Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Island

Exploring Hawaii’s Big Island Just Got Easier with a Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii’s Big Island, you’ll want a way to explore its vast, varied landscapes without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. For $19.99, you can download a self-guided audio driving tour that covers everything from volcanoes to waterfalls, with no WiFi needed. It’s designed for groups of up to 8 people and lasts as long as you like—anywhere from a half-day trip to a full day or even multi-day adventure.

What we love about this tour is how it puts control in your hands. You choose when to stop, where to explore further, and how fast or slow to go—think of it as having a knowledgeable guide in your pocket. Plus, since it’s GPS-triggered, you get stories and tips seamlessly as you drive. The best part? It never expires, so you can revisit or extend your exploration whenever you want.

However, a quick consideration is that you’ll need to download the tour ahead of time and have a smartphone with sufficient battery life. Some users have mentioned technical quirks, so a backup plan like a secondary device or a portable charger can be handy. This experience suits travelers who prefer customizing their itinerary, enjoy driving at their own pace, and love authentic, off-the-beaten-path discoveries.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned island explorer, this tour adapts to your interests, making it a perfect fit for those who want a flexible, informative, and fun adventure on Hawaii’s largest island.

Key Points

• Flexible Itinerary: You control when and where to stop, making it easy to tailor the trip to your interests.
• Offline Use: Download once and explore without needing WiFi—ideal for remote areas.
• Comprehensive Coverage: From waterfalls to volcanic craters, it covers major sights with expert commentary.
• Affordable Value: At just $19.99, it offers a full day of personalized exploration for up to 8 people.
• User-Friendly: Easy to download, set up, and use, even if you’re not tech-savvy.
• Authentic Experience: Real stories, tips, and local insights make you feel like you have a personal guide.

A Deep Dive into the Big Island Audio Driving Tour

If you’re like us, the idea of exploring Hawaii’s Big Island with the freedom to set your own pace and route sounds perfect. This self-guided audio tour offers just that, with over 460 points of interest narrated according to your location, thanks to GPS. We found this approach particularly appealing because it combines the flexibility of a road trip with the depth of a guided tour—without the hefty price tag or scheduled timing.

How the Tour Works and Why It’s Special

Once you purchase the tour, you download it through the GuideAlong app, which works offline. This is a big plus on the Big Island, where cell service can be spotty in remote areas like volcano parks or mountain roads. The app uses your phone’s GPS to trigger stories, tips, and historical insights as you pass each point, so you’re always in the know—without having to fumble with maps or constantly check your screen.

We appreciate how the tour is designed to be completely customizable. Want to linger longer at Akaka Falls? No problem. Feel like skipping the drive down Chain of Craters Road? Just turn it off or take a different route. Several reviewers mentioned how much they enjoyed the ability to make spontaneous stops. One noted, “We loved this and made our drive interesting,” highlighting how it enhanced their trip without feeling overly scheduled.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Island of Hawaii
This is the starting point, where your tour begins to unfold as you drive. The narration adapts to your GPS location, guiding you through the island’s highlights at your own pace. Whether you want a quick overview or an in-depth exploration, you can craft it yourself or follow suggested itineraries provided by the tour.

Stop 2: Akaka Falls State Park
A true highlight, Akaka Falls plunges 440 feet into a gorge. The walk along a 750-foot trail takes you through lush rainforest, with opportunities to see bamboo, ferns, and wild orchids. Walking an extra 800 feet to Kahuna Falls is a quick add-on, perfect if you’re up for a short hike. Several reviews rave about this stop—one mentioned it as “stunning,” and another said it’s “easy to see why it’s so popular.”

Stops 3 & 4: Chain of Craters Road & Devastation Trail
This 19-mile drive from around 5,000 feet down to sea level offers views of lava fields, cinder cones, and volcanic rock formations. The narration points out features like active and extinct volcanoes and scenic viewpoints. Devastation Trail is an easy walk through a cinder field, where you can feel the lightness of volcanic ash and see plants stubbornly growing in such a harsh environment. It’s a somber but inspiring look at nature’s resilience.

Hamakua Coast & Towns of Hawi & Kapaau
The lush, rainy north coast is filled with waterfalls, botanical gardens, and charming towns. Hawi and Kapaau showcase traditional plantation architecture, with the latter hosting the statue of King Kamehameha the Great. One reviewer called Hawi “unspoiled,” and noted the art galleries and small-town vibe.

Stop 5: Hilo
The island’s largest town feels green and inviting, thanks to frequent rain. Key sights include Rainbow Falls, Boiling Pots, and the Kaumana Lava Tube. One reviewer said, “It’s easy to fill a day of sightseeing in Hilo,” and the lush scenery lives up to that claim.

