Discovering Hawai’i 13 days from $5,400 (Self Drive)
Immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Hawai’i as you explore four islands, venturing to emerald jungles and volcanic peaks and experiencing the islands’ history and cultural heritage firsthand. HIGHLIGHTS Take a guided tour of Pearl Harbor during the 80th anniversary of the World War II attack. �
Go snorkeling in the volcanic caldera of Molokini and enjoy a guided night snorkeling experience. �
Experience the beauty of Kauai’s dramatic Na Pali coastline on a sunset dinner cruise. �
Stargaze from the summit of sacred Mauna Kea using powerful telescopes. �
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you. Days 1–3 – Oahu, Hawai’i Arrive in Honolulu on the island of Oahu, and settle into your hotel in Waikiki. Take a guided tour of Pearl Harbor, including a boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, built over the destroyed battleship. Depending on your schedule, you may be able to attend events (December 2021) commemorating the 80th anniversary of the attack. Enjoy a full day to explore the island further. While here, you’ll also experience Polynesian culture during a traditional luau, featuring cooking, hula dances, fire shows, and a delicious meal. Days 4 & 5 – Kauai Fly to Kauai, Hawai’i’s “Garden Isle.” Embark on a sunset cruise, enjoying dinner and drinks as you glide past the magnificent green slopes of the Na Pali coast. Meet a local guide for a scenic hike on a trail of your choice. From canyons and hidden beaches to rugged mountains and jungle waterfalls, there is much to discover on the island. Day 6 – Kauai and Big Island of Hawai’i Enjoy one last day to explore Kauai before your evening flight to the Big Island. Settle into your beachfront resort upon arrival. Days 7 & 8 – Big Island Island of Hawai’i Join a small group tour to sacred Mauna Kea, and savor breathtaking sunset views from the summit. Then descend to the Visitor’s Information Station for dinner and stargazing using a powerful telescope. During a day at leisure, consider a visit to Volcanoes National Park, where you can follow Chain of Craters Road until it ends, swallowed by an old lava flow. In the evening, don snorkel gear for an unforgettable guided night swim in an area where manta rays come to feed. Days 9–13 – Maui and Oahu Fly to Maui, where you’ll pick up a rental car and head to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to stretch out on the beach or by the pool, or head to the former whaling port of Lahaina. Sail a catamaran to the partially sunken volcanic caldera of Molokini for a snorkeling excursion among myriad species of tropical fish. Then enjoy two free days to relax on Maui. Consider taking a road trip along the Hana Highway, winding past emerald cliffs, rain forest waterfalls, and red- and black-sand beaches. Fly home via Honolulu the next day.
WHERE TO STAY Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach – A modern oasis just steps from the beach in the heart of Waikiki, offering award-winning design and a saltwater infinity pool with private cabanas. Kauai Beach Resort – An upscale beachfront resort on the eastern coast of Kauai, featuring four swimming pools and balconies for all guest rooms. Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa A beachfront haven set on the Big Island’s west coast, with two champion-ship golf courses, two pools, and a spa. Royal Lahaina Resort – A comfortable hotel set on the golden sands of Maui’s Ka’anapali Beach, with three pools and a spa. 31
