Halema‘uma‘u Crater, Hawaii: Our most recommended tours and activities

Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour

1. Big Island Twilight Volcano and Stargazing Tour

Enjoy a guided adventure starting with a stop at a Kona Coffee Farm. Walk through a lava tube and orchards with your guide to learn about the harvesting and milling process while sampling a warm cup of Kona-grown coffee. Continue through the scenic view of the Kealakekua Bay and South Point, the southernmost point of the United States. Relax at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach to spot marine life, like Hawaii’s green sea turtles, from the shore. Next, head to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Drive on the Chain of Craters Road. Learn about volcanic eruptions and current and past lava flow sites. Visit the Kilauea Iki Lookout, Lava Tube, steam vents, Halema’uma’u Crater, and the crater rim trail. After enjoying dinner at a nearby cafe, return to the park to view the lava glow at night and stargaze. Depending on weather conditions, observe stars, planets, galaxies, and more.

From Kona and Waikoloa: Kilauea Volcano Discovery Tour

2. From Kona and Waikoloa: Kilauea Volcano Discovery Tour

Begin your adventure with a scenic drive over the stark and beautiful Saddle Road to set the stage for the day. or. Your first stop will be an exclusive lava tube on private property. Venture beneath the Earth's surface and discover how lava travels around the islands underground. Explore a unique cave with ceilings as high as 35 feet, expansive rooms, bright golden walls, and an “upside-down” forest of roots. Enjoy a peaceful picnic lunch on this private property's natural surroundings in the middle of a Hawaiian rainforest. Following lunch, continue to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Discover the park's must-see spots including the dramatic Halemaumau Crater. Learn about the history and culture of the world's most active volcano, Kilauea, as your guide leads you through the park's diverse terrain. After a full afternoon of exploring the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, enjoy a warm picnic dinner with your fellow travelers. As your full-day experience comes to an end, sit back and relax as your guide returns to your meeting location while reflecting on your volcano experience. If the twilight option is available and selected, stay in the Park past sunset to view the eruption's glow. Experience a once-in-a-lifetime view of the glowing lava at one of the last remaining active volcanoes in Hawaii. Have your camera ready to capture the orange glow of lava against the night sky

Hawaii: Volcanoes National Park E-Bike Rental & Audio Guide

3. Hawaii: Volcanoes National Park E-Bike Rental & Audio Guide

Experience the thrill of a lifetime: A day E-bike around the rim of an erupting volcano. Our GPS Audio App will guide you on all the permitted Nation al Park Bike Trails as you see the main park highlights, and hear historic information. E-Bike along the rim of the erupting crater & possibly see active lava. This day of unbeatable excitement begins at Bike Volcano Headquarter in Volcano Village where you will park your car and pick up your E-bike anytime between 10AM – an ideally 12PM so that you'll have plenty of time to explore the Park at a leisurely pace before returning at 4PM. (less than a mile from the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Bike Trail). We provide our guests with secured parking, restrooms, a general store, and a restaurant. Here you will be fitted with an e-bike and helmet and given a safety lecture under the canopy staging area. The GPS system will then lead you on a voice turn-by-turn navigation from Volcano Village into National Park on a bike trail through a lush native Hawaiian Rainforest. You Feel the Volcanic Heat at the Steam Vents, possibly have Lunch at the Volcano House’s picturesque Rim Restaurant mid tour, Walk through a Lava Tube, and E-Bike to the Lava Viewing Area on Paved Bike Trails and Roads. Avoid long parking delays, crowds, and long walks to the main National Park highlights. We provide with Live Human Phone Support throughout your journey. You will return to our Volcano Shop by 4PM where we will say "A hui hou", until we meet again.

