Big Island · PUNALU'U BLACK & GREEN SAND BEACHES
15 reviewed
The island’s strangest beaches are jet-black lava sand and, further south, a cove of olive-green olivine. These tours reach them the easy way: where the honu sea turtles bask, how far the green-sand hike runs, what each day costs, and which fold the beaches into a wider south-shore loop.
Volcanoes National Park, lava tubes, black sand turtles, and Hilo stops on a 6-hour Big Island shore excursion with included fees.
“This was a good tour. Boarding for the tour was unorganized and resulted in delays in beginning the tour.”
Hilo shore excursion to lava caves, black sand beaches, and Kilauea’s damage zones, with pickup and expert guide stories for a 6-hour day.
“Ellen was a phenomenal tour guide! I loved all the stops we made, specially the cave & waterfall. If you are going to explore the cave, I definitely recommend that you bring sneakers so you can explore as the rocks are slippery.”
Guided snorkel in Hilo’s sea turtle lagoon and black sand coast with two stops, gear, snacks, and small-group chances to see turtles.
“We loved seeing the sea turtles, and the huge variety of fish! It was a cloudy, rainy day, so we didn't know what to expect. Once we were in the water, it didn't matter at all! Don't let rain discourage you -- you'll still have a great experience in a protected area with a knowledgeable guide.”
Small-group Big Island circle with hotel pickup, national park time, Hilo lunch, Waipio lookout, Rainbow Falls, and Punalu’u black sand.
“The tour company(Hawaii Outdoor Guides) failed to show up for our scheduled 6:30 pickup. No call from the tour company at all. We waited from 6:15 til almost 8:00 am and no call. I left a message with Hawaii Outdoor Guides and did Read more”
Shore snorkeling in Hilo’s black sand lagoons with a trained guide, gear, snacks, and two stops for sea turtles.
“Devin was an awesome tour guide, super laid back and made us feel like a friend was showing us around and didn’t seem annoyed like some guides can sometimes. Our group was small and all pretty competent so that probably helped”
Big Island in 11 hours: Kona coffee farm, malasadas and black sand turtles, Volcano Winery lunch, Hawaii Volcanoes Park lava tube, Rainbow Falls.
“This was the most amazing tour. I loved every moment of it, but I think one of the reasons it was so good was our driver/guide Kawika. His knowledge of the history of Hawaii, the geology of the big island, Hawaiian folklore and big island plant & bird life was outstanding and I learnt so many amazing and interesting facts. I cannot recommend this tour highly enough. Simply fantastic.”
Hilo half-day tour to Kilauea, Nahuku lava tube, Rainbow Falls, and Punalu'u black sand beach with turtles, plus lunch.
“This tour was amazing! Honestly ruined my expectations for any other tour in Hawaii. Definitely a highlight of the islands between the views, the information, the lunch, and the props. Every moment was great including the rides and history. Would do it again and I hope they expand to other areas so I can use them again!!!”
Native Hawaiian-guided Big Island day with Volcanoes National Park, Hilo highlights, black sand turtles, and lava tube sights in a comfy small group.
“Justin made the whole experience so worthwhile. It was lovely to see so many sights in such a short space of time. The trip was child friendly. Wonderfully organised and lots to see and do. I would recommend this one to all families coming to visit Hilo”
See Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, key Kīlauea viewpoints, and Hilo’s highlights in one smooth 7–8 hour tour with meals, pickup, and admissions.
“This tour was great. Steven was a great host and gave us great information about all the stops. He also gave us lunch and waters. This was beautiful scenery! I would definitely recommend!”
Ride CF Moto ATVs through Hale Koa and ancient Kiawe forests to green sand trails and ocean cliffs for turtle viewing.
“We had a great time. Friendly host/guide who brought us to see turtles as well as a private green sand beach.”
Hilo day tour: Kīlauea views, lava tube walk, Rainbow Falls, Punalu’u turtles, Edo-style gardens, and lunch included.
“I enjoyed this tour so much. Both of our guides were so knowledgeable about the Island. We were shown slides while driving so I really felt like I learned allot of new things about the Island of Hawaii. The food was wonderful as well. I highly recommend this tour.”
Private Hilo tour with banyan history, black sand turtles, a lava tube walk, and Kīlauea highlights, guided by Adam. Entrance fees extra.
“Adam was fantastic! We booked this excursion for our group of 12 during our recent visit to Hilo, and it ended up being the highlight of our trip. Our group had been closely watching the activity on the live cameras for a potential eruption of Mt. Kilauea, and when we saw lava flowing, we headed straight for Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Thanks to Adam’s quick planning and expert guidance, we were lucky enough to witness Mt. Kilauea fountaining in person—an absolutely breathtaking sight. His dedication to making sure we didn’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime moment was truly appreciated. Highly recommend this tour and Adam’s outstanding service!”
Private 12-hour Big Island tour combining Volcanoes NP, Chain of Craters Road, Thurston Lava Tube, Punalu'u black sand beaches, meals, and gear.
“Excellent private tour; the guide knows almost everything about volcanoes and takes you to the right spots! Very comfortable SUV.”
Kona cruise excursion with Hapuna Beach time, Macadamia tastings, culture stops, and an optional Kona Brewing drop-off in about 5 hours.
“The best part of the excursion was Adam, the tour guide. He was very personable and quite knowledgeable about the area. He did everything in his power to give us a great trip. I would highly recommend him.”
A private Big Island day pairing Hapuna Beach, Hawi, Pololu Valley, and Kohala Coast stories with included beach gear and flexible timing.
“Lovely day visiting several beaches. On one beach we saw many, many turtles. Hapuna Beach was the best by far. Arrange your time to spend the most time there. Derrick was dependable and accommodating. The day was ours to plan. The van was amazing and comfortable. The equipment was new and well maintained. I would definitely book this tour again.”
