The Top 15 Hilo Tours & Things To Do

Hilo, on the eastern side of Hawaii’s Big Island, offers a wealth of memorable experiences for visitors who want more than just sunbathing and lounging on the beach. Its lush landscapes, volcanic wonders, and native Hawaiian culture make it an ideal place to explore with guided tours and activities.

We’re particularly fond of the Mauna Kea Summit Sunset & Stars experience, which combines breathtaking natural beauty with some of the best stargazing in the world, and the Big Island: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, & Coffee Farm Day-Trip, offering a comprehensive look at the island’s diverse ecosystems.

Whether you’re interested in volcanoes, waterfalls, or unique local food, Hilo has a tour that will suit your interests.

For travelers who want to see the island from above, the helicopter tours are truly spectacular—giving you a bird’s-eye view of active volcanoes and waterfalls.

For those seeking cultural insights, walking ghost tours and waterfall hikes provide a fascinating look at Hilo’s history and legends. Below, you’ll find a detailed rundown of each top-rated tour to help you choose the best fit for your trip.

1. Hawaii’s GOAT Experience: Mauna Kea Summit, Sunset & Stars

At number one on our list, Hawaii’s GOAT Experience is a standout for its stunning combination of sunset and starry skies from the summit of Mauna Kea, one of the world’s best stargazing locations.

This 6.5 to 7.5-hour tour includes watching the sun dip behind the clouds, sipping hot beverages under a blanket, and then peering through a telescope to see planets and even the first black hole photo taken. The guides are experts, sharing insights on the night sky and the significance of Mauna Kea for astronomy.

With a 4.8/5 star rating from over 535 reviews, this tour offers an unforgettable mix of natural beauty and cosmic discovery. Snacks, drinks, and free photos are included, making it great value considering its uniqueness.

Bottom line: If you love astronomy or just want a memorable way to end a day in Hilo, this tour delivers an experience you won’t forget. Just be prepared for the altitude and cold—bring warm clothes.

2. Big Island: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, & Coffee Farm Day-Trip

Ranking second with a 4.8/5 rating from 358 reviews, this full-day tour offers a comprehensive look at the Big Island’s stunning landscapes. Starting at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you’ll explore active craters, steam vents, and crater rim trails, walking through a lava tube to learn how volcanoes shape the island.

The tour also visits a traditional Kona Coffee Farm for a tour and tastings, and scenic spots like Waipio Valley Lookout, Akaka and Rainbow Waterfalls, and Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, where you might spot green sea turtles.

This tour’s strength lies in its diverse stops—covering the island’s volcanic activity, lush waterfalls, and coffee culture—in just one day. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the variety of scenery, making it a great value for the price. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a detailed overview of the island’s natural and cultural highlights.

Bottom line: For a well-rounded day exploring volcanoes, waterfalls, and coffee, this tour hits all the high points with excellent reviews.

3. Hilo: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Flight

Number three is a helicopter tour, which lets you see Hawaii Volcanoes National Park from above. During this 1-hour flight, you’ll view the Kilauea caldera, Pu’u Oo’ volcanic cone, and the active Halema’uma’u crater.

The tour offers breathtaking views of the landscape’s constant transformation, with the chance to see waterfalls plunging into dense jungle from the air. The cost is $379 per person, and weather can affect the experience, so flexibility is key.

Rated 4.6/5 from 228 reviews, this experience is perfect for those wanting an unforgettable perspective on the volcanic activity that defines the island. The pilot’s commentary provides an educational layer, making it both fun and informative.

Bottom line: If soaring over volcanoes and waterfalls sounds exciting, this helicopter tour is worth the splurge, especially for first-time visitors wanting a quick but stunning overview.

4. Big Island: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hilo Tour

Coming in at number four, this half-day guided tour offers a deep dive into Hawaii Volcanoes National Park along with highlights in Hilo, including Rainbow Falls and Liliuokalani Gardens. You’ll visit Kilauea’s crater, walk inside the Nahuku Lava Tube, and enjoy a locally inspired meal. The tour’s small size and expert guides make it a favorite, earning a 4.9/5 rating from 76 reviews.

