Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Kahuku Unit
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Port
Kona, Hawaii, US
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$329.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 7½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Your day begins with a visit to Bay View Farm -- a working 24-acre Kona coffee farm nestled on the slopes of Mauna Loa volcano. The farm sits just above beautiful Kealakekua Bay and has produced fine Kona coffee since 1984. As you explore, you'll see coffee berries growing on the trees and learn about the various steps and processes in growing, harvesting, and even brewing coffee -- all of which happen right here on the farm. Sample 100% Kona coffee at a gorgeous overlook. Below you are stunning views of Kealakekua Bay and the poignant and beautiful monument to Captain Cook, which stands on the only sliver of non-embassy British land remaining in the United States.
You will stop at the famous Painted Church, whose interior walls and ceilings are covered in hand-painted frescoes and murals dating back as far as 1899.
The adventure continues as you head through the South Kona and Ka'u Districts. Stunning views, alternating between stark lava flows and Hawaiian dry forest, are visible from your tour vehicle.
A guide leads you through part of the highly restricted 116,000-acre Kahuku Unit of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Walk down a historical trail past cinder cones, lava-tree molds, and a hidden meadow with old-growth native trees. You'll cross the dramatic and surreal landscape of the 1868 lava flow and climb atop Pu'u o Lokuana cinder cone, complete with a historic cinder quarry and sweeping views of Ka'u.
Relax with a deli-style picnic lunch. Take in the pretty Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, lined with swaying coconut palm trees. You will have time for a stroll along the beach to look for honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) feeding just offshore or slumbering lazily on the sand.
A stop at Punaluu Bake Shop is your chance to invest in famous Hawaiian sweetbreads and other delights before you settle in for the return to the Kona pier.
Notes: Minimum age is 5 years.
Children 9 years and under require a car seat, per Hawaii state law; the tour operator can supply a child safety or booster seat at no charge with advance notice to the Shore Excursions team on board. Wear closed-toe shoes (mandatory). Participants must be able to hike over uneven terrain without assistance. Guests with neck, back or heart conditions are not allowed to participate. Tour does not operate on Mondays and Tuesdays or Wednesdays. Mauna Loa is an active volcano; participate at your own risk.