Itinerary

Day 1 Papeete (Tahiti)

Papeete is the center of the tropical paradise of French Polynesia where islands fringed with gorgeous beaches and turquoise ocean await to soothe the soul. This spirited city is the capital of French Polynesia and serves as a superb base for onward exploration of Tahiti – an island of breathtaking landscapes and oceanic vistas. A wonderful lagoon of crisp clear water begs to be snorkelled stunning black beaches and blowholes pay tribute to the island's volcanic heritage and lush green mountains beckon you inland on adventures as you explore extraordinary Tahiti. Visit to relax and settle into the intoxicating rhythm of life in this Polynesian paradise.

Day 2 Bora Bora (Society Islands)

If you have ever dreamt up your ideal island holiday, we suspect it goes something like this: Soapy blue seas? Check. Sparkling white beaches? Check. Thatched wooden huts, gently sloping palm trees and kaleidoscopic marine life? Check, check and check. And yet, even by ticking every box, first time viewing of Bora Bora still beggars belief. This tropical hideaway less than 12 m2 in the heart of the South Pacific has been toping travel wish lists for years. Long considered the realm of honeymooners – spectacularly romantic sunsets are a speciality – Bora Bora is not just for wandering with your love. If the prismatic shades of blue of the world’s most beautiful lagoon do not fill you up, then perhaps underwater scooters and aqua Safaris will charge your batteries. If exploring Bora Bora’s lush hinterland is more your glass of tequila sunrise, then trips around the island (often stopping off at the celebrity haunt Bloody Mary Restaurant & Bar) are a must. Bora Bora's peaceful ambience has not always been the case. The island was a US supply base, known as "Operation Bobcat" during WWII. During this time, Bora Bora was home to nine ships, 20,000 tons of equipment and nearly 7,000 men. Eight massive 7-inch naval cannons were installed around the island, all but one of which is still in place. Although little is known of the history of the island, it is known that Bora Bora was called Vava’u in ancient times. This supports belief that the island was colonised by Tongans prior to French annex in 1888.

Day 3 Moorea Island

Moorea is a high mountainous island with two nearly symmetrical bays found on the north coast. The island’s triangular shape has been likened to a heart or a bat. Eight mountain peaks reaching a height of up to 1,207 meters give Moorea a very rugged silhouette. The reef surrounding the island encloses a narrow lagoon –a RAMSAR Wetland- and has barely any motu (reef islets). Sharks and rays are some of the lagoon’s attractions. The island is only one eighth the size of neighboring Tahiti and has a more relaxed life-style. A road leads around Moorea, passing small villages with their churches and the resorts and smaller hotels mainly found on the north coast. A detour into the interior will show large pineapple plantations, French Polynesia’s only agricultural school, ancient marae (stone platforms) and splendid views of the island from Belvedere above Cook’s Bay or the Magic Mountain above Papetoai, Opunohu Bay. Many of the 18,000 residents work in Tahiti, taking one of the ferries plying between Vaiare on the east coast and Papeete. This led to Papeete being one of France’s busiest ports in passenger volume. Foreign visitors either come into Temae airport, tucked in-between the Green Pearl golf course and Temae’s public beach, or by ship entering one of the two bays on the north coast. Both bays are connected to Captain Cook’s visit in 1777: he stayed in Opunohu Bay, but to honor him Pao Pao Bay has been named Cook’s Bay.

Day 4 Rangiroa

Rangiroa is French Polynesia’s largest atoll. More than 400 motu (islets) enclose the lagoon, which is so wide and long that one cannot see the southern row of motu from the two main islets in the north –hence the local name Rangiroa meaning wide or long sky, sometimes taken as “immense sky”. There are several passes from the ocean into the lagoon and the two main villages of Avatoru and Tiputa are located next to the passes of the same names. Drift diving and snorkeling the incoming tides looking for sharks and manta rays at these passes is one of Rangiroa’s main touristic draws. Government jobs, ecotourism and pearl farming are the main sources of income on the atoll. The lagoon’s calm turquoise waters, rich marine underwater world and relaxed atmosphere attract visitors year-round to the many local guesthouses and a few hotels. Both Avatoru and Tiputa also feature schools for the other Tuamotu Islands which have no higher education possibilities. One of Rangiroa’s most unusual attractions is the white and rose wine produced on the islet immediately west of Avatoru –the wine has won several awards.

