Gain an understanding of the Big Island’s history through attractions that highlight the life of the early Hawaiians and the influence of Catholic missionaries. Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park will offer a glimpse into the early culture, as it was a place of refuge for those that had violated the sacred laws known as kapu. There, you will see a temple where criminals could be absolved of their transgressions and safely return to society. To complement the experience, you will visit the 19th-century Painted Church. Its interior features frescoes and murals of biblical scenes that a Belgian priest painted to teach the islanders Catholicism. The missionaries were also instrumental in dismantling the harsh kapu laws. You will also learn how coffee was introduced to Hawaii in the 1820s and how it is processed today at the Royal Kona Coffee Center. It is an excellent setting to enjoy a cup of fresh-brewed Kona coffee.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit one Hawaii’s most sacred sites, where criminals could find safe refuge.
• View the biblical murals and frescoes that adorn the Painted Church.
• Enjoy a cup of Kona coffee and learn about its production at a coffee mill.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Settle in for a panoramic drive along the island’s beautiful western coast and stop at attractions that are particularly relevant to Hawaiians. Upon reaching Kealakekua Bay, you will see the statue that marks the spot where early Hawaiians killed British explorer Captain James Cook in 1779 following a dispute. A bit south lies Pu’uhonua, a spiritual site where criminals once sought refuge and absolution from Hawaiian priests. The temple platforms and other structures that you will see were intact in Captain Cook’s time. Continuing on, you will stop for a sandwich or poke bowl at a popular lunch spot and then a cup of Kona coffee at Caffe Florian, another favorite among locals. A behind-the-scenes tour of the Royal Kona Coffee Center will reveal how those special beans are harvested and brewed. The focus will turn to natural attractions at the nearby lava tubes and at Turtle Cove, where sea turtles are abundant.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Drive along the island’s western shore and visit attractions of great cultural significance.
• Stop at a seaside site that was sacred to the early Hawaiians and still is today.
• Enjoy favorite local foods and drinks such as a poke bowl and Kona coffee.
• See natural wonders such as lava tubes and observe sea turtles resting on a beach.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Enjoy an immersive exploration of Hawaii’s only salt farm and explore other aspects of HOST, an acronym for the Hawaii Ocean Science and Technology Park. While touring this cutting-edge facility, you will discover the fascinating process used to produce the world’s only sea salt made from deep ocean water, which contains different nutrients and minerals than salt from surface water. It is a difference that you can taste, especially in the artisanal salts flavored with ingredients such as fresh herbs and chili peppers. You will also learn about the significance and traditions of sea salt in the Hawaiian culture. Afterwards, a rather unusual experience awaits you in the cabana, where you will be treated to a relaxing foot soak in 48° mineral-rich deep ocean water. Salt production only touches upon the park’s groundbreaking projects, which include the conservation of Hawaii’s coral reefs, sustainable aquaculture and advancements in marine biotechnology.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See how salt is produced from deep ocean water in a cutting-edge technology park.
• Discover the differences between deep ocean water salt and that from surface water.
• Taste deep ocean water salt and relax in a mineral-rich, deep ocean water foot bath.
• Learn about the park’s other projects, such as conserving Hawaii’s coral reefs.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Explore some of the Big Island’s most dramatic landscapes and come away with a deep appreciation of its volcanic formation. After pausing at America’s southernmost bake shop, where you might try a mango malasada treat, you will travel to the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. The jet-black sand is made of volcanic materials and lava fragments and is quite the sight, especially if you spot a green sea turtle basking on the beach. Symbols of wisdom and good luck, they are the only sea turtles known to sunbathe. The wonders of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will be even more extraordinary. The terrain and natural diversity there are so unique that UNESCO deemed the park both a World Biosphere site and a World Heritage site. You will see volcanic craters, the active volcano Kilauea and hot water vapor rising from countless steam vents. Rainbow Falls is yet another captivating natural wonder.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Admire the volcanically formed black sand beach at Punalu’u and perhaps see a green sea turtle.
• Drive through stunning Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• View an active volcano, craters and steam vents releasing hot water vapor into the air.
• Enjoy the ultimate view of Rainbow Falls as it plummets 80 feet into the pool below.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Enjoy tastings of two classic Hawaiian products – coffee and chocolate – and see how both are produced to maximize their unique flavors. At Kona Joe Coffee, you will learn about the patented cultivation process that allows the trellised Arabica coffee trees to grow upright like grapevines, which ensures uniform sun exposure. The result is a superior organic coffee bean with an enhanced taste and body, as you will discover by sampling a fresh-brewed cup. You will be treated to another sampling at Kokoleka Lani Farms, an actual working farm where you will view cacao (chocolate) on the tree and see the raw beans utilized in the making of their award-winning chocolate. After touring this biodiverse farm, you will enjoy the best part--a chocolate tasting! In addition to coffee and cacao, learn how farm products are integrated into Kona Natural Soap which is also made here. Afterward, enjoy free time to browse their chocolate selections, Kona coffee and vegan soaps in the gift shop.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See how a patented process for growing coffee produces a uniquely flavored cup of coffee.
• Tour a cacao farm and watch each step of the cacao bean production.
• Sample a selection of coffees and chocolates that are pure Hawaiian..