Stop 6: Holei Sea Arch
A dramatic cliff formation shaped by relentless ocean waves, the Sea Arch is a spectacular sight. While recent activity has closed the official viewpoint for safety, you can still see the arch, which makes for a memorable photo.

Stop 7: Kealakekua Bay
Rich in history and marine life, this bay is where Captain Cook met his fate. It’s a top spot for kayaking and snorkeling, with permits required if you want to land. One reviewer called it “an important place in Hawaiian culture and history.”

Stop 8: Kilauea Iki
Inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the Kilauea Iki crater offers a fascinating look at volcanic activity. The trail takes you into a crater that once held a lava lake, with views of volcanic terrain that are both awe-inspiring and humbling.

Stop 9: Kohala Coast & Beaches
This stark yet inviting coast offers views of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea. It’s dotted with resorts and cultural sites, including petroglyphs and trails. Beaches like Hapuna and Kua Bay are perfect for a quick swim or picnic.

Stop 10: Kailua-Kona & Lili’uokalani Gardens
The lively town center has shops, cafes, and historic sites. The Japanese-style gardens are a peaceful spot with lovely water features and views. Several reviewers mentioned how relaxing and picturesque they are.

Stop 11: Pololu Valley Lookout
For the adventurous, the steep trail down to the black sand beach offers striking views. It’s a significant detour, but many agree the scenery makes it worthwhile—even if the trail is muddy and demanding.

Stops 12-14: Rainbow Falls, Volcanoes National Park, and Waipio Valley
These are among the most iconic sights on the island, with waterfalls, volcanic craters, and deep valleys. The full-day visit to Volcanoes National Park gives a comprehensive look at the island’s volcanic origins, with some areas still closed for safety after recent eruptions.

What Travelers Say

People consistently praise the tour’s expert narration, with comments like “the narrator was excellent” and “we learned so much about the island.” Many reviews highlight the value for money, with one noting it’s “the best money you will spend on your Big Island vacation.” The ability to “explore at your own pace” was a recurring theme, with some saying it made the trip more engaging and less stressful.

Of course, some users experienced minor hiccups, such as technical issues or app incompatibility with certain iPhone features. One review mentioned needing a backup device or charger, which is smart advice for any day-long road trip. Travelers found the tour easy to use and a great way to discover spots they might have otherwise missed.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

If you enjoy the idea of self-guided exploration with the benefit of local stories and tips, this tour is a fantastic fit. It’s especially well-suited for those who want to avoid large groups or rigid schedules, and prefer a flexible approach that adapts to your interests. It provides a solid foundation of knowledge without overwhelming, making it ideal for first-timers or seasoned explorers.

The offline capability and multi-point narration ensure you stay connected to the island’s stories, even in remote areas. At just under $20 for a group, it’s a cost-effective way to enrich your Big Island experience—particularly if you’re traveling with family or friends.

The Sum Up

If you’re seeking a budget-friendly, flexible, and informative way to see the Big Island at your own pace, this self-guided audio driving tour ticks all the boxes. It offers a wide range of highlights, from waterfalls and volcanoes to charming towns and scenic coastlines, with stories that bring each place to life. The ability to customize your route and timing makes it ideal for travelers who value independence and local insights.

The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable narration and value for money, making this a smart choice for those who want a deeper connection to the island while maintaining complete control over their schedule. Whether you’re planning a quick half-day trip or a full-day adventure, this tour adapts to your needs—delivering a memorable, authentic Hawaiian experience.

This tour is especially suited for curious travelers who enjoy learning as they go, those who want to avoid guided bus tours, and anyone who appreciates scenic drives with fascinating stories along the way. If you’re prepared with a charged phone and a bit of patience, you’ll find this a rewarding and enriching way to explore the Big Island.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for families or groups?
Yes, the tour is designed for groups of up to 8 people, making it a good choice for families or small travel groups. It’s flexible, so everyone can participate at their own pace.

Do I need WiFi or cellular data to use the tour?
No, once downloaded, the tour works offline. You only need GPS, so a strong phone signal isn’t necessary in remote areas.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration is flexible. It can be as short as a couple of hours or stretched to a full day, depending on how many stops you make and your pace.

Are entrance fees or park passes included?
No, entrance fees and park passes are not included. You should check the specific sites you plan to visit for any costs.

What if I encounter technical issues during the tour?
Some reviews mention minor glitches, but the tour provider offers support via phone, chat, and email. It’s wise to download the tour on a second device or bring a portable charger.

Can I customize the route?
Absolutely. You can follow suggested itineraries or create your own route based on your interests, using the trip planner tools provided.

In all, this self-guided audio tour offers a practical, engaging way to see the Big Island of Hawaii—perfect for travelers who want to blend independence with insider knowledge.