What is ATV?

ATV stands for All-Terrain Vehicle and is a vehicle that can travel on multiple terrains and surfaces. It’s ideal for areas that may be difficult to traverse by foot or with cars. ATVs are equipped with features that make them especially suited for off-road activities such as four-wheel-drive, long-travel suspension, large tires, and powerful engines. These features allow ATV drivers to traverse rougher terrain types such as mud, snow, rocks, sand, water, and hills without breaking down. 

There are four main types of ATVs, each of which is designed for a particular purpose. Sport ATVs are designed for racing and high-performance riding. Utility ATVs are made for work-related tasks. Recreation ATVs are a great choice for those who want to have fun while out on the trails. Finally, the Youth ATV is perfect for kids to learn how to ride without sacrificing safety or performance. 

ATV riding is a great way to explore Hawaii’’s nature and get some fresh air. For an exciting outdoor activity that you can enjoy,  learn more about what you need to know before hitting the trails of Hawaii and discover tips on where to ride, safety gear, and more.

ATVs and UTVs (Utility-Terrain Vehicles) are both all-terrain vehicles that are great for off-roading and exploring nature. However, there are some key differences between the two vehicle types.

Size and Seating Capacity

ATVs typically have a single seat and can fit one to two riders. Whereas UTVs have four to six seats with extra space for cargo like hunting supplies or camping equipment. This makes UTVs perfect for larger groups who want to explore together.

Power Output

Another major difference between ATVs and UTVs is their power output. ATVs usually come with smaller engines with lower speeds and torque than their larger UTV counterparts. This makes them best suited for light recreational activities such as rock climbing or recreational racing. On the other hand, UTVs come with powerful engines that can handle more challenging terrains such as mud, snow, rocks, sand, water, hills, etc. This makes them ideal for more intensive tasks like hauling heavy loads or hunting in remote areas.

Control Systems

ATVs have simpler control systems than UTVs. ATVs use a regular automatic transmission system with a shift lever on the left side of the handlebar. UTVs use an electronic shift system. It allows you to easily switch between different gears without having to use a clutch or shift lever. This makes UTVs easier to operate than ATV manual systems in some cases.

Overall it is important to consider your specific needs when deciding if an ATV or a UTV is right for you. When booking an ATV tour in Hawaii, there are traditional 4-wheeled ATVs available as well as side-by-side UTVs which have room for up to six people. Both offer unique features that make them well-suited for various off-road activities depending on your preference. Always remember to keep safety in mind when using any type of motorized vehicle.

One of Oahu’s most well-liked tours is the Jurassic Valley Kualoa Ranch ATV Raptor Adventure Tour. Drive around some of the most recognizable and well-known Hawaii movie sites at Kualoa Ranch in your multi-passenger off-road vehicle as you tour the Jurassic Park production locations. To explore the off-road routes and delve far into the renowned Jurassic Valley, each party will get its own Raptor UTV. Climb aboard an off-road ATV that seats up to 5 people. This is a fantastic family-friendly excursion. The drivers can change periodically so that the other passengers can take pictures and enjoy the choppy ride. 

Solo drivers are not permitted, and at least two passengers must be in the vehicle. To ride as a passenger, an individual must be at least 5 years old. Each ATV Raptor has six seat belts that can accommodate two to six passengers. 

Another top-rated ATV tour in Oahu, Oceanfront North Shore ATV Adventure Tour, lets you discover some of the island’s hidden beauty as you travel alone.  This only single-rider ATV tour on Oahu, allows both adults and kids to go off-roading on a fun-filled eco-adventure alone. You will enjoy going past a working Hawaiian farm and through the sleepy rural community of Waialua.  The tour lasts 45 minutes, and the ground is uneven and rocky.

Children 10 years old and older can ride alone on the tour. Those between the ages of 8 and 9 can travel as a passenger with an adult. There are three different types of ATVs that can carry kids and people up to 300 pounds.

