Reviewed by: Paul H
Although this is now the only way that you can visit the Waipio Valley it is so worth taking the guided tour. Our guide was so knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the history and culture of the valley, and shared loads of local insights and stories which made this one of the best tours we have ever experienced
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Packages: | Waipio Valley Shuttle & Off-Road Tour Package |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2024/02/28 |
Activity Date: | 2024/02/26 |
Reviewed by: Ayall
Decided to try this luau after researching luau options on the big island, and unfortunately it fell short of expectations.
There are three main areas I judge in a luau, and I'll expand on each category for this place; location/setting, food/drinks, and entertainment.
First the location setting. Although located at the Fairmont orchid resort, a beautiful and well kept property, the luau itself was "makeshift" utilizing cheap plastic chairs and tables and placed between the golf course and tennis courts, over a mile away from the coast with no sunset or real ocean view. Most other luau's I've been to are more like restaurants with permanent structures set right on the coast.
I had read rave reviews about the food, and while it too fell short of expectations - it wasn't all bad. I'll definitely give it credit for a large selection and variety, but the food was overall "meh." The poke, fish, shrimp and chicken were good but the beef and pork were awful. There was no actual hog roast; the pulled pork they served was clearly not from a recently dug up roasted pig - and it tasted disgusting; this was the biggest let down as you expect amazing pulled pork when you goto a luau. They lacked variety in drinks, so not much to choose from in terms of wine (only "red" or "white") or beers (a few cheap varieties in cans, no IPAs), and the mixed drinks were also limited in ingredients (for example, they couldn't make me an old fashion), but they had the basics to make most decent cocktails. My biggest complaint with the drinks is that the line was long and clearly a bottleneck only having 2 bartenders making drinks for the entire group. Other luaus I'd attended always had the basic drinks ready to go so you could grab a basic drink at anytime if you wanted.
As for the entertainment; also very meh. Not a big production (again, due to the "makeshift" nature of this luau), but it contained all the basic elements to not fall completely short.
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Packages: | Standard Luau Package |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2024/02/27 |
Activity Date: | 2024/02/24 |
Reviewed by: Elena M
Henry is a wonderful tour guide. He told us so many interesting things about Big Island culture, history, plants, geology, stars. He was great with the kids and took a good care of us all. The Rainbow fall was beautiful and the banyan tree nearby was insane! The star gazing was great even though the conditions were not the best (bright moon). For me the best experience of the tour was getting deep inside the cave - it was amazing, I had never seen anything like it.
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Packages: | From Hilo - Rainbow Falls, Kaumana Caves, Solar Viewing & Stargazing with Dinner |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2024/02/26 |
Activity Date: | 2024/02/22 |
Reviewed by: Veronica
My family did this experience. It’s quite a drive to get to this place. I did this with my husband and 2 kids (ages 12 & 9). The tour guides were really friendly and informative. They chose our horses for us based on weight and experience. The horses know where they’re going so there’s little for the rider to do. The waterfall was very cold, deep, and there’s quite a current! Be prepared if you want to swim (we did!). They have kayaks and paddle boards if you prefer not to swim. My kids loved this experience and have been asking for horseback lessons since we got back. Bring a long sleeve shirt or light jacket just in case- we were chilly!
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Packages: | 9:00 AM Morning Ride |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2024/02/25 |
Activity Date: | 2024/02/05 |
Reviewed by: Veronica
My family did the sunset cruise and it was amazing! We got to watch the sunset in the water and got to see dolphins and look for whales before heading to the snorkeling spot. I have kids ages 12 and 9. While my 9 year old struggled a bit with the snorkel, my 12 year old had no problems at all. The crew was super fun and engaging, dancing to music and generally infecting the crowd with their great attitude. Snacks and drinks were provided as well as hot chocolate afterward. They also took videos for us and were happy to airdrop them to anyone that wanted them. I would definitely recommend this experience and this company!
Aloha Veronica!
