matthewcC7926GG, Sep 2026
Big Island Volcanoes and Other Highlights
A great tour starts with a great guide, and Justin is about as good as it gets. A native Hawaiian, he doesn't just show you the island — he welcomes you into it, making you feel like Ohana from the first hello. Every stop, every story, every joke felt like it came from someone who genuinely wanted you to fall in love with his home.Justin shared his culture, insights, and knowledge with real warmth and a sharp sense of humor to match. A former radio host, his delivery ranges from engaging to deadpan to laugh-out-loud goofy, and it never once felt like a script — he clearly loves what he does. We learned far more than we expected about local customs, challenges, and history, and how Hawaii's storied past still shapes the choices Hawaiians make today. His perspective on how locals view and solve problems is what made the destinations come alive — this wasn't just sightseeing, it was context, and that's a rare gift in a tour guide.The stops themselves were fantastic: Kilauea volcano and caldera from several vantage points, a lava tube, and a nature lesson on how native islanders used the rainforest's abundance. Lunch (on your own) in Hilo, then Rainbow Falls, a search for sea turtles, and a black sand beach to finish the day.We never felt rushed, yet the pacing was perfect — back in time for the cruise ship crowd to make their return, and dropped at the airport with time to spare for our flight back to Oahu.For the money, this tour is an easy recommendation, and that's almost entirely down to Justin. A great operation starts with a fantastic guide, and Justin's Makaio Tours has exactly that. If you're headed to the Big Island, book him — you won't regret it.
