Secrets Of Hamakua HILO (SHIP)

This tour travels north from Hilo along the Hamakua Coast, stopping at several landmarks across the region. The day begins at Tex Drive-In, where malasadas, a fried Portuguese sweet dough, are made to order and can be watched through the window. From there, the route reaches the Waipio Valley overlook, where steep cliffs and taro farms stretch below and wild horses may be spotted on the valley floor. A stop at Laupahoehoe Point marks the site of a former village displaced by a tsunami, and a monument there honors those who lost their lives. Akaka Falls State Park follows, reached by a paved path through rainforest. Later, a gravel road leads to a remote waterfall where swimming in the stream is possible and a Hawaii-style BBQ lunch with complimentary beer and champagne is served. Hotel pickup is available, and the difficulty level is moderate.