Thank you for joining our manta ray tour and for sharing your amazing experience. We are thrilled to hear that you and your family had a great time on our boat and snorkeling with the manta rays. We hope you come back soon for more fun, mahalo
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Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2024/02/25 |
Activity Date: | 2024/02/02 |
Reviewed by: 胆石おやじ
以前にオアフ島でホエールウォッチングに参加しましたが、その時はほとんどクジラに会えなかったですが、今回は早い時間帯から次ぐから次に見ることができました。
帰りには、船の周りをイルカが来て、ジャンプまで見せてくれて、最高のホエールウォッチングになりました。
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Packages: | 10:30発/ワイコロア港 |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2024/02/25 |
Activity Date: | 2024/01/31 |
Reviewed by: Phil
One of the best and most impressive tour we ever made!
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Packages: | Waipio Valley Shuttle & Off-Road Tour Package |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2024/02/25 |
Activity Date: | 2024/02/24 |
Reviewed by: David F
Had a great day on the water. Right out of the bay we experience whales breaching the water. Staff was well trained, everyone had their job and was on it. They were very helpful in and out of the water. Very knowledgable about the history of the bay and Capt. Cook. Breakfast and lunch was very good and served efficiently. Saw lots of species of fish on the coral reef at the Capt. Cook Monument. To finish the day we were entertained by Spinner Dolphins jumping out of the water. Highly recommend!
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Packages: | Morning Kealakekua Snorkel Tour [4.5 hours] |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2024/02/14 |
Activity Date: | 2024/02/12 |
Reviewed by: Sammy’s Mom
This boat was by far the best option for whale watching. We took my 3 year old son for his birthday, so glad we chose this one. Our captain was determined to have everyone witness all of the amazing sights of whales in their natural habitat including, breaching, Mom and baby, whale tail waves, even the smell of anchovy whale breath! Will definitely be doing this one again! This was the highlight of our trip, an unforgettable experience! Mahalo Hawaii Nautical!
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Packages: | Morning Whale Watch Cruise [Holona Speed Powerboat] |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2024/02/10 |
Activity Date: | 2024/02/08 |
Reviewed by: Aisha
Booked this with a group of six, and to our surprise, we got a last-minute upgrade apparently due to the cruise being overbooked: Our own private yacht with cocktails, beer, and dinner. We were greeted and wonderfully taken care of by two very friendly guys -- unfortunately, I cannot remember their names as this was a few weeks ago, though someone in my group did snag their card, so we will definitely hit them up when we return -- who indulged our desires to see some whales in addition to the sunset. The atmosphere was excellent, the mood was chill, and we indeed saw lots of whales and an amazing view of the sunset. Loved the experience!
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Packages: | Sunset Cocktail Cruise |
Attended as: | Friends |
Posted on: | 2024/02/05 |
Activity Date: | 2024/01/14 |
Reviewed by: Jonathan M.
A great time at Umauma Falls Zipline Tour & Waterfall Swim Adventure / 9 Zipline Tour.
Although it rained, it was a great time with my visiting friends. Our group had about seven total members, and we all felt included and enjoyed the adventure together. When the weather turned into rain, and the wind made the rain even more interesting... We all decided to make the most of it and enjoy the unique experience. Our Guides were friendly, informative, and humorous. They take safety seriously but they take the time to make sure you are having fun while being safe. Safety tip... "Keep your head and face to one side of the tether, or you'll get a knuckle sandwich." We will return on a sunny day to enjoy the waterfalls, but it was a great time for all, and the guides made it extra memorable.
Hi Jonathan,
Thank you for your 5-Star review. Glad you had a great time. I appreciate your comments about our guides too. We have great guides and they do a great job. Mahalo.
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Packages: | 9-Line Zipline Tour |
Attended as: | Friends |
Posted on: | 2024/02/04 |
Activity Date: | 2024/02/02 |
Reviewed by: Natalie R.
Such an enjoyable experience!! Nearly all the food items were gluten free ( I have Celiac disease). The only suggestion I would make is to not put the gluten free dessert on the same plate as the glutinous items as there is chance of cross contamination. The wait staff were phenomenal. Our waiter Geno was on top of all our needs. The performers were out do this world and the musicians with equal talent. Loved the experience and encourage others to attend.
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Packages: | Royal Kona Resort - Standard Luau Package |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2024/02/04 |
Activity Date: | 2024/02/02 |
Reviewed by: blake
fun!fun!fun!fun!fun!fun!fun!fun!fun!fun!fun!fun!fun!fun!
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Packages: | Standard Package |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2024/02/02 |
Activity Date: | 2023/02/15 |
Reviewed by: Kara
I felt like I got to see all the best spots of Big Island on this 1 day tour!
