hilo tours for cruise ship passengers

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Excursions & Tours

Best of Big Island and Volcanoes National Park

The Land of Frozen Fire

Beach Snorkel at Black Sand Lagoon with Turtles

Guided Kayak Adventure of Hilo Bay and Coconut Island

One Tank Shore Dive at Sea Turtle Cove

Volcano & Highlights of Hilo Adventures

Certified 2 Tank Boat Dive

Two Tank Shore Dive at Sea Turtle Cove

Volcano & Highlights of Hilo Adventure with Private Transportation

Hilo tours & big island shore excursions.

Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Hilo is a fantastic place to visit and has so much to see and do both onshore and offshore. Hilo's backdrop is made up of gorgeous mountains adorned with a picturesque shoreline. To remind you of your most memorable moments in paradise, these shorelines are sure to appear simply captivating on film. Visiting the famous Volcanoes National Park will provide you with some incredible sights and allow you to explore an active volcano. Here in Hilo is the closest you will be able to get to the actual functions of a volcano; do not be surprised if lava slowly flows right beneath your feet as you traverse the park! Equally astounding are the rest of our Hilo shore excursions in lush forests and majestic waterfalls, all ingredients to Hilo's natural beauty.

Arnotts Lodge

Hawaii Accommodations and Adventure Tours

Tours from Cruise Ships in Hilo, Hawaii

Welcome to Arnott’s Cruise Ship Central!

As you can see by the information below, until March 14th, 2020, we were thoroughly integrated with the Cruise Industry and had provided some of the most popular tours in Hilo, to every major cruise line for over 20 years.

Then came Covid, and the very real possibility that with cruise lines taking multi-hundred-million loans to stay “afloat” that we would not get paid for a significant portion of our services to guests…and in fact payments were delayed in some cases by over two months.

Looking ahead to Bubble Tours and tight control over guests, and the very shaky start in Europe, Asia, Alaska and Caribbean, we have opted to provide tours to the Summit Of Mauna Kea on a private basis when guests are allowed off the ship to do as they please…we regret that until that happens we will not be providing any regularly scheduled tours to the Industry.

Arnott’s Adventures was accredited for tours from the port of Hilo, Hawaii with Norwegian, Princess, Carnival, Holland, Royal Caribbean/Celebrity and the Norwegian minor brands Insignia, Mariner, Navigator, and Regatta.

Queens Ship by Cunard, Disney, Silver Sea Cruises, Seven Seas Mariner by Regent Seven Seas Cruises and others do not avail themselves of some of the best tour operators in Hilo because they visit infrequently and choose not to develop relationships with smaller operators who run some of the best custom tours for the more frequently visiting ships. For instance we run one of the Big Island’s most unique tours to the summit of Mauna Kea, yet you will not find this even offered by some Cruise Lines. Please email us at [email protected] or call/text us for details at 808-339-0921.

Arnott’s Adventures provided these highly rated tours to the cruise industry. The tours that we performed were:

1. Land of Frozen Fire is a tour which visits the fastest growing area on the Big Island, which in 2018 was the scene of active lava flows, now cooled. We also take you to an area formally a black sand beach and ocean which is now an extra half mile of coastline created in 1992, you will see Sea Cliffs, Lava Tubes and tree molds at Lava Tree State Park.

2. Mauna Kea, Arnott’s signature tour as we are the only permit holder for this adventure in east Hawaii. This tour consists of a highly scenic drive to the Mauna Kea Visitor’s Center at 9,300 feet (3,000 m) followed by acclimatization while you take in amazing scenery. We then proceed with our 4wd vans to the summit at 13,700 feet (4,200m) where you have a chance to walk around and, when available, to visit one of the telescopes. This tour was offered as a daytime tour for cruise ship guests, and as an evening tour for regular guests. The evening tour would only be an option for cruise guests with overnight stays in the Hilo Port, as the return time is between 8-10 p.m. depending on the season.

3. Big Island Eruption Encounter , which takes you on an adventure towards Kalapana in the Puna district. Along the way you’ll view firsthand the effects of the 2014 lava flow on the town of Pahoa, and visit other areas in Puna such as Kaimu, with its black sand beach and small town that were destroyed in the 1990 lava flow.

Private/Custom Tours: We can perform and craft a completely customized tour depending on your interest. This is for those who want to see it all and have flexible budgets. We can also take you to delightful swimming adventures where you can normally see Hawaii’s Green Sea Turtles and other sea life as well as Black Sand beaches and waterfalls.

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The Big Island (Kona & Hilo) Cruise Ship Shore Excursions

Shore excursion tours on the Big Island are designed exclusively for the cruise ship passengers, and include convenient pick up and drop off at the Pier (Hilo and Kona Harbor). If you can’t find the tour or place you would like to visit while you are on the Island of Hawaii, just reach out to us by inquiry form below with your desired itinerary and date. We are happy to assist you to organize a private tour from the Pier.

Hilo Tours from Cruise Port

Volcanoes national park from hilo.

Starting at $128.00 ✅ Includes visit to Steam Vents Look Out and Kilauea Iki Overlook ✅ transportation from/to Hilo Harbor ✅ For NCL Pride of America Cruise ship Passengers

The excursion visits the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park & Visitors Center, Steam Vents, Kilauea Overlook, and the Big Island Candies Factory.

Volcanoes National Park & Rainbow Falls Tour

Starting at $131.00 ✅ Includes visit to Steam Vents Look Out and Halema’uma’u Crater ✅ transportation from/to Hilo Harbor ✅ For NCL Pride of America Cruise ship Passengers

See the ultimate sights and attractions around the Island of Hawaii on this exceptional tour.

Kona Sightseeing Tours from Cruise Port

Historic kona tour.

Starting at $70.00 ✅ See an ancient Hawaiian village ✅ Transportation from/to Kona Harbor ✅ For NCL Pride of America Cruise ship Passengers

We share Kailua-Kona’s history to set the stage for your trip back in time to Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park – an ancient Hawaiian village of refuge for kapu (law) breakers.

Historic Kona and Farm Tour

Starting at $175.00 ✅ Visit National Historical Parks, Kona Coffee Plantation and Big Island Bees ✅ Convenient Pick-up from hotels in Keahou, Kona, Waikoloa, Kohala, and the Kailua-Kona Pier

Visit an ancient Hawaiian site, churches and a royal palace along the Coast. Stop at a local honey & coffee farms and taste the specialties of the Big Island.

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Hawaii Cruise Ship Shore Excursions

Our cruise ship shore excursions give Hawaii cruise ship passengers in Hilo and Kona the best opportunity to experience the best sites on the Big Island. Specific tours have been developed to account for your limited time on shore. Because each of these Hawaii tours is private, you can develop your own itinerary and we will adjust to accommodate your particular schedule and interests. 

Cruise Ship Shore Excursions from Hilo

Standard Hawaii cruise ship meeting time at the port in Hilo is 0830 (8:30am). If you would like to meet at a different time or see additional sights along the east coast of the Big Island that are not included in one of these tours, please complete this short form  and we will help you develop a custom tour. Follow this link for more ideas of things to do in Hilo .

Click on each of the links below for a more detailed description of the tour .

Hamakua Heritage Corridor & Waterfalls Tour

See some of Hawaii's most iconic waterfalls, travel along the scenic Hamakua Coast, visit historic sugar plantation communities of Laupahoehoe and Honoka'a, and enjoy magnificent views at Waipi'o Valley .

Mauna Kea Volcano and Rainbow Falls

We will visit Rainbow Falls before traveling up the Saddle Road to the top of Mauna Kea , the highest mountain on Earth. Enjoy out-of-this-world views and see the giant telescopes of the Mauna Kea Observatory . Weather permitting. Not available for travelers with heart conditions or young children.

Puna Sites Tour Lava Trees, Tide Pools, Black Sand Beach

Enjoy many of the magnificent sites in the Puna district south of Hilo.

Kilauea and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Everyone should experience the marvel of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park at least once. And if you've visited before, it changes all the time.

Cruise Ship Shore Excursions from Kona

After you are shuttled from your Hawaii cruise ship to the Kona pier, we will meet you next to the Visitor Information and Aloha signs on the pier at 0800 (8am). Because each of these tours is private, if you prefer a different time we can adjust accordingly. If there are places you'd like to visit on the west coast of the Big Island that are not included in the listed tours, please complete this short form  with your request. Follow this link for more ideas of things to do in Kona . 

Kona History and Coffee Farm Tour

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Big Island is the well-preserved historical sites. Tour several areas that are a significant part of Hawaii history, and enjoy the Kona coffee experience at the only living history coffee farm in the country.

Kamehameha The Great History Tour  on the Kohala Coast

King Kamehameha I was the great ruler that unified all the Hawaiian Islands into the Kingdom of Hawaii. Visit the temple that played the key role in this unification, the king's birthplace and other historical sites on the Kohala Coast.

Ala Kahakai Majestic Shoreline Hiking Tour

For hiking enthusiasts, we welcome you to join us in exploring the coastline of the Big Island. We will visit two of the most stunningly picturesque beaches on the Big Island as we walk along part of the historic Ala Kahakai trail .

