Hilo: Volcano Safari, Lava Caves & Black Sand Beach Tour

Summary

Hilo’s wild volcano caves, waterfalls and the newest black sand beach

You’ll feel Hawaii’s volcanic heart as you step into real lava caves near Hilo with a local guide, wander peaceful Japanese gardens, witness Rainbow Falls’ misty colors, walk on brand-new black sand beaches formed by Kilauea’s eruption—and share stories over lunch in a quirky town touched by lava flows.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember stepping out of the van in Hilo and thinking, “Wait, is that steam?” Our guide, Kaleo, just grinned and pointed out how the ground still holds warmth from Kilauea. The air smelled faintly metallic—like rain on hot rocks—and there was this sticky sweetness from the flowers everywhere. We started at Liliʻuokalani Gardens, which felt oddly peaceful after the bustle of the port. I tried to pronounce it right; Kaleo didn’t correct me but did chuckle a little. The stone lanterns and red bridges made me think of old postcards my grandma used to send.

Driving through downtown Hilo, Kaleo told us about past tsunamis—his uncle’s store was apparently swept away in one. It made Rainbow Falls hit differently; you could hear the water before you saw it, and when we finally did, there was this faint rainbow hovering in the mist. Everyone got quiet for a second. Then came Kaumana Caves State Park. I hesitated at those steep steps down into the lava tube (my knees aren’t what they used to be), but once inside… it felt like stepping into another world. Cool air, walls streaked with rusty colors—Kaleo explained how Mauna Loa carved all this out ages ago. My shoes got muddy but honestly, worth it.

We rolled through Pahoa next—a town that looks like time forgot it but in a good way. Old wooden boardwalks, someone playing ukulele on a stoop. Seeing where the 2018 lava flow nearly wiped everything out was sobering; black rock just swallowing roads and yards. Lunch was at a local deli (I had something called loco moco—messy but tasty), then we walked among these strange lava trees that looked almost like sculptures left behind by fire. And then, finally, that new black sand beach—still warm underfoot from not-so-long-ago eruptions. No swimming allowed here (the waves are rough), but I pocketed a tiny stone anyway.

I didn’t expect to feel so small standing where land is still changing under your feet. It’s not always pretty—sometimes it’s raw or even a little sad—but I keep thinking about that hush at Rainbow Falls and how everyone seemed to breathe slower for a minute. So yeah… if you want to see Hawaii’s wild side up close—with someone who actually grew up here—this Hilo volcano safari is probably for you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Hilo and Kilauea Volcano sights

• Pass by Liliʻuokalani Gardens
• Drive through downtown Hilo
• Visit Rainbow Falls waterfall
• Explore Kaumana lava caves
• Drive through Pahoa town
• Walk among lava trees and fissure
• Visit newest black sand beach
• See Kilauea volcano destruction sites
• Stop for local deli lunch

Top questions

How long does the Hilo volcano safari tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 6 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Is port or hotel pickup included for cruise ship guests?

Yes, there is direct pickup from Hilo port or your hotel with special permits for cruise passengers.

What sites are visited during this day trip from Hilo?

You’ll visit Liliʻuokalani Gardens, Rainbow Falls, Kaumana Caves State Park (lava tubes), Pahoa town, lava trees trail, areas impacted by recent eruptions, and Hawaii’s newest black sand beach.

Is lunch included in the tour price?

No, lunch is not included but there is a stop at a local deli or vendor where you can purchase food.

Are there any physical requirements for this tour?

You should be able to walk over uneven terrain and steep steps; not recommended for those with mobility issues or poor health.

Can I skip entering the lava cave if I’m uncomfortable?

Yes—you don’t have to go into the lava tube if you prefer not to; it’s optional.

Does this tour operate in all weather conditions?

Yes—the tour runs rain or shine; bring a light rain jacket or poncho just in case.

Will I get back to my cruise ship on time?

The schedule is adjusted to fit your ship’s arrival and departure times; timely return is guaranteed.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup directly from Hilo port or your hotel (with permits for cruise guests), bottled water throughout the journey, entry to sites like Kaumana Caves State Park and Liliʻuokalani Gardens, plus an unhurried lunch stop at a local deli or vendor before returning you safely back to your starting point.