Reviewed by: Tori
We had so much fun! I believe we saw 4 or 5 Manta Rays. One kept doing flips and brushing against us. It was a great experience, and the crew was extremely nice and fun.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkeling Tour [Late Evening Cruise] |
Attended as: | Friends |
Posted on: | 2021/05/17 |
Activity Date: | 2021/05/15 |
Reviewed by: Mae
There was no sailing on this trip.The Manta rays are close to where the boat goes in the water. I thought we would have a nice sail while the sun was setting and then get in the water but that was not the case. This experience was both boring and exciting. You are in the water for 45 minutes lying flat with arms outstretched holding onto the handle on one of several connected "light boards"while you have your snorkeled face in the water, and are balancing a noodle under your ankles. You brush up against the people on either side of you.The motion of the ocean gets to be a bit much for many people. I heard a crew member say to another "at least no one puked this trip". I have never been sea sick but started feeling queasy and did get out with about 10 minutes to go. You can raise your arm and be escorted back to the boat at any time.You are provided with a half wet suit but still you get chilled. If you have any shoulder problems I would think twice about doing this trip. All that being said it was so cool when the Mantas did show up and swim right past you! There weren't many but I got some good video and stills with a camera that I borrowed from a friend. Maybe there is a better time of day or year to see more mantas? If you're positioned on a middle light board you have time to get the camera set because you will hear the people at the ends of the the light boards ooh and aah and cheer! I probably would not do this trip again but notice I didn't say never! The boat was nice , the crew was fine.
Aloha Mae,
We are so sorry to hear you found your experience less than stellar. We appreciate your feedback. We often do try to do some sailing prior to heading to the Manta Ray Village, however factors of getting the best viewing spot for our guests may have disrupted the sailing part as many times through out the year we'll have northern boats come down to view the manta's if they haven't been seeing any at their usual location. Our best recommendation for hanging on to the light rafts would be to not be tense, this can make for an unpleasant experience for anyone, including people with shoulder problems. It's best to relax and go with the flow of the ocean rather than against it. Although we are sad to hear you didn't enjoy your whole time with us, we are happy to hear you enjoyed the stars of the show. They are truly magical. We hope you'll give us another try on a return visit to the islands. Mahalo Nui Loa!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkeling [Early Evening Tour] |
Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
Posted on: | 2021/05/15 |
Activity Date: | 2021/04/19 |
Reviewed by: Angie
We enjoyed our time at the Hilton. We did two luaus while in Hawaii and enjoyed this one by far over the other. The open bar was a nice touch. Never had to wait long in line. I appreciated being served by staff rather than having to get up during the show
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Standard Package - General Seating |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/05/15 |
Activity Date: | 2021/04/25 |
Reviewed by: Supria
Kaleo our guide was wonderful. He was very informative and being a resident of the valley, getting a tour from him was excellent.
He was very kind to take pictures for us.
The valley is breathtakingly beautiful. The trip down and up the valley was full of facts.
I highly recommend it.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Waipio Valley Shuttle & Off-Road Tour Package |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/05/11 |
Activity Date: | 2021/05/08 |
Reviewed by: Char
The luau at Hilton Waikoloa Village was outstanding! The food was delicious, well prepared and all Covid precautions taken. The show was awesome, many different takes on Hawaiian dancing and singing. Appropriate for adults and children. I highly recommend it!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Premium Package - Alii Seating |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2021/05/10 |
Activity Date: | 2021/03/09 |
Reviewed by: Andrea from Hilo
Pete and Kiera were outstanding guides for this sweet stroll through the back roads of the sacred land of Waipio Valley. I am a former horse owner and have ridden for years, and found my horse well cared for and responsive.
My friend loved the experience too! He is an intermediate rider and the guides did an excellent job of helping all levels feel safe. The ride down and back up to the valley is part of the fun too!
Don't pass up an opportunity to take this ride while you are on this beautiful Island!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Waipio Horseback Ride & Waterfalls Adventure |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/05/08 |
Activity Date: | 2021/05/06 |
Reviewed by: John
We loved the experience! Saw 6 to 8 mantas swimming near our little surfboard. They made multiple backflips just inches from us. Nice captain and guide.
Mahalo John for the 5 star review! WOW that is a lot of mantas. We are so happy that you had a great night. Mahalo for the shout out to your captain and crew too! We hope that we can see you again on your next visit!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Night Manta Discovery Adventure |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/05/07 |
Activity Date: | 2021/05/05 |
Reviewed by: Stefanie
Unforgettable ride through the valley. There were 7 of us + 2 guides (+ 4 dogs who tagged along for their morning walk!). Incredible views, and we lucked out with perfect weather. It felt like an adventure rather than a tour; our route took us through streams, and we saw many wild horses, including a couple of fouls! I came with my mom, who isn't keen on doing activities like this, but she loved it. Thank you!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Waipio Horseback Ride & Waterfalls Adventure |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2021/05/06 |
Activity Date: | 2021/05/03 |
Reviewed by: Carli M.
