Things to Do on the Big Island of Hawaii This Summer
Summer is high season on the Big Island. It’s also the best time to soak up the beach culture, play in the water, and take advantage of the extra hours of sunlight and the dryer weather. Here are some ideas on how best to enjoy summer on the island.
- Get a birds-eye view of the island on a doors-off helicopter tour.
- Go sailing and snorkeling at Captain Cook Monument at Kealakekua Bay, or along Waikoloa and the Kohala coastlines.
- Learn to stand-up paddleboard in calmer waters.
- Experience the culture and food of the islands at a traditional luau.
- Enjoy the sunshine on a white sand, green sand, or black sand beach.
- See manta rays feed on a night snorkel or dive with manta rays.
- Go sport fishing for marlin and yellowfin tuna.
- Look for sea turtles at Punaluu, Kahaluu Beach Park or Kiholo Bay.
Sample the many flavors of a refreshing shave ice.
10 Tours and Activities
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Night Manta Ray Adventure
1287
Have a unique Big Island experience snorkeling with manta rays on this tour. Led by a local guide, you’ll take a short cruise out to the manta site, where you’ll watch the beautiful Hawaiian sunset before dipping into the water to watch the manta rays up close. All necessary equipment will be provided for your excursion, as well as light refreshments and snacks to enjoy on board. Your tour will conclude at its original departure point. If you don't see manta rays on this excursion, book again for another night--no charge.
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From
$70.00
From
$70.00
Helicopter Lava and Rainforests Adventure from Hilo
156
A must-do for adrenaline junkies, this aerial adventure takes you over the island’s volcanic landscape, so you can peer into craters and spot lava. Plus enjoy views of waterfalls and other natural features of the Big Island while aboard.
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From
$352.03
From
$352.03
Manta Magic - Night Manta Ray Snorkel At Manta Village
497
Get up close with Hawaii’s graceful manta rays during this nighttime snorkel experience along the Kona coast with a small group. Watch these gentle giants as they swoop and dive for plankton just below the surface during their evening feeding. An on-board manta ray specialist, along with a certified swim guide, ensure an informative and safe experience.
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From
$129.00
From
$129.00
Captain Cook /Kealakekua Bay
560
There are few places in all of Hawaii more historic than Kealakekua Bay, as it's the spot where Captain Cook was killed in a skirmish with native Hawaiians, and the Hawaiian monarch, King Kamehameha III was born just a few miles away. The history aside, it's also one of the best places to snorkel on the Big Island of Hawaii, and you'll have the chance to experience the beauty on this snorkeling tour from Kona. Search for dolphins on the way to the bay while admiring the volcanic coast, and after scouring the red for coral and fish, climb aboard for a lunch that's served by the friendly crew.
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From
$95.00
From
$95.00
Night Manta Experience
247
Swim among manta rays in a feeding frenzy during this unique nighttime activity in Kona. Slip into the dark water with your snorkeling guides and watch the 'manta ray ballet' as the giants appear out of the darkness to feast on the abundant plankton. Let chills run down your spine as these gentle, docile creatures, which can weigh up to 1000 lbs (450kg) and measure 16 feet (5 meters) across, swim just an arm's reach away. Use of all snorkel gear, wetsuits, and flotation devices is included.
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From
$127.10
From
$127.10
Stand-Up Paddleboard Lesson on the Big Island
9
During this stand up paddleboarding lesson in Kona, successfully learn how to balance and paddle your very own stand up, or 'SUP' board, and see for yourself why stand up paddling is one of the most popular activities in Hawaii. Along with your expert, local instructor, you’ll learn the best spot to place your feet and how to maneuver the board, as well as what to look for on the water and tips for efficient paddling. Since this Kona lesson is capped at four people, you can ensure a highly personalized experience while learning to walk on the waves.
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From
$103.66
From
$103.66
Waikoloa Catamaran Morning Snorkel & Lunch
49
Step aboard a 54 foot catamaran for a dolphin and turtle cruise from A-Bay that includes snorkeling gear and assistance from on board snorkel guides. Since the catamaran has ample deck space and shaded areas to relax, it’s a comfortable, uncrowded way to cruise the coast, and you’ll have the chance to spot humpback whales during the whale watching months of December through April.
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From
$146.76
From
$146.76
Hawaii Loa Luau on the Big Island Ticket
4
Experience Big Island hospitality at a luau that features Hawai'ian food, drinks and entertainment. Sip drinks from an open bar as you enjoy a buffet style feast; sample kalua pig alongside seafood, fruits and salads, and finish your meal with an assortment of sweet island desserts. Watch the tropical stars appear as a series of talented performers depict the travels of Hawai’i Loa and his discovery of the Hawai’ian Islands.
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From
$130.89
From
$130.89
Kona Sport-Fishing Private Charter Half Day
24
Charter a private boat and set out to sail with this four-hour private excursion from Kona. You'll have the chance to fish for marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi using on-board equipment with the support and guidance of an expert captain and crew. Alternatively, you can simply use your time at sea to relax, sunbathe, swim, and snorkel.
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From
$753.98
per group
From
$753.98
per group
Kona Sport-Fishing Share Charter
15
Sport fishing fanatics and those who want to learn won't want to miss this four-hour, family-friendly fishing boat excursion off the coast of Kona. You'll not only get a chance to learn fishing techniques and try your hand at catching local fish, but you'll also learn about local history and culture.
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From
$149.72
From
$149.72
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