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Hear spine-tingling tales of murder and mayhem while walking through the heart of Kailua-Kona, a city with a long history of hauntings and horrors. Not for the squeamish or faint-hearted, this supernatural stroll is sure to raise eyebrows and goosebumps, even in broad daylight. You will learn about the bloodcurdling curse of King Kamehameha’s burial cave, the ghosts of the monarchs that haunt Hulihe’e Palace and the malevolent spirits lurking in the shadows to choke the living. Even non-believers tend to fear the Hawaiian demigods known as kupra, who are evil shape-shifters that can transform themselves into seemingly harmless humans – like your tour guide – before pouncing. You can’t escape the ghosts and goblins as Kailua-Kona was built over blood-soaked battle grounds and sacred sites. But don’t despair, there is hope. Certain Hawaiian tribal tattoos, especially those depicting sea turtles or sharks, are said to offer protection. You do have one, right?

HIGHLIGHTS

• Walk through downtown as the guide regales you with chilling tales of the supernatural.
• Pass by haunted hotels, ancient burial grounds and sites known for paranormal activities.
• Hear about some of the notorious events behind these terrifying tales.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Zip along the coast of the Big Island of Hawaii on a 41-foot Super-Raft and enjoy an extended stop to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. The powerful, twin-engine vessel is open-air with plenty of shaded bench seating so you should be comfortable as you race along the gorgeous Kona coast. After assessing the wind and water conditions, the captain will select the most suitable spot for your snorkeling adventure. The Big Island boasts the highest percentage of live coral in the Hawaiian Islands and where there’s coral, there’s fish. You can expect to see an ever-changing parade of marine life that may include fluorescent-colored tangs, oddly shaped trumpet fish, graceful manta rays and green sea turtles, known locally as honu. Triggerfish are also found here and are considered the unofficial Hawaiian state fish. They’re rather unusual looking as indicated by their 21-letter Hawaiian name, which means “fish with a snout like a pig.”

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise off the naturally beautiful Kona coast of Hawaii in a powerful 41-foot Super-Raft.
• Snorkel a coral reef or another spot that should be teeming with colorful marine life.
• Keep an eye out for showstoppers like green sea turtles and Hawaiian spinner dolphin.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Sail on a sleek catamaran to beautiful Kealakekua Bay and snorkel its sheltered waters, which are teeming with colorful marine life. The bay lies off the western shore and holds the Big Island’s only underwater state park, a marine sanctuary renowned for the clarity of its waters. The cruise will be immensely pleasurable as the 50-foot catamaran offers plenty of room to stretch out in the sun and relax in the shaded but open-air cabin. On the way, you will dine on classic Hawaiian cuisine and hear about the island’s history, especially while passing the spot where legendary British explorer Captain James Cook was killed in 1779. Still, the underwater wonders are the star attractions, including marine life found nowhere else in Hawaii such as lizardfish and flame angelfish, a flashy species often seen grazing on coral reef algae. Feel free to enjoy the open bar on the return cruise.