Real mountain trails will be crossed as you travel through Hawaiian rainforests for an immersive experience. Oahu ATV Tour & Off-Road Adventure from Haleiwa – North Shore Eco Tours provides ATV excursions where visitors may climb, crawl, and slosh through muddy paths. Feel the rush as you shift into gear and cross the challenging mountain terrain of Hawaii. 

With a maximum of three UTVs each trip, the vehicle seating capacity is multi-passenger UTVS, with 2–6 passengers per vehicle. Over 20 kilometers of rocky mountain terrain and rough dirt trails make up the 2 hours and 30 minutes-long trek. Passengers must be 5 years old, while drivers must be 21 years old. 

There are also other Oahu ATV tours that offer “hike on wheels” in an off-road military Pinzgauer truck. Go with a waterpark combo, horseback ride, campfire, and dinner shows. Depending on your tour package, you may also be able to explore mountain pools. Don’t forget to try abseiling down one of Oahu’s cliffs or zip-lining over lush valleys. 

Where are ATV tours located on Oahu?

On the North Shore,  Oahu ATV Tours are accessible. in Kapolei (west side), Kaneohe (east side), and Kahuku (northeast side). The distance to the ATV tour spots from Waikiki depends on traffic. It varies from 45 minutes to an hour if you drive, take a cab, or use a ride-sharing service.

See More: Top 10 Best Things to Do in Oahu – ATV Tours & Off-Road Adventures

Maui is known for its beautiful coasts, lush green valleys, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s no wonder that ATV tours are some of the most popular activities on this tropical island. Maui has over 100 miles of designated off-road trails. There’s plenty of opportunity to explore the island’s varied terrain. Tour operators offer customizable off-road experiences that will take you to places you’ve never been before.

Lahaina ATV Tour with Solo & Group Rides Option is the only company in Maui that offers a two-hour ATV trip, so get ready for a thrilling adventure. The journey takes place inside the 1,400 acres of varied terrain that make up the Puu Kukui Watershed Preserve. Fast routes, hill climbs, sharp bends, bamboo forests, rainforest, and forest canopy rides are all included in the tour, which also offers breathtaking ocean vistas as you travel. Take part in the Koa Tree planting.  In Hawaii, koa wood, a priceless and prized hardwood, is a symbol of strength and integrity.

To participate as a passenger or ride-along, a child must be at least 7 years old and the driver must be at least 25 years old.  Most passengers can fit in cars because of their spaciousness. 800 pounds is the maximum allowed passenger weight per vehicle. 

The ridgelines of the mountains, curving beaches, and even a far-off waterfall can all be seen as you ride up the slopes and enjoy stunning panoramic views of Maui. The greatest way to experience the rough highlands of West Maui is on a Maui Mountain Activities ATV Ride Tour Adventure with Oceanfront Trail. Drive toward the Azure Pacific as you descend the hillside to the coast. The tour’s pace is set by the guides. Enjoy free refreshments after the ride, and snap pictures of you along the way. All minors must be accompanied by an adult, and drivers must be at least 16 years old. Children must also be at least 6 years old. 

While ascending the mountains, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Maui, winding coastlines, and even a far-off waterfall.  And to top it all off, plant a native Hawaiian tree to support their efforts to protect the local animals. Both thrill seekers and nature lovers will enjoy this adventure.

Where are ATV Tours located in Maui?

The main locations for Maui ATV excursions and rentals are Kapalua and the area around Kahului. To get to these places, you’ll need to rent a car, make advance arrangements for a taxi, or use ride-sharing services. Please keep in mind that since ATV tour sites are in places not easily accessible by these services, if you do decide to take a taxi or rideshare, make careful to book and confirm your return transportation at the same time. 

See More: Top 10 Best Things to Do in Maui – ATV Tours & Off-Road Adventures

A thrilling ATV off-roading experience is available on the Big Island of Hawaii in the untamed North Kohala backcountry. While weaving tales that bring this stunning landscape to life, the trip offers insight into the area’s complex cultural heritage.