Kailua-Kona: Kohala Coast & Waterfalls

4. Kailua-Kona: Kohala Coast & Waterfalls

Fly with Paradise to the Kohala valleys to hover amidst the breathtaking 2,500-foot waterfalls and sheer cliff faces. En route, you will witness frozen lava flows on the Kona and Kohala coasts from the 1801 Hualālai eruption and the 1859 Mauna Loa eruption, which traveled over 31 miles before reaching the coastline. Dotting the shoreline along the way, you can pick out pristine white and black sand beaches - including Mahai’ula, Kiholo, Anaeho’omalu and Hāpuna – to visit during your stay! Upon arriving to the lush landscape of Kohala, your pilot will not only show you its rugged coastline, home to dramatic valleys, but will also educate you about this region’s significance in Hawaiian history as the birthplace of Hawai’i’s most famous ali’i (nobility), Kamehameha the Great. Departing from the Kona International Airport, this 60-minute tour is a great choice for guests wanting to see the beauty of Kohala, without sacrificing beach time for drive time.

Big Island | Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour

5. Big Island | Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour

The Island of Hawaii, often simply referred to as the Big Island due to its size, is famous for its incredible natural attractions, including massive volcanoes, black-sand beaches and lush valleys. Flexible Tour: Follow the suggested itineraries, or divide the commentary and create your own half, full or multi day sightseeing trips. Major Highlights: Volcanoes National Park Chain of Craters Road Halema'uma'u Thurston Lava Tube Petroglyphs Devastation Trail Holei Sea Arch Waimea Hamakua Coast Hilo Coffee Coast Place of Refuge Akaka Falls Kona Waipio Valley Pololu Valley Kealakekua Bay Liliuokalani Gardens Hawi Kamehameha Statue Rainbow Falls Kohala Coast Includes: Volcanoes National Park The Big Island's most famous and popular place to visit. In the park there are many amazing formations created by eruptions spread over hundreds and thousands of years. There are two driving routes in the park and expect to spend minimum 2-3 hours exploring. Add the driving time to get there and back, means this is a full day outing. The drive to the park is scenic and it's strongly recommended to drive by going south from Kona using Hwy 11 to pass around the bottom of the island and then up the eastern side. The commentary provides an entertaining and informative description of volcanology and Hawaiian mythology along the way. From Hilo, its's just a 45 minute drive to the entrance. Island Circle Navigating around the entire island includes the tropical and green Hamakua Coast, dotted with sugar plantations towns and amazing rocky coast scenery. A long but manageable day, and make sure to allocate some time for exploring around Hilo. Kohala North Loop Driving from Kona to Hawi is an amazing journey with beaches, a surprisingly arid coast at times, views to Maui, black sand beaches from cliff viewpoints and driving over an old volcanic mountain makes for an excellent half day or longer of sightseeing. Follow the tour as it drives a loop itinerary that gives you a fantastic sample of old Hawaii, modern Hawaii, awesome beaches and huge ranches. Kona Coffee Coast Kailua-Kona is the active hub of the western side of Hawaii and features energetic shopping and dining choices, mixed with historic landmarks and fun beaches. Follow the road that heads south along the coast to tour through this vibrant area. But then, you'll quickly transition to areas of incredible Hawaiian cultural importance and sites that have been preserved for prosperity. Bring your snorkel gear as the audio tour points out places to see fish and turtles.

Private - All Inclusive Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour

6. Private - All Inclusive Volcanoes and Waterfalls Tour

Following pick up at your place of lodging, we travel over Saddle Road between two of the largest volcanoes on Earth, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, to the lush east coast of the Big Island. Our first stop is at the iconic Wailuku River State Park and we will take in the majestic beauty of Rainbow Falls. From there, we will continue to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve, this iconic park encompasses the summit of two of the world’s most active volcanoes and extends from sea level up to the summit of Mauna Loa at 13,677 feet. It’s home to critically endangered wildlife and some of the most unique geological, biological, and cultural landscapes on earth. Upon entering the park, enjoy a walk along the rim of Halema‘uma‘u Crater for unique views of the current eruption. Also, we will stop and see the natural steam vents at Wahinekapu. From there we will travel down the Chain of Craters road to the Thurston lava tube. Experience this massive lava tube which is 600 feet long and over 20 feet tall in some places. Depending on what your group would like to do and see, additional stops in the Park can include Ha'akulamanu (Sulfur Banks), Mauanulu lava fields, Pauahi Crater, Holei Sea Arch, and Pu'uloa petroglyph field. At sunset, hike out to the best lava viewing location along the rim of Halema’uma’u crater to witness the active eruption as the sun goes down and gets dark. Following our night lava viewing, sit and relax for dinner in the town of Volcano before departing back to your place of lodging feeling happy, full, and filled with exciting new memories.

