The beauty of Hawaii

11 Days • 9 Meals
Beautiful beaches, balmy breezes, verdant forests, ancient mysteries and quiet volcanoes make Hawaii a favorite vacation destination.

Islands of Enchantment
After flying over the Pacific Ocean we will be warmly welcomed to Honolulu, Hawaii, with a fresh flower lei. We check into the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani hotel right across the street from Waikiki Beach and on the former estate of Princess Victoria Kaiulani.

The laid-back charm of Honolulu blends superbly with tropical ambiance and is home to one of the world’s most fabulous beaches. Our exploration begins with a drive to Punchbowl National Cemetery and Iolani Palace. We visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial. Our day of postcard perfect views and memorials to our country’s heroes ends with dinner and show by the Society of Seven, Hawaii’s one-of-a-kind performance group.

Hawaii is more than a place; it is also a state of mind. For the next two days you’ll follow your spirit and explore the island at leisure. From blissful beaches to historic sites, you will find the perfect activities. The International Marketplace is a huge favorite. A 100-year-old banyan tree sits in the middle of this open-air market offering everything from tee shirts to tapestries. An art gallery displays work of local artists, and the food court has a tasty global selection. You can join our optional tour to the Polynesian Cultural Center, which exemplifies authentic Hawaiian culture. Islanders reenact war dances and wedding ceremonies, carve tiki figures, wield fire knives and immerse us in their culture. We also offer an optional day tour that explores the wonders and sacred beauties of Oahu from the rugged grandeur of deep, narrow valleys ending abruptly in crystal-clear blue waters to the waterfalls, botanical gardens and cultural displays of Waimea Valley Park.

The Garden Isle
We fly from Oahu to the verdant beauty of Kauai, “The Garden Island.” Our luxury oceanfront resort is situated on 25 lushly landscaped acres surrounded by exotic lagoons, waterfalls and tropical foliage. Its three-mile beach is ranked one of the best in the U.S. On the way to the resort, we board a boat and laze down the scenic Wailua River to visit the Fern Grotto. The misty emerald green of the fern-fringed grotto and Hawaiian music creates an alluring interlude of sensuous beauty.

We will be dazzled by the incredible grandeur of Waimea Canyon. Described by Mark Twain as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” it is ten miles long and 3600 feet deep. The rainbow of colors that dance along its peaks and spectacular views into Kalalau Valley makes this one of the most beautiful sights on the island. The sugarcane fields and pineapple plantations we pass illustrate the island way of life and its main industries. Our Kauai days include ample time to enjoy the beaches and other resort amenities.

The Valley Isle
Our next flight takes us to Maui, the Valley Island, and our resort set on 27 acres of tropical lawns and gardens. Along a half-mile of the best stretch of Ka’anapali Beach, this elegant resort offers a spectacular location and Hawaiian ambiance. We visit Iao Valley where Hawaiians gathered 1,000 years ago to honor the bounty of Lono, the god of agriculture. More than a hundred years ago visitors discovered the natural beauty of this valley that is now known around the world for its spiritual value and breathtaking scenery.

You may be ready for a beach day on your own or golf, tennis, even scuba lessons. Or, take our optional tour to the outstanding volcanic landscapes, unique and fragile ecosystems and scenic pools of Haleakala National Park. Designated an International Biosphere Reserve, the park is home to many rare and endangered species. The park goes through several ecosystems from Alpine to valley. The Observation Center provides a birds-eye view of the enormous volcanic crater and the surrounding area.

Our last day on Maui is yours to relax on the beach or explore the historic town of Lahaina and its famous Front Street lined with old buildings, boutiques and cafes. Ships bob in the harbor and surfers glide the waves while mountains dominate the skyline often topped by rainbows. Enjoy the scenery, investigate Lahaina’s colorful past and fill your shopping bags. On our final night we celebrate our vacation in paradise with a luau of authentic Hawaiian food, music and dancers. We say goodbye to this loveliest of the United States filled with beautiful memories and special moments that will last a lifetime.

Hotel Accommodations
Days One through Four – Sheraton Princess Kaiulani, Honolulu, Oahu
Days Five and Six – Resort Quest Kauai Beach at Makaiwa, Lihue, Kauai
Days Seven through Nine – Royal Lahaina Resort, Maui