The value here is in how much you see in just seven hours, making it a practical choice for those with limited time. The inclusion of turtles at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach adds a memorable touch. Some travelers mention that the pace is brisk but rewarding.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive yet manageable tour of the park and surrounding attractions.

5. From Hilo: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour

Number five offers a 5-hour guided excursion focused on the highlights of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Rainbow Falls. It’s a good choice if your schedule is tight but you want to see the volcanic activity, Thurston Lava Tube, and Halema’uma’u Crater Overlook.

Rated 4.9/5 from 46 reviews, travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and scenic stops, including the Big Island Candies store. The tour balances natural wonders with some local flavor, making it suited for those who want a quick but meaningful experience.

Bottom line: Great for a condensed, educational tour exploring key volcanic and waterfall sites.

6. Big Island: Volcano, Black Sand Beach, Waterfall, with Lunch

Ranking sixth, this 7-hour guided tour combines Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, and Rainbow Falls, with the added bonus of an island-inspired lunch. The tour is praised for its detailed visits, including walks inside lava tubes and a stop at the black sand beach where green sea turtles often bask.

With a 4.9/5 rating from 32 reviews, it offers good value, especially for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing plus a tasty meal. The combination of active volcanoes and relaxing beach makes it attractive for a variety of interests.

Bottom line: Perfect if you’re looking for a full-day adventure with local cuisine included.

7. Big Island Hawaii: Craft Chocolate Tasting and Farm Tour

This 3.5-hour experience is a sweet spot for chocolate lovers. Rated a perfect 5/5 from 12 reviews, the tour takes you to a family-owned farm to taste 10 single-origin Hawaiian craft chocolates and learn about cacao’s growth and processing. You’ll also try cacao juice, roasted beans, and cacao tea, gaining insight into Hawaii’s unique chocolate production.

It’s a small-group tour with a relaxed vibe and lots of tasting. The guide’s passion for cacao makes this memorable, especially for those interested in food or agriculture.

Bottom line: For flavor-focused travelers eager to learn about Hawaiian cacao, this intimate tour offers excellent value.

8. Hilo: Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour

Number eight is a 50-minute helicopter tour rated 4.6/5, showcasing Hawaii’s active volcanoes and waterfalls. The panoramic views include Kilauea, Mauna Loa, and lush rainforests, with expert commentary guiding you through the scenery. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a quick, scenic flight with minimal time commitment.

The tour’s highlights include flying over active volcanic vents and waterfalls, which create a dramatic landscape. It’s a step up from ground tours for those craving a sense of scale.

Bottom line: Ideal for a brief but spectacular aerial overview of Hilo’s volcanic and waterfall scenery.

9. Private Big Island Tour: Coffee, Beaches, Volcanoes & Waterfalls

Number nine is a customizable private tour for up to six people, priced at $1,200. It offers a flexible itinerary covering coffee farms, beaches, volcanoes, and waterfalls. You can choose how long to spend at each stop, making it perfect for travelers who want a personalized experience.

Rated 5/5 from six reviews, this tour’s advantage is tailoring the day to your interests. Your guide will share insights into what makes the Big Island unique, providing a more intimate experience.

Bottom line: Best suited for those wanting a private, flexible tour with personal attention.

10. Hilo: Waterfall Hike and Swim with Native Hawaiian

Rated 4.9/5, this 4-hour guided tour combines hiking, waterfall swimming, and cultural insights. You’ll visit Waiale Falls, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim, and learn about the area’s natural and cultural history from your local guide. The hike is manageable but rewarding, offering a true connection with nature.

This experience is perfect for active travelers who want more than just sightseeing. The small group setting enhances the personal connection, and the waterfalls provide a memorable experience.

Bottom line: A great choice for those looking to combine physical activity with cultural learning.

