Hawaiian Adventure

<I>Aloha!</I> Your adventure begins on the sun-drenched beaches of Waikiki. Relax and “hang loose” before meeting your group tomorrow, there are no inclusions today.

This morning, take a city tour of Honolulu, highlighting the historic Iolani Palace, the impressive state capitol building, King Kamehameha’s statue, and the National Cemetery of the Pacific. Then, remember Pearl Harbour with a visit to the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, viewing artifacts from the attack and a short documentary on the "Day of Infamy." Travel by naval launch to view the white marble-clad USS <I>Arizona</I> Memorial, honouring those who lost their lives in the Pearl Harbour attack.

Dive further into Hawaiian history with a visit to Iolani Palace to learn about the Hawaiian monarchs and the takeover of Hawaii by the United States. Then enjoy free time for lunch with recommendations from your Tour Manager for the best spots for a traditional plated lunch. Later stop at the Pali lookout in O'ahu’s rainforest before returning to Waikiki for an evening at your leisure.

Board your flight to the volcanic “Big Island” of Hawaii and leave cosmopolitan O'ahu behind. True to its name, the island itself is larger than all the other Hawaiian Islands combined. Although the island’s official name is the archipelago’s namesake, the Big Island is also famous for its volcanoes creating rocky, black landscapes. Upon arrival, pause at the iridescent mist of Rainbow Falls before having time to explore Hilo on your own for lunch. Then set out for a tour of the South Coast including a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to learn about Kilauea – the world’s most active volcano. Make your way along the steam bluffs to get a view of the impressive caldera. On the way to the hotel, take in views of the crystal-clear waters of Kealakekua Bay and visit one of the iconic black sand beaches where you may luck out in spotting a green turtle soaking up the sun.

This morning, take time to relax at your resort and look out over Big Island’s rocky coastline. In the afternoon, head into Kailua-Kona — a town established by King Kamehameha I before he unified the Kingdom of Hawaii. After, enjoy ample time to peruse the shops and grab a bite of lunch on your own before returning to the hotel for a lei making class taught by a local expert. Learn about its cultural significance and create one of your own to bring home. This evening, enjoy dinner Hawaiian-style, at a traditional Polynesian luau* featuring endless tropical drinks and a sumptuous feast.

Start the day at Bay View Farm, which has been harvesting coffee beans since 1984. Tour the farm with a local before enjoying a tasting of the local brew. Visit St. Benedict’s Painted Church, built in the 1800s and adorned with vibrant frescos. Continue to Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park** on the rugged coast, once the place of refuge for those that broke the <I>Kapu</I> (sacred law) in old Hawaii.

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. Travel to the resort area of Ka'anapali and arrive at your deluxe beachfront hotel.