Prepare yourself for an exhilarating ATV off-roading adventure as you travel far into the lush Kohala region of Hawaii’s Big Island. Hawaii ATV Ride Tour at Kohala Coast – Sea to Mountain Off-Road Adventureprovides an exhilarating ATV off-roading in the rough North Kohala backcountry. Travelers will learn about the cultural value these areas have for the people of Hawaii while they explore valleys, enjoy waterfalls, cross mountain streams, and do much more. 

Children aged 5 and older are invited to join the tour, and vehicles can hold up to 4 passengers. Drivers must be at least 21 years old and possess a current driver’s license. Families and individuals searching for a fun day out in the Hawaiian heat will love this exclusive and private adventure.

On one of the top Big Island ATV excursions in Hawaii, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure is waiting. Families with children and couples seeking adventure and pleasure during their trip will find Big Island ATV Tour & Ranch Off-Road Adventure from Hamakua – All About The View to be the ideal choice. You will gain access to unique sights that can only be experienced when riding a horse through the ranchlands of Waipio. There are farm animals, a variety of tropical flora and trees, and rough, uneven terrain on the trail. 

Anyone above the age of 18 must do the Big Island ATV tour. 12 persons can be on the tour at once, and either switched drivers or solo rides are available.  To reach the Hamakua Coast from a working ranch on the Big Island, lone adventurers can board a two-seater UTV and take the wheel.

As you take in the breathtaking environment, speed through the winding tracks while throwing up muck and dust. Deluxe Big Island ATV Tour & Waterfall Swim at Umauma Falls is ideal for outdoor adventure seekers who enjoy the outdoors. The tour includes a 5.5-mile private dirt road that leads to a private waterfall while providing views of Mauna Kea and the Pacific Ocean. A Private Waterfall has a rest area, and stand-up paddle boards can be used there at no additional charge.

Drivers of 2-seater ATVs must be 16 years old, and ride-along passengers must be 4 years old or older. Drivers of 4-seater UTVs must be at least 18 years old with parental consent or 21 years old with a valid driver’s license.

Where are ATV tours located on The Big Island?

There are a number of Big Island ATV excursions and rentals in the north and north-east sides at Hawi, Honokaa, and Hakalau, despite the fact that neither Kona nor Waikoloa provides ATV rentals or tours. The travel time to the check-in location for guests staying in the Kona and Waikoloa areas will range from 45 to 1 hour, and 30 minutes by automobile. The ATV trip places will be 30 to 1 hour away for those of you staying in Hilo.

See More: Top 10 Best Things to Do in The Big Island – ATV Tours & Off-Road Adventures

Looking for an adrenaline-pumping rush or a leisurely ride through some of the island’s most beautiful landscapes? There are plenty of tour companies ready to provide you with your perfect adventure in Kauai.

As you climb aboard your Kipu Ranch Kauai ATV Tour with Waterfall Swim – Triple Trail Expedition, take in the breathtaking views of Kauai’s backcountry!  The tour features a varied environment. A quick nature hike to a private waterfall at Kipu Ranch, and filming spots for major Hollywood productions.  The trail has narrow, winding turns and is unevenly surfaced.  See Kauai’s magnificent mountain valleys, lush tropical rainforests, lush green meadows, and more! For breathtaking views of Kipu Kai Beach, Kauai’s undeveloped white sand paradise, drive up to Mt. Haupu! Three hours are available for solo riding. 

 A minimum age of 18 is required for all drivers. Passengers 9 years of age and older are welcome to attend the trip. Three hours are available for solo riding.  A minimum age of 18 is required for all drivers. Passengers 9 years of age and older are welcome to attend the trip.

