Island of Hawaii (Big Island) Self-Guided Driving Tour

Welcome to the Hawaii Island Tour (Big Island Hawaii)

Take an unforgettable drive around Hawaii’s largest island. The Island of Hawaii tour (nicknamed Big Island) boasts volcanoes, jungle hikes, and more beautiful beaches than you’ll know what to do with. Witness Hawaii’s beauty at its most vibrant, all on your terms.

We are proud to be an official Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau member.

Preview the Tour

Your Hawaii Island tour is split into two halves, as there’s just so much on the island to see! The first half begins outside the quaint town of Kailua-Kona, where you’ll see the historic Hulihe’e Palace, once the vacation home of the island’s royalty. You’ll then continue south to Magic Beach, where the sand sometimes simply disappears.

After that is Kahalu’u Beach, a perfect place for snorkelers, followed by the sacred Lekeleke Burial Grounds. Next, you’ll pass the remnants of Hikiau Heiau, an important religious site in ancient Hawaii. Past that is the Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park for those looking to learn more about the island’s history.

Then you’ll see the Honaunau Rodeo Arena and learn all about Hawaii’s cowboys. Next up is Pebble Beach, where you’ll get to know the Hawaiian volcano goddess Pele. You’ll also have the option to check out the Kula Kai Caverns, left by ancient volcanic activity.

Continuing on, you’ll reach the startling Punalu’u Beach, which features totally black sand! The route then passes an old sugar plantation, followed by the huge volcanoes Kilauea and Mauna Loa. This half of the tour concludes by Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can explore the island’s volcanoes up close.

The second half of the tour picks up farther to the east, in the picturesque town of Hilo. Then, cruise through the almost impossibly scenic Liliuokalani Park and Gardens.

Looking for surfers? You’ll find them catching waves next at Honoli’i Beach. After that is Onomea Bay, featuring a spectacular hiking trail with views that can’t be beaten. Then, admire the astonishing flora at the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden. Continuing on, you’ll arrive at the surprising sight of the Honohina Hongwanji Mission, a historic Buddhist temple.

You’ll then pass the Laupahoehoe Train Museum before reaching Laupahoehoe Point, a spectacular ocean vista. Don’t forget to snap some photos! Anyone hankering for a snack will definitely want to stop at the Hamakua Harvest Farmers Market before continuing on to the cowboy town of Waimea.

Up next on the Hawaii Island tour are a pair of great beaches: Hapuna Beach is the largest white sand beach on the island and Beach 69 is beloved by locals, so take your pick! Then you’ll arrive at the Kings Highway Foot Trail, where you’ll have the chance to see the ancient Waikoloa Petroglyphs. After that are another few scenic overlooks, followed by the beautiful Kekaha Kai State Park. Your tour concludes here, just north of where the first half began.

Starting Point Addresses:

From Kailua-Kona Starting Point: Kaloko-Honok hau National Historical Park, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA.
From Hilo Airport Starting Point: Kanoelehua Ave, Hilo, HI 96720, USA

To tour the North-side, start here: 1030 Kanoelehua Ave, Hilo, Hawai’i

Drive Your Way to Paradise

Experience the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Hawaii at your own pace with our All Hawaii Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle! Enjoy the freedom to explore the islands on your own terms, we guide you to the best hidden gems and must-see attractions. From the stunning beaches of Maui to the lush rainforests of Kauai, this bundle has it all. So, grab your keys and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in paradise!