Waikoloa Village is a fantastic base for exploring some of Hawaii’s most unique experiences. Its central location on the Big Island makes it easy to access everything from volcanic peaks to marine life.
We’re particularly fond of the Mauna Kea Sunset and Star Tour because it combines breathtaking views with the thrill of high-altitude stargazing, and the Kohala Coast Helicopter Adventure which offers a bird’s-eye view of rugged coastlines and waterfalls. These tours capture the island’s natural beauty and offer memories you won’t forget.
For a hands-on experience, renting a Polaris Slingshot lets you explore at your own pace, and whale watching is a must-see during the season.
If you’re curious about the mysterious, the UFO Night Sky Watch adds a fun twist to your trip. Keep reading to see which tour is right for you.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of tours that showcase Hawaii’s natural wonders and adventurous spirit. From spectacular helicopter rides over lava fields and rainforests (Big Island, Hawaii: Polaris Slingshot Rental) to guided stargazing on Mauna Kea (MaunaKea Summit SUNSET and Star Tour with Photo), there’s something for every interest and fitness level. Want to see whales? The Waikoloa Whale Watch offers guaranteed sightings (Waikoloa Whale Watch).
And for those intrigued by the night sky, the Big Island UFO Tours Night Sky Watch provides a fascinating look at extraterrestrial phenomena (UFO Night Sky Watch). Now, let’s explore these options in more detail.
- Quick Overview
- 1. MaunaKea Summit SUNSET and Star Tour with Photo
- 2. From Waikoloa: Kohala Coast Helicopter Adventure
- 3. Big Island, Hawaii: Polaris Slingshot Rental
- 4. Waikoloa: Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour
- 5. Hawaii: Waikoloa Whale Watch
- 6. Waikoloa Village: Big Island UFO Tours Night Sky Watch
- How to Choose
- Final thoughts
1. MaunaKea Summit SUNSET and Star Tour with Photo
At number 1, this Mauna Kea Sunset and Star Tour offers a full 8-hour journey that’s perfect for those wanting both a sunset spectacle and premier stargazing. The tour includes a 4×4 ascent to Mauna Kea’s summit, the highest point in Hawaii, which is a highlight in itself. As you reach the summit, you’ll witness a spectacular sunset, with clear views of the horizon that are hard to beat.
What makes this tour stand out is the free photo package — using a DSLR camera, the guide captures your moment against the stunning sunset and the star-filled sky.
Once the sun dips below the horizon, the tour transitions into a stellar show. Using high-powered refractor telescopes and laser pointers, guides showcase planets, stars, and constellations that are visible only in the dark of high-altitude Hawaii.
The experience is both awe-inspiring and educational, perfect for anyone interested in astronomy or simply wanting a memorable, picture-perfect evening. The reviews give this tour a solid 4.8/5 with many travelers praising the professional guides and breathtaking views.
The cost is $280 per person, which offers excellent value considering the included photo and the chance to stand at the top of Hawaii.
Bottom Line: If you love astronomy or want a truly memorable sunset experience with high-quality photos, this tour delivers a unique Hawaiian adventure.
2. From Waikoloa: Kohala Coast Helicopter Adventure
Number 2 on our list is the Kohala Coast Helicopter Adventure, a 50 to 70-minute flight designed for those eager to see the Big Island from above. This tour is lauded for its state-of-the-art Eco-Star helicopter, providing smooth, quiet flights and large windows for panoramic viewing.
The narrated tour, led by Hawaii-certified guides, takes you over dramatic sea cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ancient Hawaiian settlements—a rare chance to see the island’s diverse landscape in one quick trip.
This adventure is especially appealing because of the unmatched comfort and clarity of the views. Passengers often comment on how the guides’ storytelling adds context, making the landscape even more meaningful. While the reviews are limited, they are glowing, with an overall 5/5 rating from the small sample.
The price is $419 per person, which might seem steep but is justified by the quality of the aircraft, the scenery, and the memorable experience of flying over Hawaii’s rugged coastlines.
Bottom Line: This helicopter tour is ideal for travelers wanting a luxurious, bird’s-eye view of the Kohala coast, waterfalls, and historic sites, perfect for those short on time but eager for a big splash of adventure.
3. Big Island, Hawaii: Polaris Slingshot Rental
Number 3 offers a self-guided adventure with the Polaris Slingshot rental, giving you the freedom to explore the Big Island at your own pace. For $283, you and a partner can take the wheel for up to a day, enjoying unobstructed views of volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and tropical scenery.