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THE 10 BEST Hilo Tours & Excursions

• Walking Tours
• Helicopter Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History

2. Volcanoes National Park Safari

3. Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls

4. Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour

5. Circle of Fire Helicopter Tour

6. Big Island Active Volcano Adventure Tour with Lunch

7. Big Island Highlights: Coffee, Volcano, Black Sands & Waterfall

8. Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour

9. Hilo Waterfall Hike and Swim with Native Hawaiian

10. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hilo Highlights Small Group Tour

11. Volcano National Park Adventure From Kona

12. Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens

13. Mauna Kea Arnott's Adventures

14. Kulaniapia Falls Daypass with Activity Discount

15. Small Group Big Island Waterfalls Adventure

16. Hilo Shore Excursion: Safari Lava Caves, Falls and Highlights

17. Big Island Waterfall Wonders Slingshot Private Tour

18. Exclusive Landing with Spectacular Big Island Helicopter Tour

19. Historic Hilo Bay and Coconut Island Guided Kayak Adventure

20. Short Private Hike To Secret Jungle Tide Pool

21. Farm to Table Cooking Class at Kulaniapia Falls

22. Volcano National Park Adventure from Waikoloa

23. Hilo-6 Hour Private Tour-Volcanoes NP, Rainbow Falls and more.

24. Hilo: Doors-Off Helicopter Lava and Rainforests Adventure

25. Big Island Hawaii Self-Guided Driving Tour

26. Hawai'i's Volcanoes National Park from Hilo Only

27. Kona: Circle Island Experience

28. Big Island Adventure Bundle: 5 Epic Audio Driving Tours

29. Maunakea Stellar Explorer from KONA

30. Port of Hilo to Volcano Tour

What travelers are saying.

• Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History
• Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls and Highlights
• Volcanoes National Park Safari
• Mauna Kea Summit and Stars Small-Group Adventure Tour
• Circle of Fire Helicopter Tour
• Mauka Makai Adventures
• Lavaland Hawaii
• C Big Island Tours
• KapohoKine Adventures
• Kamaaina Custom Tours
• Apau Hawaii Tours
• Safari Helicopters
• Blue Hawaiian Helicopters - Hilo
• Big Island Volcano and Rainbow Falls Tour
• Lava Ocean Tours Inc
• Hawaiian Legacy Tours
• Arnott's Lodge and Hiking Adventures
• Maikai Ohana Tours
• Paradise Helicopters - HILO

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• Cruise Ship Shore Excursions (2)

Big Island Hilo Shore Excursion - Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour

4.5 hour(s) incl. transportation

Available tue, pick-up available, what to expect.

Pick-up at Hilo Pier

Visit the home to one of the world’s most active volcano – Kilauea, lava tubes, volcanic craters and more! See Halema’uma’u Crater, Steam Vents Lookout and the Visitor Center

Feature freshly roasted Big Island Macadamia nuts and 100% pure Kona and Kau coffee from farms here on Hawaii Island.

Transportation add-ons

Pick-up/check-in time & location.

Drop-off/Check-out Time & Location

Important activity information

Restrictions.

• If less than 6 participants are booked, the activity may not operate.
• Children of all ages can participate in this activity.
• The vehicle is ADA accessible, but not all stops on this tour are ADA accessible. Due to limited availability, we require that ADA vehicle reservations be made a minimum of 48 hours prior to date and time of service.
• For electric wheelchairs or scooters: The combined weight of the wheelchair and guest cannot exceed 500 lbs (226.5kg). and the maximum width of the wheelchair cannot exceed 29 inches (73.5 cm).
• Volcanic fumes can be hazardous. This tour is not recommended for visitors with heart or breathing problems and infants, young children, and pregnant women.
• Children under the age of 4 are FREE and must be seated on an adult's lap. If the guardian requires a seat for a child under the age of 4, the regular rate will be applicable.

Additional notes

• The activity schedule is subject to change or cancellation due to weather or traffic conditions.
• Gratuity is not included in the price.
• Meals are not included in the price.
• Drinks and meals are available for purchase
• Route may be modified due to National Park advisories.
• No guaranteed sightings of lava flows.

Required items to bring & attire

• Credit card
• Wear lightweight, layered clothing that will keep you warm and sturdy, comfortable closed-toe shoes.

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• Credit card payment

• Any cancellations made after 08:30 local time, 2 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount.
• Any changes made after 8:30 local time, 2 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. This includes, but not limited to, change of the activity date/ time, package, the number of participants, etc.

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Change policy.

Please visit VELTRA Support page to send an inquiry about this activity.

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Cruise ship shore excursions other tours and activities, big island shore excursion - historic kona town, place of refuge & coffee farm, 日本語ガイド＆オムレツ昼食付き, eur 152.00~.

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About Destination Hilo

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Hilo is a springboard into the vast pool of East Hawaii’s delights. From the north beckons the Hamakua coast; a pearled string of stunning bays, adorable villages and cascading water. From the south beckons the rain forest and charming towns, which echo a serene and beautiful past. Find hot ponds and steam caves, ebony-colored beaches and the off-beat lifestyle that surrounds them. And from the west beckons the volcano; a pulsing cauldron of fire and creation that delights and awes in equal measure.

Alaka’i Taxi and Tours

Thinking of doing a last-minute tour of the Big Island? Call Frank of Alaka’i Taxi and Tours.

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Arnott’s Hiking Adventures

Arnott’s Hiking Adventures will show you the most amazing sites on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Big Island Personal Tours

Welcome to Big Island Personal Tours, where we offer a range of unforgettable experiences that showcase the beauty of the sea and the land. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or just someone who enjoys the finer things in life, we have something for you.

Hawaii Eco Tours and Produce Boxes

O.K. Farms is partnering with Hawaii farmers and local businesses to offer agricultural eco experiences that are truly unique.

Hawaii Forest & Trail

For over 20 years Hawaii Forest & Trail has offered all inclusive nature adventures on Hawaii Island.

Hilo Ocean Adventures

Come live in The World Beneath.  Hear whales sing, swim with turtles, learn about the underwater world.

Hilo Sharkʻs Farm Tours

Farmer Tom Sharkey has been growing cacao, coffee, and vanilla at his farm on the Big Island’s Hamakua Coast for 25 years.

Island Mountain Guides

Visit Kulaniapia Falls and rappel down our namesake waterfall! Your adventure takes you 130 feet down Kulaniapia Falls, led by Island Mountain Guides.

KapohoKine Adventures

KapohoKine is your source for the best Hawaii adventure tours and volcano tours the Big Island has to offer!

Lava Ocean Adventures

Lava Ocean Adventures is your exclusive way to experience Hawaii Volcano Kilauea’s active eruption via one of our custom catamaran fleet of lava boats.

Malahini Tours

Get the most of your time on the Big Island. From learning about Native-Hawaiian culture to the modern Hawaii lifestyle.

Mauka Makai Adventures

Come join us as we take you on a private tour of the Big Island of Hawaii. Small personalized tours allowing you to explore Hawaii Island with your very own guide.

Paradise Helicopters

Locally owned and operated since 1996, Paradise Helicopters offers the finest helicopter tours across the Hawaiian Islands.

Ricky’s Tours

Ricky’s Tours is a family owned and operated tour company that specializes in Hilo and volcano tours for cruise ship passengers.

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Roberts Hawaii

Established in 1941 with a single taxi cab on the island of Kauai, Roberts Hawaii today is one of the largest employee owned businesses in the islands.

Super Vacation Hawaii

Super Vacation Hawaii LLC conducts tours throughout Hawaii Island, including 1-3 day tours.  Their tour drivers speak English and Chinese.

Come enjoy Zip Isle Zip Line Adventures at World Botanical Gardens and Waterfalls on the Hamakua Coast just a few minutes from Hilo.

Destination Hilo 'Ohana

Visiting the big island.

We have currently discontinued our Big Island Museum Discount Pass! Please check the various museums directly to determine if they are open. Those that are open have special new prices and most of them require reservations.

See More about Hawaii Island's museums by clicking here.

Happening Around Hilo

HILO HULA TUESDAYS continues at the Mo`oheau Park Bandstand across from the Hilo Farmers Market at 329 Kamehameha Avenue every Tuesday from 12 noon to 1 p.m.  This free event is sponsored by Destination Hilo’s members and supported by various hula hālau who lovingly perpetuate our Hawaiian culture. Please join us.  We have a one-time […]

Hilo Hula Tuesday at the Mooheau Park Bandstand is being held every Tuesday through December 27, 2022, from 12 noon to 1:00 p.m.  Please join us for this free event across from the Hilo Farmers Market!  Various well-known Hilo musicians and halau will be featured.

Connect with us!

Through collaboration with public and private industry, Destination Hilo strives to increase visitor satisfaction, extend length of stay, and provide innovative visitor activities offering unique Hawaiian experiences. Efforts are focused on improving quality of life for residents by contributing to a healthy social and economic culture.  Destination Hilo’s flagship “Hawaiian Greetings Program” provides music, entertainment, and networking services to thousands of visitors arriving at Hilo Pier and in Downtown Hilo.

Destination Hilo is supported by

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Shore Excursion Details

Historic hilo, hilo, hawaii.

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• 4 3/4 hrs Estimate Duration

Your experienced guide will provide information and narration as you drive through the "Hilo Walk of Fame" known for all the banyan trees planted by celebrities. Visit Liliuokalani Gardens, the largest ornamental Japanese garden outside of Japan. Your experienced guide will provide commentary of Hilo Town as you make your way to Wailuku State Park and Rainbow Falls.

While visiting Akaka State Park, you can see two gorgeous waterfalls- 100 foot Kahuna Falls and towering Akaka Falls which plummets 422 feet into an eroded gorge. Stop at Big Island Candies, home of the famous diagonally dipped shortbread cookies. You have a chance to purchase your Big Island souvenirs that are beautifully packaged. A true Hawaiian Classic!

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Historical Landmarks

Activity level:.