Day 5 Day at sea

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Day 6 Atuona - Hiva Oa, Marquesas Island

The largest of the southern islands Hiva Oa the master pillar or finial post of the ‘Great House’ - which represents the Marquesan archipelago in the local mythology - has always been the rival of Nuku Hiva. The island is shaped like a seahorse and has a mountain range running southwest to northeast whose main peaks Mt. Temetiu and Mt. Feani form a real wall around Atuona. Atuona a peaceful little port at the head of the Taaoa Bay also known as Traitors Bay has emerged from obscurity due to having had the privilege of being the last resting place of Paul Gauguin and of the singer Jacques Brel. The tombs of these famous personalities are on the side of the Calvary cemetery looking out across the bay and are places of great pilgrimage. In the village the Gauguin Museum displays items related to the painter's stay there at the beginning of the century and has copies of his works.

Day 7 Nuku Hiva, Marquesas Islands

Think of French Polynesia and you are automatically transported to the white sands of Tahiti, the blue seas of Bora Bora or, at the very least, the iconic statues of Easter Island. Now, imagine a place that is home to that majestic trinity, but has no crowds and is full of island authenticity that is rare in these global times. You have just imagined Nuku Hiva.  The island is the second largest after Tahiti in the archipelago, but is yet to be discovered by tourism. As part of the Marquesas Islands, Nuku Hiva is technically French, but don’t expect to find any blue and white striped shirts here! In fact, even though French is the “official” language of the island, a sing-song dialect of Tahitian mixed with Marquesan is more widely spoken. The younger generations also speak English. Undeniably, Nuku Hiva has been blessed by the Gods. With towering mountains, eight magnificent harbours, and one of the world's highest waterfalls, Nuku Hiva is rich with Mother Nature’s jewels. The island could lay claim to a great many claims to fame, such as its deep, unpolluted waters, its lush forests bursting with vitality or its fascinating assortment of archaeological interests including tikis (sacred statues) and pae pae (stone platforms that formed the foundations of houses). Yet for those in the know, the island’s primary claim to fame is that author Herman Mellville deserted his ship in order to live among the natives of the island and his books Typee and Omoo were inspired by his experiences on Nuku Hiva.

Day 8 Day at sea

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Day 9 Day at sea

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Day 10 Day at sea

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Day 11 Day at sea

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Day 12 Day at sea

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Day 13 Hilo, Hawaii

In comparison to Kailua-Kona, Hilo is often described as "the old Hawaii." With significantly fewer visitors than residents, more historic buildings, and a much stronger identity as a long-established community, this quaint, traditional town does seem more authentic. It stretches from the banks of the Wailuku River to Hilo Bay, where a few hotels line stately Banyan Drive. The characteristic old buildings that make up Hilo's downtown have been spruced up as part of a revitalization effort. Nearby, the 30-acre Liliuokalani Gardens, a formal Japanese garden with arched bridges and waterways, was created in the early 1900s to honor the area's Japanese sugar-plantation laborers. It also became a safety zone after a devastating tsunami swept away businesses and homes on May 22, 1960, killing 60 people. With a population of almost 50,000 in the entire district, Hilo is the fourth-largest city in the state and home to the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Although it is the center of government and commerce for the island, Hilo is clearly a residential town. Mansions with yards of lush tropical foliage share streets with older, single-walled plantation-era houses with rusty corrugated roofs. It's a friendly community, populated primarily by descendants of the contract laborers—Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Puerto Rican, and Portuguese—brought in to work the sugarcane fields during the 1800s. One of the main reasons visitors have tended to steer clear of the east side of the island is its weather. With an average rainfall of 130 inches per year, it's easy to see why Hilo's yards are so green and its buildings so weatherworn. Outside of town, the Hilo District has rain forests and waterfalls, a terrain unlike the hot and dry white-sand beaches of the Kohala Coast. But when the sun does shine—usually part of nearly every day—the town sparkles, and, during winter, the snow glistens on Mauna Kea, 25 miles in the distance. Best of all is when the mists fall and the sun shines at the same time, leaving behind the colorful arches that earn Hilo its nickname: the City of Rainbows. The Merrie Monarch Hula Festival takes place in Hilo every year during the second week of April, and dancers and admirers flock to the city from all over the world. If you're planning a stay in Hilo during this time, be sure to book your room well in advance.

Hotels

Hilo is the wetter, more lush eastern side of the Big Island, which means if you stay here you'll be close to waterfalls and rain-forest hikes, but not to the warm, dry, white-sand beaches of the Kohala Coast. Locals have taken a greater interest in Hilo; signs of that interest are showing in new restaurants, restored buildings, and a handful of clean and pleasant parks. Hilo has a few decent hotels, but none of the high-end resorts that are the domain of the west side. So, get into the groove at one of Hilo's fantastic bed-and-breakfasts. Some have taken over lovely historic homes and serve breakfast comprising ingredients from backyard gardens. The volcano is only a 30-minute drive, as are the sights of the Puna region. There are also a number of nice beaches and surf spots, though not in the class of the resort beaches of South Kohala.

