Secret Tide Pool Hike - Jungle & Coast - Private
Overview
This tide pool is a local secret. It's off the beaten path. A miracle of nature. We'll use a jungle/lava rock coastal trail. Each way takes 30-40 min (1/2 mile) (10 minutes in jungle, 20-30 minutes on coast). Only your group will participate. I'll teach you about the pool's ecosystem and the local environment. You'll also have time to explore/relax privately.
- Elevation gain on the hike offers amazing coastal views. Sea turtles are a common sight in the distance.
- The pool is like an infinity pool overlooking cliffs. The water is crystal clear. It's highly likely you'll be alone because this spot is so unknown.
- The pool is like an an aquarium with fish, hermit/rock crabs, sea cucumbers, brittle stars, shrimp, snails, spaghetti worms, pink coralline algae, seaweed, shells, & cool rocks.
- Waves strike cliffs & shoot water in the air like a blowhole (conditions permitting). A once-in-a-lifetime photo opp.
- The pool is calm/safe with a deep (4-7 ft.) & shallow (1-4 ft.) area.
What's Included
- Recommendations for what else to do on Big Island.
- Teaching about the pool's ecosystem and the local environment.
- Guidance to the tide pool and time in the pool.
Meeting Location
Kahakai Boulevard
Pāhoa, HI 96778, USA
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
My name is Josh. I'm 33 years old. I've been hosting this experience for 3 years. I have a wide range of knowledge about Hawaii, with an emphasis on fruit trees and tide pool biology. I've lived off-grid in the jungles of Big Island since 2018. I was a philosophy major, so I'm interested in new ideas, which I love sharing with my groups. I spend my time making music and reading.
The hike is comprised of jungle, boulder fields, lava fields, and lava hills. Some sections require scrambling. There are several sections where you must traverse a lava hill. The rocks are stable and there is always a place to put your hand. I don't recommend this hike for anyone with a disability/children under 5. The exact lower age cutoff depends on the child/parent. There's no upper age cutoff or fitness requirement, although the experience is most ideal for adventurous people who enjoy physical activity. The tide pool is very rocky. While it's often fully accessible, sometimes only certain parts are accessible. Almost always there's an area to submerge yourself. Rarely, the levels are too low or the conditions too rough for swimming. There are no ticks and very few mosquitoes.
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Wear hiking shoes, hiking sandals, or athletic shoes for the hike. Hiking shoes are most ideal. If you wear sandals, closed-toe are most ideal.
- Wear water shoes at the tide pool. Closed-toe shoes with durable soles are most ideal. I don't recommend flip flops.
- Wear a bathing suit and bring a towel. There are no bathrooms at the tide pool.
- Many people bring a snorkeling mask or goggles.
- Apply "reef safe" sunscreen before the hike to minimize its contact with the tide pool water. Bug spray is unnecessary because there are no ticks and very few bugs or mosquitoes.
- Some people bring a first aid kit (I don't carry one).
Frequently Asked Questions
(11)Q: Do you take pregnant customers snorkeling?
Cancellation Policy
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-347173P1
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 4.76 out of 5 stars based on 84 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
Similar Tours & Activities
Hawai'i's Volcanoes National Park from Hilo Only
$185.72
Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens
$167.81
Maunakea Stellar Explorer HILO
$240.73
From Big island Kona Volcanoes and Waterfalls Shared Tour
$375
Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought
Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing w/ Optional Helicopter Tour
$214.83
Hilo Shore Excursion: Safari Lava Caves, Falls and Highlights
$133.34
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Hilo Highlights Small Group Tour
$167.81
Frequently Asked Questions (11)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Boat Tours customers.
Filter by:
Yes, we allow pregnant women to go on snorkeling. However, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before doing so to assess your individual health and pregnancy stage.
Jan 2022Yes, this is possible, as long as you are comfortable going into the water. All City Boat Tours snorkeling tours adhere to strict safety regulations and have been designed to be enjoyed by all.
Your safety is our #1 priority, which is why:
- You will be wearing a flotation device at all times.
- On many tours, there is a stairway from the boat into the water so you won’t have to “jump” in!
- There are trained staff in the water and watching from the boat at all times.
For these reasons, we believe that even non-swimmers can have a wonderful time on our snorkeling trips, however, the final judgment call is yours to make. Please note we do not give refunds if you decide not to snorkel on the trip.
Oct 2021The snorkel gear we use on City Boat Tours tours is high quality and for your protection, the equipment is sanitized after each use. However, if you feel more comfortable using your own snorkeling equipment, feel free to bring it on the tour. Please note, there is no discount for providing your own equipment and we can’t be responsible for any lost or damaged items.
May 2023First-time snorkelers can be assured of one-on-one instruction and assistance. We find introducing folks to our world very rewarding!
Oct 2021There are no legal age limits for snorkeling. We have found that age 5 or 6 is a good age to learn the basics of snorkeling, however, it’s entirely up to individuals to make the best choice for their family.
Sep 2021- Recommendations for what else to do on Big Island.
- Teaching about the pool's ecosystem and the local environment.
- Guidance to the tide pool and time in the pool.
There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the Secret Tide Pool Hike - Jungle & Coast - Private is as follows:
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Secret Tide Pool Hike - Jungle & Coast - Private will be included in your confirmation email from City Boat Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- Recommendations for what else to do on Big Island.
- Teaching about the pool's ecosystem and the local environment.
- Guidance to the tide pool and time in the pool.
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Wear hiking shoes, hiking sandals, or athletic shoes for the hike. Hiking shoes are most ideal. If you wear sandals, closed-toe are most ideal.
- Wear water shoes at the tide pool. Closed-toe shoes with durable soles are most ideal. I don't recommend flip flops.
- Wear a bathing suit and bring a towel. There are no bathrooms at the tide pool.
- Many people bring a snorkeling mask or goggles.
- Apply "reef safe" sunscreen before the hike to minimize its contact with the tide pool water. Bug spray is unnecessary because there are no ticks and very few bugs or mosquitoes.
- Some people bring a first aid kit (I don't carry one).
Report Product Issue
