Stepping off the plane in Kona, the group is greeted by the warm, fragrant air of the Kona coffee belt. As they make their way to the first stop, the Punalu’u sweet bread bakery, the anticipation builds. What delights await them in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park? With the awe-inspiring Kilauea volcano and the mesmerizing Thurston lava tube, this 12-hour adventure promises to be a journey unlike any other. The day is still young, and the true wonders of this volcanic landscape are yet to unfold.
Good To Know
- This 12-hour tour includes round-trip airfare from Kahului to Kona and admission to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
- Explore the Kona coffee belt, visit Punalu’u black sand beach and bakery, and discover the Thurston lava tube and Kilauea summit.
- Gain insights into the geological history and landscapes of the Hawaiian islands during the tour.
- The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with certain health issues, and requires a certain level of fitness.
- The meeting point is the lot behind Alaska baggage claim B-2 at Kona International Airport, and participants are responsible for travel to the Big Island.
Overview and Pricing
This Hawaii Volcanoes National Park experience from Maui offers visitors an unforgettable 12-hour adventure.
Priced from $13,247 per person, the tour includes round-trip airfare from Kahului to Kona, pickup and drop-off in Kailua-Kona, and admission to the national park.
Guests can explore the Kona coffee belt, Punalu’u black sand beach, and active volcanic sites like Kilauea and the Thurston lava tube.
The tour provides an in-depth look at the geologic history of the Hawaiian islands.
Travelers should pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and snacks, as certain health conditions may make the tour unsuitable.
With a free cancellation policy and a reserve now, pay later option, this experience offers convenience and flexibility.
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Itinerary Highlights
Embarking on this captivating journey, visitors will first venture to the Kona region, seeing the lush coffee belt.
Next, they’ll explore the Punalu’u sweet bread bakery and the mesmerizing black sand beach.
The real highlight, though, awaits at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where they’ll discover active steam vents and witness the grandeur of Kilauea and four other volcanoes.
Delving deeper, they’ll experience the Thurston lava tube and visit the Kilauea visitor center, gaining invaluable insights into the geologic formation of the Hawaiian islands.
Throughout the day, the tour will provide a comprehensive understanding of the islands’ volcanic origins and the natural wonders that make this destination so captivating.
Included Services
The tour package includes round-trip airfare from Kahului Airport to Kona International Airport, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s adventure.
Upon arrival, you’ll be met with pickup and drop-off service in the Kailua-Kona area, allowing for a hassle-free transition to the tour.
The highlight is undoubtedly the included admission to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll witness the geological wonders that have shaped the Hawaiian islands over millennia.
With all your transportation and entry fees taken care of, you can fully learn about the awe-inspiring landscapes and learn about the captivating geologic history of this remarkable destination.
Important Participant Information
Certain participants may not be well-suited for this excursion.
Pregnant women, as well as those with back, heart, or respiratory issues, should avoid this tour.
Adventurers will want to pack accordingly – comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water.
Smoking, food in the vehicle, coolers, unaccompanied minors, scooters, and alcoholic drinks are prohibited.
Drones are also not allowed.
Participants should bring cash for any additional purchases.
This volcanoes experience requires a certain level of fitness and preparedness to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey through Hawaii’s dramatic landscapes.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyMeeting and Transportation Details
Adventurers gather at the lot behind Alaska baggage claim B-2 at Kona International Airport, the designated meeting point for this unforgettable volcanoes experience.
They’ll be transported to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but the journey to the island itself isn’t included. Instead, participants are responsible for making their own way to the Big Island, either by booking a flight to Kona or arranging transportation from Kahului Airport on Maui.
Once assembled, the group embarks on a captivating exploration of volcanic wonders, including active steam vents, the iconic Kilauea, and the mesmerizing Thurston lava tube.
Exploring Kona Coffee Belt
After departing the meeting point, the group ventures into the lush Kona coffee belt.
The winding roads are flanked by vibrant green fields dotted with coffee plants, their white blossoms fragrant in the warm air. The guide points out the distinct volcanic soil that gives Kona coffee its renowned flavor.
Visitors stop at a family-owned farm, where they sample freshly brewed cups and learn about the intricate process of picking, roasting, and grinding the beans.
The group explores the quaint town of Kona, browsing artisanal shops and savoring local cuisine.
The Kona coffee experience whets their appetite for the volcanic landscapes ahead.
Discovering Punalu’u Sweet Bread Bakery
Descending along the winding coastal road, the group soon catches sight of the iconic Punalu’u black sand beach.
Pulling into the parking lot, the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked sweet bread fills the air. The Punalu’u Sweet Bread Bakery stands as a local institution, drawing visitors with its irresistible offerings:
- Steaming loaves of Hawaiian sweetbread, their golden crusts glistening in the sun.
- Racks displaying an array of flavors, from the classic poi to the decadent coconut.
- A bustling bakery counter where patrons eagerly await their turn to purchase the coveted treats.
- Outdoor seating areas where guests can savor the bread while taking in the stunning ocean vistas.
Experiencing Kilauea and Thurston Lava Tube
Bidding farewell to the tempting aroma of Punalu’u’s sweet bread, the group eagerly piles back into the van, eyes fixed on the horizon.
As they approach the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the first glimpses of Kilauea’s towering presence come into view. Excitement builds as the tour guide explains the park’s geological wonders.
Visitors descend into the mesmerizing Thurston Lava Tube, marveling at the smooth, curved walls carved by ancient rivers of molten rock.
Emerging from the earth’s depths, they stand in awe before Kilauea’s steaming summit, its power palpable.
The tour culminates at the Kilauea Visitor Center, where guests learn about the dynamic forces that created this enchanting landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Airports Are Included in the Round-Trip Airfare?
The tour includes round-trip airfare between Kahului Airport and Kona International Airport. Travelers on this experience will fly directly to the Big Island to explore the natural wonders of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?
Yes, the tour can be customized for private groups. Operators offer flexible arrangements to accommodate specific requests and group needs, providing a personalized experience for those seeking a more intimate Hawaii Volcanoes adventure.
Does the Tour Have Multilingual Guides Available?
The tour offers multilingual guides, so visitors can explore the volcanoes and learn about the geology in their preferred language. Guides provide insights in English, Japanese, Mandarin, and other languages upon request.
What Is the Policy for Children and Infants on the Tour?
The tour allows children and infants, but they’re not recommended for pregnant women or those with medical issues. Unaccompanied minors aren’t permitted. Parents must supervise their kids throughout the excursion.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Accommodations Available?
The tour doesn’t mention specific dietary accommodations, but travelers can bring their own snacks. Vegetarians and those with food allergies should plan ahead and pack suitable provisions to enjoy the day’s adventures comfortably.
The Sum Up
The "From Maui: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Experience" offers a captivating journey through Hawaii’s natural wonders. Visitors can expect to be immersed in the lush Kona coffee belt, indulge in the Punalu’u sweet bread, and witness the awe-inspiring Kilauea volcano and Thurston lava tube. This tour promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts, leaving them with lasting memories of Hawaii’s breathtaking landscapes.
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