Dining

Ken's House of Pancakes

For years, this 24-hour diner on Banyan Drive between the airport and the hotels has been a gathering place for Hilo residents and visitors. Breakfast is the main attraction: Ken's serves 11 types pancakes, plus all kinds of fruit waffles (banana, peach) and popular omelets, like Da Bradda, teeming with meats. The menu features 180 other tasty local specialties (loco moco, tripe stew, oxtail soup) and American-diner-inspired items from which to choose. Sunday is all-you-can-eat spaghetti night, Tuesday is all-you-can-eat tacos, and Wednesday is prime rib night.

Kuhio Grille

There's no atmosphere to speak of and water is served in unbreakable plastic, but if you're searching for local fare—that undefinable fusion of ethnic cuisines—this the place. Sam Araki serves a 1-pound laulau (a steamed bundle of taro leaves and pork) that is worth the trip. Other grindz include loco moco, oxtail soup, plate lunches, pork chops, steaks, saimin, stir-fry, and daily specials. At the edge of Hilo's largest mall, above the parking lot near Longs, this local diner opens at 6 am.

Pescatore

With dim lights, stately high-back chairs, and dark-wood paneling, Pescatore conjures up an Italian trattoria. The food is good, with plenty of Italian basics such as lasagna, chicken marsala, and chicken or veal parmigiana. Families love the simple pastas made to please choosy children. Lunch is served on Sundays only from 10 to 2.

The Seaside Restaurant & Aqua Farm

The Nakagawa family has been running this eatery since the early 1920s. The latest son to manage it has transformed both the menu and the decor, and that, paired with the setting (on a 30-acre natural, brackish fishpond) makes this one of the most interesting places to eat in Hilo. Islanders travel great distances for the fried aholehole (young Hawaiian flagtail), and mullet raised at the aqua farm. Other great dishes from the sea include furikake salmon, miso butterfish, and macadamia nut–crusted mahimahi, but the Pacific Rim menu includes plenty for landlubbers, too, like prime rib, chicken, and salads. Arrive before sunset and request a table by the window for a view of egrets roosting around the fishpond.

Café Pesto

Located in a beautiful and historic venue, Café Pesto offers exotic pizzas (with fresh Hamakua mushrooms, artichokes, and rosemary Gorgonzola sauce, for example), Asian-inspired pastas and risottos, fresh seafood, delicious salads, and appetizers you can make a meal of. Products from local farmers feature heavily on the menu—Kulana free-range beef, Kawamata Farms tomatoes, and Kapoho Farms lehua-blossom honey are all made on the island. Local musicians provide entertainment at dinner Wednesday through Sunday. On the island's west side, another Café Pesto is located above Kawaihae Harbor.

Café 100

Established in 1948, this family-owned restaurant is famous for its tasty loco moco, prepared in more than three dozen ways, and its dirt-cheap breakfast and lunch specials. (You can stuff yourself for $3 if you order right.) The word "restaurant," or even "café," is used liberally here—you order at a window and eat on one of the outdoor benches provided—but you come here for the food, prices, and authentic, old Hilo experience.

Blane's Drive-In

With a vast menu second only to Ken's House of Pancakes, Blane's serves up everything from standard hamburgers to popular chicken katsu to a gravy burger—comfort food for the local palate. A mean plate lunch with tons of fresh fish is only $7. At one point this was a real drive-in, with car service. Now, customers park, order at the window, and eat at one of the few picnic tables or take their food to go. There is a second location in Industrial Hilo (150 Wiwoole St.), and two others in Honokaa and Orchidland.

Happy Valley Seafood Restaurant

Don't let the name fool you. Though Hilo's best Chinese restaurant does specialize in seafood (the salt-and-pepper prawns are fantastic), it also offers a wide range of other Cantonese treats, including a sizzling lamb platter, salt-and-pepper pork, Mongolian beef or chicken, and vegetarian specialties like garlic eggplant and crispy green beans. The food is decent, portions are large, and the price is right, but don't come here expecting any ambience—this is a funky and cheap Chinese restaurant, with a few random pieces of artwork tacked up here and there.

