The Best of Hawaii - 12 Days
12 Days
Honolulu
Maui
*****
Tauck
Tauck's classic four-island journey across Hawaii incorporates natural and historical sights, exclusive cultural experiences, and free days to pursue your own passions on Oahu, the Big Island of Hawaii, Kauai and Maui.
Stay in ocean-view rooms at some of Hawaii's finest oceanfront resorts; visit the USS Missouri Memorial in Pearl Harbor; enjoy a private catamaran sail at sunset on the Big Island; enjoy a pre-opening hours visit to Iolani Palace; learn about Hawaii's iconic botanical world and key product, coffee; attend a traditional luau on Maui; explore scenic Kauai by helicopter; and attend a private evening highlighted by cocktails and dinner at Queen Emma Summer Palace in Honolulu.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Honolulu, Oahu – and a welcome to Hawaii night at a palace
A transfer is included from Honolulu International Airport to your extraordinary resort, The Royal Hawaiian – affectionately known as the "Pink Palace of the Pacific" – set on the white sand shores of Waikiki Beach. Stay in ocean-view accommodations, and enjoy dinner with stunning views of the beach and ocean in the hotel's acclaimed Azure restaurant, overlooking Waikiki Beach. Tonight, your Tauck Hawaii tour begins with an exclusive evening – a private after-hours tour, reception and dinner at Queen Emma Summer Palace, the secluded mountain-home and summer retreat of Queen Emma of Hawaii and her family.
Day 2: Pre-opening visit to Iolani Palace & an afternoon on Waikiki
Begin the day with an exclusive pre-opening hours visit to magnificent Iolani Palace, the opulent official residence of Hawaii's former monarchy. Built in 1882, this National Historic Landmark reigns as the only official state residence of royalty in the United States – and your guided tour provides you with an insiders perspective. Next up is an opportunity to discover more of Oahu when you circle the windward side for a tour of its southeastern beaches, bays and birds, including the beach famously featured in the film From Here To Eternity. The remainder of the day is free to enjoy Waikiki as you please.
Day 3: Pearl Harbor, Honolulu and choices in Waikiki
The day begins with a visit to Honolulu and the USS Missouri Battleship Memorial in Pearl Harbor; the surrender of the Japanese on her deck brought the Second World War to an end. Further Honolulu sightseeing includes a drive through Punchbowl Memorial Cemetery and historic Honolulu, where you'll have views of Washington Place, the sumptuous state capitol building and other sites. Back on Waikiki Beach, you have a choice this afternoon: discover an ancient cultural tradition when you take a ride aboard an "outrigger canoe" – used for fishing and transport along Hawaiian shores for over 2,000 years – or accompanied by a local guide, tour The Royal Hawaiian Resort to learn about the fascinating 95-year history, firsthand. The remainder of the day is free to enjoy the pleasures of Waikiki as you please.
Day 4: The Big Island & Hawaii Volcanoes Nat'l Park
Fly to the youngest of the islands, the Big Island of Hawaii, home to Mauna Loa and Kilauea, two of the world's most active and accessible volcanoes; the gentleness of their eruptions allows visits to the edges of their active vents. In 1866, when Mark Twain saw the sizzling lava of Kilauea, he wrote, "Here was room for the imagination to work!" At Volcanoes National Park, you'll drive across the Kilauea Caldera (crater), where views vary from desert to lush tropical rainforest to alpine tundra. UNESCO named the park an International Biosphere Reserve because of its outstanding scenic and scientific values. The park protects a wide diversity of ecosystems and habitat for native Hawaiian plants and animals; it is also rich in cultural and historic sites. Your day ends at your resort on the Kohala Coast in the area once known as Kalahuipua'a, the birthplace of King Kamehameha I, who unified the Hawaiian Islands in the early 19th century. The area is crisscrossed by early Hawaiian footpaths, royal fishponds and lava formations.
