Hawaiian Explorer Moderate Summer 2018

Day 1: Arrive Honolulu, Oahu – Waikiki (2 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. At 6 p.m., gather for a Hawaiian-style Welcome Reception with your Travel Director and fellow travellers. Welcome Reception

Day 2: Pearl Harbor and Honolulu Sightseeing

Begin your exploration of Oahu 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 enjoying Waikiki. Full Breakfast

Day 3: Oahu – Kona – Keauhou Bay, Hawaii (2 Nights)

Your morning begins with a short, scenic flight to the Big Island of Hawaii. Upon arrival, enjoy an orientation tour of the lively seaside village of Kailua-Kona followed by time to explore the local shops in this charming town. Kona is famous for its tasty coffee and you'll learn more about these fragrant beans and the process of growing them at a local coffee plantation with a Local Specialist. Later, check in to your oceanside resort and perhaps get a glimpse of the most famous guests about the property: the manta rays. Meet your Local Specialist at the hotel's Manta Ray Learning Center for an exciting presentation about these large and graceful animals. In the evening, enjoy rich island flavours at Rays on the Bay with views of these resident sea creatures. Full Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4: Kona

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, experience a spectacular helicopter flightseeing excursion over the Big Island or just relax and enjoy the pool and other facilities at your oceanside resort. Full Breakfast

Day 5: Keauhou Bay – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – Hilo – Kaanapali Beach, Maui (3 Nights)

Bid farewell to Kona as you make your way to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that's home to the world's largest volcano. On the way, see the immense stretches of black sand beaches 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. Afterward, enjoy lunch at The Rim restaurant offering unparalleled views of the Kilauea caldera. Later, travel to Hilo where you board your flight to Maui, the Valley 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. Full Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6: Maui Sightseeing

This morning, travel along the coast to the Maui Ocean Center. Here you'll be introduced to the center's conservation naturalists who are passionate in sharing the underwater world with you. The center is home to the world's largest collection of live Pacific corals, elusive Hawaiian green sea turtles, sharks and thousands of vibrant tropical fish. Next, head into the countryside to visit a local farm and learn about the sustainable agriculture on the islands. Toast your host with a glass of wine and indulge in a Be My Guest lunch serving up Hawaiian specialities made with the freshest local ingredients. This evening enjoy the sunset from your resort, stroll over to nearby Whalers Village or venture into old town Lahaina to try one of the many festive restaurants. Full Breakfast, Be My Guest Dining

Day 7: Maui

Enjoy a full free day in paradise as you chart your own course through Maui's wonderlands. Spend some time on the long white-sand beaches. Explore the old whaling village of Lahaina with its trendy art galleries and welcoming cafés or enjoy one of the other many exciting optional experiences offered. Perhaps rise well before the sun to journey up to the summit of Haleakala. At 10,023 feet (3,055 metres), it is the island's highest peak and assures the best sunrise view. Join your travelling companions this evening for a lively Hawaiian Luau, and Farewell Dinner, featuring a Hawaiian feast and tropical cocktails with the songs and dances of old Hawaii. Full Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

Day 8: Depart Maui

A hui hou... until we meet again. Take your transfer to the airport or extend your stay in Maui. Full Breakfast