• 3 Challenging

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Roberts Hawaii Shore Excursions

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Our Most Popular Shore Excursions

• Map Marker Kauai

Journey to Waimea Canyon

Discover the natural beauty and experience one of the best views of the western coast of Kauai!

• Map Marker Hawaii Island - Kona

Historic Kona Tour

On this cruise ship excursion, we share Kailua-Kona’s history to set the stage for your trip back in time to Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park — an ancient Hawaiian village of refuge.

• Map Marker Oahu

Oahu Pier Shared Transfer

As Hawaii’s largest tours and transportation company, we get you where you need to go on the island of Oahu reliably, quickly, and with Aloha.

• Map Marker Hawaii Island - Hilo

Volcanoes National Park

See the ultimate sights and attractions around the Island of Hawaii on this exceptional tour, including the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park & Visitors Center, Steam Vents, Kilauea Overlook, and the Big Island Candies Factory.

Why Book Your Shore Excursions with Roberts Hawaii?

Roberts Hawaii is proud to be the largest tour and transportation provider in the State of Hawaii, with 75+ years of experience on the islands. We are committed to providing you with quality tours at a great value for a memorable and enjoyable vacation experience. We guarantee a return to your ship well before sailing time, and we will fully refund any tour purchased if your ship is detained from making port.

Safety Measures

We follow CDC procedures by routinely cleaning, thoroughly sanitizing all our vehicles.

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By purchasing direct, you save up to 40% off compared to cruise-line web prices!

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We are a locally owned and operated kamaaina company proudly driven by aloha.

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5 Best Hilo Volcano Tours in Big Island of Hawaii (2024)

Looking for the best Hilo volcano tours on your trip to the Big Island of Hawaii?

Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park was a bucket-list experience for me in Hawaii and a top priority attraction on my Big Island trip.

The Volcanoes Park is renowned for its extraordinary geological features and is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa.

I visited the Volcanoes Park with my family and loved exploring its various features, such as lava tubes, steam vents, and volcanic craters.

Many cruise ship visitors arrive at the Hilo port, and taking a Hawaii Volcanoes tour is the best way to experience the Volcanoes Park. This is the most unique and popular excursion in Hawaii.

Taking a volcano tour from Hilo with an expert guide ensures you do not miss out on any must-see sights! You will also learn much more about the volcanoes by taking a tour than you would if driving yourself.

Do not have time to read the whole article? Here is my top pick for the best volcano tour from Hilo –

➡ Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls and Highlights – Best Road Tour , half-day tour ideal for inter-island and cruise ship visitors.

➡ Volcanoes Helicopter Tour from Hilo – Best Helicopter Tour with epic aerial views of volcanoes, waterfalls, and rainforests. Great for those short on time.

My Top 3 Picks: Best Hilo Volcano Tours

#1 Top Pick

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Volcanoes Helicopter Tour from Hilo ✔️ Bucket list experience, 1-hour flight from Hilo! ✔️ Aerial views of Volcanoes Park, rainforests, waterfalls

#2 Top Pick

Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls and Highlights ✔️ Half-day, Volcanoes Park and Hilo highlights ✔️great for cruise ship and inter-island visitors

#3 Top Pick

Volcanoes National Park and Hilo Highlights (Small Group) ✔️ Half-day, Volcanoes Park and Hilo highlights ✔️ great for cruise ship and inter-island visitors

Looking for a volcano tour from Kona instead? Check out the best volcano tours from Kona and Waikoloa regions on Big Island of Hawaii.

Taking a volcano tour is one of the top things to do in Kona !

5 Best Volcano Tours from Hilo, Hawaii

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is closer to Hilo than Kona , and one of the top excursions from Hilo. Hilo is around 29 miles and a 45-minute drive from the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Most volcano tours from Hilo are half-day tours and perfect for Hilo shore excursions for cruise ship passengers. You do not have to worry about rental cars and routes or making it back to Hilo Port in time.

These volcano tours explore all the main sights in Volcanoes Park and other nearby must-see attractions like black sand beach, Hilo waterfalls, and rainforests. Some tours even include a stop at a Kona coffee farm.

If constrained on time, I highly recommend taking a helicopter tour of Voclanoes park from Hilo instead of a road tour.

Below are the best Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tours from Hilo:

1. Volcanoes National Park helicopter tour from Hilo

⭐ Ratings: 5 / 5 | ⏳ Duration: 1 hour | ✅ Book Now

One of the most exceptional ways to witness the magnificent aerial scenery of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, as well as the Big Island’s waterfalls and valleys, is by taking this helicopter tour from Hilo to the volcanoes .

This 1-hour helicopter tour from Hilo airport covers amazing aerial views of the active Kilauea crater and other features of the Volcanoes Park. If there is volcanic activity happening at the time of your visit, you might even get to see lava flow.

Fly over the lush rainforests and valleys of Hilo. See amazing waterfalls and learn about the Island’s history from your pilot.

Highlights of this Volcanoes helicopter tour Hilo:

• Experience the thrill of flying over the active Kilauea volcano in Volcanoes National Park and take in stunning aerial vistas of the Kilauea crater.
• Observing lava flow is possible if there is volcanic activity occurring in Volcanoes Park!
• Enjoy breathtaking views of the Big Island, orchid farms, lush rainforests, valleys, and waterfalls.

What this helicopter tour includes:

Who is this helicopter tour for.

• This tour is ideal for those with limited time in Hilo and Big Island.
• For anyone who wants to experience a helicopter tour and enjoy aerial views of the volcanoes, waterfalls, and valleys, this tour is a perfect choice.
• This tour is great for people who want awesome aerial photos of the volcanoes!

First time on a helicopter and had a very good experience. Debated for weeks on the cost vs experience. Totally worth it! Our pilot had a nice easy vibe and was the kind of person who you would like to hang out with. Looking down from above into the volcano, it’s vents and sink holes was amazing. – MArtin (See more reviews )

➡ Check rates and availability for the Volcanoes National Park helicopter tour from Hilo

2. Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls and Highlights

⭐ Ratings : 4.5 / 5 | ⏳ Duration : 6 hours | ✅ Book Now

This half-day Hilo shore excursion tour with pickup and dropoff from Hilo port is best suited for cruise ship passengers coming into the Hilo port for a day.

The tour also picks up from most Hilo hotels and is great for anyone wanting a tour of the Volcanoes park and Hilo highlights, including inter-island visitors .

This 6-hour tour from Hilo packs a lot, including Volcanes Park, waterfalls, a black sand beach, Hilo downtown, and a local store to purchase home-grown goodies like chocolates, nuts, and coffee.

On this tour, explore the main sights of the Volcanoes park, including the active Kilauea volcano , Thurston lava tube , steam vents, sulfur banks, and scenic viewpoints.

Explore the main highlights of Hilo, like the famous Rainbow Falls and Liliuokalani Gardens , an ornamental Japanese garden.

Pass by Banyan Drive and see some massive banyan trees planted by celebrities, also called the ‘Hilo Walk of Fame.’ Drive by Hilo downtown and see the King Kamehameha Statue.

Visit a black sand beach and spot some Hawaiian green sea turtles ! The black sand is made of tiny lava rock particles and is the coolest thing I have ever seen! Visiting a black sand beach is a must-do thing in Hawaii!!

This tour will also take you to a local goodies store where you can purchase home-grown items like chocolates, macadamia nuts, and local coffee . Makes great gifts and souvenirs!

Highlights of this Hilo Shore excursion volcanoes tour:

• Half-day tour from Hilo to Volcanoes Park, Hilo waterfalls, gardens, and black sand beach
• Visit top sights in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, like Kilauea volcano, Thurston lava tube, steam vents, sulfur banks, scenic viewpoints, and much more.
• Visit a local black sand beach and spot Hawaiian sea turtles!
• See the popular Rainbow Falls and Japanese Liliuokalani Gardens
• Drive by downtown Hilo and Banyan Drive and see massive banyan trees planted by celebrities
• Visit a local goodies store to purchase home-grown chocolates and macadamia nuts and sample home-grown Kona Coffee.

What this tour includes:

Who is this tour for.

• This half-day Volcanoes tour is ideal for cruise ship passengers coming to Hilo Port or anyone wanting a Volcanoes and Hilo highlights tour.
• Visitors looking for value and do not mind a slightly larger group of a maximum of 24 people , best value price-wise.

Our guide was very good, and he allowed just the right amount of time to view everything. Highlight was seeing actual volcanic eruptions, though everything we saw on this excursion was interesting. He got us back to the ship in plenty of time for it’s departure. – Alan (See more reviews )

➡ Check rates and availability for Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls and Highlights

3. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hilo Highlights Small Group Tour

⭐ Ratings : 5 / 5 | ⏳ Duration : 5 and half hours | ✅ Book Now

This half-day tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hilo is perfect for anyone wanting to experience the Volcanoes Park’s top attractions and get in-depth knowledge about the geology and history of the volcanoes.

This half-day Volcanoes tour is perfect for cruise ship passengers coming to the Hilo port as well as visitors coming for a day trip to Hilo from other Hawaiian islands like Oahu and Maui .

A half-day tour ensures that you will not miss your departure flight or cruise departure time.

In Volcanoes Park, you will see the active Kilauea volcano from the Halema’uma’u Crater Overlook and visit the Thurston lava tube , which is really cool and a must-see!

You will also visit other sights like the steam vents and drive on the Chain of Craters Road .

Along with the Volcanoes park, also visit top sights in Hilo like Rainbow Falls and Liliuokalani Gardens.

Rainbow Falls have an impressive 80-foot drop surrounded by lush greenery, and you can sometimes witness a rainbow near the waterfalls!

