Hawaii Holidays

Day 1 : Arrive Honolulu, Oahu – Waikiki (4 nights)

Welcome to Hawaii. In the traditional Aloha spirit, you'll be greeted at the airport with a flower lei. Explore your hotel in the heart of Waikiki Beach and spend the rest of the afternoon as you like: dive into the warm gentle waves of the Pacific, explore the shopping opportunities in Waikiki, or relax with a tropical drink poolside. At 6 p.m, gather for a Hawaiian-style Welcome Reception.

Day 2 : Oahu Sightseeing and Free Time

Traverse the island of Oahu, passing through colourful villages, rainforests and pineapple plantations. See panoramic views of the deep blue waters from rugged cliffs like those at Pali Lookout, site of the historic Battle of Nuuanu in 1795 that united the island of Oahu under King Kamehameha I's rule. Marvel at idyllic golden beaches and look out on the world-famous surf along the North Shore (seasonal), known for its huge waves during the winter. Back in Waikiki, your evening is free; enjoy a sunset swim in the gentle waves or perhaps explore the shopping and dining opportunities in Waikiki.

Day 3 : Honolulu Free Time

Enjoy a full day today to explore on your own. Spend some time lazing in the sun on Waikiki Beach; spot sea turtles, colourful coral and dazzling tropical fish while snorkelling at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve or perhaps partake in one of the many optional activities offered - a submarine tour, a guided sightseeing excursion of the island's East Coast or stare in awe at the bright pinks and corals of a tropical sunset on an evening dinner cruise. Tonight, join your travel companions for dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 4 : Pearl Harbor and Honolulu Sightseeing

Begin your day with a visit to Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial, a moving tribute to the military personnel who lost their lives in the 1941 attack that launched the U.S. into World War II. After a drive through the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific located in Punchbowl Crater, return to downtown Honolulu to see the splendid Iolani Palace, the iconic King Kamehameha I statue, and the state capitol building. Spend the rest of the afternoon on your own.

Day 5 : Oahu – Kona – Keauhou Bay (2 nights)

Set off for the Big Island of Hawaii today via a short flight. Upon arrival, enjoy an orientation tour of the seaside village of Kailua-Kona followed by time to explore the local shops in this quaint and bustling town. Visit a local coffee plantation where a Local Specialist gives you a tour and acquaints you with one of the Big Island's most famous crops. Later, check into your oceanfront resort and perhaps get a glimpse of the most famous guests on the property: the manta rays. Speaking of rays, enjoy rich island flavours at Rays on the Bay with views of these resident sea creatures. 

Day 6 : Kona Free Time

Wake to the sound of the sea and explore one of the most beautiful areas in the world on your own today. Options abound: don a snorkel and mask to see some of Hawaii's colourful and varied marine life; descend into the ocean depths on a submarine to explore a natural coral reef and its marine inhabitants; experience a spectacular helicopter flightseeing excursion over Big Island; or just relax and enjoy the pool and other facilities at your oceanfront resort.

Visit the hotel's Manta Ray Learning Center for an exciting presentation on these majestic sea animals with a Local Specialist. This evening, perhaps join an optional experience and visit to a historic working cattle ranch for dinner and entertainment.

Day 7 : Keauhou Bay – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – Hilo – Maui (3 nights)

Bid farewell to Kona as you make your way to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the world's largest volcano and its most active. On the way, see the immense stretches of black sand beach the island is known for and enjoy a stop at the southernmost bakery in the United States. Once inside the park, learn about the fiery geology of the islands and walk through a real lava tube followed by a visit to an interpretive museum. Enjoy a savoury lunch at The Rim restaurant, offering unparalleled views of the Kilauea caldera. Later, travel to Hilo where you board your flight to Maui, the Magic Isle. Formerly a royal retreat, magnificent Kaanapali Beach is often ranked as one of America's finest beaches. Check in to your beachfront resort and relax for the evening. 

Day 8 : Maui Sightseeing

This morning, set off for another of Hawaii's most famous volcanoes: Haleakala, which means "house of the sun". The volcano itself is the world's largest dormant volcano and the National Park is home to the island's highest peak at 10,023 feet (3,055 metres) above sea level. Travel into the countryside next to visit a local farm and learn about the sustainable agriculture on the islands. Then toast your host with a glass of wine and indulge in a Be My Guest lunch serving up delicious Hawaiian specialities made with the freshest local ingredients. After lunch, visit the lush emerald peaks of Iao Valley State Park. Join your travelling companions this evening for a luau and Regional Meal Farewell Dinner featuring a sumptuous buffet, tropical cocktails and the songs and dances of old Hawaii and the South Pacific.

Day 9 : Maui Free Time

Enjoy a full day free in paradise. Spend some time on the long white-sand beaches. Explore the old whaling village of Lahaina with its trendy art galleries and welcoming cafés. Play 18 holes at a championship golf course overlooking the sea or embark on a whale watching or submarine tour. 

Day 10 : Depart Maui

A hui hou…until we meet again. Take your transfer to the airport or extend your stay in Maui. This is the end of your escorted tour but it doesn't have to be the end of your adventure. Perhaps you may want to extend your stay and spend a few days in Los Angeles or maybe include a stop-over in New York before you head back to the UK. 

Call the travel specialists at Bon Voyage to discuss your perfect Best of Hawaii - Trafalgar Escorted Tour.