Big Island of Hawaii isn’t just about stunning volcanoes and lush landscapes; it’s also a place where you can enjoy memorable lunch experiences that add flavor to your island visit. Whether you’re after a gourmet meal on a luxurious boat, a casual beachside bite, or a cultural exploration with local delicacies, Big Island offers a wide array of options. We especially like tours that combine authentic local food with scenic adventures, such as the Luxury Kona Coast Snorkel Tour including Lunch for its combination of comfort and underwater discovery, or the Big Island Half-Day Tour with Lunch that mixes volcanic sights with a delicious meal amid nature. These tours show that enjoying lunch here isn’t just about eating; it’s about experiencing the island’s natural beauty and culture.
While many visitors focus on sightseeing, the lunch experiences on Big Island turn a simple meal into a part of the adventure. Whether it’s savoring local Hawaiian dishes after exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or having a barbecue after dolphin watching, your midday meal can be just as memorable as the sights. Below, we’ve listed nine of the best lunch-oriented tours on Big Island—each with its own special twist.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of tours that include a meal: from luxury boat snorkel trips with plant-based or traditional Hawaiian fare, to family-friendly boat excursions, and cultural tours with local lunch. We’ve included half-day island explorations, shore excursions, and marine adventures that pair scenic views with tasty food. All tours have high ratings or great reviews, ensuring you’ll find something that fits your style.
Now, let’s dive into each one to see what makes them stand out.
1. Luxury Kona Coast Snorkel Tour Including Lunch
At number one, the Luxury Kona Coast Snorkel Tour including Lunch offers a premium experience on the water. This 5-hour cruise takes you along the remote South Kona coast, famous for lava formations and thriving marine life. What sets this tour apart is the comfort and quality of the boat experience — theater-style seating, armrests, and headrests make it feel more like a floating lounge. The crew provides top-notch snorkel gear, so you can glide over coral reefs, swim with turtles, rays, and tropical fish, or even spot dolphins and whales (season permitting).
Included are two meals—a plant-based breakfast and a delicious lunch—making it a true all-in-one outing. They also offer standup paddleboards and snorkel gear for extra fun. Guests rave about the environmentally conscious practices and the informative commentary about the area’s history. One reviewer said, “The boat ride was amazing with super comfy seating,” emphasizing the high level of comfort.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect if you want a luxurious, all-inclusive snorkeling adventure with excellent food and a focus on environmental sustainability. It’s ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort and top-notch scenery.
2. Hawaiian Sea Turtles and Snorkeling Experience in Kona with Lunch
Number two on our list is the Hawaiian Sea Turtles and Snorkeling Experience in Kona with Lunch. This 3-hour trip is great for those short on time but eager to see the island’s black and white sand beaches and volcanic coastline. The 53-foot catamaran takes you along the coast, where you might spot dolphins, migrating whales, or sea turtles.
What makes this tour stand out is the balance between scenic cruising and snorkeling. It includes snorkeling gear, so you can learn about the underwater world, then relax on board with delicious lunch and two drinks—a perfect mid-day break. The late morning departure suits travelers who want a relaxed start. Guests have praised the crew’s professionalism and humor, making the experience both fun and informative.
A review highlights, “The captain and crew were amazing and took us to some beautiful snorkel spots,” demonstrating consistent guest satisfaction. The value for money here is solid, considering the included meals and equipment.
Bottom line: Great for a short, scenic snorkel trip with the bonus of spotting marine life and enjoying a tasty onboard lunch. Perfect if you want a quick, fulfilling adventure.
3. Big Island Half-Day Tour with Lunch
Number three is the Big Island Half-Day Tour with Lunch. This 6 to 7-hour trip combines Hawaiian cultural insights with dramatic natural sights, making it a great introduction to the island. It kicks off at Rainbow Falls, where the legend and the mist create a perfect photo op. After a drive through Downtown Hilo and the Lili‘uokalani Gardens, you’ll explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
This tour’s highlight is walking inside the Nahuku lava tube and viewing the Kilauea caldera, along with stunning volcanic landscapes. The tour includes a lunch at Kilauea Lodge, giving you a taste of local flavors amid the volcanic scenery. The guides are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, making the experience both educational and fun.
Guests especially appreciate the personalized feel of the tour, with one saying, “It felt like a personalized tour.” The value is high given the multiple stops and included lunch, making it ideal for curious travelers who want natural beauty and cultural insight.
Bottom line: This tour offers a comprehensive half-day of sightseeing with a satisfying local meal, suited for those wanting a well-rounded island experience.
4. Hilo Shore Excursion: Visit Volcano, Waterfall, Beach with Lunch
Number four is the Hilo Shore Excursion: Visit Volcano, Waterfall, Beach with Lunch. Designed for cruise travelers, this full-day tour packs in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls, and Punalu’u black sand beach—all with a local, island-inspired lunch.
What makes this experience stand out is the small-group format, allowing plenty of interaction and personalized attention. The tour guides provide insightful commentary on the natural features and local culture, making the stops more meaningful. Guests enjoy the chance to see green sea turtles at Punalu’u and walk inside the Nahuku lava tube. The tour’s length and variety make it a great choice for those with limited time in Hilo but want to see major highlights.
