Big Island Waterfall Wonders Slingshot Private Tour

Planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii and craving an adventure that combines breathtaking scenery, a touch of thrill, and the freedom of exploring at your own pace? This Big Island Waterfall Wonders Slingshot Private Tour offers just that—an 8-hour drive through some of the island’s most iconic waterfalls and sights, all from the driver’s seat of a sleek Polaris Slingshot. While it’s not a perfect experience, it’s packed with enough scenic magic and unique moments to make it memorable.

What we especially appreciate about this tour are the personalized journey, the versatility of the vehicle, and the chance to discover lesser-visited spots alongside the famous waterfalls. That said, some travelers have encountered issues with GPS reliability and costs outside the ticket price, which are worth considering before booking. This tour suits those looking for a flexible, scenic, and adventurous way to explore the Big Island with a focus on natural beauty and a dash of thrill-seeking.

Good To Know

• Private, self-guided tour means flexibility to explore at your own pace.
• Driving a Polaris Slingshot offers a fun, open-air experience with scenic roads.
• Multiple waterfalls and lookout points cover iconic sights like Rainbow and Akaka Falls.
• Reviews highlight beautiful water views and enjoyable driving, but GPS issues can cause delays.
• Cost includes vehicle rental; however, expect to pay additional for gas, food, and admissions.
• Ideal for those who love scenic drives and outdoor sights but are comfortable with some logistical hiccups.

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This private tour is designed for travelers eager to combine adventure, stunning scenery, and a bit of the island’s wild side. The main highlight? You get to drive your own Polaris Slingshot—a sporty, open-air vehicle—that makes the journey itself part of the fun. The tour is flexible, allowing you to spend as much time as you’d like at each stop, all within roughly eight hours.

The itinerary starts with a charming drive along the rollercoaster of Old Saddle Road, which offers twists, turns, and lovely views. From there, your adventure takes you through some of Hawaii’s most photogenic waterfalls and lookout points, with plenty of opportunities for selfies, sightseeing, and just soaking in the natural splendor.

The Itinerary in Detail

The Scenic Drive and Mauna Kea Observatories

Many start their day ascending the Old Saddle Road, which is considered the “rollercoaster” of Big Island due to its winding nature. For those seeking a more adrenaline-pumping ride, opting for the Old Saddle Road instead of the newer route can be more exhilarating, offering plenty of curves and views.

Your first official stop is the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station at 9,200 feet. While you won’t reach the summit—since the tour is a self-guided drive—you’ll get a glimpse of some of the world’s premier astronomical research sites. The station offers educational programs and stellar views, making it a worthwhile quick stop. Reviewers mention it’s a “must-see for the cultural and natural insights,” even if it’s just a brief visit.

Rainbow Falls

Next, you’ll head into Hilo to view Rainbow Falls, one of the most celebrated waterfalls on the island. At 80 feet tall, the falls are a perfect introduction to Hawaii’s lush waterfalls. The mist often creates rainbows, hence the name, which makes for fantastic photos. Visitors often rave about the surrounding rainforest’s dense greenery, which adds to the visual appeal. Best of all, no entrance fee is required, and the area is accessible for a quick stop.

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

Further along, the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden offers a peaceful walk amid thousands of plant species. Noted for its tranquility and variety—over 2,000 plant species from more than 125 families—this stop introduces visitors to Hawaii’s diverse flora. Reviewers highlight its “beautiful streams and waterfalls,” creating a lush environment that’s perfect for nature lovers. Expect about 30 minutes here, so plan your time accordingly.

Akaka Falls State Park

A short drive brings you to Akaka Falls, towering at 442 feet. The park’s loop trail is renowned for its rainforest vistas, bamboo groves, and the chance to see multiple waterfalls, including Kahuna Falls. The trail is easy to walk but still offers plenty of scenic overlooks. Visitors appreciate the vivid greenery and the impressive height of the falls, making it a highlight of the day. As with other stops, it’s free, but the experience can be marred by the occasional tourist crowd.

Umauma Falls

The Umauma Falls are a series of three waterfalls on the Umauma River. Surrounded by lush foliage, they provide excellent photo opportunities, especially of the largest cascade plunging into a clear pool. Some travelers mention that these falls are part of the Umauma Experience, which offers zip-lining and river activities, although that’s not included in this tour. Expect to spend about 30 minutes here—enough for photos and a quick walk.

