KEAAU GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Circle the Island: A Full-Day Circuit of Kona Coffee, Black Sand Shores, Waterfalls and Volcanoes
A one-day guided loop around Hawaiʻi Island that links Kona coffee farms, Punaluʻu black sand beach, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Hilo’s town and two iconic waterfalls—useful for planning the island’s most varied day trip.
Circle the Island: A Full-Day Circuit of Kona Coffee, Black Sand Shores, Waterfalls and Volcanoes.
Experience the incredible diversity of Hawaiʻi Island in one unforgettable day: from volcanic landscapes to lush rainforests, black sand beaches to waterfalls, this immersive journey truly lets you circle the island in comfort and aloha.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park—Steam Vents to Lava Tubes
Spend 2–2.5 hours exploring dramatic volcanic terrain at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, where guided stops can include steam vents, the Kīlauea Overlook, Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube) and, time permitting, viewpoints along Chain of Craters Road.
Kona Coffee Country—Tastings and Farm Walks
The tour begins in Kona coffee country with a 45-minute visit to a coffee farm to learn growing and roasting practices and sample fresh coffee while taking in mauka-to-makai views.
Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach and Coastal Wildlife
A 45-minute stop at Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach offers a unique coastline and the chance to see Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on the sand—an ideal photo and stretch break en route around the island.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
This is a long, narrated loop that stitches together Kona’s coffee farms, dramatic coastal drives along the Hamakua Coast, the geologic theatre of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, and Hilo’s market and waterfall sights over a roughly 10–11 hour day.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this full-day loop suits — and who might reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The tour is a full-day experience lasting approximately 10–11 hours with pickup early in the morning and return in the early evening.
Pickup is arranged from Hilo hotels or the cruise port; exact pickup times are confirmed when you book (pick-up windows on the Kona side may be listed as 7:30–8:00 AM).
Site-specific details include a paved loop trail at Akaka Falls and short, accessible walks at Rainbow Falls; time at some park viewpoints is subject to schedule.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Circle the Island Tour?
The tour runs approximately 10–11 hours.
When and where is pickup?
Pickup is arranged from Hilo hotels or the cruise port; exact pickup time is confirmed when you book. (On the Kona side a typical pickup window is 7:30–8:00 AM.)
Does the itinerary include Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park?
Yes—guests spend roughly 2–2.5 hours exploring Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park with stops that can include steam vents, the Kīlauea Overlook and Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube).
Is there time to buy lunch on the tour?
Yes—the itinerary includes a one-hour lunch stop in historic Hilo where guests may purchase lunch at a café or market.
Will I see waterfalls and black sand beaches on the same day?
Yes—the tour visits Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach and makes stops at Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls during the same day’s circuit.
Are scenic drives included?
Yes—the Hamakua Coast scenic drive with pullovers is part of the route and occupies approximately 1.5–2 hours with narration en route.