11. Big Island Hawaii Volcano Day Tour from Oahu and Hotel PU

For travelers based on Oahu, this full-day tour offers round-trip airfare and transport to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Rated 4.8/5 from 10 reviews, it’s perfect for squeezing in a volcano visit without the need for a separate trip. You’ll see active craters, lava flows, and Rainbow Falls, with a knowledgeable guide.

This tour is ideal if you’re short on time but want the experience of the Big Island’s volcanic activity. The included flight makes it convenient, though it requires early planning.

Bottom line: A practical choice for island-hopping visitors wanting to see volcanoes with minimal hassle.

12. Hilo: Walking Ghost Tour

Number twelve is a 2-hour ghost walk rated 4.8/5, exploring Hilo’s haunted history. You’ll stroll past the Palace Theatre, Naha Stone, and hear stories of supernatural encounters, including local legends and spooky tales from the Merrie Monarch Festival. Local guides weave engaging stories that bring the past alive.

Perfect for history and paranormal enthusiasts, the tour offers a different perspective on Hilo’s past—more mysterious than most island excursions. It’s a light-hearted way to explore the town’s darker stories.

Bottom line: For those interested in spooky stories and local legends, this ghost walk adds a fun twist to your visit.

13. Hawaii: All-Inclusive Volcanoes and Waterfalls Private Tour

This private tour is a comprehensive 8.5 to 12.5-hour experience, rated 5/5 from three reviews. You’ll visit Rainbow Falls, Boiling Pots, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, and the Thurston Lava Tube, with a personalized guide. The all-inclusive nature allows for a relaxed, in-depth exploration.

The private setting ensures tailored stops and deeper insights into the geology and culture. It’s suitable for couples or small groups seeking a more exclusive experience.

Bottom line: Best for serious adventurers or those celebrating a special occasion who want a private, detailed tour.

14. Hilo: Akaka Falls, Volcanoes, and Onomea Bay Guided Tour

This 8-hour all-inclusive tour offers a mix of Akaka Falls, Kaumana Caves, scenic Onomea Bay, and Hilo town. It’s rated 5/5 from two reviews and provides a thorough exploration of natural wonders and coastal scenery.

Highlights include the power of Akaka Falls, a visit inside the Kaumana Caves, and a drive along the coast with stops at lush waterfalls. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive day out.

Bottom line: Excellent for those who want a detailed, naturalist-focused tour with varied scenery.

15. Hilo: Hilo Waterfall Experience Helicopter Tour

And finally, the Waterfall Experience Helicopter Tour offers a 1-hour flight over Waipi’o Valley, Kohala Coast, and waterfalls in a state-of-the-art helicopter. With a 5/5 review rating from just one reviewer, it promises a spectacular aerial view of Hilo’s most impressive waterfalls and valleys.

The Eco-Star (EC-130) helicopter’s large windows ensure great views, and the pilot’s narration adds context. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a top-tier helicopter adventure.

Bottom line: A luxurious way to see the waterfalls and valleys from above, ideal for fans of aerial scenery.

How to Choose Your Tour in Hilo

Selecting the right activity in Hilo depends on your interests, time, and budget. If you’re eager to see the volcanoes from above, the Mauna Kea Sunset & Stars or helicopter tours are unbeatable. For a full day of scenic waterfalls, volcanoes, and coffee, the Big Island: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, & Coffee Farm Day-Trip offers excellent variety.

If you prefer a more personal experience, the Private Big Island Tour or Hilo Waterfall Hike and Swim provide flexibility and intimacy.

Budget-conscious travelers may prefer shorter excursions like the Hilo Walking Ghost Tour or the Akaka Falls and Volcanoes Guided Tour.

Booking early is wise, especially for popular experiences like the Mauna Kea Stargazing or helicopter rides, which fill quickly. Consider the weather — clear skies are essential for stargazing, and mountain altitude can be chilly.

Hilo offers a rich selection of tours that showcase its volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and cultural charms. Whether you want an adventure from the sky, a cultural walk, or a relaxing day exploring waterfalls, you’ll find plenty to love here. For a truly memorable trip, pick a tour that fits your interests and pace, and book early to secure your spot. Your Big Island experience is waiting.