We had a wonderful time at this luau. Our 4 year old enjoyed it and we all loved the food and drinks. Would recommend this luau to anyone searching for a family friendly luau!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Ohana Package |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2021/04/29 |
Activity Date: | 2021/04/27 |
Reviewed by: Beth K
We had a great time with the family on this trip. Our guide was friendly and very knowledgeable. The kids really enjoyed seeing the wild horses.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Waipio Valley Shuttle & Off-Road Tour Package |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2021/04/24 |
Activity Date: | 2021/03/30 |
Reviewed by: M. and C. Lee
My niece came to visit from Pennsylvania and loved Waipio Valley.
Douglas was a great tour guide and told wonderful stories. We learned about Waipio vegetation, including the beautiful Gardenia he picked for us. Douglas shared a story about how his grandparents ate Nonni, smelly fruit but healthy for you. Loved hearing about the people of the valley who do not have electricity but are hard working taro farmers. Mahalo Nui Loa Douglas.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Waipio Valley Shuttle & Off-Road Tour Package |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2021/04/24 |
Activity Date: | 2021/04/22 |
Reviewed by: brightangel804
Had a great time learning about Hawaii History, enjoying the food and show.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Standard Luau Package |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/04/23 |
Activity Date: | 2021/04/17 |
Reviewed by: Dave W
This is an amazing experience and it's so easy, you barely need to know how to swim. You just lay w/ your face in the water and the mantas come to you. Actually they come to feed on plankton which are attracted by the lights that the crew shine in the water. It's a super-cool experience and the crew on our boat were awesome. Highly recommended.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/04/22 |
Activity Date: | 2021/03/19 |
Reviewed by: Tiffany
Fabulous snorkel trip and sailing. Fantastic staff made it really special.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Kohala Snorkel Adventure Cruise from Kawaihae Harbor [Apr 15 - Dec 14] |
Attended as: | Friends |
Posted on: | 2021/04/21 |
Activity Date: | 2021/04/19 |
Reviewed by: tiger
Great Guide, great view, great trip.
We did it again after two days.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Afternoon Ride |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2021/04/17 |
Activity Date: | 2021/04/15 |
Reviewed by: Anais
Our party of 4 had a fantastic Luau experience as 1st timers. Even with the COVID restrictions in place, they did an excellent job. Amazing food, amazing story telling and even more fantastic dances. Get your tickets before they sell out!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Ohana Package |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2021/04/15 |
Activity Date: | 2021/04/13 |
Reviewed by: tiger
Great trip, great Guide. Decided to do it again after two days.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Afternoon Ride |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2021/04/14 |
Activity Date: | 2021/04/12 |
Reviewed by: Jen P
My family really enjoyed this excursion and it was one of the highlights of our trip! We learned about this sacred ground and were able to capture amazing photos along the way! Hawaii’s largest waterfall, wild horses coming up to our van, and great family pictures were taken. Our driver, Daniel, was focused on our safety including following Covid safety protocols. Highly recommend!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Waipio Valley Shuttle & Off-Road Tour Package |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2021/04/10 |
Activity Date: | 2021/03/16 |
Reviewed by: Nature lover
The captain and crew were very welcoming and calm. They were big on everyone having a fun & safe time. The manarays were AMAZING. There were at least 5 that continued to do somersaults within inches of my face.
Thank you for joining our tour!
We are thrilled to know you enjoy it! The night was amazing and we were happy to host you guys.
Please come back in the future.
Mahalo!"
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/04/09 |
Activity Date: | 2021/04/05 |
Reviewed by: Sandy and Phil
We were only on island for two days, so we had to make the most of it. Rich picked us up promptly and we set out with a total of nine passengers. The van was comfortable, and Rich had water and lunch ready for us, along with clean jackets and umbrellas for the chilly rainy segments of the trip. The drive was safe and pleasant, and Rich regaled us with information and stories. At each stop, he allowed us ample time and shared interesting information.
This was a wonderful day, and we not only saw the island but also learned a lot. Highly recommended, especially if you can get Rich as your driver/tour guide!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Pick-up from Waikoloa Hotels |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/04/07 |
Activity Date: | 2021/04/05 |
Reviewed by: Jen Gigliotti
This was our first time riding ATVs and i literally thpught we would get stuck...but these things can go thru anything! My sister rode the single, my daughter and i rode a double. We couldnt help smiling the whole time! We got myddy, but we planned to. The scenery was breathtaking and the falls were muddy from the recent rain, but we didnt care. I would definitely suggest if you are on the fence, dont be! 100,% worth it!!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | 2-Seater ATV (1 Driver & 1 Passenger) [Original Package] |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2021/04/03 |
Activity Date: | 2021/04/01 |
Reviewed by: Heather
An incredible experience, had no idea they were that big and they’d get as close as they did. We took all four of our kids ages from 11 to 20 and they all loved it!