Sombat's Fresh Thai Cuisine

There's a reason why locals flock to this hideaway for the best Thai cuisine in Hilo, and the name says it all. Fresh local ingredients highlight proprietor Sombat Saenguthai's menu (many of the herbs come from her own garden) to create authentic and tasty Thai treats like coconut curries, fresh basil rolls, eggplant stir-fry, and green papaya salad. Most dishes can be prepared with your choice of tofu, pork, beef, chicken, squid, or fish. The weekday lunch plate special is a steal ($7–$9). And if you can't leave the island without it, Sombat's famous pad thai sauce is available to take home in jars.

Bears' Coffee

This favorite breakfast spot is much loved for its fresh-fruit waffles and tasty morning coffee. Service can be a little slow, but where are you running off to anyway? For lunch the little diner serves up huge deli sandwiches and decent entrée-size salads. In keeping with its name, it's full of stuffed bears, ceramic bears, even bear wallpaper.

Big Island Pizza

Gourmet pizza is the star here, topped with things like shrimp and smoked salmon, but sandwiches, wraps, pastas, and salads are also served. There are only a handful of tables for eating in, but there's a brisk take-out business as well as delivery to the eastern side of the island. At another location above Costco in Kailua-Kona, the specialty is European-style pizzas with artisan crusts.

Reuben's Mexican Restaurant

It's not the best Mexican food you've ever had, but if you're jonesing for some carne asada or chicken flautas, Reuben's has you pretty well covered. You can make a meal out of the warm chips and salsa alone. Known for pouring a stiff margarita in all sorts of interesting flavors, like lilikoi (passion fruit), guava, mango, coconut, and watermelon, the restaurant makes its own margarita mix. This is a lively place to spend an afternoon or evening.

Verna's Drive-In

Verna's is a favorite among locals, who come for the moist homemade burgers and filling plate lunches. The price is right with a burger combo that includes fries and a drink for just $5.50. If you're hungry for more, try the traditional Hawaiian plate with laulau, beef stew, chicken long rice, lomilomi salmon; or the smoked meat plate (a local specialty) smothered in onions and served with rice and macaroni salad. Whatever you choose, you won't leave hungry. Late-night revelers take note: Verna's is one of the only joints in Hilo that's open 24 hours every day.

Full Moon Cafe

This cozy restaurant in a historic bayfront building offers a small menu of American choices like burgers, fish, and steak, but where the eatery stands out is its fresh and tasty traditional Thai fare. The owners grow their own spices, herbs, and papayas organically on their Puna farm. The chefs sauté with olive oil to keep things heart-healthy. Good choices are the hot and sour Tom Yum soup, loaded with fresh veggies; the pineapple curry; green papaya salad; and steamed salmon. There's outdoor seating on the lanai, and the adjacent Full Moon Coffee serves breakfast beginning at 6.

Ocean Sushi

What this restaurant lacks in ambience it certainly makes up for in quality and value. We're talking about light and crispy tempura; tender, moist teriyaki chicken; and about 25 specialty sushi rolls that, on average, cost a mere $5 per roll. Sushi lovers enjoy the "hospital roll," with shrimp tempura, cream cheese, cucumber, and spicy ahi, and the "volcano roll," akin to a California roll topped with flying-fish eggs, dried fish shavings, green onions, and spicy mayo. Don't let the low price fool you—the service is quick and the food is fresh and filling.

Hilo Bay Café

This popular restaurant, previously located in a Walmart strip mall, now overlooks Hilo Bay from its towering perch on the waterfront. The sophisticated second-floor dining room looks like it's straight out of Manhattan. While some of the menu items have changed, old favorites are still available, including the traditional Blue Bay burger, shoestring fries, and eggplant Parmesan custard. A sushi bar now complements the excellent selection of fresh fish, gourmet sake, and premium wines.

Ponds Hilo

Perched on the waterfront overlooking a scenic and serene pond, this restaurant has the look and feel of an old-fashioned, harborside steak house and bar. The menu features a good range—burgers and salads, steak and seafood. Every Thursday is lobster night, with 8-ounce lobster tails served a variety of ways. Live music happens most evenings.

Nightlife

Cronie's Bar & Grill

A sports bar by night and hamburger joint by day, Cronie's is a local favorite. When the lights go down, the bar gets packed.

The Mask-querade Bar

Hidden away in an unassuming strip mall, this is one of the Big Island's most venerable gay bars. Drag shows, hot DJs, live music, drink specials, fiestas, and Sunday barbecues are included in the roster of weekly events. All are welcome.