Day 5: Big Island relaxation... or adventure
Spend the day doing whatever interests you most on the Big Island of Hawaii. Your options are plentiful; you can indulge in the optional activities offered by your resort (some at additional cost), learn more about Hawaii's beautiful botanical world with a guided walk around the resort's renowned gardens or relax at the resort as you please. This evening, join us for a sunset catamaran sail along the Kohala Coast as the sun sets on another perfect day in Hawaii.
Day 6: Hawaiian coffee, gardens & more on the Kona coast
Begin your day with a visit to the Painted Church overlooking Kealakekua Bay; built in 1899, this historic Roman Catholic church features extensive hand-painted scenes throughout its interior. To get the day started just right, head to a Kona coffee plantation and living history farm. Kona coffee is prized the world over; see how a typical coffee farming family of the early 20th century lived and worked, and learn the secrets of cultivating the bean, from the coffee tree to the freshly brewed coffee cup (tasting included!). Have dinner tonight at your choice of the resort's restaurants.
Day 7: Fly to lush Kauai for a plantation lunch and a beachfront resort
Fly to the Garden Isle of Kauai, where the landscape is lush with orchids, hibiscus and plumeria. Travel to Kilohana Plantation, where you'll have lunch; translated from Hawaiian, the name Kilohana means "not to be surpassed" – and that was what sugar baron Gaylord Wilcox had in mind when he built this legendary plantation estate in 1935. Throughout the years, the plantation was a working homestead as well as the site for extravagant parties, social gatherings, diplomatic meetings and ceremonies; a luau demonstration reveals Hawaii's rich historic heritage. This afternoon, discover why Kauai is known as the "garden isle" when you visit Allerton Garden, a member of the National Tropical Botanical Garden, a non-profit institution that's dedicated to conservation and preservation, as well as the restoration of endangered habitats. The garden is stunning, and its history is rich, intertwined with the history of Hawaii. Arrive late afternoon at your beachfront resort; the remainder of the day is free.
Day 8: Helicopter flightseeing and time to enjoy Kauai as you please
First up this morning – an amazing experience that truly immerses you in all that Kauai is about – a 45-55-minute helicopter flightseeing adventure* over the rainforests and mountains of the lush "Garden Isle" – an amazing helicopter adventure that introduces you to a world of lush tropical rainforests, jagged mountains, sea cliffs, beaches and craters. Music and narration combine as you view the best of the island, including spectacular Waimea Canyon and views of the Na Pali Cliffs. Then, the day is yours to enjoy as you wish – you may want to swim, snorkel, sunbathe, spot the island's abundant marine life from monk seals to green sea turtles, or simply enjoy all your resort has to offer. Dine at your leisure at the resort tonight.
Day 9: Fly to Maui and explore the "Valley Isle"
Fly to Maui, named for an ancient god. Travel through the mist-shrouded Iao Valley to see the famed Iao Needle. A visit to the Maui Ocean Center introduces you to Hawaii's unique undersea ecosystem, millions of years old, populated by rare species existing nowhere else. Then it's off to The Fairmont Kea Lani, your beachfront resort home for the next three nights, set on the Wailea Coast. The remainder of the day is free; dine at your resort at your leisure tonight.
Day 10: Maui at your leisure
The entire day is free to explore as you please on this island known for fabulous beaches, wildlife-rich waters and perfumed gardens. Your resort, Fairmont Kea Lani Maui, is just steps from scenic Polo Beach on the Wailea coast – and the many amenities include a 24-hour fitness center and classes, boutiques, three swimming pools, two activity pools connected by a 140-foot water slide, various beach activities and nearby championship golf.
Day 11: Mount Haleakala and a farewell private luau
Join us for a trip to the 10,023-foot-high rim of Mount Haleakala (meaning "house of the sun"), the world's largest dormant volcano (it's been two centuries since its last eruption) and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The crater is more than seven miles across, and hosts two endangered species, the nene (Hawaiian wild goose), and the silversword, a specially adapted plant. After enjoying extraordinary views from the mountaintop, learn about island agriculture as you descend through Maui's upcountry farmland and return to your oceanfront resort for an afternoon spent as you wish. This evening, join us for a farewell feast of authentic Hawaiian culture at a private luau.
