The Island of Hawaii is a natural playground, offering a wide variety of full-day tours that showcase its stunning landscapes, volcanic marvels, and lush greenery. Unlike some destinations where you’re herded from one viewpoint to another, Hawaii’s tours are often about experiencing the land in a way that feels personal and genuine. Our favorites include adventures that combine scenic beauty with active pursuits—like the Kohala Waterfalls, which perfectly blend easy hikes with spectacular nature, or the exhilarating zipline experiences that get your adrenaline pumping while taking in breathtaking views. These tours are ideal for travelers craving an immersive day without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.
While there’s a range of options, some tours lean more toward sightseeing and others toward adventure and physical activity. If you want a deep dive into the island’s natural beauty, the Circle Island Tour offers a broad overview of volcanic landscapes, black sand beaches, and lush valleys. On the other hand, if you’re after a more energetic adventure, the Zipline and Waterfall Adventure combines two of Hawaii’s best thrill rides in one day. To help you decide, we’ve broken down the top full-day tours, highlighting what makes each special and who they’re best suited for.
Quick Overview
This list features three top full-day tours on the Island of Hawaii, each with a distinct focus:
- The Full Day Adventure Tour of the Kohala Waterfalls offers a relaxed, nature-focused experience with off-road driving, waterfalls, and a private picnic.
- The Kohala Zipline and Waterfall Adventure pairs adrenaline-pumping ziplining with scenic waterfalls, perfect for thrill-seekers.
- The Circle Island Tour from Kona provides a broad overview of the island’s highlights, suited for those who want to see as much as possible in one day.
Now, let’s explore each in detail.
1. Big Island: Full Day Adventure Tour of the Kohala Waterfalls
At number 1 on our list, this 7-hour tour offers a peaceful yet memorable way to experience Hawaii’s lush landscape. You’ll explore off-road in a 4WD Mercedes Sprinter van, which allows you access to areas larger vehicles can’t reach. The tour includes a relaxed, guided walk through a private nature reserve, where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of Hawaii’s native flora and fauna. The highlight is definitely cooling off with a swim under a majestic waterfall—an experience that’s both refreshing and photogenic.
What sets this tour apart is its combination of easy walks, stunning countryside and ocean views, and the chance to dip into mountain streams—perfect for those who want a taste of adventure without intense physical exertion. The picnic lunch, served with views of soaring sea cliffs and remote valleys, adds a special touch of serenity. With a perfect rating of 5/5 based on 41 reviews, many visitors comment on the tranquil beauty and expert guiding. This tour is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxing day immersed in nature with easy access to Hawaii’s waterfalls.
Bottom Line: For a scenic, low-impact experience that emphasizes natural beauty and peaceful moments, this tour is hard to beat.
2. Big Island: Full-Day Kohala Zipline and Waterfall Adventure
Coming in at number 2, this 9-hour adventure is for those who want to combine the thrill of flying through treetops with the serenity of waterfalls and mountain streams. This tour includes two tours in one, with ziplining on a sustainable course led by two certified guides. The zipline takes you over lush green treetops, providing splendid views of the Kohala landscape, while also giving you the adrenaline rush of soaring above the rainforest.
The tour also offers exclusive access to secluded waterfalls and swimming holes—not just passing by them but actually stopping to take a dip. The lunch with panoramic views of valleys and the sea means you won’t just be moving fast—you’ll also be soaking in Hawaii’s natural beauty. Reviewers praise the tour for its “action-packed” content and the professionalism of the guides, who make safety and fun their top priorities. The inclusion of a private waterfall swim is a rare and memorable feature.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want a full, varied day of adventure, this tour delivers a mix of adrenaline and relaxation with a high fun factor.
3. Big Island: Full Day Circle Island Tour From Kona
At number 3, this 12-hour tour emphasizes sightseeing over hiking, making it ideal if your goal is to see as much of Hawaii Island as possible in a single day. It’s designed for the curious traveler who wants a broad overview of the island’s most iconic sights. The tour includes stops at a black sand beach, where volcanic activity has created a striking contrast with the white sands most travelers expect, and the world-famous Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
You’ll also visit a Macadamia Nut Factory and Big Island Candies for some local tasting, along with the dramatic Waipio Valley Overlook, which offers breathtaking views of steep cliffs and verdant farmland. The long duration (12 hours) means you’ll be able to cover a lot of ground, but it’s less about walking and more about taking in the sights from the comfort of your bus. Reviewers appreciate the comprehensive nature of the tour, though some note it’s a long day if you’re prone to fatigue.
Bottom Line: For visitors wanting a thorough overview of Hawaii’s highlights without the physical effort, this tour offers excellent value and convenience.
How to Choose
When deciding between these full-day options, think about what kind of experience suits your interests and fitness level. If you prefer a relaxing day immersed in nature, the Waterfalls Adventure is your best bet. For those chasing adrenaline and unique photo ops, the Zipline and Waterfall Adventure offers an exhilarating experience. If your goal is to see as much of the island as possible in one day, then the Circle Island Tour will give you a broad overview with minimal effort.
Consider your budget too—while the waterfalls tour is priced at $261, the zipline adventure is slightly more at $340, reflecting the added thrill and activities. The circle tour is priced at $319, offering good value for a full day of sightseeing. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Hawaii’s full-day tours provide a variety of ways to experience the island’s stunning scenery—whether you seek peaceful waterfalls, adrenaline-pumping ziplining, or a comprehensive island overview. The Waterfalls Adventure is perfect for those who want a relaxed, scenic day, while the Zipline Adventure appeals to thrill-seekers and adventure lovers. The Circle Island Tour suits travelers eager to maximize sightseeing in a single day.
No matter which you choose, these tours offer a great way to deepen your appreciation for Hawaii’s diverse landscapes. To ensure you get the most out of your trip, consider your interests, physical readiness, and how much ground you want to cover. Booking early is always wise, especially during busy travel periods. Now, get ready to explore this incredible island—Hawaii’s natural beauty awaits.