Big Island 2.5-Day Adventure Including Volcanoes, Mauna Kea & Hilo Local Flavors

Day 1: Hilo Exploration

Hilo, HI on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ken's House of Pancakes

Begin your day with hearty Hawaiian-style pancakes and local favorites in this iconic Hilo diner.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Visit Liliuokalani Gardens

Enjoy a serene morning stroll through this beautifully landscaped Japanese garden with ponds and bridges.
Free, 1h

10:45am

Hilo Farmers Market

Browse a vibrant selection of fresh tropical fruits, local crafts, and souvenirs from island vendors.
Variable, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Liko Thai Kitchen

Savor authentic Thai cuisine just a short walk from the Farmers Market, featuring fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Hilo Bay and Coconut Island

Relax on a scenic walk along the bay and cross to Coconut Island for beautiful vistas and photo ops.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Imiloa Astronomy Center

Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture and astronomy through interactive exhibits and a planetarium show (confirm showtimes).
USD25, 1h30m

5:00pm

Dinner at Hilo Bay Café

Enjoy Pacific Rim cuisine with waterfront views, perfect for a relaxing evening meal.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 2: Volcanoes & Mauna Kea

Big Island, HI on May 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Moon and Turtle

Delight in artisanal pastries and creative breakfasts before setting out for your volcano adventure.
USD20, 1h

8:45am

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park Visitor Center

Pick up maps, check current volcanic activity updates, and plan your Chain of Craters Road exploration.
USD30 per vehicle, 1h

9:45am

Drive Chain of Craters Road

Journey 19 scenic miles down to the coast, witnessing lava flows, petroglyphs, and the striking Holei Sea Arch.
Included with park fee, 3h

12:45pm

Lunch at Volcano House Restaurant

Dine with spectacular caldera views inside the park offering refined Hawaiian-inspired dishes.
USD35, 1h

2:00pm

Drive to Mauna Kea Visitor Station

Travel about 1h 15min to the Visitor Station to acclimate ahead of your sunset summit experience.
Fuel approx USD15, 1h30m

3:15pm

Acclimate at Mauna Kea Visitor Station

Rest at 9,200 ft elevation while enjoying exhibits and preparing for the summit visit.
Free, 1h

4:15pm

Mauna Kea Summit and Sunset Tour

Embark on a guided or self-driven (4WD required) journey to witness breathtaking sunset views and observatories at 13,796 ft.
USD150 for guided tours, free if self-driving with 4WD, 3h

7:45pm

Stargazing at Mauna Kea

Experience world-class star watching under some of the clearest skies on the planet with telescopes and guides.
Included with tours or free at Visitor Station, 1h

8:45pm

Return to Hilo

Drive back to Hilo through scenic night routes, approximately 1h 45m drive.
Fuel approx USD15, 1h45m
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Day 3: Kona Morning

Kona, HI on May 23, 2025

6:30am

Early Breakfast at Hilo Bay Café

Fuel up quickly with a nutritious breakfast before your scenic drive to Kona on the last day.
USD20, 45m

7:15am

Drive from Hilo to Kona

Enjoy diverse landscapes across the island on the approximately 1.5 to 2 hour drive to Kona.
Fuel approx USD20, 2h

9:30am

Kona Coffee Farm Tour

Tour a local coffee farm, learn about Kona coffee cultivation, and sample fresh brews.
USD15, 1h

11:00am

Lunch at Umekes Fishmarket Bar & Grill

Enjoy fresh poke bowls and local seafood specialties near Kona Airport for a quick lunch.
USD25, 45m

12:00pm

Arrive at Kona International Airport

Prepare for departure from Kona with enough time to return your rental and clear security.
Variable, ---
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