The Big Island and Maui

Whales, Waterfalls, Rain Forest

Trip Details

Itinerary

Days 1-3: Kohala Coast, The Big Island of Hawaii

Welcome to the Big Island of Hawaii! Make your way to your accommodations, on the edge of one of the most beautiful beaches – and the best swimming beach – on Hawaii. Away from it all, yet within an easy distance, Mauna Lani Bay is an idyllic location from which to explore. Speaking of which… explorations over the course of three days will include a guided half day of snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay, a full day of hiking and exploring in Volcanoes National Park, and an extraordinary helicopter tour, flying over the active Kilauea Volcano to see lava flows and black sand beaches, the lush rainforests of the Hamakua Coast, and the towering sea cliffs and meandering valleys of the Kohala Mountains. A smaller resort to retreat to at day’s end sweetens the deal, with an array of amenities and activities, beachside dining, and spectacular sunsets. 

Days 4-5: Hana, Maui

Fly to Maui, pick up your rental vehicle, and drive straight for Hana along the famed 50-mile Hana Highway. This remarkable stretch of road doesn’t really stretch per se – it winds, and winds, and winds, until you find yourself in your destination enclave. Lodge at the recently renovated Travaasa Hana, perched over Hana Bay. On your full day, we suggest a hike to one of a number of destinations – perhaps the King’s Trail in Wai’anapanapa State Park or the Seven Sacred Pools of Ohe’o in Haleakala National Park. 

Days 6-8: Wailea, Maui

Make your way around the island to Wailea, taking the time to take it all in en route. (Off the Beaten Path’s Journey Guidebook provides plenty of suggestions for things to see and do as you make your way from Point A to Point B!) Upon arrival, check into your beach villa on the shoreline of Wailea, and relax and indulge, just steps from the sand and saltwater. With two full days, spend one hiking to a classic Hawaiian waterfall, with clear pools for swimming. On your second day, head to the top of the massive Haleakala Volcano, hop on a bicycle, and enjoy an exhilarating ride down the mountain road, 25 miles in all! En route, stop in the small town of Makawao, Maui’s “cowboy town,” with rich ranching history. 

Day 9: Fly Home from Maui

It’s time to leave Hawaii behind, but we’re sure you’ll return home with a little bit of “Aloha” to last until the next time. (And you’ll surely want a “next time”!) 

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Lodging

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