is not just about riding but about learning and experiencing the island’s farming traditions firsthand.

The Gravel Road Experience

The journey to the farm involves traversing a bumpy gravel road—part of the original sugar cane road built in the 1800s. While some travelers might find the ride a bit rough or slow (rarely exceeding 3 miles per hour, as one review notes), it adds a touch of authenticity and history. The road is safe, but drive cautiously—recommended maximum speed is 5 MPH, and spinning tires should be avoided.

Overall Experience and Atmosphere

Guests frequently mention the relaxed pace, friendly guides, and the authenticity of the farm environment. The overall tone is informative and fun, making it suitable for families, first-time riders, or anyone wanting a taste of Hawaii’s agricultural life. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

Analyzing the Value: Is It Worth It?

At $120 per person for two hours of guided ATV riding, this tour offers good value for the experience you get. The price includes your own ATV, a helmet, and an engaging guide, with reviews confirming the quality of instruction and local expertise. You’re not just riding; you’re learning about Hawaiian farming, participating in fruit picking, and meeting animals—adding depth to the adventure.

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views they encounter, which elevate what might otherwise be a simple ATV ride. The fact that the tour runs rain or shine adds flexibility, although rain might make the gravel roads muddier and the experience more rustic—something to consider if you prefer dry conditions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is particularly well-suited for families or beginners eager to explore Hawaii beyond the beaches. If you enjoy hands-on activities, like fruit picking or animal encounters, you’ll love this tour. It’s also ideal for those interested in local culture and sustainable farming—the guides do a good job explaining these aspects.

However, if you’re craving a high-adrenaline ride or have back issues, this might feel a bit tame or uncomfortable. The bumpy gravel access road could be a concern for some. Still, for most, it offers a relaxed, educational, and scenic experience that’s worth the price.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth Your Time?

This Big Island ATV Tour provides a wonderful blend of adventure, education, and authenticity. It’s a chance to see Hawaii’s countryside from a fun, accessible perspective, with guides who genuinely share their knowledge and love for the land. The fruit picking, animal encounters, and scenic trails make it more than just an ATV ride—they turn it into a mini culture.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity that offers value for money and a genuine glimpse into Hawaiian farm life, this tour hits the mark. The experience is laid-back but meaningful, and the stories from the guides add warmth and insight you won’t find in typical tourist spots.

For travelers eager to combine nature, culture, and a bit of adventure, the Big Island ATV Tour offers a memorable way to connect with the island’s roots while having fun behind the wheel.

FAQ

Is previous ATV experience necessary?
No, no experience is required. Guides provide thorough instructions, making it suitable for beginners.

What is included in the tour price?
Your own ATV, a helmet, and a local guide are included in the $120 fee.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about 2 hours, including check-in, riding, and stops.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 3 and up can join, but those aged 3-11 must ride with an adult driver.

What about the road to the farm?
The route includes a bumpy gravel road—safe and traveled frequently but requires slow driving and caution.

What should I bring?
While water is not included, it’s advisable to bring some with you, especially if it’s a hot day or rain is expected.

This tour offers a genuine slice of Hawaiian farm life, wrapped in a fun, family-friendly package. Whether you’re a curious traveler, a family with kids, or someone looking to try something different, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Big Island itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: