11-Day O'ahu Explorer Cruisetour

Waikiki, located on the island of Oahu, is a world-renowned destination that perfectly captures the spirit of Hawaii. Known for its iconic crescent-shaped beach, warm turquoise waters, and vibrant nightlife, Waikiki is where Hawaiian royalty once surfed and relaxed, and it remains a hotspot for both relaxation and adventure today. With its high-rise hotels, luxury resorts, and a plethora of dining and shopping options along Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki offers a perfect blend of modern comfort and island charm. Visitors can bask in the sun at Waikiki Beach, where the calm waters make it ideal for novice surfers and swimmers. For a different perspective, take a catamaran cruise and experience the stunning views of Diamond Head, Oahu's most famous volcanic crater.

For those seeking to explore beyond the beach, Waikiki provides a gateway to Oahu's rich cultural and natural treasures. The Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium, both within walking distance from the beach, offer family-friendly activities with a focus on Hawaii's unique marine and terrestrial life. Just a short hike away is Diamond Head State Monument, where a steep climb rewards hikers with panoramic views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. History enthusiasts can visit the nearby Pearl Harbor National Memorial, where they can learn about the events that shaped World War II. Waikiki also offers a taste of Hawaiian culture with evening hula shows, traditional Hawaiian music, and the weekly Waikiki Beach Walk.

Foodies will find plenty to savor in Waikiki's culinary scene, which ranges from food trucks serving garlic shrimp and poke bowls to fine dining establishments offering fresh, local seafood and international cuisine. Try Hawaiian favorites like loco moco and malasadas at local eateries, or dine at Duke's Waikiki, a popular beachfront restaurant named after Duke Kahanamoku, Hawaii’s most famous surfer and Olympic swimmer. Shoppers will enjoy exploring the open-air International Market Place and the high-end boutiques at Royal Hawaiian Center, where you can also find cultural activities like lei-making classes and ukulele lessons.

Fun fact: Waikiki was once a vast marshland before being developed into a major resort destination. In the early 20th century, the Ala Wai Canal was constructed to drain the wetlands, transforming Waikiki into the bustling beach paradise it is today. This transformation made it possible for travelers from all over the world to experience the natural beauty and aloha spirit that define Waikiki.

Located on the island of Maui, Kahului serves as the island's vibrant commercial hub and a gateway to many of its top attractions, offering visitors an exciting blend of local culture, historic sites, and easy access to Maui’s stunning landscapes. The town is a short drive from some of the island’s most striking destinations, including the majestic Haleakalā National Park and the nearby Hana Highway, with its lush rainforests and hidden waterfalls.

For those looking to enjoy the island's coastline, Kahului’s beaches won’t disappoint. Kanaha Beach Park, located just outside of town, is a prime spot for watersports like windsurfing, kitesurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. The gentle waters make it an ideal location for beginners, while more seasoned adventurers can take advantage of the area’s windy conditions. Nearby, the Maui Ocean Center offers a fascinating glimpse into the diverse marine life that inhabits the waters around Maui. With exhibits showcasing everything from sea turtles to vibrant coral reefs, it’s a great way for families and visitors of all ages to learn more about the island’s underwater world.

The dining scene in Kahului is another highlight, with a strong emphasis on local ingredients and fresh seafood. Popular Hawaiian dishes like the "plate lunch" and Maui's iconic poke bowls are bursting with island flavors and are staples that shouldn’t be missed.

Located on the island of Maui, Kahului serves as the island's vibrant commercial hub and a gateway to many of its top attractions, offering visitors an exciting blend of local culture, historic sites, and easy access to Maui’s stunning landscapes. The town is a short drive from some of the island’s most striking destinations, including the majestic Haleakalā National Park and the nearby Hana Highway, with its lush rainforests and hidden waterfalls.

For those looking to enjoy the island's coastline, Kahului’s beaches won’t disappoint. Kanaha Beach Park, located just outside of town, is a prime spot for watersports like windsurfing, kitesurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. The gentle waters make it an ideal location for beginners, while more seasoned adventurers can take advantage of the area’s windy conditions. Nearby, the Maui Ocean Center offers a fascinating glimpse into the diverse marine life that inhabits the waters around Maui. With exhibits showcasing everything from sea turtles to vibrant coral reefs, it’s a great way for families and visitors of all ages to learn more about the island’s underwater world.

The dining scene in Kahului is another highlight, with a strong emphasis on local ingredients and fresh seafood. Popular Hawaiian dishes like the "plate lunch" and Maui's iconic poke bowls are bursting with island flavors and are staples that shouldn’t be missed.

Hilo, the charming and laid-back gateway to Hawaii’s Big Island, offers an authentic Hawaiian experience steeped in natural beauty, history, and culture. As the largest town on the east side of the island, Hilo sits at the foot of two majestic volcanoes: Mauna Loa, the world's largest volcano, and Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano that hosts some of the world's most advanced astronomical observatories. Visitors can explore the rich volcanic landscapes by venturing to the nearby Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can witness the fiery glow of Kīlauea's lava flows and hike across otherworldly terrain.

Nature lovers will find a paradise in Hilo's lush, green surroundings, thanks to the abundant rainfall that nourishes the region. Stroll through the renowned Liliʻuokalani Gardens, a beautifully landscaped Japanese garden spanning 24 acres along Hilo Bay, or visit Rainbow Falls, where the Wailuku River cascades 80 feet into a turquoise pool. The mist often catches the sunlight just right, creating a mesmerizing rainbow effect, a sight that perfectly embodies the natural magic of Hilo. For a truly immersive experience, explore the Hawai'i Tropical Bioreserve & Garden, which boasts over 2,000 species of tropical plants and an enchanting array of waterfalls.

Hilo’s vibrant downtown area is an inviting blend of historic charm and modern appeal. Wander through its streets lined with century-old wooden storefronts that house unique shops, art galleries, and local eateries. Stop by the Hilo Farmers Market, a must-see attraction where you can sample exotic fruits like rambutan and lilikoi or buy handmade crafts from local artisans. The Pacific Tsunami Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the town's past, recounting the powerful tsunamis that reshaped Hilo and the resilience of its community.

A fun fact about Hilo is that it is one of the rainiest cities in the United States, with an average annual rainfall of about 130 inches. This abundance of rain is what makes Hilo's scenery so verdant and lush, contributing to its unique appeal. Despite the frequent rain showers, Hilo has a quiet, unhurried charm that invites visitors to slow down, explore, and truly experience the natural and cultural wonders of Hawaii’s Big Island.