Small-Group Tour: Half-Day Kona Gold Coast

Explore the natural wonders of the Big Island on this half-day small-group tour along the Kona Gold Coast. Visit the dry volcanic summit of Hulalalai Volcano, meander around the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary, sample Kona’s famous coffee at a coffee farm and see Hawaiian wildlife at Kaloko Honokohau National Historical Park. This relaxing trip shows you the best of Kona’s Gold Coast with expert commentary and personalized attention from your guide.

Jump in your small-group van and enjoy a fun-filled morning or afternoon experiencing the best of North Kona’s attractions along the Kona Gold Coast . Begin your day with a drive up the slopes of Hulalalai Volcano, the third-most historically active volcano on the Big Island.

Next, head to the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary, with an elevation of 3,000 feet (914 meters) above sea level. Due to its high elevation, the sanctuary abounds with unique tropical plants. See more than 100 varieties of bamboo and walk under the towering tree ferns, some of which are 30 feet (9 meters) tall!. Your ranger-trained guide will point out the many endemic and exotic birds, including the Hawaiian Hawk and the Honey Creeper. Admire the plethora of colorful, non-indigenous plants that create a feast for the eyes.

After exploring the sanctuary, visit the award-winning Mountain Thunder Coffee Farm. Tour the coffee mill and taste one of the most famous coffees in the world, grown on the volcanic slopes of Kona. Kona farmers cultivate their crops with meticulous care; all planting and picking are done by hand.

Then enjoy a scenic coastal drive to Kaloko Honokohau National Historical Park. Take a short hike and see the ancient heiau (sacred sites), burial caves and petroglyphs carved by native Hawaiians. Stroll to the shore, where ancient Hawaiians stored their stock of fish in traps and ponds. On the coast, keep your eyes open for Hawaiian green sea turtles, rare Hawaiian monk seals, dolphins and whales.

• Entrance fees
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan
• Tour escort/host
• Umbrellas and walking sticks

• Food and drinks
• Gratuities (optional)