Hilo Shore Excursion:
Botanical Gardens, Waterfalls, Farmers Market
A private shore excursion through lush botanical gardens, stunning waterfalls, and vibrant farmers markets of Hilo Hawaii!
Immerse yourself in the vibrant beauty of tropical botanical gardens, breathtaking waterfalls, and lively farmers markets on this private shore excursion! Discover nature’s masterpiece as you explore colorful botanical gardens, filled with exotic plants and fragrant blooms, along a stunning coastal setting. Journey to three different magnificent waterfalls, each offering a unique experience, but all enveloped by the lush rainforests of the Hilo coast. Delight your senses at the bustling Hilo farmers market, where you can savor fresh local produce and artisanal delicacies.
Whether you are a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or seeking a serene escape in the wonders of nature, this private Hilo shore excursion will take you on a remarkable adventure!
Tour Highlights
An unforgettable private tour that will take you to some of the most scenic destinations on the Big Island of Hawaii:
- Akaka Falls State Park
- Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden
- Rainbow Falls
- Pe’epe’e Falls
- Wailuku River State Park
- Hilo Farmers Market
Starting at $1150, with private group rates as low as $264 per person (based on eleven guests)

Full Tour Details:
7 Hour Tour Time
Itinerary:
- Start your unforgettable private shore excursion with convenient pickup right from the Hilo cruise ship terminal. We are authorized to enter the Port of Hilo facilities and will personally greet you as you disembark. Enjoy a scenic drive through historic downtown Hilo while our naturalist guide shares captivating stories about this charming town’s rich history.
- Our first destination is the iconic Wailuku River State Park, where you can marvel at the stunning Rainbow Falls and Pe’epe’e Falls. With the perfect water flow and angle of sunlight, you may even see the legendary rainbow forming in the mist of Rainbow Falls, known to ancient Hawaiians as Waianueanue. A short distance upstream lies Pe’epe’e Falls, also called the Boiling Pots, sculpted by years of rainwater eroding ancient lava formations. Discover Hawaii’s geological wonders and volcanic legacy as you immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of these natural waterfalls.
- Next, we will journey north to the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Gardens, which is home to over 2,500 species of tropical plants! Stroll along lush rainforest trails, observing rare orchids, towering palms, and an array of vibrant tropical flowers from around the globe. The reserve also features cascading waterfalls, including Onomea Falls, and exclusive views of Onomea Bay that’s only accessible from within the gardens. Learn about the island’s ecology, biodiversity, and vital conservation efforts to protect these precious ecosystems.
- Continue your adventure along the Onomea scenic route, where you can take in the magnificent views of the lush rainforest and rugged Hilo coastline. Enjoy a delightful included lunch at a local restaurant, providing a true taste of the region’s flavors.
- After lunch, take a guided hike through Akaka Falls State Park, where your naturalist guide will tell you about the diverse botanical life that is inside the park. The short trail wanders through lush rainforest, crosses a few streams, and provides the opportunity to witness two waterfalls. Kahuna Falls is a cascading waterfalls that is slightly obscured but worth the short walk for a look. The main highlight is Akaka Falls, boasting a remarkable 442-foot free fall down a vertical cliff face adorned in vibrant green vegetation. The falls is an incredible spectacle and an essential highlight of any Hilo shore excursion.
- Before we conclude your adventure and return to the Hilo cruise ship terminal, explore the bustling Hilo Farmers Market, a vibrant hub of local flavors and artisanal crafts. Discover a wide selection of fresh produce, locally made products, and other cultural treasures. The market has recently expanded to feature even more vendors and locally sourced goods!
What’s Included
Tour Inclusions

- Admission into all venues and parks
- Pick up and drop off at the Hilo Cruise Ship Terminal
- Fully guided naturalist tour with educational materials and commentary provided by our top of the line tour guides
- Complementary Photo package: 20-25 professional, edited photos shared via Adobe Cloud for easy accessibility while traveling
Food & Drink

- Lunch: a delicious locally sourced meal at a local restaurant on the Hilo coast
- Snacks: trail mix, fruit snacks, granola bars, chips, beef jerky, chocolate
- All non-alcoholic beverages: water, juice, soda, hot tea, coffee and hot chocolate
Tour Gear

- Patagonia rain jacket and Nano puff
- Nikon ProStaff 7s binoculars
- Black Diamond Hiking Poles
- Umbrellas
Customizing Your Tour
Upon booking your tour, one of our guides will contact you to discuss custom options we have available for your tour, we’re here to make this experience memorable and most importantly – ALL ABOUT YOU!