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Packages: | Grand Circle Island & Volcanoes National Park |
Attended as: | Friends |
Posted on: | 2024/01/28 |
Activity Date: | 2023/10/24 |
Reviewed by: Kara
Fabulous day, getting to get into the sea caves was the best!
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Packages: | 5-hour South Kona Expedition with Lunch (3 Snorkel Stops) |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2024/01/28 |
Activity Date: | 2023/10/26 |
Reviewed by: JPA
We’ve been to Waipio Valley several times but have never taken a guide-led tour, and it made a huge difference. The guide was charming, knowledgeable and experienced. We saw parts of the valley that we wouldn’t have been able to in the past, and certainly now that the valley is closed to non-residents. Highly recommend!
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Packages: | Waipio Valley Shuttle & Off-Road Tour Package |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2024/01/27 |
Activity Date: | 2024/01/04 |
Reviewed by: Jan
A most enjoyable experience! Once we spotted a spout in the distance, we motored to it for a wonderful mother-baby whale show! Only recommendation would be to improve the directions to get to the check-in location on the beach.
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Packages: | Afternoon Whale Watch Cruise [Sailing Catamaran] |
Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
Posted on: | 2024/01/21 |
Activity Date: | 2024/01/19 |
Reviewed by: サリー
早めに受付をして、席を確保し、マイタイを飲みながら、開演を待ちました。同じテーブルの人たちと和気藹々。とても楽しかったです。ハネムーンカップルや、お誕生日の人などをお祝いしたり、ステージに上がってダンスをレクチャーされたり、とても楽しい時間を過ごしました。ブッフェスタイルでしたが、取りに行く流れをちゃんとスタッフの方がコントロールしていて、スムーズでしたし、とても美味しかったです。ハワイアンダンスは優雅で素晴らしく、司会のトークも受けていたようです。ステージの向こうの海、そして夕陽が素晴らしかったです。
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Packages: | Test Package |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2024/01/20 |
Activity Date: | 2023/12/29 |
Reviewed by: joe pang
wonderful and first experience of my life. i 'll want to there again soon, this is my dream.
Aloha Joe! Thank you so much for joining our Manta Ray tour. We are so happy that you had a great time and that is was a dream come true. We hope to see you again soon. Mahalo
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Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2024/01/18 |
Activity Date: | 2023/12/20 |
Reviewed by: えんぞぉ
あいにくの雨でした。どんどん雨脚が強くなりレインコートが配られ、気温も下がり、食事もずぶ濡れでほとんど食べられず、飲み物も2杯飲んだ程度。円安料金が気になりつつもハワイ気分を盛り上げようと予約しましたがコスパの悪い結果となりました。悪天候については気が回っていなかった。予約される方は天気のチェックをお忘れなく。ファイアーショーは見応えありました。
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Packages: | 一般席 |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2024/01/13 |
Activity Date: | 2023/12/24 |
Reviewed by: Kathleen
We took our 3 year old. The experience was tailored to be age appropriate and gentle with the animals for my child. I highly encourage this experience.
Aloha, so glad that you felt this program matched your child's needs. Thank you for recommending us.
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Packages: | 10-min Wee Tots Program for One Toddler (Ages 2-4) + One Adult |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2024/01/12 |
Activity Date: | 2024/01/10 |
Reviewed by: Ken & Nicole Hall
This is the very first kayaking ocean tour my husband and I have ever been on. It definitely helps if you have experience in rowing a kayak. My husband had plenty experience in rowing a kayak in Canada even if it was only on rivers and lakes. We totally appreciated the kokua and patience from our lead guides, Winfield & Olivia. We were late joining our kayak tour. We appreciated Winfield's follow up call as we were running late due to tire pressure issues on our car rental and needed to check it out before we got to the keauhou Bay. When we showed up, we were pleasantly greeted right away by Olivia who stayed behind to ensure we had life jackets and that all our valuables were safely locked up in their truck. Olivia led us by kayak to the group and we were able to take a personal guided history and tour of the dragon's throat cave Winfield because the waters were starting to get a bit choppy. We later were anchored to our guides along with other kayakers to enjoy some snorkeling along the reef which was truly amazing. Somehow when our kayaks were anchored, I must've lost my balance getting back into our kayak because shortly after that, our kayak ended up tipping into the ocean along with my phone. Winfield was very kind to fish it out of the ocean and Olivia quickly poured regular bottled water on my my phone but u/f my phone is still dying a slow salt
corrosion death. The good news is that we were still able to obtain the data of the beautiful photos and videos of our adventure. We loved learning the history and sharing great camraderie with Winfield and Olivia who are expert kayakers and tour guides. They made us feel very safe and at ease the whole time. Wilfield also helped calm me down after we tipped and made sure I was ok after rescuing my phone. We also enjoyed snacks and drinks and when we got back to shore, Winfield cut us fresh pineapple and we enjoyed eating that. Thank you Winfield and Olivia for a fantastic adventure!