Take a trip through the Koloa Sugar Mill’s 15 miles of lush. The private plantation are grounds for a historical tour filled with breathtaking scenery and well-known filming locations. Koloa Backroads Off-Road Adventure offers visitors the chance to ride around the picturesque shores of the Waita Reservoir, the biggest inland body of water on Kauai. You can also drive inside an old sugar cane transport tunnel.  During the trip, refreshments and granola prepared in the area are offered.

Guests can engage in catch-and-release fishing at the conclusion of the excursion, which lasts around three hours overall with a drive of about forty minutes. Drivers must have a valid driver’s license and be at least 18 years old. 

Take a ride through Kipu Ranch’s tropical jungles, river basins, and rolling meadows. Kauai Jurassic ATV Tour at Kipu Ranch takes you on an off-road ATV journey into the Garden Isle’s beautiful backcountry. A private ranch house with 3,000 acres is part of the trip. Along the journey, tour guides explain the ranch’s history and point out locations. These locations served as the setting for popular Hollywood movies including The Descendants, Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark, and Jurassic Park.

 This route is bumpy and has sharp twists; riding on unpaved, unnatural dirt trails. A minimum age of 18 is required for all drivers. Passengers 9 years of age and older are welcome to attend the trip.

Where are ATV tours located on Kauai?

Although Kauai’s north and northeast regions do not provide ATV rentals or tours, Lihue and Poipu on the island’s south side do offer a choice of ATV excursions. It will take between 15 and 30 minutes by automobile for guests staying in the Lihue or Poipu area to get to the check-in spot. The ATV tour venues will be 45–1 hour distant for those of you staying in Princeville and Hanalei on the North Shore.

See More: Kauai ATV Tours & Off-Road Adventures

 It’s advisable for riders to take precautions when riding in remote areas of Hawaii. Tour companies provide riders with helmets and other protective gear that meet industry standards for safety. Additionally, they must adhere with the following safety protocols while out on the trail.

1. All riders are required to wear a helmet, eye protection, and long pants while participating in an ATV tour.
2. Riders should not exceed the maximum weight limit allowed on the ATVs, as specified by the manufacturer.
3. Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited before or during an ATV tour.
4. Riders must remain within their designated tour route and follow any rules set forth by their guides or tour directors, including speed restrictions and changes in terrain type (i.e., mud, sand, etc.)
5. Pregnant women and individuals with certain medical conditions should refrain from participating in ATV tours due to inherent risks involved with operating motorized vehicles across varied terrain types.
6. Prior to departing on their tour, all riders must sign a waiver indicating they understand and agree to abide by these safety regulations while participating in an ATV tour in Hawaii.

ATV tours in Hawaii are typically suited for ages 5 and up. Although, some companies may have different age requirements. It is important to check the specific policies of each tour company before booking a tour. This is because safety regulations vary between companies.

Hawaii also requires all drivers of ATVs and off-road vehicles to have a valid driver’s license. Drivers under 18 years of age must have written permission from a parent or guardian before driving an ATV in Hawaii. It’s crucial to confirm these details before signing up for any tour.

With the exception of severe weather, tours go ahead rain or shine. For a truly unique ATV tour in experience in Hawaii, keep in mind the following tips:

• Wearing shoes with closed toes is necessary. 
• Dress in dark clothing that you don’t mind having dirty stains on. Depending on the weather, visitors could get dusty or muddy. 
• Bring a towel, extra garments, a swimsuit, and a water bottle. Utilize a case for dust, mud, and water protection if you are bringing a camera. 
• To prepare for your off-road experience and sign waivers, please arrive 15 minutes before the start of your trip. 
• Don’t forget your sunscreen!

Our selection of ATV tours at HawaiiActivities.com let you explore diverse terrain and reach parts of the island inaccessible by foot. Have the opportunity to stop at historic landmarks, breathtaking viewpoints, scenic waterfalls, remote beaches, and much more. Our ATV tours are also tailored specifically to meet your individual interests and needs. With safety measures in place and professional guides accompanying every tour, it is sure to be an exciting experience. So why wait? Book your ATV tour today for an unforgettable journey!