Shopping

Hilo Shopping Center

Among this shopping plaza's 40 shops are a day spa, a pharmacy, a trendy boutique, and popular Lanky's Pastries and Island Naturals Market and Deli, plus Sunlight Cafe and Restaurant Miwa. There's plenty of free parking.

Prince Kuhio Plaza

The Big Island's most comprehensive mall has indoor shopping, entertainment (a multiplex), and dining, including KFC, Hot Dog on a Stick, Cinnabon, the island's only IHOP, and Maui Tacos. The kids might like the arcade (near the food court), while you enjoy the stores, anchored by Macy's, Sports Authority, and Sears.

Basically Books

More than a bookstore, this bayfront shop stocks one of Hawaii's largest selections of maps, including topographical and relief maps, and Hilo's largest selection of Hawaiian music. Of course, it also has books about Hawaii, including great choices for children.

Most Irresistible Shop

This place lives up to its name by stocking unique gifts from around the Pacific, be it pure Hawaiian ohia lehua honey, ka'u coffee, aloha wear, or tinkling wind chimes.

Dragon Mama

Step into this charming downtown Hilo spot to find authentic Japanese fabrics, futons, and gifts along with an elegant selection of clothing, sleepwear, slippers, and tea-service accoutrements. Handmade comforters, pillows, and futon pads are sewn of natural fibers on site.

Dan DeLuz's Woods

Master bowl-turner Dan DeLuz creates works of art from 50 types of exotic wood grown on the Big Island. The shop features a variety of items—from picture frames to jewelry boxes—made from koa, monkeypod, mango, kiawe, and other fine hardwoods. The store is closed Tuesdays.

Kimura's Lauhala Shop

Originally a general store built in 1914, this historic shop features handmade products crafted by local lauhala weavers. Among the offerings are hats, baskets, containers, and mats, many of which are woven by the proprietors. Owner Alfreida Kimura-Fujita was born in the house behind the shop, and her daughter Renee is also an accomplished weaver.

Holualoa Gallery

One of several excellent galleries along the narrow highway in this historic artists' village, this shop carries stunning contemporary raku pottery, original paintings by local artists, and other collectibles, including gallery owner Matt Lovein's famous Wish Keepers ceramic sculptures.

Sig Zane Designs

This acclaimed boutique sells distinctive island wearables with bold colors and motifs designed by the legendary Sig Zane, known for his artwork honoring native flora and fauna. All apparel is handcrafted in Hawaii, and is often worn by local celebrities and businesspeople.

Hilo Farmers Market

The 200 vendors here—stretching a couple of blocks—sell a profusion of tropical flowers, locally grown produce, aromatic honey, tangy goat cheese, hot breakfast and lunch items, and fresh baked specialties at extraordinary prices. This colorful, open-air market—the most popular on the island—opens for business Wednesday and Saturday from 6 am to 4 pm. A smaller version on the other days features 20 to 30 vendors.

Big Island Candies

A local legend in the cookie- and chocolate-making business, Big Island Candies is a must-see if you have a sweet tooth. Enjoy a free cookie sample and a cup of Kona coffee as you watch sweets being made through a window. The store has a long list of interesting and tasty products, but it is best known for its chocolate-dipped shortbread cookies.

Antiques and Orchids Antique Mall

Housed in a historic building in Captain Cook, this boutique lives up to its name by offering a comprehensive collection of local antiques and Hawaiiana (check out the Duke Kahanamoku memorabilia) interspersed with orchids of assorted colors and varieties. Enjoy a cup of Kona coffee served in the store's quaint coffee shop.

Hilo Hattie

Set in an indoor mall, the east-side outlet of the well-known clothier is slightly smaller than its Kailua-Kona cousin, but offers plenty of the same his-and-her aloha wear, casual clothes, slippers, jewelry, and souvenirs.

Two Ladies Kitchen

This hole-in-the-wall confections shop has made a name for itself thanks to its pillowy mochi (Japanese rice pounded into a sticky paste and molded into shapes). The proprietors are best known for their huge ripe strawberries wrapped in a white mochi covering, which won't last as long as a box of chocolates—most mochi items are only good for two or three days. To guarantee you get your fill, call and place your order ahead of time. It's closed Sunday and Monday.

Cliff Johns Gallery

Woodworker Cliff Johns has a knack for sourcing unique fine art handcrafted by Big Island artisans. The gallery features wood sculptures, paintings, carvings, and other crafts different from the standard fare.

South Kona Green Market

A favorite in Captain Cook, this Sunday farmers' market offers great hot breakfast and lunch items, produce from local farms, and artists selling their goods.