Liliuokalani Gardens is a beautiful Japanese-style garden with fishponds and native plants.

This tour also stops at a local chocolates and nuts store where you can purchase island-grown chocolates and macadamia nuts and sample delicious Kona coffee !

Yes, Big Island has farms that grow cacao, coffee beans, and macadamia nuts! We had so much fun at a cacao farm, seeing how chocolate is made and sampling some, too!

A small group tour with a maximum of 12 passengers allows for more attention from the guide to answer your questions and a more personalized experience.

Highlights of this Small-group Volcano tour from Hilo:

• Half-day small group tour from Hilo to Volcanoes Park and covers Hilo highlights.
• Visit top sights in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park like Kilauea volcano, Halema’uma’u Crater overlook, Thurston lava tube, steam vents, Chain of Craters road, and much more.
• See the popular Rainbow Falls and Liliuokalani Gardens in Hilo.
• Visit a local store to purchase island-grown chocolates and macadamia nuts and sample home-grown Kona Coffee.
• A professional guide with expert insights about the Big Island Volcanoes’ history and geology will ensure all your questions are answered.
• This half-day Volcanoes tour is ideal for anyone looking to cover the top attractions in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hilo ‘s waterfalls, gardens, and other sights.
• This tour is the best fit for cruise ship passengers coming to Hilo Port and visitors coming for a day trip from other islands like Oahu and Maui .

Having grown up in the area, our guide’s personal experiences brought wonderful insights into what it’s like to live around and experience volcanic events. She also knew the best areas to experience Volcanoes National Park. It was super easy to meet her at the cruise dock and we got back in plenty of time for our departure. – millie (See more reviews )

➡ Check rates and availability for – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hilo Highlights Small Group Tour

4. Evening Volcano Explorer Tour from Hilo

⭐ Ratings : 4.5 / 5 | ⏳ Duration : 6-7 hours | ✅ Book Now

This Evening volcano explorer tour from Hilo starts around 12:30 PM and is 6 to 7 hours long.

This evening tour is ideal if you are planning to spend the night in Hilo as you can visit the Volcanoes Park in the evening and catch a glimpse of sunset and lava glow, depending on volcanic activity in the park.

The tour starts with a drive around downtown Hilo and then travels along the scenic coast to the village of Kalapana which was destroyed by the advancing lava in the 1990s.

Visit the Star of the Sea Painted Church, a national historic place. This church was moved twice to protect it from the lava! Visit the black sand beach in Kalapana.

Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with your certified guide and see the active Kilauea volcano, Kilauea Iki crater overlook , steaming bluffs , and other viewpoints.

Learn about the geology and history of the volcanoes from your National Park Service-certified guide as well as about the flora and fauna in the area. Enjoy a deli picnic-style dinner as part of the tour.

Highlights of this Evening Volcano Explorer Tour:

• 6-7 hour evening tour from Hilo to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Starts around 12:30 PM.
• Explore the Volcanoes Park with a certified guide, covering all the top sights – Kilauea crater, Thurston lava tube, steaming bluffs, and much more.
• Visit the village of Kalapana, destroyed by advancing lava in the 1990s, and the nearby black sand beach.
• The tour includes a couple of short hikes to explore park features
• Visit the Star of the Sea Painted Church, a national historic site.
• This tour includes a deli-style picnic dinner.
• This tour is ideal for anyone who wants an evening tour of the Volcanoes Park from Hilo and a chance to see the lava glow at sunset (depending on the volcanic activity at the time of your visit).

Awesome tour with a great guide. Not only did he explain everything you need to know about volcanoes, but made it interesting and easy to understand with a sense of humor and folklore stories thrown in. – Dorothy (See more reviews )

➡ Check rates and availability for Evening Volcano Explorer Tour from Hilo

5. Private Tour from Hilo to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

⭐ Ratings : 5 / 5 | ⏳ Duration : 6 hours | ✅ Book Now

This private half-day tour of the Volcanoes National Park and other sights in Hilo is ideal for you if you want to be with just your group and have a more customized experience visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

With a private tour, you have the freedom to tailor your itinerary to your preferences, including stopping at cafes and restaurants whenever you choose.

Although the tour provides a recommended itinerary, you can adjust it to suit the requirements of your group and allocate more time to the attractions that interest you!

If you’re traveling with a party of 5-6 people or more, the expense of a private tour would be comparable or lower than that of a group tour! Additionally, your group will receive the guide’s undivided focus and care.

Highlights of this private volcano tour from Hilo:

• A private half-day tour from Hilo just for your group gives a more personalized experience
• Explore Volcanoes Park sights such as the active Kilauea volcano, the epic Halemaumau crater, Thurston lava tube, steam vents, pit craters, and much more.
• You can choose to spend more or all of your time exploring the Volcanoes park or save time for Hilo waterfalls and black sand beach. Customize your itinerary to fit your group’s interests.

What this private volcano tour includes:

Who is this private volcanoes tour for.

• This private tour is ideal for anyone who wants a private customizable tour of Volcanoes National Park and Hilo.
• This private tour is also great for larger groups of 5-6 people or more, as the cost would be comparable to a group tour or even less for larger groups.

Our guide was very knowledgeable, accommodating and extremely welcoming. This was the best tour we have ever taken. – Rhonda (See more reviews )

➡ Check rates and availability for a – Private Tour from Hilo to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

FAQs about Volcano Tours from Hilo

Below are some frequently asked questions about visiting Volcanoes Park from Hilo and Volcano tours on the Big Island of Hawaii.

How can I see the volcano in Hilo?

To see the active Kilauea volcano, you would need to either drive yourself to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or take a tour from Hilo. Going around 30 miles south on Highway 11 from Hilo will bring you to the National Park entrance.

Once inside the park, you can drive to the Kilauea overlook on Crater Rim Drive to see the active Kilauea volcano within the caldera of the Halemaumau crater.

Can you tour a volcano on the Big Island?

To truly experience the wonders of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on Big Island, a volcano tour by road or helicopter is highly recommended. By choosing a knowledgeable guide, you’ll be able to explore the top sights within the park while learning about the geology and history of the volcanoes.

Big Island’s Kilauea and Mauna Loa are the most active volcanoes in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

How much does a volcano tour cost in Hawaii?

A group road tour to the Volcanoes park from Hilo will cost somewhere between $150 and $200, depending on the tour group size.

A volcano helicopter tour from Hilo costs between $300 and $350 per person.

A private volcano tour from Hilo costs between $1200 to $1700 per group of up to 10 guests.

What is the best volcano to visit on the Big Island?

Big Island’s Kilauea volcano is the most active and readily accessible volcano in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This active volcano erupts from the Halemaumau crater, and there are several viewpoints from which you can safely observe the Kilauea activity. One popular option is the overlook at Volcano House.

Is Hilo or Kona closer to the volcano?

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is just a 45-minute car ride away from Hilo, while it takes around 2 to 2.5 hours by car to get there from Kona.

If you’re looking to visit Volcanoes Park, Hilo is a more convenient location than Kona since it’s closer to the park. However, most of the top family resorts in Hawaii are located in Kona, where most people choose to stay.

If you are visiting another Hawaiian Island and are planning to do a Big Island day trip , then flying into Hilo will be a better option as it is closer to the Volcanoes Park.

Is lava visible on the Big Island?

The possibility of witnessing lava in Big Island and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park largely depends on whether there is any ongoing volcanic activity during your visit. Kilauea, the island’s most active volcano, usually erupts within the Halemaumau crater. To check for recent eruptions, it is recommended to visit the NPS website .

There are several overlooks around the Halemaumau crater that offer a glimpse of the volcanic activity. One such spot is the Keanakāko’i Overlook, which can be accessed by taking a short hike from the Devastation trail parking lot. We were able to witness the glowing lava at night from this viewpoint.

Can you walk on a volcano in Hawaii?

Yes, you can walk on the floor of the former lava lake of the Kilauea crater by doing the Kilauea Iki hike in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. I believe this trail is one of the top hikes in both the park and the entire Big Island.

More things to do in Big Island

Add some of these excursions and activities to your Big Island itinerary:

• Snorkeling with the manta ray on the Big Island is a bucket-list activity. Make sure to book one of the snorkeling tours on Big Island .
• Taking a sunset cruise on Big Island was one of our best experiences!

Final takeaways: Best Volcano Tours in Hilo, Hawaii

Visiting the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the most popular shore excursion on your visit to Hilo, Hawaii.

It is also one of the bucket-list experiences in any itinerary for Big Island of Hawaii .

Opting for a Big Island Volcanoes tour from Hilo is the most convenient way to discover the park’s volcanoes, geological wonders, and historical landmarks.

Taking a Hawaii volcano tour also ensures that you do not miss any must-see sights and are back in time for your cruise ship departure or inter-island flight.

Below is a quick summary of the best Hilo Volcano tours perfect for Hilo shore excursion:

• Volcanoes National Park helicopter tour from Hilo – Best helicopter tour from Hilo
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hilo Highlights Small Group Tour – Half-day small group tour (12 passengers), ideal for cruise passengers and for visitors from other Hawaiian Islands like Oahu, Maui
• Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls and Highlights – Half-day tour with a maximum of 24 passengers, covers Volcanoes, waterfall, black sand beach, and store stop to purchase island-grown goodies.
• Evening Volcano Explorer Tour from Hilo – An evening tour of the volcanoes park with a start time around 12:30 PM, includes a visit to Kalapana village and black sand beach. Includes picnic dinner.
• Private Tour from Hilo to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – Private tour just for your group, with a customizable itinerary. Spend more time in Volcanoes Park or add other stops like the black sand beach and Hilo Waterfalls.

