# Big Island Hawaii Gypsy Guide — Explore Big Isle at Your Pace

> Offline GPS-guided audio tours for exploring Hawaii's Big Island. (iPhone/iPad app by GyPSy Guide LLC.)

- Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/big-island-hawaii-gypsy-guide/id982839825 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`)
- Developer: [GyPSy Guide LLC](https://appshunter.io/developer/1756806851)
- Category: Travel, Navigation
- Price: $14.99 (on sale, was $19.99)
- Rating: 4.90/5 from 762 App Store ratings · 81 written reviews indexed
- Age rating: 4+
- Requires: iOS 15.0 · 267 MB
- Languages: American English
- Released: 2015-04-13
- Data updated: 2026-08-25
- Monetization: free with in-app purchases
- User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/big-island-hawaii-gypsy-guide/id982839825/reviews.md

## What is Big Island Hawaii Gypsy Guide?

Discover the Big Island like a local with GyPSy Guide, your trusted companion for exploring Hawaii Volcano National Park, Akaka Falls, lush rainforests, and historic sites. Enjoy multiple routes in a single download—no need to juggle versions. With 460+ stories, drive from anywhere and let the GPS guide you seamlessly to must-see stops at your own pace.

1) Volcanoes National Park: Explore a world-famous park with lava flows, craters, and dramatic viewpoints.

2) Island Circle Route: Experience the island’s best, from the lush Hamakua Coast to Waipio Valley’s cliffs and waterfalls.

3) Kohala North Loop: Discover North Kohala’s rugged coastlines, ancient sites, and black sand beaches.

4) Kona Coast Route: Enjoy the sunny Kona Coast with snorkeling spots, ancient temples, and coffee plantations.

With GyPSy Guide, explore the Big Island's diverse landscapes, hidden gems, and local culture. Enjoy expertly curated audio tours that reveal volcanic wonders, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches, making every twist of your journey unforgettable.

Why Choose GyPSy Guide?
• Big Island Experts: Immerse yourself in the spirit of Hawaii with stories and insights from local guides who truly know the Big Island – its legends, culture, and hidden treasures.
• GPS-Triggered Audio Adventure: Discover the Big Island effortlessly. With GPS-triggered storytelling, uncover secret spots, fascinating history, and travel tips – all while you drive.
• Expertly Curated Guidance: Navigate like a pro! GyPSy Guide helps you hit the must-see highlights, explore off-the-beaten-path gems, and craft an unforgettable adventure tailored just for you.
• Works Offline – No Signal, No Worries: Say “aloha” to stress-free travel! Our tours work offline, using GPS to guide you even in the most remote corners of paradise. No Wi-Fi or data is needed.

GyPSy Guide: It’s Just Like Having a Tour Guide in Your Car

• Explore at Your Own Pace: Set your own pace with GyPSy Guide, whether exploring lava fields, hiking rainforests, or relaxing on a beach.
• Must-See Stops: Our curated itineraries include top attractions like Akaka Falls and Pololu Valley, so you don't miss a thing.
• Top Highlights: With hours of exploration ahead, we’ll ensure you visit the island’s top sights and offer insider tips to make the most of your trip.
• Cultural Narratives: Immerse in the island's culture and history with engaging audio commentary that brings traditions to life.

What You’ll See:
‣ Volcanoes National Park
‣ Akaka Falls
‣ Waipio Valley
‣ Pololu Valley
‣ Rainbow Falls
‣ Kealakekua Bay
‣ Halemaumau Crater
‣ Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park (“Those Are My Ancestors”)
‣ Hamakua Coast
‣ Liliuokalani Gardens
‣ Thurston Lava Tube

• Hear the Aloha Spirit in Every Word:
“GyPSy Guide made our Big Island trip so much more memorable. We can't wait to use it again on our next Hawaiian adventure!”
“The audio guides were informative, entertaining, and easy to follow. We learned so much about the island's history, culture, and natural wonders.”
“GyPSy Guide was an absolute game-changer for our Big Island adventure. We felt like we had a local expert by our side, sharing the island's secrets and stories.”

• Important Notes:
Volcano National Park: Following the 2018 eruptions, parts of the park are reopening in phases. Check for current closures and access updates before visiting.

Upgrade to the Hawaii Bundle and access 1,540+ audio points spanning all 4 islands: Maui (including the iconic Road to Hana), Big Island, Oahu, and Kauai. Immerse yourself in Hawaii’s rich stories, scenic drives, and breathtaking landscapes—all in one ultimate bundle.

• Bonus Perks:
No Expiry: Tours never expire—revisit anytime.
Regular Updates: Get the latest on roads and attractions.