Kona Stories

With more than 10,000 titles, this bookstore also sells Hawaiiana, children's toys, and whimiscal gifts. Special events, such as readings and book signings, are held weekly.

Hilo Coffee Mill

In addition to a fantastic coffee-farm tour, the Hilo Coffee Mill sells coffee from a variety of local producers, along with locally made baked goods, candies, artwork, and gifts. Free coffee samples are offered. The mill is closed Wednesday and Sunday and hosts a farmers' market Saturday 8 to 1.

Sights

Banyan Drive

More than 50 enormous banyan trees with aerial roots dangling from their limbs were planted some 60 to 70 years ago by visiting celebrities. Names such as Amelia Earhart and Franklin Delano Roosevelt can be seen on plaques affixed to the trees. A scenic loop beginning at the Hawaii Naniloa Resort makes a nice walk.

Lyman Museum & Mission House

Built in 1839, the beautifully restored Lyman Mission House is the oldest frame building on the island. (Tours are offered.) An adjacent museum has wonderful exhibits on volcanoes, island formation, island habitats and wildlife, marine shells, and minerals and gemstones. It also showcases native Hawaiian culture and immigrant ethnic groups, including a life-size replica of a traditional Korean home. The gift shop has great Hawaiian items.

Nani Mau Gardens

The name means "forever beautiful" in Hawaiian, and that's a good description of this 20-acre botanical garden filled with several varieties of fruit trees and hundreds of varieties of ginger, orchids, anthuriums, and other exotic plants. The restaurant has a lunch buffet.

Wailuku River State Park (Rainbow Falls )

After a hard rain, these falls thunder into the Wailuku River gorge, often creating magical rainbows in the mist. Sometimes known as the "Hilo Town Falls," they are located just above downtown Hilo. Take Waianuenue Avenue west for a mile; when the road forks, stay right and look for the Hawaiian warrior sign. Open daylight hours.

S. Hata Building

Built as a general store in 1912 by Sadanosuke Hata and his family, this historic structure now houses galleries, a restaurant, and other small shops. During World War II, Hata family members were interned and the building was confiscated by the U.S. government. When the war was over, a daughter repurchased it for $100,000. A beautiful example of Renaissance-Revival architecture, it won an award from the state for the authenticity of its restoration.

Liliuokalani Gardens

Designed to honor Hawaii's first Japanese immigrants, Liliuokalani Gardens' 30 acres of fish-filled ponds, stone lanterns, half-moon bridges, elegant pagodas, and a ceremonial teahouse make it a favorite Sunday destination. The surrounding area, once a busy residential neighborhood, was destroyed by a 1960 tsunami that caused widespread devastation and killed 61 people.

Pacific Tsunami Museum

In downtown Hilo, businesses tend to be far from the bayfront. There's a reason for this. Tsunamis have killed more people in Hawaii than any other natural event, especially in Hilo. A small but informative museum in a 1931 building provides tsunami education and scientific information, and chronicles the poignant history of these devastating disasters, with accounts taken from tsunami survivors from Hawaii and worldwide. Exhibits include a wave machine and tsunami warning center simulation as well as detailing recent tsunamis in Japan, Alaska, and Indonesia.

Moku Ola

This small island, just offshore from Liliuokalani Gardens, is accessible via a footbridge. It was considered a place of healing in ancient times. Today children play in the tide pools while fisherfolk try their luck.

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corporation

Acres of macadamia-nut trees lead to a giant roasting facility and processing plant with viewing windows and self-guided tours. A video depicts the harvesting and preparation of the nuts, and there are free samples and plenty of gift boxes with mac nuts in every conceivable form of presentation for sale in the visitor center. There is no factory processing on weekends or holidays. Children can burn off extra energy on a nature trail.

Panaewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens

Billed as "the only natural tropical rainforest zoo in the United States," this sweet zoo is the home of white Bengal tiger Namaste, whose daily 3:30 feeding is quite a sight. Among the other animals here are such native Hawaiian species as the state bird, the nene goose, and the io (hawk), as well as lots of other rare birds, monkeys, and lemurs. To get here, turn left on Mamaki off Highway 11; it's just past the "Kulani 19, Stainback Hwy." sign.

Haili Church

Constructed in 1859 by New England missionaries, this church is known for its choir, which sings hymns in Hawaiian during services. In 1902, Hawaiian musical legends Harry K. Naope, Sr., and Albert Nahalea, Sr., began the choral traditions still practiced by their descendants.