Become immersed in the island’s natural beauty by walking through a cloud forest that blankets the slopes of Hualalai volcano and along the sun-soaked Gold Coast. Low-level clouds usually waft through the forest, a botanical sanctuary of rare and endangered species. Expect to see giant fern trees, towering bamboo, and endemic ohia evergreens with fiery-red flowers. Another leisurely walk will present the charms of Kaoloko Honokohau National Historic Park, a protected coastal environment with the remains of an early Hawaiian settlement built on an ancient lava field. Highlights include temples, petroglyphs, and fishponds that attest to the ingenuity of the former residents. Hawaiian green sea turtles are commonly spotted along the shore, some weighing more than 300 pounds. The volcanic activity that shaped Hawaii left behind mineral-rich soil that is ideal for growing coffee as you will visit a local coffee plantation for a tour, and of course, a taste of their special brew.

Discover the lasting influence of King Kamehameha by exploring sites that were of great importance when he ruled Hawaii. Kamehameha is revered for uniting the Hawaiian Islands into one kingdom in 1810. About a decade earlier, the volcano Hualalai erupted, leaving hardened lava in its wake. While walking atop this rugged landscape, you will see petroglyphs and ingenious fishponds that the early Hawaiians created. Not far off, you will find a lava-rock temple built in the 18th century to fulfill a prophecy that Kamehameha would unite the islands. It is known as House of the Whale for the humpbacks often spotted just offshore. Following a simple lunchbox style meal at a statue of Kamehameha that was erected near his birthplace in Kohala, you will be free to explore Hawi, an artistic community with all sorts of eclectic shops. You will also tour a macadamia factory and sample these iconic Hawaiian-grown nuts.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Follow in the footsteps of Kamehameha, the king that united the Hawaiian Islands.
• Walk across hardened lava from a volcano that erupted in Kamehameha’s time.
• See petroglyphs, ancient fish ponds and an 18th-century temple built with lava rocks.
• Dine under a statue of Kamehameha near his birthplace in Kohala.
• Spend free time in the artistic community of Hawi and tour a macadamia nut factory.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear long pants and closed-toe walking shoes.

Board your air-conditioned motorcoach for a narrated drive through beautiful Kona. The white sand beaches, lush green foliage and dramatic lava formations captivate visitors lucky enough to travel along the Kona coastline.

Home to coffee plantations and macadamia groves, historic Kona is a thriving community with natural splendor and a lively culture. For truly dramatic views, to the southeast lies Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to volcanoes Mauna Loa and Kilauea - one of the most active in the world.

Your guided tour takes you for a visit to Pu'uhonua O Honaunau, which translates to "Place of Refuge at Honaunau." This enchanting cultural site is a lovingly restored ancient Hawaiian religious sanctuary. Built in 1650, the "Place of Refuge" originally housed the bones of Hawaiian chiefs. It later became a place of sanctuary for outlaws and defeated warriors. Highlights in this national historic park are the great Ki'i figures guarding the temple, the spectacular flora and fauna and the sense of peace and tranquility that echoes through the area.

A wide variety of Kona's famous coffees are on display at the Royal Kona Coffee Store. Refresh yourself with a sample and learn about the distinctive flavors in Kona's legendary brews. Coffee beans have been grown in the region since 1828. The nutrient-rich volcanic soil of Kona as well as the island's elevation and climate create ideal conditions for growing flavorful, quality coffee. You will have an opportunity to purchase some beans as a souvenir.