Day 12: Say "Mahalo" to Hawaii
Fly home anytime; a transfer is included from The Fairmont Kea Lani to Maui's Kahului Airport. Allow a minimum of two hours for departure flight check-in at the airport. You can, of course, extend your stay.
Includes
- 11 nights in handpicked 4 & 5 star hotels
- Comfortable coaches with bathroom facilities (w/c)
- 24/7 personal service – knowledgeable Travel Director & expert driver
- Porterage, plus tips and gratuities at hotels and restaurants are included
- Meals as stated in the itinerary
Excludes
- Flights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book flights
- Pre & post nights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book additional nights
- Driver & Tour Director gratuities - these can be pre-paid, please ask your reservations agent when booking your tour
Choose Your Departure Date
Prices shown above are per person based on 2 adults sharing. For single, triple, quad and child prices please call us for a quote.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to check the latest up-to-date availability and to book your tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the deposit to secure a tour and when is the balance due?
A deposit of 10% is required when making your booking.
The balance of the holiday cost must be received by us no less than 10 weeks prior to your date of departure. Bookings made within 10 weeks of departure require full payment at the time of booking.
For some tours or if there is a special "Early Booking offer", the balance maybe due sooner than 10 weeks before departure, in this case you will be advised at time of booking when the balance due date would be.
The balance payment date will be shown on your confirmation invoice.
Payments can be made by debit card, credit card or bank transfers.
YOUR PAYMENTS TO US ARE FULLY FINANCIALLY SECURE FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND: Where your confirmed travel arrangements include a flight and you are resident in the UK (or EU) or the flight departs from, arrives in or transits the UK, this is financially protected through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) number 6874 managed by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email claims@caa. co.uk.
CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations t&c's can differ from operator to operator, these will be confirmed to you with your booking confirmation. For our general Terms and conditions and general cancellation details please click here.
What does the tour cost include?
The per person price listed covers all hotel accommodations, taxes, all applicable sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, motor coach, cruise or rail transportation, services of a professional Travel Director, all meals as shown in the itinerary and luggage handling. All tips have been included for services on trip by dining-room staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels, airports, docks and train stations.
Can we book flights through you ?
Yes, we can offer competitive airfares with all the major airlines. When booking a package with us that includes flights and a tour, your package is then fully ATOL Bonded by the CAA for your full financial peace of mind. You are of course are welcome to book flights independently but we are therefore not responsible should your flights be delayed and you miss any part of your tour or other arrangements booked with us.
Can I add additional hotel nights before or after my tour?
Many of our clients choose to add extra hotel nights to spend a little more time in their chosen destination. You can reserve additional hotel nights before or after your tour.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your additional nights and assist with your requirements.
Can i book twin beds or triple and quad rooms
Yes, We have options for twin (2 beds) and triple/quad room configurations.
If you a travelling in a party of three or four adult guests, please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
For double rooms (2 guests), 1 Double/Queen or King bed is the normal, Twin beds can be requested at time of booking.
For triple rooms (3 guests) these will normally have 1 Queen/King bed and a fold out bed, or 2 Queen/King beds and a fold out bed.
For Quad rooms (4 Guests) these will normally have 2 Queen/King beds.
How much is the solo/single supplement?
Escorted tours are the perfect option if you're travelling solo, combining the camaraderie of a smaller group with the independence of a solo trip. Many tours offer solo room share options, or a competitive solo supplement.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
How many guests will be on this tour?
Tauck offer up to 3 different group sizes on some tours.
Classic group departures have an average of 35 - 44 Guests.
For small group departures these average 24 guest and then some tours also offer smaller group departures which average around 15 guests.
How much walking with be on this tour?
With your comfort in mind, Purely Escorted Tours assigns every tour an activity level. The activity level for your chosen tour is displayed in the tour introduction.
Leisurely: Tours will typically have minimal to 1-2 miles of walking per day on primarily flat surfaces and with some stairs.