Related Posts

Planning a trip to Big Island, Hawaii? Check out my other posts from the Big Island series:

7 Best Kona Snorkel Tours in Big Island of Hawaii

7 Best Kona Sunset Cruises in Big Island of Hawaii

9 Best Resorts on Big Island for Families

BEST one day in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Itinerary

BEST 7 day Big Island itinerary for epic Hawaii vacation

Anu Agarwal is the founder and author of vacation travel blog Destination Checkoff. Anu, a Northern California resident, and a regular nine-to-fiver, loves to vacation with her family to destinations all over the world. She is obsessed with doing endless research for her trips. She has traveled to several destinations in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, and Asia. With her blog, Anu is excited to share her destination itineraries and vacation travel guides and help you check those dream destinations off your bucket list!

Best Hawaii cruise shore excursions

A Hawaii cruise offers a convenient way to island-hop as you experience Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the island of Hawaii from both sea and land — but what exactly should you do while ashore? Choosing a cruise shore excursion in Hawaii can be tough since the 50th State offers a wide range of activities, including snorkeling and whale watching, visits to historic landmarks and sacred Hawaiian sites, and scenic excursions to breathtaking canyons and volcanoes. Foodies, fans of Hollywood blockbusters and thrill-seekers can easily get their fix, too.

With an average of eight to 10 hours on each island — although some cruises do stay overnight in select ports — it's possible to enjoy experiences that not only explore Hawaii's best-known natural, cultural and historic sites but also satisfy your own personal interests.

While shore excursion offerings, itineraries and prices vary by cruise line, here are our overall picks for the best Hawaii cruise shore excursions and what you can expect to pay.

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Prices may vary among third-party sellers, and from cruise line to cruise line. To account for that, we are using the following price key to help you get an idea of the costs to expect for each tour.

• $ = under $70.
• $$ = $70-$140.
• $$$ = $140-$200.
• $$$$ = over $200.

Honolulu, Oahu

Pearl Harbor

Price: $$-$$$

Pearl Harbor, one of Oahu's best-known sights, can be tricky to visit on your own because the historic World War II memorials commemorating the Dec. 7, 1941 bombing by the Japanese are located on an active military base with stringent security protocols. (No bags of any size are allowed and phones and wallets must be carried in a clear plastic bag or in a pocket.) A guided tour will get you into Pearl Harbor in a hassle-free manner and make it easy to visit the multiple sites — the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri battleship, USS Bowfin submarine and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum — with the required reservations already arranged.

Some cruise lines offer multiple Pearl Harbor excursions with variations in the sites visited, so be sure to read tour descriptions carefully. If your cruise begins or ends in Honolulu, Pearl Harbor visits are often offered on embarkation or disembarkation day packaged with a hotel or airport transfer. Other Pearl Harbor shore excursions include a Honolulu city tour that visits Diamond Head Crater and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.

Important to know: Most Pearl Harbor shore excursions last five to seven hours and are appropriate for all ages. There is quite a bit of walking involved and some stair climbing is required to visit the USS Missouri, where the formal surrender ceremony by the Japanese took place on Sept. 2, 1945, ending WWII. The somber USS Arizona Memorial, where 1,177 sailors and civilians died (many of them entombed in the sunken wreck) is reached by a short boat ride.

Related: Shore excursions: What new cruisers need to know

Diamond Head Crater hike

Diamond Head Crater, the photogenic volcanic landmark seen in many images of Waikiki Beach, isn't just amazing to look at — it's also incredible to climb. Active cruisers can take on the challenge during a guided Diamond Head adventure hike to its 763-foot summit. The payoff? Stunning 360-degree views of Waikiki, downtown Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean.

This excursion requires you to ascend a series of moderate but sometimes uneven switchback trails followed by a walk through a narrow 200-foot tunnel. You'll then climb up two sets of steep stairs (76 steps and 99 steps, respectively). Those who choose the more difficult route to the summit will need to climb the 99 steps and an interior spiral staircase to reach the historic lookout bunkers. If you choose the easier route to the summit up the scenic Loop Trail, you'll then descend into the bunker and down the spiral staircase and 99 steps. You can also retrace your steps and descend on the Loop Trail.

Important to know: Book an early morning tour if it's offered, since temperatures escalate quickly by midmorning; wear sneakers and a hat and bring sunscreen and water. The hike is about 1.6 miles roundtrip and takes 60 to 90 minutes depending on the group and the number of people on the trail; total tour time is three to three and a half hours.

Oahu's North Shore tour

If you've visited Honolulu before or simply prefer scenic locales to cities, a good option is a tour that whisks you away from the bustle of downtown Honolulu and Waikiki and through the Ko'oalu Mountains to the immersive beauty of Oahu's North Shore. This lush and dramatic coastline is known for the big waves that pound its beaches from October to March and for its waterfalls, sugarcane fields and historic fish ponds. The region is visually stunning and its small towns offer a chance to sample Hawaiian cuisine, especially garlic shrimp, and shop for locally grown products such as macadamia nuts and pineapples.

Highlights include big-wave surfers riding the famed Banzai Pipeline (during winter months); the Byodo Temple, a Buddhist shrine built amid towering green peaks in 1968 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii; the waterfalls of Waimea Valley; and historic Haleiwa Town.

Important to know: North Shore excursions are typically five to seven hours in length with at least half the time spent on the tour bus. On sailings that end in Honolulu, some cruise lines offer panoramic North Shore tours combined with an airport drop-off (available for those with flights departing after 5:00 p.m.).

Iolani Palace and Hawaiian Monarchs tour

If Hawaii's royal history intrigues you, some cruise lines offer excursions that visit Iolani Palace, the final residence of the islands' kings and queens, and other sites of royal significance. Constructed in 1882, Iolani is the only royal palace in the United States; it was home to King Kalakaua, who built it, and his sister and successor, Queen Liliuokalani, who was imprisoned there after the U.S. annexed Hawaii. A circa-1883 statue of King Kamehameha I, who unified the Hawaiian Islands in 1810, and Kawaiahao Church, completed in 1842, are also nearby in downtown Honolulu.

Other royal sites that might be visited on a more extensive tour include the Pali Lookout, where Kamehameha I conquered the island of Oahu in 1795, and Mauna Ala, the royal mausoleum where six of the last eight Hawaiian monarchs are entombed.

Important to know: Most Iolani Palace and royal-focused shore excursions last about four hours and combine a bus tour with a self-guided audio tour of the palace.

Related: 10 cruise ship excursions to avoid

Kahului, Maui

Haleakala Crater

Price: $$$-$$$$

Experiencing Haleakala Crater is on many Maui visitors' must-do lists and there are several ways to visit the slumbering 10,023-foot-tall volcanic peak that dominates the island's landscape. (Don't worry – it last erupted in 1790.) A few shore excursion options require that your cruise ship overnights in Kahului, the main port, or Lahaina, or has a late sail-away time.

Haleakala means "House of the Sun" and perhaps the most surreal experiences are tours at sunrise or sunset (available on sailings that overnight in Maui). To experience sunrise high above the clouds you'll need to depart the ship before 3:00 a.m. and wind your way up Haleakala's curving roadway in total darkness before watching the sun brighten the horizon and illuminate the vast 3,000-feet-deep crater with its dramatic orange-hued cinder cones. In contrast, a sunset tour lets you survey the crater and then watch as the sun disappears below the clouds and the night sky fills with twinkling stars. If you just want to experience Haleakala's scenic slopes and crater in daylight, panoramic sightseeing tours are also available.

If you're more adventurous, there are also Haleakala downhill biking tours, which transport you by minibus to an elevation of 6,500 feet and let you ride 14 miles down the switchback road on Haleakala's slopes amid the farms of Upcountry. Most bike tours do not offer access to the summit and crater.

Important to know: Haleakala tours typically last four to seven hours. Because of Haleakala's high altitude and volcanic nature, they aren't recommended for anyone with respiratory or heart problems. Temperatures are much cooler (45 to 65 degrees) at the summit, so bring a sweater or jacket.

Road to Hana

Driving Maui's legendary Road to Hana, a narrow, twisting, 52-mile route with more than 600 hairpin curves and 59 one-lane bridges, takes considerable concentration — but a Road to Hana tour on a professionally driven minibus frees everyone in your travel group to relax and enjoy the epic scenery along the way. Most cruise lines offer full-day excursions to Hana, a low-key hamlet located on the island's east coast amid jagged volcanic rocks and black-sand beaches.

Besides the thrill of this one-of-a-kind drive, which takes two to three hours to navigate, a Road to Hana excursion offers a chance to experience Maui's splendid bays and lush landscape of lava pinnacles, tropical fruit trees, giant ferns and rushing waterfalls. Highlights include the black-sand beach at Wai'anapanapa State Park, Pua'a Ka'a State Park and the Seven Sacred Pools of Ohe'o Gulch with its multiple cascades and soothing natural pools.

Important to know: Road to Hana excursions typically take nine to 10 hours, include lunch and aren't recommended for anyone prone to motion sickness. Sites visited vary by cruise line and some tours allow time for swimming.

Molokini Crater snorkel

Maui is home to one of the premier snorkel spots in Hawaii: Molokini, a mostly submerged crescent-shaped volcanic islet located about 2.5 miles off Maui's southern coast. This protected marine conservation site is reached via a scenic catamaran sail, during which guides will outfit you with snorkel gear and provide instructions for exploring these crystal-clear reef waters teeming with colorful sea life. Some excursions also visit Turtle Arches, lava formations known for frequent sea turtle sightings, and during humpback season (December to April), it's also possible to spot whales in the area.

