Big Island ATV Tour

If you’re after a hands-on, family-friendly adventure on the Big Island, the Big Island ATV Tour offered by Ohana Ranch might just be your perfect match. This experience promises more than just a thrill on four wheels — it offers a genuine glimpse into Hawaiian farming, culture, and natural beauty, all within a manageable two-hour window.

What we love about this tour is how it balances fun with education, giving you a chance to ride your own ATV through lush fields, pick fresh fruit, and meet farm animals. The guides, including some reviewers mention Kanoe and Mike, are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both engaging and informative. Plus, the scenic trails and the opportunity to learn about sustainable farming add meaningful depth.

The one drawback to consider is the gravel access road, which can be bumpy and muddy — a true part of the adventure but not ideal for everyone. Still, if you’re comfortable with a short drive through uneven terrain, this shouldn’t be a deal-breaker.

This tour is best suited for families, first-timers, and those seeking a relaxed but authentic slice of Hawaiian farm life. It’s a perfect activity if you want a break from more adrenaline-focused adventures or if you’re traveling with kids aged 3 and up.

Good To Know

• Authentic Farm Experience: Visit a real Hawaiian farm with opportunities to pick fruit and see local crops.
• Beginner-Friendly Rides: No previous ATV experience needed, with easy trails designed for all skill levels.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about sustainable farming, native plants, and Hawaiian culture from knowledgeable guides.
• Family Focus: Suitable for ages 3 and above, making it accessible for families and first-timers.
• Scenic & Interactive: Ride scenic trails, meet farm animals, and enjoy views that capture the essence of rural Hawaii.
• Value for Money: At $120 per person for two hours, it offers a well-rounded, educational outdoor activity.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Diving Into the Experience: What to Expect

The tour starts with a straightforward check-in at Ohana Ranch, where you’ll meet your guide and receive a helmet and safety instructions. The guides, like Kanoe and others, are noted for their thorough explanations, making even absolute beginners feel comfortable about their ride. The small group size — limited to 8 participants — ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.

The ATV Ride Through the Farm

Once geared up, you’ll hop on your own ATV, which is easy to operate even if you’ve never driven one before. The trails aren’t rugged or adrenaline-pumping but are designed for a beginner-friendly experience. Expect scenic paths that wind through open fields, tropical plants, and gently rolling hills. You’ll enjoy a gentle pace that allows ample time to take in the views and snap photos.

Several reviews highlight how the pace is relaxed, often praised for being just right for all ages. Charles from the US mentions, “The pace was relaxed and perfect, so we never felt rushed,” and Samuel adds, “Riding through Hawaii’s natural terrain was great.”

Fruit Picking and Farm Interactions

One of the tour’s highlights is stopping along the trail to pick seasonal fruit. Depending on the time of year, you might gather guava, taro, or other tropical crops. This hands-on activity makes the experience memorable and delicious — you’ll get to taste the fruits right from the trees or plants, adding a fresh, authentic touch.

Meeting Farm Animals

Next, you’ll pause to meet a variety of friendly animals like goats, sheep, chickens, and Hawaiian cattle. Reviewers mention how engaging the farm hosts are, with Amy noting, “I loved how they took the time to introduce us to the animals.” These interactions create a family-friendly, relaxed vibe and offer a nice break from riding.

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Learning About Local Culture and Sustainability

Throughout the tour, guides share insights into traditional Hawaiian farming practices and sustainable living. This educational component is a big reason many travelers find the experience worthwhile. Rachel praises it, saying, “We learned a lot about sustainability and Hawaiian culture,” which adds a meaningful dimension beyond just riding.

Practical Details and Logistics

The entire experience lasts around 2 hours, with tours running rain or shine, unless weather conditions are unsafe. The meeting point is straightforward — just enter “Ohana Ranch” into your GPS, and follow the signs to the yellow gate. The gravel access road, part of the original sugar cane path, is bumpy but manageable at slow speeds, and guides advise driving no faster than 5 MPH to keep everyone comfortable and safe.

Since the tour is limited to small groups, you get personalized attention, and the intimate setting enhances the fun. The price of $120 includes your own ATV and helmet, with guides available to assist and educate.

What Reviewers Say

Multiple reviews echo the tour’s value, with comments highlighting the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Jaime raves, “The hosts were so friendly and the tour was fun and educational,” while Charles appreciates how relaxed it was, stating, “The tour exceeded our expectations.”

However, one reviewer from Italy expressed some disappointment with the long, bumpy access road and slow ride, feeling it was more of a scenic walk than an adrenaline rush. This reminder underscores that if you’re seeking high-speed thrills, this may not be the experience for you, but for those wanting a relaxed farm visit with a bit of adventure, it hits the mark.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

When considering the cost, it’s important to note that you’re paying for a comprehensive experience — scenic riding, fruit picking, animal encounters, and cultural insights. The guides’ passion for sustainable farming and Hawaiian traditions adds educational value that many other outdoor activities lack.

Compared to other tours around the island, the small group size and personalized attention make it feel intimate and worth the price. Plus, the chance to ride your own ATV, rather than just sitting in a guided vehicle, provides a sense of independence and fun.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This activity is ideal for families with kids aged 3 and above, especially those who enjoy outdoor activities that aren’t overly strenuous. It’s perfect for first-time riders or anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic experience with a cultural twist.

It’s not suited for those with back injuries or anyone seeking adrenaline-fueled, high-speed rides. Travelers interested in learning about Hawaiian agriculture and sustainability will find the guide-led explanations especially enriching.

FAQ: Your Big Island ATV Questions Answered

Is previous ATV experience required? No, the trails are beginner-friendly, and no prior experience is needed.

What is the minimum age to participate? Participants must be at least 3 years old to ride with an adult driver, making it accessible for young children.

What should I wear? Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, plus closed-toe shoes. Helmets are provided.

Is the tour weather-dependent? Tours run rain or shine unless weather conditions are unsafe.

How bumpy is the access road? The gravel road can be uneven and bumpy, but guides advise driving slowly to ensure safety and comfort.

Does the tour include food or drinks? No, water isn’t included, so bring your own if needed.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Are guides available in languages other than English? The tour is conducted in English.

Is it suitable for people with back problems? No, the tour is not recommended for those with back injuries.

How long is the tour? The ride lasts approximately 2 hours, including stops, and runs in the morning or afternoon.

Final Thoughts

The Big Island ATV Tour from Ohana Ranch offers a genuine, family-friendly way to explore Hawaii’s rural charm. It’s a well-balanced mix of scenic riding, farm activities, and cultural learning that feels authentic and accessible to all. The knowledgeable guides, the opportunity to connect with local agriculture, and the fun of riding your own ATV make it a worthwhile addition to any Hawaiian itinerary.

This experience excels for those wanting a relaxed, educational outdoor activity that emphasizes sustainability and local culture. It’s particularly suitable for families, first-time ATV riders, or anyone seeking a meaningful glimpse into Hawaii’s farm life while enjoying beautiful scenery.

While it may not satisfy adrenaline junkies or thrill-seekers, it offers a special kind of adventure — one grounded in nature, tradition, and community. For a memorable, value-packed activity that combines fun and learning, this tour deserves a spot on your Big Island list.

You can check if your dates are available here: