Special # 430
Duration: 10 Days
Airfare: Not Included
Details: VACATION OVERVIEW
Whether you’re looking to renew your spirit, explore historic sights, or experience breathtaking natural beauty, this Hawaii vacation is sure to delight. Feel the sand in your feet, smell the fresh fragrance of the island flowers, smile as the tranquil ocean waves hit your calves, savor the sumptuous cuisine, taste the aromatic coffee, and just relax as us shows you the best of the Hawaiian Islands—Oahu, the Big Island, and Maui.
Feel moved by the USS Arizona, which commemorates the crewman who lost their lives in the historic attack on Pearl Harbor. Stroll the quaint, historic town of Lahaina, with its many art galleries and shops. Stand in awe as you admire Kilauea Crater in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Did you know this prolific volcano produces 250,000-650,000 cubic yards of lava per day? Just imagine the wonderful photos you’ll be able to capture and show friends and family back home. All of this and much more await you.
To introduce you to Hawaii’s hidden gems, your tour includes behind-the-scenes Local Favorites℠ such as a visit to the Kona Coffee Living History Farm, a working coffee and macadamia nut farm. Stroll the beaches, take a nap by the pool, join in the optional activities, shop for souvenirs, and just relax on this truly memorable vacation in paradise!
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Honolulu, Hawaii
Upon arrival to the island of Oahu, you are greeted in the traditional Polynesian way—with a warm aloha and a LEI of fresh flowers. Transfer to your hotel in Waikiki. The remainder of your day is at leisure.
Day 2 Honolulu
A breakfast get-together with your Tour Director reviews activities scheduled throughout your stay. The balance of the day is free to relax, swim, enjoy water sports, or laze on the beach. Take the optional excursion to the Polynesian Cultural Center for authentic island arts, crafts, history, music, a dinner buffet, and a spectacular Polynesian show with more than 100 performers. This evening, enjoy an optional sunset cruise with dinner, Hawaiian cocktails, and splendid views of the glittering Waikiki coastline and Diamond Head. (B)
Day 3 Honolulu. Excursion to Pearl Harbor
Begin with a tour of PEARL HARBOR’s famous Battleship Row. Listen to a narration of the dramatic air attack of December 7, 1941, and visit the USS Arizona and the impressive MEMORIAL dedicated to the 1,102 men still entombed. You will also have an opportunity to visit the MUSEUM, an excellent way to learn about Pearl Harbor Day, the Japanese strategy and military craft, and the individuals involved in the attack. Then, on to Punchbowl National Cemetery with its beautiful views of Honolulu. Other sights include Chinatown, the Hawaii State Capitol, royal ‘Iolani Palace, and the statue of Kamehameha the Great. Tonight, enjoy an included dinner at your hotel. (B,D)
Day 4 Honolulu–Hilo–Hawaii Volcanoes National Park–Kona
Board a morning flight to the “Big Island” of Hawaii. Upon arrival in Hilo on the east coast, drive to HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK and visit the JAGGAR MUSEUM, where you will learn about this active volcano. Here, see Kilauea Crater, rising 4,090 feet above a volcanic wonderland of steaming fire pits, lava tubes, and fern forests. Next, enjoy an included lunch followed by a stop at [LF] PUNALU’U BAKE SHOP to sample the famous Hawaiian sweetbread introduced to the area by Portuguese sugar workers in the 19th century. This traditional favorite is not to be missed! Continue on to Kona, your home for the next three nights. (B,L)
Day 5 Kona
This morning, visit the [LF] KONA COFFEE LIVING HISTORY FARM, a working coffee and macadamia nut farm where you have the opportunity to learn about the history of Kona’s coffee industry and the remarkable pioneers who established these farms. Tonight, join your Tour Director for a festive LUAU, where you have the opportunity to learn to hula, try some traditional Hawaiian specialties like poi, and see captivating performances by Polynesian musicians and dancers. (B,D)
NOTE:
For departures that start on Mondays, Day 5 will have an included dinner, as the luau will take place on Day 8 in Maui along with the Haleakala sightseeing.
Day 6 Kona
Today is free for independent activities. Find a special place to relax poolside and enjoy the warm tropical sun and balmy breezes, enjoy an optional snorkeling cruise to Kealakekua Bay, or join the optional helicopter flightseeing excursion. (B)
Day 7 Kona–Maui
A morning flight takes you to the “Valley Island” of Maui. Drive to the lush `IAO VALLEY to see the `Iao Needle, a spectacular volcanic spire. Visit LAHAINA, then continue on to Ka`anapali, your home for the next three nights. The balance of the day is at leisure. (B,D)
Day 8 Maui
Activities abound and your Tour Director is on hand to help you plan your day. A full free day to swim and sunbathe at the beach or hotel pool. Another choice is the “Road to Hana,” one of the world’s most impressive drives, with 54 bridges and numerous waterfalls. From mid-December to mid-April, a humpback whale-watching cruise is available. (B)
Day 9 Maui. Excursion to Haleakala National Park
The morning is dedicated to HALEAKALA NATIONAL PARK, site of the huge volcanic Haleakala Crater, known as the “House of the Sun.” In 1980, this native ecosystem of cinder cones and dense rainforest was designated an International Biosphere Reserve. There’s plenty of time in the afternoon to relax and enjoy your hotel’s facilities and beach. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a special farewell dinner. Wonderful conversation and cuisine make the perfect finale to a memorable Hawaiian vacation! (B,D)
Day 10 Maui
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. Transfer to Kahului Airport to connect with your home bound flight. (B)
PRICE: $2,999.00 p.p. *