• Important Info:
iPad Compatibility: Use an iPad with GPS (WiFi + Cellular) for full functionality.
Battery: GPS drains battery—bring a car charger.

## Key features

- GPS-triggered audio tours
- Offline functionality
- Multiple route options
- Expert local guides
- Explore at your own pace
- Must-see stops and hidden gems

## What do users think of Big Island Hawaii Gypsy Guide?

Overall sentiment: positive

**Pros**

- 🚀 Excellent guide
- 👍 Informative and entertaining
- 💡 Helpful directions and suggestions
- 🚗 Enhances driving experience
- 🌴 Provides great insights into Hawaiian history and culture

**Cons**

- 🐛 Issues with map navigation
- 🔇 Mispronunciation of Hawaiian words
- 🚫 Lacks information on some key locations

**Commonly reported bugs**

- Inconsistent audio playback when driving in opposite direction
- Difficulty accessing audio clips not near current location

**Most requested features**

- Add Hawaiian music during gaps
- Provide more information on Saddle Road
- Improve map functionality to allow scrolling

## Recent user reviews (10 of 81)

All indexed reviews: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/big-island-hawaii-gypsy-guide/id982839825/reviews.md

### 5/5 — Big Island

*2025-07-21, version 3.5.3*

Amazing App! We enjoyed everything about it… thank you

### 2/5 — Good info, BAD Pronunciation!

*2024-12-28, version 3.5.3*

Being a native of the Big Island, I was curious if there was anything new that I could learn about my beloved home. I liked the facts mentioned and the accuracy of the gps directions. HOWEVER, I was appalled at the narrator’s mispronunciation of ALL the Hawaiian words and place names he used!!! HOW CAN WE CORRECT THIS??? It needs to be done immediately to not continue to spread misinformation!

### 5/5 — A Must For The Hawai’ian Islands!

*2021-05-12, version 3.5.1*

Excellent historical and sightseeing info and out-of-the-ordinary locales. We used both the O’ahu and Big Island tours. Paired with our windshield mounted GoPro made for awesome touring videos we were able to show our friends and family once home. Just wishing they’d expand their coverage to our neck of the woods (US Mid-Atlantic region). Perhaps one day...

### 5/5 — Fantastic Guide for our trip

*2021-03-30, version 3.0.1*

This app is amazing!  We have found so many hidden gems and gotten so much great advice listening to the guide as we drive around the island, and learned so much great history.

### 5/5 — MUST HAVE- best tour guide ever

*2021-03-24*

We have now bought two tours(Road to Hana was the first one, and The Big Island, the second) only wish we had known more up front about it being a package when we did the first. All in all still was the best $15 spent on any tour!  Narrator is amazing to listen to, enjoy his stories, and in depth knowledge of Hawaiian history.  His storytelling tempo of the tours is very nice, and his sense of humor appreciated! Very easy to use!  Absolutely love this app!

### 5/5 — A pleasant surprise!

*2021-02-26, version 3.0.1*

My sister recommended the app and knowing there would be some extended driving on the Big Island, I decided to buy it. It has been very educational and the touring tips have been spot on. We just finished the history of Hawaii  segment. Fascinating!

### 5/5 — Excellent travel companion

*2021-02-10, version 3.0.1*

Covered 95% of the sites I wanted to see on the Big Island. Saved tons of hours of research and supplemented the long drives with relevant histories and added even more stops than I originally planned to do.

### 5/5 — Must Have

*2020-12-29*

My family and I are avid travels and love road trips, we are not planners and typically just go where the winds blow us.  This trip however we downloaded Gypsy and I’ll NEVER travel with out it again. We drove the complete island and hands down the best parts were where the app sent us. Not to mention we learned so much US history and local history.  The story telling is great, the narrative is amazing, and it’s fun. If you’re on vacation this is a must have 10-star app.

### 5/5 — Guide for Big Island

*2020-04-01, version 3.0.1*

This app is amazing and would consider it a necessity for any trip to the Big Island. Was able to take a self-guided tour around the island using the app and learned about Hawaiian history and saved money by going at it on my own verses using a bus tour! I definitely plan to use Gypsy Guide again!

### 2/5 — So close to greatness, but misses the mark.

*2020-03-20*

The voice is pleasant. Reminds me of Tom Bosley.
Cadence is great. Information is good. 

There are MANY UX/UI problems.

1. You can’t scroll around the map for an upcoming point or a point you passed. The map refocuses on where you currently are. 

2. When you pass a point on the map going the opposite direction of the tour, autoplay of that clip doesn’t work. Ok I know it will be problematic if the clip says “the little blue church is coming up on the left.” And I’m traveling the opposite direction. I’m smart enough to know “oh, I’m traveling the opposite direction, so the little blue church is on the right and maybe I just passed it. Do I want to turn around?” Thats MUCH more useful than nothing.

