Hawaii

Hawaii is like no other place on earth. Home to one of the world’s most active volcanos and the world’s tallest sea mountain. Birthplace of modern surfing, the hulaa and Hawaii Regional Cuisine. Former seat of a royal kingdom and home to the only royal palace on US soil. Hawaii is one of the youngest geological formations in the world and the youngest state of the union. But perhaps Hawaii’s most unique feature is its aloha spirit: the warmth of Hawaii’s people that wonderfully complements the Islands’ perfect temperatures.

There are six major islands to visit in Hawaii: Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii Island. You’ll find each island has its own distinct personality and offers its own adventures, activities and sights. Mark Twain called Hawaii, “That peaceful land, that beautiful land… the climate, one long delicious summer day, and the good that die experience no change, for they but fall asleep in one heaven and wake up in another.”

Tourists come to this magnificent Pacific island from all over the world to experience its lovely weather, serene beaches, and volcanic parks. Guests can immerse themselves in Polynesian culture or take a stroll on a black-sand beach.

Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Honolulu, Oahu – Tour Begins
Aloha! Your adventure in the sun-drenched Hawaiian Islands begins in Honolulu. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with a traditional Hawaiian floral lei and whisked off by private car to your hotel. Relax and “hang loose” — you are in Hawaii!

Day 2: Oahu
This morning “Remember Pearl Harbor” as you embark on a historic journey. Begin at the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument to view artifacts from the attack and a short documentary on the Day of Infamy. Travel by naval launch to the white marble-clad USS Arizona Memorial. In the silence, reflect on history as you gaze upon the thousands of names inscribed on the wall of remembrance. After this poignant experience, take a city tour of Honolulu highlighting the historic Iolani Palace, the impressive state capitol building, King Kamehameha’s statue, and the moving National Cemetery of the Pacific, known as the Punchbowl. The remainder of your day is at leisure to explore Oahu your way.

Day 3: Oahu
Embark on a wonderful journey along Oahu’s famous North Shore. If there is such a thing as a perfect wave, you’ll likely find it here. The large waves of this legendary surf mecca attract the best surfers. Several television series and movies were filmed in this area. A stop in the surfing town of Haleiwa will surely be a highlight as you learn why surfers gather from all over the world with waves ranging from 2 to 40 feet! Rich with island history, Haleiwa is now the social and artistic hub of the North Shore. Here you will find surfers fueling up at the restaurants in its plantation-era buildings before hitting the famous beaches of Waimea Bay, Ehukai (Banzai Pipeline) and Sunset Beach. No trip to the North Shore is complete without making a stop to savor one of Hawaii’s favorite treats…shaved ice. Hawaiians consider this the perfect treat any time of day. Return to Waikiki and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 4: Oahu – Kauai
A short flight* takes you to the “Garden Isle” of Kauai, the oldest island in the chain. Only here, on the outer islands, can you find the timeless world of ancient Polynesia. Upon arrival, visit Kilohana Plantation and ride on an authentic historic railway. Discover local culture and the history of this working farm as your guide highlights animals, vegetables and exotic fruits along your journey.

Day 5: Kauai
The day is yours to enjoy this beautiful island at leisure. Stroll along the beach or take advantage of your resort’s activities. You may also choose to experience the island through the eyes of Hollywood with a tour of the island’s famous movie filming locations.

Day 6: Kauai
Travel to breathtaking Waimea Canyon. Carved thousands of years ago by rivers and floods, each of the lines in the canyon walls represent a different volcanic eruption or lava flow. At 10 miles long, 1 mile wide, and more than 3,500 feet deep, it is considered the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Later, visit the largest coffee estate in Hawaii and discover the coffee bean’s journey from tree to your morning cup. Learn about sustainability practices and taste several of their coffees.

Day 7: Kauai – Maui
Board an inter-island flight* to the “Valley Isle” of Maui, one of the most beautiful and popular outer islands. Visit the stunning Iao Valley and view the 2,000-foot-high Iao Needle, one of Maui’s famous natural landforms. Visit the old royal capital of Lahaina, once home of the world’s largest whaling fleets, where you can stroll through historic streets. Travel through sugarcane fields to the resort area of Kaanapali and arrive at your deluxe beachfront hotel.

Day 8: Maui
Spend a day at leisure to see for yourself why locals say “Maui no ka oi” (Maui is the best). Perhaps you will take an optional cliffside drive on the legendary Road to Hana. Or you may choose to take a stroll along the beach, shop for souvenirs or simply relax at your luxurious Maui resort. There is no limit to the adventures you can have on the gorgeous island of Maui!

Day 9: Maui
Enjoy another day in paradise. To cap off your visit, you may decide to view the sunrise from the summit of Haleakala. Tonight, complete your wonderful trip with a farewell dinner, Hawaiian-style, at a traditional Polynesian luau featuring endless tropical drinks and a sumptuous feast.

Day 10: Maui – Tour Ends
Bid “Aloha” to Hawaii as your memorable tour ends in Maui. Now, wherever your home is, you’ll always be part of the Hawaiian “ohana” (family).