Kalakaua Park

King Kalakaua, who revived the hula, was the inspiration for Hilo's Merrie Monarch Festival. A bronze statue, erected in 1988, depicts the king with a taro leaf in his left hand to signify the Hawaiian peoples' bond with the land. The park also has a huge spreading banyan tree and small fishponds, but no picnic or recreation facilities. In a local tradition, families of military personnel often leave leftover floral displays and funeral wreaths along the fishpond walkway as a way of honoring and celebrating their loved ones.§

Keawe Street

Buildings here have been restored to their original 1920s and '30s plantation styles. Although most shopping is along Kamehameha Avenue, the ambience on Keawe Street offers a nostalgic sampling of Hilo as it might have been 80 years ago. Downtown Hilo won a major paint retailer's contest, so you might see painting of these historic properties in progress.

Naha and Pinao stones

These two huge, oblong stones are legendary. The Pinao stone is purportedly an entrance pillar of an ancient temple built near the Wailuku River. King Kamehameha is said to have moved the 5,000-pound Naha stone when he was still in his teens. Legend decreed that he who did so would become king of all the islands. They're in front of the Hilo Public Library.

Wailuku River State Park (Boiling Pots)

Four separate streams fall into a series of circular pools here, forming the Peepee Falls. The resulting turbulent action—best seen after a good rain—has earned this stretch of the Wailuku River the nickname Boiling Pots. There's no swimming allowed at Peepee Falls or anywhere in the Wailuku river, due to dangerous currents and undertows. The falls are 3 miles northwest of Hilo off Waianuenue Avenue; keep to the right when the road splits and look for the sign. Open daylight hours.

Wailoa Center

In Wailoa State Recreation Area, this circular exhibition center mounts monthly shows featuring local artists. Work ranges from photography, contemporary painting, and woodworking to musical instruments and artwork depicting Hawaii's native species.

Hilo Downtown Improvement Association

An excellent and free self-guided walking tour to downtown Hilo includes historical information, a map, and directions to 18 historic sites. You can obtain one from the association's website or downtown Hilo office.

Hilo Coffee Mill

With all the buzz about Kona coffee, it's easy to forget that coffee is produced throughout the rest of the island. The Hilo Coffee Mill is a pleasant reminder of that. In addition to farming its own coffee on-site, the mill has partnered with several small coffee farmers in East Hawaii in an effort to put the region on the world's coffee map. You can sample their efforts, tour the mill, and watch the roasters in action.

Imiloa Astronomy Center

Part Hawaiian cultural center, part astronomy museum, this center provides an educational and cultural complement to the research being conducted atop Mauna Kea. Although visitors are welcome at Mauna Kea, its primary function is as a research center—not observatory, museum, or education center. Those roles have been taken on by Imiloa in a big way. With its interactive exhibits, full-dome planetarium shows, and regularly scheduled talks and events, the center is a must-see for anyone interested in the stars, the planets, or Hawaiian culture and history. Five minutes from downtown Hilo, the center also provides an important link between the scientific research being conducted at Mauna Kea and its history as a sacred mountain for the Hawaiian people. Admission includes one planetarium show and an all-day pass to the exhibit hall, which features more than 100 interactive displays. The lunch buffet at the adjoining Sky Garden Cafe is popular and affordable.

Reeds Bay Beach Park

Safe swimming, proximity to downtown Hilo, and a freshwater-fed swimming hole, called the Ice Pond, that flows into the backwaters of Hilo Bay are the enticements of this cove. No, there really isn't ice in the swimming hole; it just feels that way on a hot sultry day. The large pond, between Hilo Seaside Hotel and Harrington's Restaurant, is a favorite of local kids, who enjoy jumping into and frolicking in the chilly fresh- and saltwater mix. The water is usually calm.
Amenities: parking (no fee); showers. Best for: swimming.

Onekahakaha Beach Park

Shallow, rock-wall-enclosed tide pools and an adjacent grassy picnic area make this park a favorite among Hilo families with small children. The protected pools are great places to look for Hawaiian marine life like sea urchins and anemones. There isn't much white sand, but access to the water is easy. The water is usually rough beyond the line of large boulders protecting the inner tide pools, so be careful if the surf is high. This beach gets crowded on weekends.
Amenities: lifeguards (weekends, holidays, and summer only); parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: swimming.

Mokupapapa Discovery Center

This informative center teaches about the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, which encompasses about 140,000 square miles in the waters northwest of the main Hawaiian Islands and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Giant graphics, murals, and 3-D maps depict the monument's extensive coral reefs and the more than 7,000 marine species that live there, one in four of which are found only in the Hawaiian archipelago. Knowledgeable staff or volunteers are on hand to answer questions. Interactive programs, a new aquarium, and short films give insight into marine life and environmental impact. It's worth a stop just to get an up-close look at the center's huge stuffed albatross, with wings outstretched.