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Packages: | Standard Package |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2024/01/10 |
Activity Date: | 2024/01/04 |
Reviewed by: Marissa
My whole family enjoyed this experience! There were plenty of whales breaching and splashing all around us, they gave us a great show. The entire crew was friendly and knowledgeable about the whales and the catamaran too. I would recommend this trip to anyone during the whale season! We will do it again on our next trip. Thank you for such a wonderful experience.
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Packages: | Afternoon Whale Watch Cruise [Sailing Catamaran] |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2024/01/10 |
Activity Date: | 2024/01/06 |
Reviewed by: Eder
This is one of the best tour I had, the driver always take care of you even if you Re late lol.
But it was an amazing experience you can meet new people and have a great time, I would do it again when I come back to kona!
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Packages: | Deluxe Volcano Tour |
Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
Posted on: | 2024/01/09 |
Activity Date: | 2024/01/07 |
Reviewed by: Ateet Shah
My wife and I took this tour with our three young kids. We had a very knowledgeable guide for our tour—Ray. He is a native of Waipo Valley and he had a lot of good information to tell us both about Waipo Valley and Hawaiian history in general. Beyond this, the valley itself is breathtakingly beautiful! All of us thoroughly enjoyed this tour.
Overall, this was an excellent tour!
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Packages: | Waipio Valley Shuttle & Off-Road Tour Package |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2024/01/08 |
Activity Date: | 2024/01/05 |
Reviewed by: ヤス
英語のみの解説、鯨は潮吹きと背びれが数回遥か彼方にしか見えず、期待に反して満足度はもう一つでした。船上からの眺めは最高でした。
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Packages: | 9:30発/ カワイハエ港 |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2024/01/06 |
Activity Date: | 2023/12/17 |
Reviewed by: Sue
We really enjoyed this tour. It is a long one so be prepared. But they keep you hydrated and fed. I loved the black sand beach, and the sea turtles and the stop along the shore the most. But all of the events were really fun. They packed so much into one day. it was a great tour and we had a lot of fun. The picnic, the stop at the bakery, and the dinner, you were all excellent quality as well.
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Packages: | Twilight Volcano & Stargazing Tour |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2024/01/06 |
Activity Date: | 2024/01/04 |
Reviewed by: トミー
1列に並んで行進します。広大な山、丘の向こうに海が見えます。牛があちこちで草を食べています。天国は、こう言う所かもと思った程美しい景色でした。
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Packages: | 1.5時間プラン |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2024/01/05 |
Activity Date: | 2024/01/03 |
Reviewed by: Kristen
I HIGHLY recommend this experience to everyone. My crew enjoyed a shuttle ride down to Waipio Valley with the most knowledgeable and engaging guide. We learned so much about history, culture, farming, and geography of the valley.
Five Stars.
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Packages: | Waipio Valley Shuttle & Off-Road Tour Package |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2024/01/04 |
Activity Date: | 2024/01/02 |
Reviewed by: あっしゃん
標高が高く、思った以上に寒くて防寒が間に合わないのではないかと不安でしたが、パーカーや防寒ジャケットが用意されて快適に乗馬できました。
ハワイ島でのホースバックライディングは3度目ですが、
景色が良く、馬も良い子ばかりで、スタッフは英語のみですが、わかりやすくゆっくり喋ってくれたので、理解することができ、
今回のホースバックライディングが一番良かったように思います。
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Packages: | 1.5時間プラン |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2024/01/04 |
Activity Date: | 2024/01/02 |
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Mahalo for sharing your experience. We appreciate your positive experience with us. Please come again next time you visit the island. A hui hou! Wailea Horseback adventure