Important to know: Molokini Crater snorkel tours are generally four hours long and all equipment, as well as breakfast, lunch or snacks and beverages, are provided. Water conditions can vary, so if seasickness is a problem, take that into consideration before booking.

Related: Ship-sponsored vs. independent shore excursions on cruises: Which should you book?

Whale watching

If you're cruising Hawaii between December and April and you're fascinated by whales, Maui offers a terrific opportunity to see pods of humpbacks in their winter playground. More than 10,000 of these charismatic giants migrate here annually to mate and give birth. Their activities — tail slaps, breaches and calves swimming alongside their mothers — are all on display as you venture out in a whale-watching boat, or perhaps a more adventurous Zodiac. Most tours are led by naturalist guides, and in some cases a portion of the cost is earmarked for conservation through the Pacific Whale Foundation.

Important to know: Expect to spend about three hours at sea as guides search for whales; sightings, while likely, aren't always guaranteed. Water conditions can also vary and seasickness is a possibility.

Nawiliwili, Kauai

Waimea Canyon tour

Price: $-$$

Nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea Canyon is a 10-mile-long gorge known for the dramatic red and green hues of craggy cliffs that extend up to 3,000 feet below its rim. Located within Waimea Canyon State Park, which now requires reservations for individual visits, this scenic treasure can be viewed from lookout points.

A shore excursion that allows for about 30 minutes of viewing and picture taking is certainly the easiest way to see the canyon from a cruise ship. These tours include lots of scenic touring during the 90-minute drive each way between the cruise terminal and the canyon; many stop at the Spouting Horn blowhole or small towns in Kauai's Koloa district.

But there are caveats, namely that rainy conditions on Kauai, which is Hawaii's wettest island, can fog in the gorge and make for a disappointing outing. Kauai's driest months are April to September.

Important to know: Most Waimea Canyon excursions take four to five hours; some longer Best of Kauai excursions combine a visit to the canyon with a Wailua River cruise to the Fern Grotto.

Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii

Hollywood in Hawaii tour

Fans of "Jurassic Park" probably know that much of the 1993 Steven Spielberg movie was filmed on Kauai — but a number of other big-screen and TV classics were, too. Movie-set tours are popular excursions, especially for film buffs. These tours take place on minibuses or motor coaches outfitted with TV screens, so you can watch snippets of Hollywood movies where they were filmed and, in some places, get out and snap photos yourself.

Besides "Jurassic Park," other movies and TV shows filmed on the island include "Tropic Thunder," "Pirates of the Caribbean," "Six Days and Seven Nights," "Blue Hawaii," "South Pacific," "Donovan's Reef," "Gilligan's Island," "Fantasy Island" and "The Amazing Race."

Important to know: Most movie-set excursions take about five to six hours and primarily involve scenic touring — so even if you haven't seen the movies, it's an entertaining and comfortable way to sightsee Kauai.

Wailua River cruise and Fern Grotto

Price: $$ - $$$

Kauai is home to Hawaii's only navigable river, the Wailua River, which offers access to one of its lushest hidden spots: the Fern Grotto. This excursion combines a relaxing cruise with insights into Hawaiian culture and entertainment in the form of Hawaiian song and dance. The tourist boats that navigate this peaceful river through Wailua River State Park are run by a local family with members providing commentary.

Access to the Fern Grotto, a natural lava-rock cave covered with lush tropical vines, requires a 10-minute walk along a mostly flat, paved and shaded path. Upon arrival at the Fern Grotto, photo ops and additional entertainment await. Wailua River cruise tours also generally stop for picture-taking at Opaeka'a Falls, a 151-foot cascade that plunges into a secluded pool.

Important to know: Most Wailua River and Fern Grotto excursions are three to four hours long. Tours that combine those sights with a tour of Waimea Canyon last about seven hours and include lunch.

 Hilo, Hawaii

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

While Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, one of Hawaii's most popular tourist attractions, is accessible from both cruise ports on the island of Hawaii, it's a quicker trip (about 30 to 35 minutes' drive each way) from Hilo. Most cruise lines offer excursions, but almost all of them are just a basic introduction that only touches on what this 505-square-mile national park has to offer.

The main activity involves visiting several viewpoints and steam vents on the rim of Kilauea Crater with a guide who offers commentary on this active volcano's history, geology and current status. It's unlikely you'll see molten lava, and most tours do not drive out along the famous Chain of Craters Road. Some tours, however, do include a walk through the 500-year-old Thurston Lava Tube.

Other longer and more costly excursions of up to seven hours combine a visit to the national park with a helicopter flight-seeing tour and/or stops at various waterfalls or gardens near Hilo.

Important to know: Standard Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tours are about four hours long, and many also make a stop at the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center for tastings and shopping. The walk to the rim of the Kilauea crater is mostly on gravel or dirt pathways, but some areas overlooking the crater have potential trip hazards. Also, because the crater emits volcanic gases, these tours aren't advised for people with respiratory issues.

Hilo waterfalls and gardens

Hilo's location on the island of Hawaii's lush leeward side makes it a mecca for cascading waterfalls and verdant gardens. Cruise ship excursions that visit several falls or combine a visit to a single waterfall with a stop at a botanical garden, tropical zoo or orchid farm are popular.

The two major falls near Hilo are the 100-foot Rainbow Falls, which earned its name from the prismatic effect that takes place on sunny mornings, and the powerful Akaka Falls, which is reached via a walk through a tropical forest and tumbles a breathtaking 442 feet. Other tour stops could include Hilo's Liliuokalani Gardens (the largest Japanese garden outside of Japan), the Nani Mau Gardens or the Pana'ewa Rainforest Gardens and Zoo.

Important to know: Waterfalls and gardens shore excursions vary in length from four to seven hours, and participants should expect to be on their feet for a good portion of the tour. Rainbow Falls is easily accessible from the parking lot. To see Akaka Falls, you must navigate quite a few steps and walk a half-mile circular path.

Related: Avoid these 10 mistakes when booking cruise shore excursions

Volcano Winery

The island of Hawaii is home to Volcano Winery, the southernmost winery in the U.S. If sipping vino is a favorite pastime — and you have a curious palate — an excursion here could be a relaxing way to spend a few hours. Volcano Winery, which is family-owned and located at an elevation of 4,000 feet, specializes in tropical blends by mixing distinctive local fruits such as yellow guava and even tea and honey with grape varietals that include Pinot Noir and Cayuga to produce uniquely flavored wines. It also produces some 100% grape wines.

Important to know: Excursions to Volcano Winery are generally three hours long and include a tour of the winery and a tasting.

Kona, Hawaii

Kona Coast snorkel

For passengers who didn't get a chance to snorkel in Maui, the waters just off Kona's rugged lava coast offer another excellent opportunity to spy on Mother Nature's underwater handiwork. Most cruise lines offer a snorkel excursion by catamaran that will allow even novices to don a mask and fins and behold the intricate coral and dazzling reef fish that call the area's tranquil bays and coves home. Dolphin spotting is also possible.

A more adventurous option is a snorkel tour by Zodiac, which combines the thrill of zipping around in a 24-foot motorized raft with enjoying up-close views of coastal caves and lava tubes — and some snorkel time, of course.

Important to know: Most catamaran snorkel excursions are appropriate for all ages, last about four hours and include either breakfast or lunch; all equipment, including flotation aids, is provided and some catamarans are equipped with a diving board and waterslide for added fun. Zodiac excursions are more physically demanding and are not recommended if you have back or neck problems; you also need to be able to climb back into the raft via a small four-rung ladder.

Atlantis Submarine

Price: $$-$$$$

If you've never been in a submarine, Kona offers a chance to see the area's abundant sea life as you venture 100 feet below the surface of the Kona coast's crystal-clear waters. The Atlantis Submarine (also operating on Maui and Oahu) is U.S. Coast Guard-certified, fully air-conditioned and offers individual viewing portholes.

Important to know: Atlantis Submarine excursions last about one and a half hours and are not recommended for anyone prone to claustrophobia or motion sickness; you must be at least 3 feet tall and able to climb a vertical 12-step ladder into and out of the submarine. Excursion costs vary widely from cruise line to cruise line.

Kona coffee tour

Kona is famous for the coffee that grows in its rich volcanic soil, so if you want to taste a cup of Joe right at the source, this port is the place to do it. Cruise lines offer a variety of coffee-themed excursions; some are geared to education about the farming and production process while others focus more on sampling the goods and buying souvenirs to take home.

Some foodie-focused tours combine coffee sipping with locally grown chocolate tastings and visits to Kona-based breweries, while other full-day excursions pair a visit to a coffee farm with a cloud forest tour or a tour of Kona's top historic sights and a snorkel in Kealakekua Bay.

Important info: Kona coffee excursions are mostly three to four hours long. However, costs vary widely depending on the type of excursion, from a simple tasting room visit to a farm-based roasting experience.

Place of Refuge and Painted Church

History buffs will find plenty to love on this guided bus excursion, which visits cultural and religious sites along the Kona Coast. Three key locations are on the itinerary, the first being Kealakekua Bay, where legendary Captain Cook met his demise at the hands of local Hawaiians in 1778 and is memorialized in a monument.

Nearby is the second stop: St. Benedict's Painted Church. While the outside of this small Catholic church built in 1899 looks traditional, the inside dazzles with the artwork of Father John Velghe, a Belgian priest who drew the murals in an effort to teach local Hawaiians how to read.