Waipio Valley Lookout

The Waipio Valley Lookout offers arguably some of the most dramatic views on the island. From the vantage point, you can see the valley, black sand beaches, waterfalls, and taro farms. You might even spot the river flowing from the mountains into the sea. Reviewers say it’s a “majestic view,” and many appreciate it as a perfect photo spot. The valley itself is accessible for further exploration—though that’s not part of this tour—and can be quite steep to walk down.

Honokaa and Waimea

The tour wraps up with visits to Honokaa, where you can grab some tasty Malasadas at Tex Drive-In—an absolute must-try for many visitors. Then, Waimea allows for a quick look at ranching culture, including the historic Parker Ranch and the local events like the annual rodeo. You’ll also get a glimpse of the observatories on Mauna Kea from the town, adding a cultural layer to the day.

The Driving Experience and Vehicle Details

Travelers love the Polaris Slingshot, describing it as “fun” and “a great way to see the island.” It’s an open-air vehicle, making every mile feel like part of the adventure. The rental includes helmets for safety, and the self-guided navigation allows you to explore at your own pace, with pre-loaded routes.

However, some reviewers warn about GPS reliability issues. One shared that the GPS was “horrible,” causing delays and missed stops because some sites, like certain waterfalls, require 4-wheel-drive vehicles to access. This can lead to additional costs and frustration, especially if you’re relying solely on the provided navigation.

The Practicalities

This tour is priced at $424.24 for a group of up to 2, which covers the vehicle rental but not additional expenses such as gas, food, or admission fees at attractions. Reviewers report spending extra on gas and meals, so budgeting about $80 or more is advisable. The full 8 hours give you ample time to explore and stop for photos, with the freedom to linger or move quickly.

Considerations When Booking

• Driver’s license: A valid license is required if you plan to drive.
• Age restrictions: Must be 21+ to drive, and passengers of any age are welcome if seated securely.
• Security deposit: Expect to pay a refundable deposit of either $750 or $1500 at pickup.
• Timing: Most travelers book about 24 days in advance, so plan early if you have a specific date in mind.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

One reviewer called it a “mother-daughter fun day,” emphasizing the joy of driving at their own pace with “beautiful water views on one side and mountains on the other.” They appreciated the freedom to stop whenever they wished, which is a huge benefit of a self-guided tour.

However, the only notable downside mentioned was GPS issues that caused delays and some stops being inaccessible. One individual pointed out that certain waterfalls require specific vehicles to access—something to keep in mind if you’re eager to reach every spot.

Who is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who enjoys scenic drives, outdoor waterfalls, and exploring independently, this adventure is a good fit. It’s perfect for travelers who want more control over their day and love the idea of driving a stylish, open-air vehicle through Hawaii’s stunning landscapes. It’s less suitable if you prefer guided tours, worry about GPS reliability, or aren’t comfortable sharing a vehicle deposit.

This experience is best suited for those aged 21 and above, with a valid driver’s license, and who don’t mind a bit of unpredictability—like GPS issues or extra costs. It’s also great for couples or small groups who want a private, customizable day out on the island.

Final Thoughts

The Big Island Waterfall Wonders Slingshot Private Tour offers a unique way to see some of Hawaii’s most iconic natural sights with the added thrill of driving a sporty vehicle. While it isn’t flawless—GPS problems and extra costs can add some hassle—the experience of navigating scenic roads and stopping at waterfalls at your own pace can be well worth it. It’s especially suited for those eager to experience Big Island’s natural beauty in a fun, flexible way, and who don’t mind a bit of logistical adventure.

If you value freedom, scenic splendor, and a touch of excitement on your Hawaii trip, this tour could be a memorable highlight. Just be sure to plan for additional expenses and check your GPS before setting out!

FAQs

Is this a guided tour?
No, it’s a private, self-guided experience. You rent the vehicle with pre-loaded navigation, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the use of a Polaris Slingshot and helmets. It does not include gas, food, or attraction admissions, which are paid separately.

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, a valid driver’s license from any country is required to drive the Slingshot. Drivers must be 21 or older.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, you should budget for gas, meals, and entrance fees at certain stops. Some attractions, like waterfalls requiring 4WD access, might also entail extra costs.

What happens if GPS doesn’t work properly?
GPS issues have been noted—some travelers experienced delays or missed stops. It’s advised to bring your own maps or backup directions if possible.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Passengers of any age can ride if they can sit securely. However, the driver must be 21+ with a valid license, making it more suitable for adults or families with older children.

In all, this private Slingshot adventure offers a lively way to experience Hawaii’s waterfalls and scenic spots. While it’s not without its quirks, it provides a flexible, memorable day for those wanting to explore the Big Island on their own terms.