Its open-top design makes it perfect for soaking up the Hawaiian sun and feeling the ocean breeze as you traverse scenic roads.
This rental provides a highly flexible way to indulge your curiosity without the constraints of a guided tour. Many users rave about the fun, exhilarating ride, and a recent review noted, “It’s the best way to see the island and feel like a local.” The experience is best suited for adventurous travelers comfortable with driving and those who want to tailor their itinerary.
One potential consideration is that this is a self-guided experience, so you’ll want to plan your route ahead of time. Still, for anyone craving independence and a fun way to explore, it’s a solid choice.
Bottom Line: Perfect for independent explorers who want to combine scenic driving with the excitement of a powerful, open-air vehicle.
4. Waikoloa: Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour
Number 4 is the Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour, a 105-minute journey that takes in the island’s most dramatic sights. This tour emphasizes flying over active volcanoes, lush rainforests, and waterfalls, with a landing at the secluded Laupahoehoe Nui for photos of untouched nature. Its wide-view helicopter allows for panoramic vistas, making it an ideal choice for photography lovers.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on varied landscapes—from the fiery lava flows to the greenery of the Hamakua Coast. The 1.5- to 2-hour flight is well worth the $719 investment for travelers seeking a comprehensive aerial tour. Reviewers highlight the thrilling flight over volcanic activity, and the opportunity to get unique photos of remote areas.
Since this tour is on the pricier side, it’s best suited for those who prioritize quality and variety in their helicopter experience. The secluded landing also offers a rare chance to explore parts of the island less visited.
Bottom Line: For travelers wanting a full panoramic view of Hawaii’s volcanic and rainforest landscapes, this tour offers a balanced blend of adventure and comfort.
5. Hawaii: Waikoloa Whale Watch
Number 5 is the Waikoloa Whale Watch, a 1.5-hour excursion that guarantees whale sightings during the season. While the reviews aren’t specified, the guaranteed whales make it a highlight for marine lovers. On this tour, you’ll have plenty of room to relax on the spacious deck while listening to the sounds of the ocean and watching for humpback whales breaching and tail slapping.
This tour is an excellent choice for families or travelers who want a relaxing, close-to-the-water experience. The price is $119, making it a great value for the chance to see Hawaii’s most famous marine mammals in their natural habitat. The tour is season-dependent, typically offered during whale season from December through April, so plan accordingly.
Bottom Line: If whale sightings are on your list, this tour offers a high probability of seeing whales and a peaceful environment for viewing.
6. Waikoloa Village: Big Island UFO Tours Night Sky Watch
Finally, number 6 is the UFO Night Sky Watch led by Dr. Lisa Thompson, who uses advanced Gen 3 military night vision goggles to reveal a different universe. This 1.5- to 3-hour tour introduces you to Earth’s galactic history, and the possibility of ET visitors—a fun, intriguing experience for the curious and open-minded.
The tour’s main appeal is the technology—viewing the night sky through military-grade goggles, which makes constellations, planets, and potential UFOs seem close enough to touch. It’s perfect for cosmic enthusiasts or anyone interested in astronomy or extraterrestrial phenomena. The reviews are not specified, but the unique experience and expert guide make it a standout.
Costing $131 per person, this tour offers a scientific and fun twist to Hawaii’s clear night skies, especially if you’re interested in the mysteries beyond Earth.
Bottom Line: For those fascinated by the universe and UFOs, this night sky tour provides an unforgettable, high-tech perspective.
How to Choose
When deciding which tour best suits your interests, consider your budget, time, and physical comfort. For a luxurious and rundown, the helicopter options (Kohala Coast Helicopter Adventure and Big Island Spectacular) are hard to beat.
They’re ideal if you want a quick, immersive experience with stunning views. For a more personal and flexible exploration, the Polaris Slingshot rental (link) offers complete freedom.
If you love marine life, the whale watch (link) is seasonally perfect and budget-friendly. For those curious about the night sky and extraterrestrials, the UFO tour (link) provides an unusual, high-tech perspective.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the helicopter rides or whale watching, and always check seasonal availability for whale season and clear skies.
Final thoughts
Waikoloa Village offers a broad spectrum of adventures suited for all kinds of travelers. If you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime sunset and star show, the Mauna Kea tour is unbeatable. For sky-high views and thrilling flights, the helicopter tours are top-notch. If you prefer self-guided exploration, renting a Polaris Slingshot gives you freedom and fun.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or curiosity, these tours promise to enrich your Big Island trip. Don’t forget to book early—these experiences fill up fast, especially during peak travel seasons. Now, get ready to craft unforgettable memories in Waikoloa Village.