The third is Pu'uhonua O Honaunau, which means "Place of Refuge at Honaunau." Built in 1650 and carefully restored, this cultural site is an ancient Hawaiian religious sanctuary where the bones of Hawaiian chiefs were once stored. It later became a place of refuge for defeated warriors.

Important to know: Place of Refuge and Painted Church excursions are typically three to four hours long and involve a minimal amount of walking.

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Hilo (Hawaii Island)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Hawaii - Mexico - Panama Canal

Local Time 2024-05-02 14:01

Port Hilo cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Hilo, Hawaii Island. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Hilo is a port town and the largest settlement on Hawaii island (aka Big Island), with population around 45,000. The town overlooks Hilo Bay, located upon two shield volcanoes: Mauna Kea (dormant) and Mauna Loa (active). The majority of town's infrastructure stretches from Hilo Bay to Waiakea-Uka.

The city is served by Hilo International Airport. Regularly scheduled flights are operated by both Hawaiian Airlines and United Airlines.

Near Hilo (at Keaau) is the seed processing plant of the US corporation "Mauna Loa" - the world's leading producer of macadamia nuts. The company is owned by Hawaiian Host Inc. The first macadamia plantation on the island was planted in 1946, and its first crop was harvested in 1956. The plant's visitors center is one of the island's main tourist attractions. The processing plant tour is self-guided. The equipment is viewed from a walkway on the 2nd floor. There is a gift shop, also selling fresh-made macadamia ice cream.

Hilo is Hawaii's oldest city and has a well developed tourism industry. Among the city's best known tourist attractions are tsunami museum (featuring banyan trees planted by famous celebrities), Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens, large shopping centers, numerous restaurants and cafes, movie theaters, hotels, picturesque downtown (with the Farmers Market).

Hilo cruise terminal

Cruise ships in Hilo Hawaii dock at a terminal facility located approx 3 km (2 ml) from the town's center. The route between the cruise ship terminal and downtow is walkable, but part of it is through the town's industrial zone. Passengers are usually greeted by locals performing live traditional music and dancing.

Ouside the cruise port's main entrance, there is a bus stop serving the island's Hele On Bus (marked as "Keaukaha"). This bus line goes to Mooheau Bus Station (downtown's last stop). Hele On Bus don't run on Sundays.

At the cruise terminal there are also taxis (to downtown Hilo) and free (sponsored by Walmart) shuttle bus service between the terminal and the Walmart store.

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Hilo, Hawaii Shore Excursions

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Experience Breathtaking Beauty on Hilo Shore Excursions

When cruising the Hawaiian Islands , a port of call on the Big Island of Hawaii offers Hilo shore excursions that range from interactive volcano explorations and walks in seriously gorgeous tropical gardens to breathtaking waterfall tours and spectacular zipline adventures in a rainforest setting.

When you feel the need for speed, sign up for one of the Hilo shore excursions that will show you Hawaii’s stunning beauty from both up-high and down-low perspectives. For an up-high perspective, soar over waterfalls, river gorges, and rainforests on state-of-the-art ziplines for over two miles. Cool off with a refreshing swim in a waterfall pool, then get ready for the down-low as you explore, flashlight in hand, the natural caves created by layers of ancient solidified lava.

If you can’t get enough of Hawaii’s exquisite tropical flora and fauna, book Hilo cruise excursions to the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. Widely recognized as the most beautiful area in Hawaii, it’s also the only botanical garden in the world that’s situated on an ocean. From your cruise to Hilo , wander serenely through the Japanese Gardens, spend time admiring the waterfalls, and visit the colorful macaws in the bird house.

Make lifetime memories on a Hawaiian shore excursion to Rainbow Falls for a breathtaking look at a waterfall nestled in the pristine rainforest. When the sun shines on the falls, you’ll see a huge rainbow that forms in the mist that makes for the perfect frame-worthy photo op.

Hilo shore excursions offer several ways to see the Big Island’s volcanoes, and each is special and spectacular. Enjoy a four-mile nature hike that takes you to Akaka Falls, one of Hawaii’s most impressive waterfalls, then to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Jaggar Museum for an in-depth look at how volcanoes work, then explore the Thurston Lava Tube.

There’s no shortage of Hilo shore excursions to excite and delight the culinary senses. Savor magnificent views while sipping fine local wines and hearing stories of Hawaiian history and culture on a visit to Volcano House. Located at the summit of Kilauea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the hotel dates back to the 1850s and has the distinction of being the only hotel in Volcanoes National Park.

Set off on a guided tour of Mauna Loa to see how macadamia nuts, one of Hawaii’s main exports, are grown, harvested, and processed. Tour the Volcano Winery, located 4,000 feet above sea level. Taste local wines, including specialty tea wines and wine blends made from grapes and local fruits.

Learn More About Celebrity Cruises Shore Excursions

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The 8 best Hawaii cruises in 2024 and 2025

C ruising the Hawaiian Islands offers U.S. travelers an immersive South Pacific escape with all the comforts of home. In fact, the Aloha State is in many ways an ideal cruise destination. It has year-round sunny weather, four main islands featuring varied topographies — including sandy beaches, cascading waterfalls, volcanic mountains and vibrant green valleys — and a wide array of land- and water-based activities.

The main caveat? Hawaii cruise options are somewhat limited — just a fraction of what's available in the Caribbean — and many itineraries involve multiday crossings from the West Coast. Only one cruise line offers Hawaii itineraries throughout the year; most others visit during specific months or when repositioning ships in spring and fall.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Looking for the Hawaiian Islands sailing that's right for you? Here's a look at the eight best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler.

Norwegian Cruise Line's 7-night Inter-island Hawaii

For travelers who want more aloha time than the typical eight-hour port call allows, Norwegian Cruise Line has a solution. Its 2,186-passenger Pride of America lets vacationers sample four Hawaiian islands over seven days, with overnights in Maui and Kauai, plus port calls on both Hilo and Kona on the island of Hawaii. In total, this itinerary offers nearly 100 hours of shore time.

Pride of America sails round-trip from Honolulu every Saturday year-round. As a U.S.-flagged ship, it's the only large vessel permitted to sail this way. Not only do you skip the long Pacific crossing that most cruise ships do to reach Hawaii, but passports are not required for U.S. citizens, and you can tack on pre- or post-cruise stays on Oahu.

The overnights on Maui and Kauai also mean it's possible to try several of Hawaii's signature experiences that most port calls don't allow. Passengers can catch dusk or dawn from atop Maui's massive 10,023-foot dormant volcano with sunrise and sunset excursions to the Haleakala Crater. And with the ship in port all night on Kauai, guests who want to enjoy traditional Hawaiian cuisine, music and hula performances can book the Luau Kalamaku for a fun evening out.

Pride of America, which has been cruising Hawaii since 2005, doesn't have the onboard thrills (race track, virtual-reality gaming, waterslides) of Norwegian's newer ships , but that's okay because the islands, not the ship, are your main destination. Its American-themed decor celebrates U.S. cities in a vibrant, and at times, kitschy way, but a 2021 refurbishment left its cabins and public spaces feeling refreshed.

Many of Norwegian's specialty dining venues (which incur a surcharge) are on board, including Cagney's Steakhouse, Le Bistro (here, it's Jefferson's Bistro), Moderno Churrascaria and Teppanyaki.

Who should go: Anyone seeking a convenient way to island-hop — and see a lot of Hawaii — by making the most of the generous shore time with a combination of independent exploration and shore excursions. Most sailings attract couples ages 50 and older, although summer and holiday sailings have plenty of families on board.

Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii

UnCruise Adventures' 7-night Hawaiian Seascapes

Cruisers seeking a less traditional, more carefree Hawaii experience can have it from November to April aboard UnCruise Adventures ' 36-passenger Safari Explorer. The seven-night Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary, which begins either on Molokai or the island of Hawaii, is an unconventional one designed for those who enjoy going off the beaten path in an intimate and more authentic setting. U.S. passports aren't required to sail.

UnCruise visits four islands — Maui and Lanai plus Molokai and Hawaii — and focuses on not only their striking landscapes and underwater beauty but also the cultural traditions, cuisine and music of the Hawaiian people. On Molokai, where there's not a single traffic light and the lifestyle is slow-paced, passengers get a chance to "talk story" with locals and enjoy a pa'ina (feast) and evening jam session. Lanai activities range from snorkel, paddleboard and kayak excursions to off-road adventures exploring the privately owned island's dramatic sea cliffs, red rock formations and vast fields once filled with Dole pineapples.

Most UnCruise sailings are during Maui's humpback whale season, so sightings while cruising off the coast of Maui are possible. You might also catch glimpses of dolphins and sea turtles. A "Captain's Choice" day is a wild card determined by the weather, marine life in the area and other factors, while the final two days are spent exploring the Big Island of Hawaii — including a hike up Hualalai volcano and a skiff ride along the rugged coast.

Constructed in 1998, Safari Explorer was designed with adventure itineraries in mind (in summer the U.S.-flagged ship repositions to Alaska). Its size allows it to navigate areas larger ships can't reach, which in Hawaii means bays and coves ideal for snorkeling or watersports.

With such a small number of passengers aboard, guests get to know each other — and Safari Explorer's friendly and knowledgeable crew — quite well. Passengers come together over meals featuring locally sourced ingredients, and as all UnCruise fares include unlimited wines, spirits and microbrews, shipmates can raise a glass without worrying who's buying a round. It all lends itself to an exclusive yet utterly relaxed week of cruising.