Balanced: Tours typically have up to 1-3 miles of walking per day, which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs.
Dynamic: These journeys can feature 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve some steep hills.
Do the coaches have on-board Wi-Fi and bathroom facilities
Tauck coaches are modern, well-appointed buses with comfortable seating, large windows for viewing, and on-board amenities like Wi-Fi and bathrooms.
While the specific coach model may vary by tour and region, guests can expect an upgrade from standard coaches, reflecting Tauck's commitment to luxury and an elevated travel experience.
The coaches are equipped to provide a high level of comfort and convenience, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the scenery during their travels.
The coaches offer onboard Wi-Fi, bathroom facilities (w/c), charging unites, reclining seats, air conditioning, footrests, tray tables, drink holders and seat pockets
Are gratuities included for the driver, tour director and at restaurants etc?
Gratuities are included at hotels and restaurants. And, you have the option to pre-pay your Travel Director and driver gratuities before you travel if you wish.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for you to pre-pay driver and tour director gratuities.
Do you offer/include Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is not included in your tour and we do not offer travel insurance.
Please procure Travel Insurance before travelling. This will protect you and will give you peace of mind before you travel and whilst on your tour.
We suggest that your insurance covers the following:
- Cancellation or curtailment of your vacation due to medical or other reasons
- Loss or damage to your property and baggage
- Loss of cash, credit cards etc
- Medical costs and personal accidents
Certain countries require visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry and in Europe, you may find that doctor's surgeries, dentists and hospitals often require payment in cash prior to providing services. Whilst rare, medical evacuation can be exceptionally expensive.
Do remember to bring a copy of your policy, contact phone numbers and details of how to claim when you travel.
Should you choose to travel on Purely Escorted Tour without the required travel insurance, you will have full responsibility for all expenses (trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, quarantine expenses and emergency evacuation/repatriation) that may arise while travelling with us.
What does a guaranteed departure mean?
A guaranteed departure has reached the minimum number of guests for the tour to operate or will depart no matter how many people are booked to travel.
In the slim case that a guaranteed departure has to be withdrawn that you are booked on due to a unforeseen circumstances, you are entitled to a full refund on the funds already paid or if flexible with your time, we can move you onto another departure that suits you.
What do I need to know about border crossings, visas, entry requirements and passports?
Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks and so it is strongly advised that you consult your local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
Note: Purely Escorted Tours is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required on your tour.
Information about border crossings and visas, entry requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:
Europe trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday.
Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time.
Check that multi-entry visas have the correct entry dates and destinations before you travel. Please be aware that with some itineraries, you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop. If this happens on your itinerary, you will still need a visa to enter/exit the country for example an ETA when transiting through UK & Ireland.
Please ensure that you carry proper identification with you at all times, as border crossings will need to see your entry documents and passports. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your Travel Director. However, be advised that you may be required to open your luggage and answer simple questions about the length of your stay, purpose of travel, etc.
United Kingdom and Northern Ireland trips incl transiting travellers:
From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
UK eTA applications can be made at the UK Governments official website.
USA trips incl transiting travellers:
US law requires travellers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection website.
Canada trips:
Canadian law requires travellers both entering and transiting through Canada to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
eTA applications can be made at the Government of Canada's website.
Rest of the World trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks before your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
What if I have mobility issues?
Please notify us of any disability requiring special assistance prior to travelling. We will try our best to accommodate you throughout the tour and will inform the hotels.
What if I have food allergies?
Please advise us of any dietary requirements. We will make arrangements with our suppliers where possible.
You will also need to talk to your Travel Director at the beginning of your tour and they will do their utmost to arrange an alternative menu at the hotels and restaurants.
How much luggage can I bring?
Travelling on a Purely Escorted Tour entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with dimensions not exceeding 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in). Guests may also bring one item of hand luggage that is small and light enough to be carried onto the coach and fit underneath the seat, or in the small overhead compartment above. (Luggage with adjustable handles and wheels will not fit).
Please test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.
Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.