Kaumana Caves Park

Thanks to Hilo's abundant rainfall, this lava tube is lush with plant life. Concrete stairs lead down to the 2½-mile-long tube. Bring a flashlight and explore as far as you dare to go. There are restrooms and a covered picnic table at the cave, and parking across the street. Please heed all warning signs when entering.

Waiolena and Wailua Beach Parks and Richardson Ocean Center

Just east of Hilo, almost at the end of the road, three adjacent parks make up one beautiful spot with a series of bays, protected inlets, lagoons, and pretty parks. This is one of the best snorkeling sites on this side of the island, as rocky outcrops provide shelter for schools of reef fish, sea turtles, and dolphins. Local kids use the small black-sand pocket beach for body boarding. The shaded grassy areas are great for picnics. Be warned, this place is very crowded on weekends.
Amenities: lifeguards (weekends, holidays, and summer only); parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: snorkeling; walking.

Big Island Visitors Bureau

Marked by a red-and-white Hawaiian warrior sign, the bureau is worth a visit for brochures, maps, and up-to-date, friendly insider advice.

Day 14 Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

Honolulu is the capital and largest city of Hawaii. It is located on the southeast coast of the island of Oahu, and is considered to be the most remote major city in the world. The closest point on the US is the Point Arena Lighthouse in California, about 2,045 nautical miles (3,787 km) away. Honolulu's name derives from the native words meaning "sheltered harbour". Archaeological evidence shows that Polynesian migrants first settled here in the 11th century. Although Captain Cook noted this island during his voyage in 1778, the first European to sail into Honolulu Harbour was Captain William Brown of Great Britain in 1794. Soon, the port of Honolulu became a focal point for merchant ships trading between North America and Asia. Hawaii has been subject to strong pressures from many forces, including American missionaries, who arrived in 1820, and opportunistic whalers. These whalers played an important role in the development of Honolulu by bringing trade, commerce, and prosperity that led to expansion into the sugar and pineapple industries. The Honolulu area was bombed by Japan in a surprise attack on the unprepared U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941

Day 15 Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

Honolulu is the capital and largest city of Hawaii. It is located on the southeast coast of the island of Oahu, and is considered to be the most remote major city in the world. The closest point on the US is the Point Arena Lighthouse in California, about 2,045 nautical miles (3,787 km) away. Honolulu's name derives from the native words meaning "sheltered harbour". Archaeological evidence shows that Polynesian migrants first settled here in the 11th century. Although Captain Cook noted this island during his voyage in 1778, the first European to sail into Honolulu Harbour was Captain William Brown of Great Britain in 1794. Soon, the port of Honolulu became a focal point for merchant ships trading between North America and Asia. Hawaii has been subject to strong pressures from many forces, including American missionaries, who arrived in 1820, and opportunistic whalers. These whalers played an important role in the development of Honolulu by bringing trade, commerce, and prosperity that led to expansion into the sugar and pineapple industries. The Honolulu area was bombed by Japan in a surprise attack on the unprepared U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941

Terms and Conditions

Terms and Conditions apply: All prices are quoted in Australian dollars, based on per person double occupancy unless stated otherwise, and inclusive of all taxes and discounts. All prices & itineraries are current as of 18SEP2025 & subject to change without notice. Prices are subject to change due to availability, currency fluctuations, fuel price, and tax increases. Oceanview and Balcony cabins may have obstructed views, please check with your consultant. Price includes any stated bonus nights, upgrades & package savings, if applicable. All passports, visas, travel permits, and vaccinations are the responsibility of the travelling passenger to secure prior to travel. Airfares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice, based in economy class from Sydney and are subject to the carriers' flight schedules and conditions. Seasonal and flight routing surcharges may apply. Airfares are based on the lowest available fare, which comes with strict conditions i.e., non-refundable, or non-changeable. Please ask your consultant for pricing on flexible fare options that allow cancellations and/or amendments at a fee. Please call us for prices from other airports. Travel packages advertised may include multiple products provided by several suppliers to provide a travel itinerary. Each component of the package will be treated independent of each other, and the specific terms & conditions of each product supplier will apply. Hotels may charge resort fees, or a security bond not included or mentioned in this package, payable direct upon check-in. Communal tax up to 200 CFP (1,68 €) per night & Adult not included, pay directly to hotel upon check-out. We reserve the right to correct errors without penalty.