The Big Island of Hawaii offers excellent walking tours that showcase its diverse culture and flavors.
We love the Kona Walking Food Tour for its seven-stop culinary adventure featuring local specialties and craft cocktails. It’s a great way to taste the island’s best offerings.
For history buffs, the Hilo History and Legends audio tour is a winner. This self-guided experience takes you to important landmarks, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
These tours provide an up-close look at the Big Island’s unique character.
Check out our top picks for Big Island walking tours below.
Good To Know
The Kona Walking Food Tour offers a highly-rated culinary experience with local favorites, craft cocktails, and visits to iconic landmarks like Hulihee Palace.
The Hilo History and Legends Tour provides an audio self-guided walking experience exploring Hilo’s historic sites, food, cultural traditions, and immigration impact.
Both tours showcase local specialties and enhance the culinary and historical experience, catering to diverse interests.
The Kona tour features stops at renowned locations from Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, while the Hilo tour offers a comprehensive look at Hawaii’s cultural landscape.
The Kona tour’s maximum group size of 12 promotes personalized interaction, while the Hilo tour’s outdoor experience may limit access for some travelers.
Kona Walking Food Tour
The Kona Walking Food Tour is a highly-rated culinary experience that allows you to explore the vibrant food scene of Kona. Rated 4.8 with 284 reviews and a 94% traveler recommendation, this 7-stop tour immerses you in local favorites, including craft cocktails and fresh seafood.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, you’ll enjoy an intimate experience led by knowledgeable guides like Kai and Ellie, who bring the history and culture of Kona to life through their enthusiastic storytelling.
The tour includes lunch, small tastings, and beverages, with stops at renowned spots featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, as well as iconic landmarks like Hulihee Palace and Mokuaikaua Church.
While the tour may not accommodate gluten allergies or vegans, it’s a must-do for foodies seeking a comprehensive Kona culinary adventure.
Many travelers express a desire to revisit their favorite discoveries after the tour, making it a great way to plan your future Kona dining experiences.
Read our full review: Kona Walking Food Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Hilo History and Legends (APP) Audio Self Guided Walking Tour
Explore the rich history and captivating legends of Hilo with the Hilo History and Legends (APP) Audio Self Guided Walking Tour. This immersive experience takes you on a journey through Hilo’s historic sites, where you’ll uncover Hawaii’s fascinating story – from its food and cultural traditions to the impact of immigration and religion.
The tour conveniently starts at Mamo Street & Punahoa Street, across from the farmers market, and concludes at Kalakaua Park. Available daily from 2/17/2023 to 7/20/2025, the tour is accessible 24/7 and starts at just $6.50 per person.
While the tour is entirely outdoors, with no access to buildings, it’s a great way to explore Hilo at your own pace. Keep in mind, it’s not wheelchair accessible, but service animals are welcome.
With a 3-star rating based on one review, the tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Hilo’s rich heritage and gain a deeper understanding of Hawaii’s cultural landscape, where only 10% of the population is native today.
Read our full review: Hilo History and Legends (APP) Audio Self Guided Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Questions About Staying Here
Do the Walking Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
Yes, many walking tour operators accommodate dietary restrictions. Be sure to notify them in advance so they can make the necessary arrangements to cater to your needs during the tour.
How Much Time Is Required for Each Walking Tour?
The duration of walking tours can vary, but you’ll generally need 1-2 hours to complete most of them. The exact time required will depend on the tour’s length, pace, and any stops along the way.
Are the Tours Suitable for Children and Families?
The walking tours are generally suitable for children and families. Many offer shorter options that cater to all ages. Be sure to check the tour details as some may have age or fitness requirements.
Is Transportation Provided to the Starting Points?
Most walking tour companies provide transportation to the starting points. They’ll pick you up from your hotel or a central meeting location, ensuring you don’t have to worry about getting to the tour start.
Can the Tours Be Customized for Private Groups?
Yes, many walking tour operators offer customized private group tours. You can work with them to tailor the itinerary, pace, and duration to suit your group’s interests and needs. This provides a more personalized and flexible experience.
Worth The Stay
Explore the Big Island’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage with these engaging walking tours. Whether you’re in Kona or Hilo, you’ll discover the island’s unique flavors, history, and legends. These self-guided experiences allow you to immerse yourself at your own pace, making the most of your time on this enchanting Hawaiian paradise.