Big Island: Private Island Circle Tour with Lunch and Dinner

Imagine a day when you can relax and enjoy the sights of one of the most visually stunning islands in the world, all without the hassle of planning. That’s exactly what the Big Island: Private Island Circle Tour offers. For $1,660 per group (up to two people), you get a 12.5-hour journey through some of Hawaii’s most iconic landscapes, guided by a knowledgeable local who shares insights along the way.

From Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to lush waterfalls, black sand beaches, and historic ranchlands, this tour covers a broad sweep of the island’s most captivating sights. What makes this experience particularly appealing is the private setting, allowing a tailored day with your own guide, and the comprehensive meals included—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—so you won’t need to worry about where to eat.

Two aspects stand out: first, the stunning variety of landscapes—you’ll go from volcanic craters to tropical waterfalls in a single day. Second, the attention to detail and comfort, with included snacks, drinks, and gear like binoculars and rain jackets, making the long day more enjoyable.

A possible consideration is the long duration, which can be tiring if you prefer more leisurely-paced trips or have mobility issues. The itinerary involves some walking on uneven terrain and exposure to weather changes, so good shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are a must.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a guided, all-inclusive adventure that hits the highlights of the Big Island without the stress of logistics. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate authentic local experiences, such as tasting Kona coffee or enjoying a traditional Hawaiian dinner.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value: Meals, drinks, entry tickets, and professional photos included.
• Diverse scenery: From volcanoes and waterfalls to black sand beaches and lush valleys.
• Private tour: Personalized attention and flexibility in the experience.
• Comfort and gear: Rain jackets, binoculars, and plenty of water.
• Active, but manageable: Expect walking and some uneven terrain, suitable for most but not all mobility levels.
• Ideal for: Visitors seeking a comprehensive, guided day with authentic Hawaii experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Big Island’s Iconic Sights

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into what makes the Big Island special. The day begins with a Kona coffee farm visit, where your guide (likely someone named “Michael” or similar, based on reviews) will take you through the process of coffee growing and roasting. You’ll get to sample freshly brewed coffee—probably the best way to start a day of adventure.

Next, you’ll head south along the Kona coast, with breathtaking views of coastal cliffs and lush vegetation. The commentary here is insightful, blending cultural history with natural appreciation, making the scenery even richer. The highlight at this stage is the Punaluu Black Sand Beach, famous not only for its striking dark sands but also for its green and hawksbill sea turtles often sunbathing nearby. We loved the tactile experience of walking barefoot on the warm, coarse sand and listening to the gentle rustle of palms overhead.

A visit to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the centerpiece of the trip. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an active landscape, with the colossal Mauna Loa volcano and the Kilauea crater nearby. The Thurston Lava Tube is a fun stop, letting you walk through cooled lava formations that feel otherworldly. The Chain of Craters Road offers stunning vistas of volcanic craters and lava flows, while a walk along the Halemaumau Crater provides a sense of the island’s constant geological activity.

Lunch is a picnic amid this volcanic scenery, giving you time to soak in the environment. The park’s landscape is so vivid and dynamic that many visitors comment on the surreal feeling of being on a living, breathing planet.

From the park, your journey continues to Hilo, a lush town famous for waterfalls and rainforests. The Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls are perfect photo stops, where mist and rainbows seem to dance in the sunlight. These spots are as picturesque as they sound, with cascading waters set against dense greenery, offering a peaceful contrast to the volcanic landscape.

The Hamakua Coast drive is often praised as one of the most scenic routes in the state. You’ll pass through verdant valleys dotted with waterfalls and tropical foliage—if you love lush landscapes, this part of the trip is a highlight.

By late afternoon, you arrive at Waipio Valley, known for its stunning panoramic views and deep cultural roots. Your guide will fill you in on the history of the area, once home to Hawaiian royalty and now a place of spiritual significance. Seeing the valley’s steep cliffs and green terraces from above is breathtaking, and many travelers find this to be the most memorable part of the day.

As the sun begins to set, you’ll make your way to Waimea, a town with genuine ranching roots. Here, a hearty surf and turf dinner awaits—an authentic Hawaiian meal that’s a fitting end to your adventure. The meal is included in the tour, with non-alcoholic drinks to keep you refreshed.

What You Can Expect from the Experience

The itinerary is packed but thoughtfully organized, allowing you to experience many of the Big Island’s essential sights in one day. The private nature of the tour means your guide can tailor the pace a bit, pausing for additional photos or extra explanations if desired.

Transportation is comfortable, and the small group size ensures personal attention. The inclusion of professional photos—20 to 25 edited images shared via Adobe Cloud—is a nice touch, especially for those who want to remember the trip without the hassle of taking their own pictures all day.

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy local snacks and drinks, including Hawaii’s famous malasadas at Punaluu Bakery, a sweet treat that many reviewers mention as a highlight. The breakfast with Kona coffee sets the tone, giving you energy for the long day ahead.

The tour’s duration—12.5 hours—means a full immersion, but it can be quite demanding if you’re not used to long days on your feet. That said, the pacing is generally manageable, and you’ll appreciate the variety and depth of experiences offered.

The Balance of Value and Experience

At $1,660, this private tour is not cheap, but when you consider the all-inclusive meals, entry tickets, professional photography, and personal guide, it offers good value for travelers wanting a comprehensive day without extra planning. Private tours tend to be more expensive but provide flexibility and the comfort of a personalized experience.

Many travelers appreciate the quality of the guide, who makes the experience engaging and informative. The inclusion of gear like binoculars and rain jackets shows attention to detail, ensuring you’re comfortable regardless of the weather.

Some reviewers mention that this tour is weather dependent, especially when it comes to viewing waterfalls and volcano views. It’s wise to check the forecast and be flexible if conditions are not ideal. Also, the long drive means it’s best suited for those eager to see many sights in one day rather than a leisurely exploration.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits adventurous travelers who want to see the Big Island’s highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions. It’s perfect for couples or friends who appreciate private, guided experiences and don’t mind a full, active day. If you’re interested in authentic Hawaiian culture, spectacular scenery, and geological wonders, this tour delivers.

It’s less ideal for those with mobility issues due to walking on uneven terrain or for cruise ship passengers, as the tour starts early and involves a lot of driving and walking. The long hours could be tiring for some, but many find the depth of experience well worth it.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour can be adapted for all ages, expect to walk 1-2 miles and encounter uneven terrain. It’s best for children who are comfortable with active outings and long days.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sunglasses, hat, camera, sunscreen, a child safety seat if needed, and a reusable water bottle are recommended.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, breakfast with Kona coffee, snacks, lunch, and dinner are included. Non-alcoholic drinks like water, juice, and soda are also provided, but alcohol must be purchased separately.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide may accommodate special interests or requests, but major modifications depend on the day’s schedule and weather.

What about the weather?
This tour is weather dependent, especially for views at the volcano and waterfalls. Dress accordingly—layers and rain jackets are recommended.

How many people are in the group?
It’s a private experience for up to two people, ensuring personalized attention and a flexible pace.

Is wheelchair accessibility available?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but some walking on uneven terrain may be necessary.

The Big Island Private Circle Tour offers a thoughtfully curated day of Hawaii’s most stunning natural sites, complemented by excellent local food and personalized service. It’s a great choice for those who want a hassle-free, immersive experience that covers the island’s highlights in one memorable day.

The combination of spectacular scenery, cultural insights, and good value makes it stand out for travelers seeking an authentic Hawaiian adventure without the stress of logistics. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor wanting a detailed island overview, this tour is likely to leave you with lasting impressions—and plenty of beautiful photos to prove it.