The best way to explore Hawaii’s iconic volcanic landscape is on a guided tour.
Diamond Head is one of Hawaii’s most popular national parks (Photo: Get Your Guide.com)
Hawaii was forged by the power of volcanoes millions of years ago. Over time, those volcanoes formed some of the country’s most iconic landscapes, creating colossal cascading waterfalls and misty mountains. Whether you’re looking to scale a volcanic pinnacle or take a gentle stroll across a crater, a tour is often the most affordable and enjoyable way to explore. There are dozens departing from Oahu every day, so we’ve rounded up five of the best volcano tours available online based on value for money, itinerary and customer reviews.
Diamond Head Hike with Roundtrip Transportation
This 2.5-hour self-guided tour is the best option for those who want to explore Honolulu’s famous national park without hanging around for other people to catch up. The tour price includes hotel pickup and transport from your hotel with an English and Japanese-speaking driver. Your driver will hand over your digital tickets so you can beat the queues and make your way to the summit in your own time. The 2.6-km roundtrip trek takes around 30-40 minutes, making it a good option for hikers of all ages and skill. From £43.31 per person
Diamond Head Crater Hike and North Shore Experience
This full-day trip offers an affordable way to tick off multiple sights (Photo: Get Your Guide)
This small-group trip is the most affordable guided tour of Diamond Head Crater we’ve found online. The full-day itinerary kicks off with an early morning hike up to the crater, with time to enjoy sweeping views over Waikiki. Then it’s onwards to Halona Blowhole, Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts and a quick lunch at Kahuku Sugar Mill. The afternoon includes stops at Haleiwa Beach Park and a trip to Dole Plantation to sample the famous Dole Whip. Prices include transportation, admission fees and a live guide, but food and drink are extra. From £105.66 per person.
Diamond Head Hike, Kailua Town and Kaneohe Bay
This full-day trip combines a popular hike, time in Kailua town and a trip to Kaneohe Sandbar. The day begins with an invigorating self-guided hike through Diamond Head Park, followed by three hours of R&R in nearby Kailua, located on the east coast of Oahu. From here, it’s a scenic boat trip out to Kaneohe Sandbar, a natural formation located at the centre of the reef-protected bay. Prices include return transfers to Honolulu in an airconditioned bus, admission, lunch on the boat and snorkelling equipment. From £316.98 per person.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Experience from Oahu
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes (Photo: Get Your Guide)
If you’re staying in Oahu but looking to travel further afield than Diamond Head, this full-day trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is an excellent option. The tour price includes round-trip inter-island flights to Kona International Airport, where an expert volcano guide will meet you. From here, you’ll explore the famous Kona coffee belt and the Mars-like Kilauea Iki Overlook. The afternoon is reserved for exploring the unique geological, biological and cultural landscape of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. From £415.38 per person.
Day Trip: Volcano Tour from Oahu with Flights
If budget is no barrier, you’ll be hard-pressed to find better than this blockbuster volcano tour. After taking an inter-island flight to Kona International Airport, you’ll spend the day exploring the island’s highlights, including Liliuokalani Gardens, Rainbow Falls and the site of Kona’s most recent eruption. Groups are restricted to a handful of people for a more intimate day trip. Prices include flights and a guide, but you’ll need to make your own way to the airport from your hotel. From £657.50 per person