Big Island Hawaii Self-Guided Driving Tour
4.5
Big Island Hawaii Self-Guided Driving Tour
By Travel With Action
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About
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 0-120
Duration: 2–4 hours
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Audio guide: English
More
- Engaging storytelling: Uncover unique tales, history, and facts for a memorable journey!
- Perfect narrator: nothing can beat listening to a great voice. Proven with tons of rave reviews!
- Comprehensive route and stops: See it all, miss nothing, leave no stone unturned!
- Offline maps: no signal, no problem! Works perfectly without cellular or wifi.
- Hands-free: audio stories play on their own based on your location. Easy to use!
- Go at your own pace: Start anytime, pause anywhere, enjoy breaks for snacks and photos freely!
- Great value: One purchase per car, not per person. More affordable than bus or guided tours!
- Easy-to-use app: download Action’s Tour Guide App onto your phone
What's not included- Attraction passes, entry tickets, or reservations
- Entry/Admission - Island of Hawaii
- Entry/Admission - Honoli'i Beach Park
- Entry/Admission - Island of Hawaii
- Entry/Admission - Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
- Entry/Admission - Island of Hawaii
- Entry/Admission - Island of Hawaii
- Entry/Admission - Laupahoehoe Point Cemetery
- Entry/Admission - Anna Ranch Heritage Center
- Entry/Admission - Kings Hwy Foot Trail
- Entry/Admission - Island of Hawaii
- Entry/Admission - Island of Hawaii
- Entry/Admission - Kekaha Kai State Park
- Entry/Admission - Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
- Entry/Admission - Hulihe'e Palace
- Entry/Admission - Island of Hawaii
- Entry/Admission - Island of Hawaii
- Entry/Admission - Lekeleke Burial Ground
- Entry/Admission - Island of Hawaii
- Entry/Admission - Heavenly Hawaiian Kona Coffee Farm Tours & Konalani Coffee Bar
- Entry/Admission - Hawaii Belt Road
- Entry/Admission - Kula Kai Caverns
- Entry/Admission - Island of Hawaii
- Entry/Admission - Mauna Loa Observatory
- Start:Multiple meeting point options.
- Option 1Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USAAfter booking the tour, search your email for the phrase "Set up your self-guided tour now." Follow these instructions NOW to finish setting up the tour while you have Wi-Fi/data. Do NOT wait until you are onsite.
- Option 21030 Kanoelehua Ave, Hilo, HI 96720, USA
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 267535P21- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Most travellers can participate
- How to access: Once you book a tour, you’ll get a confirmation email with instructions. Follow the instructions right away: • Download the separate app • Enter the password • Download the tour • MUST DO while in strong wifi/cellular.
- How to start the tour: Open Action’s separate audio tour guide app once onsite. • If there is just one tour, launch it. • If multiple tour versions exist, launch the one with your planned starting point and direction. • Go to the starting point. (Note: no one will meet you at the start. This tour is self-guided). • The audio will begin automatically at the starting point. If you face audio issues, visit the FAQ. • Stick to the tour route & speed limit for the best experience.
- Amazing Savings: why pay for an expensive, crowded, and limited bus tour — priced per person! — when you can have ONE amazing audio guide on your OWN phone for your WHOLE group?
- Flexibility and Convenience: • Use the tour app anytime, on any day, and over multiple days. It's perfect for tailoring your exploration and revisiting your favorite spots on future trips. • Start and pause the tour whenever you like, taking breaks and exploring side excursions at your own pace, free from the constraints of a group.
- Comprehensive Tour Experience: •The app provides a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated audio stories, scripts, images, videos, and recommendations for additional activities. • Enjoy a private experience without the crowds, ideal for personalized stops and photo opportunities.
- Ease of Use and Accessibility: • The app is hands-free and activates stories via GPS, offering support through call, chat, or email. • There is no need for a continuous cell or Wi-Fi connection as the GPS map works offline.
- Memorable Keepsakes: • Utilize the app’s images to create a photo book or share on social media, ensuring you have high-quality, crowd-free memories from your trip.
- Preparation: • After booking, download the app and the tour using a strong Wi-Fi connection. • Review the tour at home before your trip for a better experience.
- Starting the Tour: • Open the app upon arrival at your destination. • Select the appropriate tour based on your starting point. • Head to the starting location; the audio will begin automatically. • Follow the suggested route and adhere to the speed limit for an optimal experience. • By following these instructions and taking advantage of the app's features, users can enjoy a personalized, flexible, and in-depth exploration of their destination at their own pace and convenience.