3. If you want to play a clip ad hoc without being close to the waypoint, the UX is super glitchy. You tap on a green dot and nothing happens, or maybe the audio player pops up but nothing plays. Super Aggravating.

Workarounds:

You can run this app in a simulator and fake your location information- it’s the same way people used to cheat at Ingress before ninantic figured it out and added protections. The thing is, why would GypsyGuides make it so hard just to play an audio clip? Just let me scroll the map and play the clip I want. :(

**Developer response:** The things you have made in your review are not glitches - they are design choices.  For your own safety you are not supposed to be touching the map while driving - we cannot encourage distracted driving. That's why it plays automatically. The location centers in driving mode so as it is always easy to see where you are and where upcoming commentary points are with just quick glance. 

Yes, the commentary points have arrows inside them to indicate the direction they are programmed to play.  90% of the island has different commentary depending which way you drive.  There are a couple of areas where the commentary only goes in one direction. The arrows make that very clear, as do the tour descriptions.

You can tap commentary points manually to play them. Then tap the play button when the media player opens. 

The tour has a "browse" mode. This allows you to go anywhere on the tour map and play audio manually. Most people use that before they go, or to replay stories they enjoyed when they have finished.

Its always recommended to listen to or read the tours instructions for the best possible experience.

## Frequently asked questions about Big Island Hawaii Gypsy Guide

### What does the Big Island Hawaii Gypsy Guide app do?

This app provides GPS-triggered audio tours for exploring Hawaii's Big Island. It guides you to must-see attractions like Volcanoes National Park, Akaka Falls, and historic sites, offering insights from local experts. The tours are designed to be followed at your own pace.

### What are the key features of this app?

Key features include offline functionality, meaning no Wi-Fi or data is needed once downloaded. It offers GPS-triggered storytelling, multiple curated routes such as the Island Circle Route and Kona Coast Route, and expert local guidance to uncover hidden gems and cultural narratives.

### How much does the Big Island Hawaii Gypsy Guide app cost?

The app itself is free to download, but it operates on a freemium model with in-app purchases. Users can download specific tours or routes for a fee, allowing them to explore different areas of the Big Island.

### Is this app compatible with my device?

While specific compatibility details are not provided, this app is designed for mobile devices. It requires GPS functionality to operate its core features and is available for download on app stores for compatible smartphones and tablets.

### What are common use cases for this app?

Common use cases include self-guided exploration of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, driving the scenic Island Circle Route, discovering the rugged beauty of the Kohala Coast, and enjoying the sunny Kona Coast with its snorkeling spots and coffee plantations. It's ideal for travelers who prefer to explore independently.

## Version history (last 5 releases)

### 3.5.3 — 2024-11-26

Exciting New Content Added: Dive deeper into the Big Island with updated stories and stops!
One Tour, Endless Adventure: Download once and explore the entire Big Island seamlessly.
Stay Updated: Never miss a beat with the latest additions and enhancements.

### 3.5.2 — 2021-06-01

Changes on this version make it easier to upgrade to the All NEW GyPSy Guide app.

### 3.5.1 — 2021-05-04

Changes in this version will help you to update to the newest version of the GyPSy Guide app.

### 3.0.1 — 2019-09-13

We are constantly making improvements, both large and small, so you have an even better sightseeing experience for your road trip adventures.
Major updates we've made for this and previous versions include:
* Modifications made for iOS13 release
* Tour keeps delivering audio narration even when in background mode, Eg while you listen to music.
* Easy-to-follow tour route line added
* Content updates

### 2.7.0 — 2019-05-29

We’re constantly making updates and improvements to our app in order to provide the best experience possible for your sightseeing adventures.
Enhancements with this and previous updates include:
* Tour keeps running in background while using other apps Eg. music
* Easy-to-follow tour route line now added
* Content updates

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## More apps by GyPSy Guide LLC

- [GuideAlong Vancouver Tours](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/guidealong-vancouver-tours/id573472681)
- [Road to Hana Maui GyPSy Guide](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/road-to-hana-maui-gypsy-guide/id578451869)
- [Maui GyPSy Guide Driving Tour](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/maui-gypsy-guide-driving-tour/id578453078)
- [Oahu GyPSy Guide Driving Tour](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/oahu-gypsy-guide-driving-tour/id586015472)
- [Vermont RT100 GyPSy Guide](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/vermont-rt100-gypsy-guide/id1035442686)

All apps by GyPSy Guide LLC: https://appshunter.io/developer/1756806851

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*Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-08-25.*