Mahalo Heather for the 5 star review! We really appreciate you taking the time to let us know about your experience. We are so happy that you all had a fantastic time on our manta ray night snorkel. Please come see us again on your next visit!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Night Manta Discovery Adventure |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2021/03/29 |
Activity Date: | 2021/03/26 |
Reviewed by: Hannah
The Island Breeze luau was in a beautiful location next to the ocean and the dancers and musicians were excellent. The food was good and it was a fun atmosphere. They did a good job with everything with the COVID restrictions they had to follow.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Ohana Package |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/03/17 |
Activity Date: | 2021/03/14 |
Reviewed by: Lval
As a parent of 7 year old twins, who seeks out kid friendly activities, I’m so grateful I chose this show. This was their first show since COVID. They offered a selection of kid friendly food which I appreciated. The rest of the food was amazing and the drinks were delicious! Now to the entertainment. This group of performers were so enthusiastic that the captured my kids attention the whole time. The story they told was beautiful. My kids were doing their best to follow the dancers moves and the waitstaff were so kind to compliment them. The fire dancer at the end got a standing ovation! From the music and performers to the food and staff, they all exceeded any expectations! Well done!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Ohana Package |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2021/03/16 |
Activity Date: | 2021/03/14 |
Reviewed by: JC1
Awesome experience. Our tour guide Justin was the best!!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Summit Sunset & Stargazing Adventure |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/03/13 |
Activity Date: | 2021/02/19 |
Reviewed by: David Embrey
Awana was awesome. He did a great job from the start by getting out group of 20 together in one van. His knowledge of the island’s as well as the big island was extensive. Never a dull moment he kept us laughing and taught us a great deal. All stops were as promised. Would do the tour again
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Grand Circle Island & Volcanoes National Park |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2021/03/12 |
Activity Date: | 2021/03/10 |
Reviewed by: Disappointed
I have been on a whale watching tour in the past and the captain took us directly to where the whales were and we were so close and able to get great pictures for the entire tour. That was not the case here; we were constantly looking for whales and all we ever saw was the “blow” and some splashing from quite a distance. It was very disappointing. I would think these guys would know where to go since they do this everyday. We were in the boat for several hours and never saw anything to identify this as a good trip! I would have expected them to take us somewhere to see the whales, we seemed to hang out in the same area just hoping a whale would show up!
The boat was very nice and the people were nice too but the whales were missing!! This was the beginning of February, isn’t that the best time?
Aloha and thank you for joining us on our tour.
Unfortunately whales are not stationary animals and try as we might, we have not gotten them to agree to be on payroll.
As whale watching is a gamble by nature, we offer a guarantee of whale sightings or come again free. We wish you would have taken us up on it so you could have come out on another day. We hope the rest of your vacation on the big island was great!
Mahalo
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Whale Watch Cruise |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/02/27 |
Activity Date: | 2021/02/04 |
Reviewed by: Kim
We saw a variety of humpback groups, including a mother with a very curious calf. We even saw one breech a few times! Staff was very knowledgeable and friendly. Took a lot of questions from the group. We also saw a group of manta rays on our way back to shore! My 4 year old had as equally good time as his grandparents. Would definitely recommend!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | [8:00 AM] Whale Watch Cruise from Anaeho’omalu Bay |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2021/02/25 |
Activity Date: | 2021/02/22 |
Reviewed by: Tessa
We got to see lots of whales. We saw whales breach & fin slap. We saw a baby calf very closely & she looked right at us. Then, the calf swam under our boat as the mom followed & then the huge escort male whale followed. Definitely was a trip to remember! Both the captain Chuck & lifeguard aboard were excited to see the whales & were very excited to share their knowledge! Our captain took us north away from all of the other boats. Which made us feel very connected to the whales & not like tourists.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | 8:00 AM Whale Watching Tour |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/02/23 |
Activity Date: | 2021/02/20 |
Reviewed by: Aaron
We knew that we wanted to visit the Waipio Valley and this was a great way to experience it. The hosts were great and very knowledgeable. We were both beginners at riding and the instruction was simple and easy. We had a great ride. Highly recommended!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Afternoon Ride |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/02/17 |
Activity Date: | 2021/02/13 |
Tips and suggestions
Reply from activity provider
An unexpected error has occurred. Please go back to the previous page and try again, or wait a few minutes and try once again.
Aloha Tori,
Thanks for joining us and taking the time to review us. They are truly magical marine species. We are thrilled to hear you had a great experience with us. We hope to see you soon!