Hilo: Elite Volcano Hike

7. Hilo: Elite Volcano Hike

Your experience begins as you head out of Hilo to the Puna Coast, the location of the historic 2018 eruption and where your first stop of the Mackenzie State Recreation Area is. The highway there was closed by the marching 40-foot-tall wall of crumbly a’a lava as it continued to the sea. You will take a hike along the now-closed highway, and then follow the lava flow through the pine forest to the altered coastline and cliffs overlooking the new black sand beach. Isaac Hale Beach Park is next, where you can drive along the infamous “Fissure 8”, which erupted in the heart of Lelani Estate's subdivision. A picnic-style lunch will be served at the park, weather permitting. You will then travel to the crown jewel of the Big Island, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You'll begin by briefly visiting the Kilauea Iki Overlook, before heading off on foot down the paved road to Keanakakoi. You can check out the activity there from the historic 2018 eruption, which buckled the road and caused racks and sinkholes. You’ll also get a birds-eye view of the Kilauea Caldera and the enormous Halema’uma’u Crater, along with views of the trail you will take into the Caldera. Throughout your 2-mile hike you can look for native birds, such as the yellow ‘amakihi and the red ‘apapane. Huge boulders came to rest at this location during ancient rock slides and eruptions, and you can look for marks left by previous visitors such as Benjamin Boyd and John Webster, just to name a few. Reaching the floor of Kilauea Calder there is an incredible rock slide to your left, evidence of the 2018 eruption, as well as the Halema’uma’u Crater which sits before you. The crater increased in size during the eruption, with the lava lake draining out of it leaving behind an enormous 1,000-foot-deep pit. Afterwards, you will return to the starting point.

From Kona: Elite Volcano Hike

8. From Kona: Elite Volcano Hike

Explore Hawaii’s explosive side on foot with this tour. First, travel across Saddle Road between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, two of the tallest and biggest volcanoes on Earth. Learn more about the volcanology, geology, and history of these wonders from your National Park Service certified guide and enjoy an in-depth narration of the various lava flows and flora and fauna that you pass by. Afterward, explore Kaumana Caves, part of the lava tube system that brought lava as close as 1.5 miles from downtown Hilo in 1881 and take a peek inside the dramatic cathedral-like space. Next, head to Mackenzie State Recreation Area, where the historic eruption took place in 2018. Take a hike along the now-closed highway, and then follow the lava flow through the pine forest to the altered coastline and cliffs overlooking the new black sand beach. Afterward, head to Isaac Hale Beach Park. Be sure to check out the boat launch ramp, now sitting in a pond cut off from the ocean by a berm of lava and don’t forget to look for steam still rising from the cooling lava as you drive across it before stopping for a picnic-style lunch. Next travel to the crown jewel, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Briefly visit the Kilauea Iki Overlook before heading off on foot down the paved road to Keanakakoi. Get a birds-eye view of the Kilauea Caldera and the enormous Halema’uma’u Crater. Pass by the famous Sulphur Banks, through ancient forests of tree ferns, and look for native bird species and incredible rock slides. Enjoy some dinner after your sightseeing.

Private - All-Inclusive Volcanoes National Park Tour

9. Private - All-Inclusive Volcanoes National Park Tour

Set off on a customizable adventure tour with hotel pickup. Meet your private guide and drive along the beautiful Kona coast to stop first at the famous Punalu‘u Bakery. See Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach before entering one of the most unique geological, biological and cultural landscapes on earth, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Following hotel pickup, travel south along the Kona coast and take in breathtaking views of lush vegetation and pristine coastline. Listen to your guide describe the cultural history of the area as well as the local flora and fauna. Arrive at the southernmost bakery in the United States. Punalu‘u Bakery is world-renown for its sweet bread, malasadas (Portuguese fried dough), and other delicious treats. Enjoy a complimentary coffee or tea and choose a malasada before heading on to explore the most beautiful black sand beach on the island, Punalu‘u. Enjoy the relaxing feeling of black sand under your toes while listening to the wind move through the palms and across the water. Your guide will keep a lookout for green sea turtles and endangered hawksbill sea turtles that frequent the beach. The iconic Hawaii Volcanoes National Park encompasses the summit of 2 of the world’s most active volcanoes and extends from sea level up to the summit of Mauna Loa at 13,677 feet. You’ll spend the majority of your tour in the park taking in all the natural wonders. Explore the main attractions in the park including the Thurston Lava Tube, Wahinekapu Steam Bluff, and marvel at the incredible views of the current eruption inside Halema‘uma‘u Crater. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the beauty of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Listen to guided interpretation throughout the day as you learn all about the park’s natural wonders, endemic wildlife and rich cultural history.