Continue through picturesque towns and villages, along magnificent coastal vistas and past historic landmarks and attractions. You'll return to port for the “sea” portion of your tour. Your guided historical lunch cruise on a 65’ catamaran will capture your imagination and reveal secrets of the Big Island when ancient, powerful kings ruled the rugged and fertile land of the Hawaiian Islands. Unwind along the way and enjoy a deli-style lunch and beverages or enjoy your favorite libation from our full-service cash premium bar. Our Historian will share Hawaiian history, stories and legends relating to the numerous landmarks along 12 miles of Kona coastline. You'll visit famous points of interest including the Ahu'ena Heiau, Holua Slide and the Kaumo'o Battlefield. There's an excellent chance of seeing marine life during your cruise and even humpback whales if you're with us during December-March. Enjoy live Hawaiian style music during the narration breaks and the entire trip back to the Kailua Pier.

Prepare to board your powered catamaran for a once in a lifetime cruise of Kona’s history. Step aboard and step back in time, when ancient kings ruled the islands to the arrival of Captain Cook in Kealakekua Bay. Witness many points of interest including Hawaiian temples known as Heiau, the Holua slide, battlefields and the birthplace of King Kamehameha to mention a few. Keep your eyes open for our resident marine life that frequent these waters year-round and the humpback whales in the winter (whale season is from December through March). Enjoy a deli-style lunch upon boarding.

Your adventure starts by viewing historical points of interest while off shore from the village of Kailua-Kona. While zipping down the coast on these fast and fun Zodiac Hurricanes, you may be able to stop to interact with marine life. There are 17 species of dolphins in Hawaii that may be seen on any given day. You may encounter the Hawaiian Spinner, Pacific Bottlenose or Spotted dolphins. As well as the seasonal Humpback whales that migrate yearly from Alaska (Jan-Apr), you may also find pilot whales, false killer whales and other rare, elusive whales that live here year-round. When you are in the Zodiac, you are just 2 feet above the water line, so you have a great vantage point from which to view the marine life.

Your ultimate destination is Kealakekua Bay marine preserve, site of the Captain Cook monument. Kealakekua Bay is known around the world for its abundance of coral and tropical fish - over 220 varieties of marine life in total. You will spend 1 ½ hours snorkeling the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the bay. All the snorkel gear is provided, including masks (RX if needed), snorkels, fins, and flotation devices. Non-swimmers and first-time snorkelers will be provided with flotation devices and instruction. There is a 3-4 rung ladder that is lowered from the Zodiac and you must be able to get up the ladder and back into the raft on your own. There is no access to land on this tour, the Zodiac is your "island" where you can get in and out of the water as often as you like at the snorkel spot.

While enjoying your tropical snacks and refreshments, you’ll hear all about the history of the bay and the story of Captain Cook. You will get up close to explore the rugged coastline and see natural blowholes, exposed giant lava tubes and your Zodiac will poke its' nose into sea caves. See beautiful colors and striations of the lava up close. Your captain is a naturalist, geologist, historian and some like to think that they are comedians. It is guaranteed that you'll be laughing from the minute you step off the dock into the Zodiac.

All aboard to the Redhill coastal snorkeling area, about 10 miles south of the Kailua Pier. It’s a snorkeler's paradise – with incredible underwater visibility and enchanting coral gardens that are home to hundreds of brightly colored tropical fish. Dolphins may follow along as you cruise to your destination. This ocean adventure is fabulous for the entire family. Once there you'll find snorkel gear and instruction for those who need it. But that’s not all – there are also flotation toys, a 20-foot water slide, and a 15-foot high jump platform. Two extra wide swim platforms make it easy to get in and out of the water. A continental breakfast, BBQ beef burger lunch, Hawaiian style chips, freshly baked cookie for dessert and soft drinks are included.