Reviewers mention the thoughtfulness of guides and the delicious local lunch. One reviewer notes, “We were so well taken care of by our guide and driver,” emphasizing the quality of the experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for cruise ship passengers wanting a comprehensive day trip that combines natural wonders with good food.
5. 3 Hour Big Island Dolphin Watch Boat Tour, Snorkeling & BBQ Lunch
Number five offers the 3 Hour Big Island Dolphin Watch Boat Tour. This compact, adventure-packed trip includes dolphin watching, snorkeling, and a Hawaiian-style BBQ. Leaving from Honokohau Harbor, the tour combines coastal cruising with the thrill of spotting marine life.
What makes this tour special is the interactive nature—you’ll snorkel at two different spots, increasing your chances to see turtles and tropical fish. The crew is praised for their helpfulness and knowledge, especially in making the snorkeling accessible for all levels. The lunch is casual, but the BBQ and drinks are a hit, providing a hearty end to the trip.
Guests mention their satisfaction with the staff and the value for the experience, including the added bonus of a GoPro video to remember your day. It’s an ideal choice for families or travelers wanting a short but lively marine adventure.
Bottom line: A fun, fast-paced trip that combines marine wildlife, snorkeling, and tasty food, great for active travelers.
6. Waikoloa Catamaran Morning Snorkel Including Lunch
Number six is the Waikoloa Catamaran Morning Snorkel Including Lunch. This 3-hour cruise on a 54-foot catamaran provides a comfortable way to see the coast and snorkel with turtles or dolphins. The boat offers ample deck space and shaded areas, ensuring a relaxed environment.
What makes this trip unique is the chance to spot humpback whales during December through April, adding a seasonal thrill. The crew provides snorkel gear and assistance, making it easy for first-timers. The snacks and drinks onboard keep you energized while enjoying the coastal scenery.
Guests frequently mention the personable crew and plenty of time in the water. One reviewer states, “We saw lots of colorful fish and a turtle while snorkeling,” highlighting the quality of wildlife encounters.
Bottom line: Ideal for short mornings with a comfortable boat and the chance to see marine life and whales—a relaxed, scenic experience.
7. Best of Big Island: Volcanoes, Waterfall, Blacksand Beach & Lunch
Number seven, Best of Big Island: Volcanoes, Waterfall, Blacksand Beach & Lunch, is a well-rounded tour for those short on time. For around $187, you get a full day exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls, and Punalu’u black sand beach, all with an included lunch.
The guide’s knowledge and storytelling are highly praised, making this an engaging experience. The drive through scenic landscapes and the chance to see green sea turtles at the beach add to the value. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a rundown without sacrificing depth.
Reviewers note, “Anthony and Desmond were so kind and informative,” indicating the personal touch. The length and variety make it suitable for travelers who prefer a full-day tour with multiple highlights.
Bottom line: Great for budget-conscious visitors who want a well-organized, all-in-one experience with a decent meal included.
8. Captain Cook Snorkel on a Power Catamaran With Lunch
Number eight is the Captain Cook Snorkel on a Power Catamaran With Lunch. With over 1,800 reviews and a 5-star rating, this tour is a classic for snorkelers. Departing from Kealakekua Bay, known for its historical significance and vibrant coral reefs, it offers a half-day adventure with lunch included.
The tour features a fast-moving power catamaran, which gets you to the best snorkeling spots quickly. You’ll see dolphins, whales (in season), and plenty of marine life. The hot showers onboard add comfort after your swim, and the casual lunch keeps you fueled.
Guests commonly mention the friendly crew and the excellent snorkeling conditions, with many saying, “We saw so many kinds of fish and coral.” It’s a value-packed choice for travelers wanting a historic and marine-rich experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for snorkelers who value speed and convenience, with a great mix of history, wildlife, and food.
$85.00 per person
9. The Real Big Island: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Beaches & Lunch
Finally, The Real Big Island offers a 7-hour in-depth exploration. Led by local guides, it covers Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls, and the Hilo Farmers Market, with a lunch at Pi‘ilani’s Kitchen.
This tour emphasizes authentic local connections and hands-on experiences, like learning about the island’s volcanic activity and cultural stories. The scenic drives and beach visits make it suitable for travelers who want an immersive day with good food.
Although it has no reviews listed yet, the detailed itinerary and focus on local culture make it a compelling option.
Bottom line: Best for those wanting a comprehensive, culturally rich experience, with plenty of time to absorb the island’s natural beauty and local flavors.
$189.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Big Island Lunch Experience
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and time. If you want luxury and underwater adventure, the Luxury Kona Coast Snorkel Tour is unbeatable. For a quick marine-focused trip with a hearty barbecue, the Dolphin Watch Boat Tour hits the mark. Travelers seeking a cultural and scenic overview may prefer the Half-Day Tour, which balances nature and local stories.
Consider your fitness level—some tours involve walking or snorkeling, others are more sightseeing. Think about seasonality—whale watching is best December through April. For those on a cruise, the Hilo Shore Excursion is designed to maximize limited time.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and avoid missing out on top-rated tours.