Ocean
Manta Ray Night Snorkel
Float above lit ocean water after dark as Kona's resident manta rays somersault inches beneath you, the Big Island's single most unforgettable hour.
Land
Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park Day Trip
Stand at the edge of Kīlauea's summit caldera, walk through a lava tube, and cross a landscape still being born, an epic day trip from Waikoloa.
Explore the power of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, where Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, has been reshaping the island’s southeastern edge for decades.
The classic day from Waikoloa: Crater Rim Drive overlooks, the Thurston lava tube, steam vents at sunset, and, when Pele obliges, the caldera glow after dark. It’s a long day and worth every mile; we’ll have the suite warm and the hot tub list ready when you’re back.
Good to know
Is the drive worth it for one day?
Yes, leave by mid-morning, tour the summit and Chain of Craters Road in the afternoon, and stay past dusk if there's an active glow. Our concierge is glad to map the route and point out the best stops to eat along the way.
Will we see flowing lava?
It depends entirely on Kīlauea's current activity, which comes and goes. When an eruption is underway the caldera glow after dark is unforgettable. We check the park and USGS status the morning you go so you know what to expect.
What should we wear and bring?
Kīlauea's summit sits around 4,000 feet, so it runs cooler and wetter than the coast. Pack layers, a rain jacket, closed-toe shoes, water, and snacks, and we can point you to where to stock up on the way out of Waikoloa.
Is it a good day trip for kids?
Yes, families do it often. The crater overlooks, steam vents, and the lit boardwalk through the Thurston lava tube are easy and fascinating for children, though the day is long, so plan for rest stops.
Should we drive ourselves or take a guided tour?
Self-driving gives you the freedom to linger, while a guided tour handles the roughly two to two and a half hour drive each way and brings the geology to life. If you prefer a guide, book about a week ahead and we will arrange it.
More ways to spend the day
Culture
Pu'uhonua o Honaunau (Place of Refuge)
A sacred place of forgiveness on a lava point of carved ki'i, royal fishponds, and swaying palms. One of Hawaii's most powerful cultural sites, and its best preserved.
Ocean
Kealakekua Bay Kayak & Snorkel
Paddle a glassy marine sanctuary to the Captain Cook Monument, where spinner dolphins pass and the reef drops into some of Hawaii's clearest water.