Who should go: The ship's laid-back onboard vibe paired with its land- and water-based activities make the Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary ideal for active travelers seeking a nature-focused itinerary — although cruise fares (which start around $5,900 per person) are among the priciest for a Hawaii cruise.

Related: Why it's easier to meet new people on a smaller cruise ship

Holland America's 17-night Circle Hawaii

Travelers who have more than two weeks to spare and who prefer to arrive in Hawaii via ship rather than an airplane can do so on Holland America 's 17-night Circle Hawaii itinerary. They'd better also love sea days because crossing the Pacific from San Diego or Vancouver to Honolulu and back requires 10 days.

That means passengers enjoy five or six days in Hawaii on Kauai, Oahu, Maui and the island of Hawaii. Some itineraries stay in select ports overnight. Cruises departing from San Diego also call on Ensenada, Mexico. With either departure port, passports will be required.

The itinerary is offered in 2024 and 2025 on the 2,650-passenger Koningsdam and 1,432-passenger Zaandam.

Travelers with more time on their hands can also visit Hawaii as part of longer Pacific island cruises with Holland America. Koningsdam will sail a 35-night Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas itinerary in 2025 that combines visits to four Hawaiian islands with calls on five islands in French Polynesia and Fanning Island, Kiribati (and 20 sea days).

Related: Holland America unveils epic cruise to Hawaii and Alaska for 2025

Zaandam will also sail 51- to 56-night Tales of the South Pacific itineraries that visit multiple islands in Hawaii and French Polynesia along with ports in the Cook Islands, American Samoa and Fiji.

Holland America is popular with cruisers ages 60 and older, many of them retired, who have time to enjoy longer itineraries on ships that offer good value with a focus on culinary and musical enjoyment. Two of Koningsdam's most popular venues are its live entertainment area with three venues — B.B. King's Blues Club (for Memphis-style rhythm and blues), Billboard Onboard (for chart-topping hits played by a live pianist) and Rolling Stone Rock Room (for a live band playing classic rock), and World Stage, a theater with a 270-degree screen used for both special BBC Earth in Concert and theatrical productions.

Onboard specialty dining options (at an added cost) include Pinnacle Grill for steaks and seafood, Tamarind for Pan-Asian cuisine and Rudi's Sel de Mer for French Brasserie specialties and seafood.

Who should go: Mature travelers who prefer not to fly and who enjoy a more traditional cruise experience. They should also love sea days as much (or even more so) than port exploration.

Related: 16 mistakes cruisers make on cruise ship sea days

Princess Cruises' 15- or 16-night Hawaiian Islands

Princess Cruises is also a good option for longer sailings. The cruise line offers numerous round-trip itineraries to Hawaii from Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego in the fall and winter.

The majority of sailings are aboard the 3,080-passenger Crown Princess and Ruby Princess from San Francisco, and the 2,600-passenger Grand Princess and 3,080-passenger Emerald Princess from Los Angeles.

Ships are in port for nine to 11 hours in Hawaii (Hilo), Kauai and Maui and for 16 hours in Oahu. Itineraries include a stop in Ensenada, Mexico (so passports are required), plus nine or 10 sea days.

The ships feature many of Princess' popular dining venues, including Alfredo's Pizzeria (a sit-down venue serving personal-size pizzas), Crown Grill for steaks and Sabatini's Italian Trattoria. There's plenty of outdoor space for soaking up the sun — including an adults-only sun deck — and a dazzling Piazza for enjoying cocktails, gelato and pop-up street performers.

Fans of Princess' Movies Under the Stars poolside screenings (with free popcorn) and Discovery at SEA enrichment programming will have ample time to enjoy these perks on a Hawaii sailing.

Who should go: These sailings will appeal to couples or groups of friends who prefer to have a wide choice of sailing dates, can take the time to enjoy a leisurely Pacific crossing and appreciate Princess' focus on quality cuisine and a sun deck designed for relaxation rather than thrills.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise shore excursions

Celebrity's 9- to 12-night Hawaii Cruise

Travelers seeking modern interior decor on a ship designed with couples in mind can visit Hawaii aboard Celebrity Cruises ' 2,852-passenger Celebrity Solstice or 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge on itineraries ranging from nine to 13 nights — but only if the timing is right. That's because the line offers only two sailings per ship each year (in spring and fall) as the ships reposition between Alaska and destinations in the Pacific. The itineraries are one-way (Vancouver to Honolulu or vice versa) with passports required.

These cruises call on three ports on two islands: Honolulu (Oahu) and Hilo and Kona (Hawaii), with one or two overnights in port and 10 hours ashore on one-day visits. All include five days in a row at sea. Since the itineraries either begin or end in Honolulu, there's also a chance for some pre- or post-cruise exploration.

Sea days offer opportunities to enjoy the chic, grown-up ambience and amenities aboard these ships. Each vessel offers multiple complimentary and extra-fee specialty restaurants. Celebrity Solstice features Tuscan Grille for Italian specialties and steak and Murano for modern French cuisine, while Celebrity Edge offers the whimsical Le Petit Chef and the international Eden Restaurant.

Celebrity's signature Martini Bar and many other onboard watering holes keep the grown-up vibe going day and night. Choose cruise fares that include alcohol and Wi-Fi, or pay a lower rate and pay for your drinks as you go.

Who should go: The slightly shorter one-way sailings and the ships' contemporary ambience make these itineraries ideal for couples and groups of friends seeking a relaxing escape — especially Gen Xers in their 40s and 50s, who are Celebrity's target market.

Related: 6 national parks you can reach by cruise ship (and 2 are in Hawaii)

Carnival's 14- or 15-night Hawaii from Los Angeles

If fun is your cruise mantra, the "Fun Ship" brand Carnival Cruise Line offers a handful of round-trip sailings to Hawaii from Los Angeles (Long Beach) aboard the 2,984-passenger Carnival Radiance. Like other roundtrips from the West Coast, these itineraries spend just five days in Hawaii, offering eight to 14 hours of shore time in ports on four islands: Maui, Kauai, Oahu and Hawaii. Along with enjoying eight sea days, guests will also call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Carnival Radiance first sailed under that name in 2021, but it's not a new ship. Before an epic makeover, it sailed for the cruise line as Carnival Victory. Ship features include many of Carnival's signature complimentary and extra-fee dining venues, including Guy's Burger Joint and Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, BlueIguana Cantina, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and Bonsai Sushi Express.

Additional guest favorite destinations on board include the RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar and WaterWorks aquapark. Expect high-voltage theater shows from Playlist Productions at night and poolside interactive contests by day.

Who should go: Socially inclined cruisers who love Carnival's emphasis on onboard fun and can appreciate a colorful ship with a lively ambience and lots of day and evening activities.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise tips for getting the most from your island-hopping trip

Royal Caribbean's 9- to 13-night Hawaii Cruises

A megaship cruise experience to Hawaii is available, too — with pricing that's quite affordable. Royal Caribbean cruises there on two vessels in one of its newer classes of ships: the 4,180-passenger Quantum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas.

All are one-way cruises just before or after the Alaska cruise season (so late April or early October) between Oahu and Vancouver (or vice versa). The ships call on two Hawaiian islands and spend four or five days in a row at sea. Passports are required since these itineraries begin or end in Vancouver.

Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas feature a mix of thrills for all ages. These include RipCord by iFly simulated sky diving, FlowRider simulated surfing, bumper car racing in the SeaPlex indoor activity complex and the North Star sightseeing capsule, which ascends 300 feet above the top deck for 360-degree views.

Both ships also offer 14 dining venues, including the innovative Wonderland, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and kid-favorite Dog House, as well as bar options that include Schooner Bar for by-request piano tunes, Boleros for mojitos and merengue and Bionic Bar for drinks poured by robotic bartenders. Entertainment includes live cover bands in the Music Hall and multimedia music and dance performances in Two70.

Who should go: Cruisers who love a big ship with a wide array of dining choices, all kinds of evening entertainment and plenty of exciting activities to pass the time on sea days. Quantum-class ships are great for families, but the sail dates might not work for those with school-age kids.

Related: Do you need a passport for a cruise?

Viking's 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn

For a guaranteed adults-only sailing in a relaxed, boutique-style setting, upscale cruise line Viking also offers round-trip Hawaii cruises from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 on its 930-passenger Viking Neptune.

What sets Viking apart from most of the other lines offering Hawaii cruises is that it includes a free shore excursion in every port. These include a highlights tour of Honolulu and Pearl Harbor on Oahu and a visit to a scenic waterfall and the Kilohana sugar plantation on Kauai. Additional excursions can be booked at an extra charge.

The 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn sailings visit four islands — Hawaii (Hilo), Oahu, Kauai and Maui — and like other round-trip sailings from the West Coast include 10 sea days and a call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Viking Neptune will also do 32-night Grand Hawaii and Polynesia sailings round-trip from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 that visit four islands in Hawaii and four in French Polynesia.

The ship, which debuted in 2022, features sleek Scandinavian-inspired decor, a soothing spa with a complimentary thermal area, an aft infinity pool and hot tub, a panoramic Explorer's Lounge and five onboard restaurants. Specialty restaurant Manfredi's serves an extensive menu of Italian specialties, while The Chef's Table offers rotating five-course themed menus, including Asian, French and California-inspired.

In addition to the free shore excursions, pricing includes complimentary wine or beer with lunch and dinner, specialty dining at no extra charge, crew gratuities and transfers.

Who should go: Couples who prefer the quieter ambience of a ship that doesn't allow anyone under 18 onboard, doesn't have a casino and offers presentations by regional experts that enhance immersion into local culture. Viking cruisers are generally over age 55.

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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.