Discover the Hawaii that British explorer Captain James Cook knew when he arrived in 1778, much of it in the shadow of Mauna Loa volcano. While touring the appropriately named Bay View Farm, which offers a beautiful view of Kealakekua Bay, you will see how the farm grows, harvests, and roasts Kona coffee beans. A sampling will confirm why the coffee that flourishes in the rich volcanic soil is so revered. Nearby stands Pu’uhonua, a spiritual site where criminals once sought refuge and absolution from Hawaiian priests. While browsing the grounds, you will see temple platforms and the remains of other structures that were intact in Captain Cook’s time. A high-speed Zodiac-style raft will bring you to an obelisk marking the spot where Cook was killed following a dispute with the Hawaiians that lived on the bay. Feel free to swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters.

North Kohala is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in Hawaii – rushing streams, sparkling waterfalls, abundant tropical foliage and rugged sea cliffs. Immerse yourself in its deep green lushness and explore its rich natural and cultural heritage. A scenic drive to the remote north end of the island is accompanied by informative narration. Passing through a locked gate onto a private nature preserve, you'll then travel off-road for a short adventure to the trailhead.

An interpretive guide leads the way on the mile and a half trail. Along with an abundance of waterfalls, the route will take you across three bridges, along two idyllic streams, and past traditional Hawaiian taro terraces and irrigation flumes. Refresh yourself in a cool mountain stream with cascades tumbling overhead, or simply relax trailside. A picnic lunch is provided.

Zodiac Whale Watching is the best way to see the migrating humpback whales. Depart the tender pier to search out these gentle giants who come to Hawaii to mate and give birth. We are never sure where they are going to surface but the hurricane rafts are fast, getting you to the action quickly. We often see multiple whale pods on each trip. Naturalist guides will tell you about the humpback whale migration pattern and behavior and drop a hydrophone to listen to a whale song! Zodiac rafts accommodate small groups, so everyone gets a front row seat. Soft drinks and snacks are included.

This is a seasonal tour available from January – March.

Submerge yourself in a magnificent underwater world aboard an Atlantis Submarine. Investigate the reef through your personal viewport and come face-to-face with masses of exotic tropical fish and other marine creatures amidst colorful coral gardens.

Your adventure begins with a short boat ride along the scenic coast to the boarding dock, where you'll transfer to the submarine to begin your undersea adventure. Atlantis operates the world's most technologically advanced passenger submarines, with spacious air-conditioned interiors, large viewports and comfortable seating.

In crystal clear waters, you will descend 100 feet to explore 25 acres of coral gardens and their inhabitants. The reef was formed on lava that flowed into the ocean 18,000 years ago. Inhabited by hundreds of species of tropical fish, coral and other sea life, it’s a popular site to see Hawaii's marine life.

Explore Hawaii’s underwater paradise without getting wet. Ride aboard the Marian, a 36-foot glass-bottom boat specially designed to cruise within inches of the reef. Throughout your adventure, an onboard narrator will share fun and interesting facts of the sea, historic points of interest, Hawaiian history, and other fascinating information about the area.

Have your camera ready to capture pictures of the stunning coral reef, colorful tropical fish, and fascinating marine life. Take in the breathtaking vistas of the island's rugged shoreline as the boat cruses along the historic Kona coast. Sometimes spinner dolphins or seasonal humpback whales (December to April) visit the bay near enough to view. The Marian is designed for comfort, with shaded seating as well as an open-air bow to catch some sun. The boat departs directly from the Kailua Pier, allowing you time to enjoy other excursions or a stroll through the village.

Calling all fishermen, experienced or beginners – here's your chance to try your hand in the billfish capital of the world. The calm, year-round deep-sea fishing grounds off the Kona coast are teeming with marlin, ahi tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo and short nose spearfish, to name just a few. Anglers from all over the globe have broken world records here.

Your tour includes transportation to and from Honokohau Harbor, a fully equipped sport-fishing boat that can accommodate up to six guests, and an experienced and licensed Captain and crew. Experience is not necessary, and even if you don't catch anything, you're sure to reel in some wonderful memories.