- Minimum Mobile OS Requirement: iOS 14 or later / Android 9 (Pie) or later. It is compatible with iPad models that have a GPS chip.
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 267535P21
From
C$23.91
per group (up to 4)
Select date and travellers
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Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
16 reviews
Excellent
11
Very good
2
Average
1
Poor
1
Terrible
1
Gregory B
Orefield, United States3 contributions
Apr 2024 • Family
The app was easy to use. It had many, many points of interest that were easy to find. The information was very informative & interesting. We has a MUCH better appreciation and understanding of the Big Island thanks to the self-driving guided tour. Highly recommend for an equally awarding experience.
Written May 13, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I'm thrilled you had a rewarding experience with the Big Island tour, Gregory! If you're interested in discovering more of Hawaii's hidden treasures, consider my Tour of All Hawaii Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle. This package offers a range of experiences across the islands, such as Maui's Road to Hana and the breathtaking views of Kauai. Happy exploring!
Written May 14, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
zac
Colorado Springs, CO5 contributions
Jun 2022 • Family
Pretty cool app! Lets you tour at your own pace and based on GPS it provides information about the area, but it also guides you to side street hidden gems that you would pass by without it. We enjoyed it!
Written June 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
That's fantastic to hear! I also have self-guided tours for the other islands (and beyond) — hopefully you'll get to try them next time!
Written June 17, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lanice H
Pleasant Grove, UT4 contributions
Oct 2022 • Friends
The north side tour was rough to find the start. It took us to the wrong location four times. After we got started it was amazing!
Written October 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your feedback! I’m thrilled that my tour of Big Island added to your learning and that you enjoyed it. I also have 100 other self-guided tours for other parks, scenic drives, cities, and historic sites in the US — hopefully, you’ll get the chance to try them next time! Also, just to remind you, the tour you bought is yours for a lifetime. So, you can listen to it at home or on your next visit.
Written October 10, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ragan
Danville, United States4 contributions
Feb 2023
Overall we enjoyed it and learned lots about the island and Hawaiian culture.
Start and finish points need to be clearer, perhaps add food recommendations.
Sometimes the directions were given too late…as we passed the spot intended.
The Hawaiian music needs an upgrade, more songs, better quality.
Start and finish points need to be clearer, perhaps add food recommendations.
Sometimes the directions were given too late…as we passed the spot intended.
The Hawaiian music needs an upgrade, more songs, better quality.
Written March 10, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I’m so glad you enjoyed my tour of the Big Island! And thank you for the suggestions — I’ll add as much as I can ASAP (the music is already a work-in-progress). I’d love to know more about how to clarify the start/finish — would you be willing to shoot me an email with details? It’s something I continuously work on to improve, and getting your specific insight would be a big help. Thanks again, and I hope you’ll try out my other tours beyond Hawaii on future trips!
Written March 14, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
D Graham
1 contribution
May 2023 • Family
The tour was phenomenal ‼️ It took us to places we Never would’ve seen otherwise. Driving at our own pace, stopping for picnic lunches we packed was super enjoyable! Very interesting & informative. Hawaiian music to enjoy for the beautiful scenery too was a nice touch. It was the best $15 we spent on the trip. We also saw huge turtles at some of the stops besides all the other beaches and beautiful scenery and historical places. So glad I found your app😁‼️ Thank you❤️
Written May 14, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Whoo — hope you don’t mind if I use this review on my website! That flexibility is one of the best parts of my self-guided tour (along with the stories!). I’m thrilled that you enjoyed my tour of the Big Island and that everything was perfect. You may want to try my Action+ Tour Bundle next, which includes all of my self-guided tours across the country.
Written May 17, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Xenia T
2 contributions
Jun 2023 • Couples
This is a great tool. It’s worked with no hick ups. We learned a lot about history and traditions, and stopped every time we saw, or heard anything arhat would interest us
Written June 6, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I'm glad to hear that you had an enjoyable experience on the Big Island with my tour. If you're planning to travel more, you might be interested in my Action+ Tour Bundle, which includes over 100 of my self-guided tours.
Written June 8, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Adriana R
6 contributions
It was a good self tour. Beautiful beaches and most of all the black sand beach. Also stop at a bakery called punalau. Overall the history and places was a wonderful experience.
Written July 25, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you, Adriana, for the glowing review! It's wonderful to hear that you enjoyed our self-guided driving tour of the Big Island in Hawaii. Your exploration of the gorgeous beaches and historical sites, particularly the black sand beach, sounds like it was quite an adventure. We're thrilled to have been a part of your journey and look forward to guiding you through many more exciting destinations with our Action+ Tour Bundle.