Private - All Inclusive Big Island Circle Tour

10. Private - All Inclusive Big Island Circle Tour

Discover the beauty and grace of the Big Island of Hawaii on a private tour. Explore some of the island's most unique and idyllic locations, including the Kona coast, Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, Hilo's iconic waterfalls, and the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Sit back and relax as all meals and drinks (excluding alcoholic ones) are included throughout your day. Make your way to your first stop: the South Kona Coffee Farm for a tour and coffee sampling. Travel south along the striking Kona coast and absorb the breathtaking views of lush vegetation and coastline. Listen to your guide describe the cultural history of the area as well as the local flora and fauna. Then, visit the southernmost bakery in the United States, Punalu‘u Bakery. World renown for their sweet bread, malasadas, and other delicious treats. Enjoy a malasada and a coffee or tea. Continue your tour to one of the prettiest black sand beaches in all of the Hawaiian Islands, Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach. Relax with black sand between your toes while listening to the wind move through the palms. Keep a look out for green and hawksbill sea turtles that frequent the beach. Next, make your way to the the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve. This iconic park encompasses the summit of two of the world’s most active volcanoes and extends from sea level up to the summit of Mauna Loa at 13,677 feet. Explore the main attractions in the park including the Thurston Lava Tube, Chain of Craters Road, and a nature walk along the Halema‘uma‘u Crater. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the beauty of the park before embarking on the next leg of your adventure. From the park, venture up to Hilo to visit the picturesque Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls State Park. Both waterfalls are a sight to behold. Beautiful falls combined with lush vegetation make these stops photo-worthy. Then, drive along the 50-mile stretch of the Hamakua Coast with its hidden waterfalls, tropical rainforest, and lush green valleys. Described as one of the most beautiful locations in the state, it’s well worth the scenic drive. Arrive at Waipio Valley in the late afternoon. Enjoy the sprawling views as your guide explains the rich history of the area. Continue your ride to marvel at the bright sunset views of Waimea. To get there, travel through Paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) country and take in this historic area with its rolling, green pastures, the home to cattle, cowboys, and one of the largest cattle ranches in the United States; Parker Ranch. Enjoy a local and authentic dinner in Waimea where surf and turf is a definite menu staple, before returning to your hotel.

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Halema‘uma‘u Crater, Hawaii

Halema‘uma‘u Crater, Hawaii
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What people are saying about Halema‘uma‘u Crater, Hawaii

Overall rating

4.9 / 5

based on 90 reviews

This was an amazing experience. I would have enjoyed more hiking. But the stops were all incredible and I loved everything we viewed. The steaming crater was amazing. The private lava tube was absolutely spectacular and a truly unique experience. I really enjoyed the fissures and the cinder cone. And the view from the cliffs at dinner was awe inspiring! Maddie was a great guide and took care of everything you could want on a full day tour. The food and snacks were delicious and dinner hot and a wonderful. I highly recommend this excursion!

It was fantastic, from start to finish. Our guide Maddie was excellent - clear, easy to understand and extremely interesting. She knew exactly how to get everywhere, took us to the least crowded places with great views, pointed out a lot of the wildlife along the way and told us all about it.... The van was comfortable, the food [lunch, dinner and snacks] very good and plentiful, great walks... I really can't say enough about the whole experience.

This is best way to complete the National Park. The bikes were brilliant and the app worked very well. We had a fantastic day and the provider was extremely friendly. I would 100% recommend.

Aaron the tour guide was spectacular and full of great knowledge.

Our guide Maddie was terrific. She made it interesting and fun.