Written July 26, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
carolyn
Akron, OH4 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
This tour was excellent and made our drive around the island informative and interesting. A great way to learn not just about what you are seeing as you drive but also about the island’s history & culture. Easy to use!
Written October 31, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I'm thrilled to know that my Big Island Self Audio Tour added value to your island exploration, delivering insights into the captivating history and culture of the area. Thank you for appreciating the ease of use and for your fantastic review. For your future adventures, don't forget to check out my Action+ Tour Bundle, which includes over 100 self-guided tours.
Written November 1, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sally R
1 contribution
We enjoyed the places we visited,interesting information along the way too. However we couldn’t complete in one days trip. Too much to see and weather conditions weren’t good.
Written May 23, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It's great that you had a wonderful time exploring the Big Island, Sally! If you want to discover more of Hawaii at your own pace, consider checking out my Tour of All Hawaii Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle. It covers all the major islands, allowing you to create the perfect Hawaiian adventure next time. Happy travels!
Written May 24, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Gail B
32 contributions
Good things: enjoyed educational tidbits/history of the island while driving
Not so good:
-literally have to start at the designated local (not just the town, but the exact parking lot) or it won’t begin
-every time you stop/restart, I had to start the program, tell it to resume where left off, and it catches up, but not until it goes through the same intro, over and over again…
-it will mention a point of interest is coming up, but most of the time does not give you a specific place/road where to turn off at
-randomly cuts off explanation early some times
-many times I had already passed what is starting to be discussed
- to make it better, it would also be nice if they go into more detail about suggestions where to park at each location, how long the walking path may be to get there (eg. Captain cook monument, we were not sure where to park or enter the trail, how long it was- we Google searched and found it was a 3.7 m hike and had only an hour, so knew there was no chance we could make it happen to get there and back in our time frame, but had no idea based on this guides description). That sort of info would be very helpful for the driver.
Not so good:
-literally have to start at the designated local (not just the town, but the exact parking lot) or it won’t begin
-every time you stop/restart, I had to start the program, tell it to resume where left off, and it catches up, but not until it goes through the same intro, over and over again…
-it will mention a point of interest is coming up, but most of the time does not give you a specific place/road where to turn off at
-randomly cuts off explanation early some times
-many times I had already passed what is starting to be discussed
- to make it better, it would also be nice if they go into more detail about suggestions where to park at each location, how long the walking path may be to get there (eg. Captain cook monument, we were not sure where to park or enter the trail, how long it was- we Google searched and found it was a 3.7 m hike and had only an hour, so knew there was no chance we could make it happen to get there and back in our time frame, but had no idea based on this guides description). That sort of info would be very helpful for the driver.
Written January 28, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gail, thanks for your feedback. I’m so sorry it didn’t meet your expectations! I will, of course, refund you, and I also hope to be able to gift you one of my other tours so that this is not your only experience with my product.
While the tour doesn’t have to literally begin in that parking lot, I do prefer that folks begin at the start rather than partway through. My stories all build on each other, and missing the first few often means missing the entire foundation of the tour!
If the app is fully closed, reopening will naturally require reopening the tour. However, the Resume option should not repeatedly replay any story, so thank you for letting me know about your experience.
Every story is timed to the speed limit. Stories cutting out mean that the limit may have accidentally been exceeded. That being said, thank you for letting me know that some spots are not as apparent as I believed them to be, and they need more clarity on location.
Many times, trail information is in the Learn More section! I’ll be sure to add more as they become available.
Please reach out with as many more details as you can remember so I can continue to improve!
Written January 29, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Should I download the tour before going to the park, or is there cell service? Also, a review mentioned issues with Bluetooth audio in the car - any insight on that?
Written December 28, 2023
Yes, because mobile coverage can be patchy or non-existent in most spots, it's better to download the tour before heading to the starting point. Regarding Bluetooth, ensure your phone is directly connected to your car speakers. Other devices might sometimes interfere; thus, connecting directly to the car usually works.
Best wishes!
Written January 6, 2024
Elizabeth D G
Los Angeles, California
Do you have a version starting in Kona? We're going to be staying in Waikoloa and want to to be sure to get a good version of this so we're able to enjoy with our kids.
Thank you.
Written February 6, 2023
Thank you for your inquiry, Elizabeth. Yeah, we cover the entire island of Hawaii, and there are two versions: if you start at Kaloko-Honokhau National Heritage Park, you will see all east-side attractions, and if you start from Kanoelehua Road, you will visit all west-side attractions. This purchase includes both audio tours.
Written February 18, 2023
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