Road Scholar : Home
Islands of Life in the Pacific

Program Number: 2810RJ
Start and End Dates:
2/11/2013 - 2/27/2013; 10/14/2013 - 10/30/2013; 1/13/2014 - 1/29/2014; 2/10/2014 - 2/26/2014; 3/10/2014 - 3/26/2014;
Duration: 16 nights
Location: Hilo (Hawaii), Hawaii
Price starting at: $5,295.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: National Parks; On the Road
Meals: 47; 16 Breakfasts, 15 Lunches, 16 Dinners    

Follow the journey of Pele — Hawaii's volcano goddess — from Kilauea on Hawaii to Haleakala on Maui, to Kalaupapa on Molokai, to Waimea on Kauai and to bustling Waikiki on Oahu. Led by former park rangers and local historians, delight in Hawaii's natural and cultural history while you traverse through its national parks, historic sites and wildlife refuges.




Highlights

• Study Hawaii's Volcanoes National Park with your own volcanologist and a bird's eye view into Kilauea's crater.
• Explore and study Father Damien’s ministry to Hansen's Disease patients quarantined on an isolated portion of Molokai, Kalaupapa Peninsula.
• On Kauai, see for yourself why Waimea is known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific."



Activity Particulars

Walking up to two miles on groomed trails, cooled lava flows that are uneven surfaces, rainforests. Elevations up to 10,000 feet.



Itinerary Summary

Arrival Hilo 1 night, transfer to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, 3 nights; coach to Kailua-Kona, 2 nights; flight to Maui, 3 nights; flight to Molokai, 3 nights; flight to Kauai, 2 nights; flight to Oahu, coach to Honolulu, 2 nights; departure.



Coordinated by Hawaii Pacific University.




Hilo (Hawaii)

This is one of few surviving examples of a Hawaiian plantation town. The impact of Polynesians, Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, Koreans, other Pacific Islanders, and Europeans blend in the faces of the people who give Hilo its charm. With diverse shopping opportunities and its friendliness, Hilo is the perfect town to linger just a little longer.
Accommodations
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: comfortable lodge retreat. Other locations: full-service hotels at sea level.
Meals and Lodgings
   Hilo Hawaiian Hotel
  Hilo, Big Island of Hawaii 1 night
   KMC Lodging
  Hawaii National Park, HI 3 nights
   Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa
  Kailua-Kona, HI 2 nights
   Maui Beach Hotel
  Kahului, Maui 3 nights
   Hotel Molokai
  Kaunakakai, Molokai 3 nights
   Aston Aloha Beach Hotel
  Kapaa, Kauai 2 nights
   Waikiki Resort Hotel
  Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii 2 nights
 Hilo Hawaiian Hotel
Type: Hotel
  Description: Comfortable, laid back Hilo is the gateway to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and an authentic taste of Hawaii's Big Island. The Hilo Hawaiian Hotel is located right on Hilo Bay and only two miles from Hilo Airport. Old banyan trees line the drive to the hotel, most of which were planted in the 1930's by celebrities such as Babe Ruth, Amelia Earhart and Cecil B. DeMille. Mauna Kea looms in the background and the arched bridge that leads to Coconut Island is only steps from the doors of the resort. The hotel is flanked by a beautiful beach, the Liliuokalani Gardens and the Naniloa Country Club.
  Contact info: 71 Banyan Drive
Hilo, HI 96720 USA
phone: 800-367-5004
web: www.castleresorts.com/Home/accommodations/hilo-hawaiian-hotel
  Room amenities: Each room has a private bath, clock/radio, television,coffee maker iron and ironing board (on request), hair dryer (on request), telephone, high-speed Internet access (fee as of 7/12 is $10.35 per day) and air-conditioning. There is no Wi-Fi available in the rooms.
  Facility amenities: The hotel has a swimming pool, sun deck, Queen’s Court Restaurant, Waioli Lounge, gift shop, free parking, lcoin-operated laundromat (open 6:00 am - 10:00 pm), broadband Internet kiosk (fee) in the lobby with printing, free Wi-Fi in lobby, safety deposit box at front desk, 24- hour front desk and florist on site.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights prior: See below Special 2012 Road Scholar room rate is: Standard Garden View Room $95.00 + taxes
  Check in time: 3:00 PM

 KMC Lodging
Type: Lodge
  Description: Kilauea Military Camp (KMC) is a historic mountain-top setting inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, on Crater Rim Drive, yards from the summit caldera of Kilauea. Its history is as old as Hawaii Volcanoes National Park having been established in the same year 1916. What once began as an idea by Hilo Board of Trade members for a training ground for the National Guard and an Army "vacation and health recruiting station" has become one of Hawaii's most unique resorts for the military. In its eighty-nine years of existence, KMC had served as a training facility, housed a Navy camp, hosted numerous dignitaries including General Dwight D. Eisenhower who later became the president of the United States and briefly served as an internment camp and later as a prisoner-of-war camp during World War II. While the camp still maintains its historical charm, renovations to the camp in the last decade have enhanced KMC’s facilities and services making it one of the military’s favorite vacation resort.
  Contact info: Kilauea Military Camp
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, HI 96718 USA
phone: 808-967-8333
web: www.kmc-volcano.com
  Room amenities: Each unit includes a mini-refrigerator, cable TV, telephones, microwave, coffee maker, iron and ironing board, hairdryer, flashlights, and even an umbrella for inclement weather. For your comfort, every cottage and apartment is also equipped with electric heat and a fireplace. Wi-Fi is available in the room and lobby for $9.95 per day.
  Facility amenities: Mountain cabins, general store, post office, laundromats, wireless internet service (fee of $9.95 per day as of 7/12), gas station, fire & ambulance personnel, recreation facilities, etc. Two hours of free Wi-Fi is available at the Java Cafe when you purchase a cup of coffee.
  Smoking allowed: No

 Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa
Type: Resort
  Description: Situated on quiet and tranquil Keauhou Bay, sits The Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay, a 22 acre oceanfront resort. The resort features many recreational facilities, including a system of multilevel pools, including a 200-foot lava slide, two spa tubs, and a sandy-bottomed children's pool, as well as being in close proximity to numerous golf courses and ocean activities. The full-service Ho'ola Spa (means "healing" in Hawaiian) is truly a place of healing, relaxation, and rejuvenation. The 3,200-square foot spa facility was built with Hawaiian simplicity, yet has an air of distinct luxury. Indulge in Hawaiian lomi lomi massage or hot pohaku (stone) massage treatments. From the hair and nail salon to the vichy showers to the oceanfront treatment patios, Ho'ola Spa will add the perfect touch of indulgence to every visit. A total renovation of this property was completed in September 2012.
  Contact info: 78-128 Ehukai Street
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 USA
phone: 808-930-4900
web: www.sheratonkona.com
  Room amenities: Each room has air conditioning, balcony, private bath, shower, cable/pay TV/video games, coffee maker, radio/alarm clock, refrigerator, hair dryer, internet access, iron, ironing board, in room safe, complimentary wired high-speed Internet access, In room Wi-Fi (additional fee), and direct dial telephone/data port/voice mail.
  Facility amenities: This 4-star property has a business center and offers secretarial services, technology support staff, and limo/town car service. Wireless Internet access (surcharge) is available in public areas. For a surcharge, Business services, wedding services, concierge services, and tour assistance are available. Additional property amenities include a rooftop terrace, a library, and a coffee shop/cafĂ©. There is also a bar/lounge, barber/beauty shop, gift shop, laundry service, and restaurant.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Maui Beach Hotel
Type: Hotel
  Description: This kamaaiana (local) property is located on the harbor side of Kaahumanu Avenue in Kahului, Maui and is conveniently located near the airport and program sites. It is a 30 minute drive from several lovely beaches (shuttles available or cars can be rented from airport - hotel has a free shuttle to airport). There is a large shopping mall across the street.
  Contact info: 170 Kaahumanu Avenue
Kahului, Maui, HI 96732 USA
phone: 808-877-0051
web: www.mauibeachhotel.net
  Room amenities: All rooms have a private bathroom, air conditioner, complimentary broadband internet access (no Wi-Fi in rooms), cable TV with Pay-Per-View movies, mini-refrigerator, alarm clock, telephone with voicemail, in- room safe, and iron/ironing boards.
  Facility amenities: This full service has a swimming pool and pool deck. As it is located on a “harbor” beach, swimming is not recommended here. The town of Kihei (a 30 minute drive) has several swimming beaches. There is free parking at the hotel, free airport Shuttle (6am to 9pm), free high speed internet, 24-Hour front desk, copy/fax service, computer internet kiosks through Shaka Net located in lobby, free Wi-Fi in the lobby, and a coin operated laundry.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes

 Hotel Molokai
Type: Hotel
  Description: The only hotel on the island, charming A-frame architecture with Polynesian style decor, ocean front detached cottages, located a few miles from town and a genuine hideaway from all things mainstream. There is breathtaking natural beauty, deserted beaches, no high-rise buildings, and an ‘old’ Hawaii feel.
  Contact info: Kamehameha V Highway
Kaunakakai, HI 96748 USA
phone: 808-553-5347
web: www.hotelmolokai.com
  Room amenities: Rooms have coffee makers, mini-refrigerators, microwaves, irons, ironing boards, hair dryers, television, and telephones, Not all rooms are air conditioned. The average temperature for Moloka'i is 70-80 degrees and the rooms are open-air. These open-air rooms allow trade winds to go through and make it the perfect temperature with natural breezes blowing through screens. There is also an outside lanai sitting area.
  Facility amenities: Amenities include Swimming pool, outdoor dining room and bar, ATM/banking free self-parking, laundry facilities, gift shops or newsstand.
  Smoking allowed: No

 Aston Aloha Beach Hotel
Type: Full Service Hotel
  Description: Aston Aloha Beach Hotel has a spectacular beachfront location on the east coast of Kauai. This 216-room beachfront hotel next to scenic Wailua River offers a variety of delicious on-site dining options and thoughtful amenities to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable stay, along with breathtaking views of the lush mountains and the sparkling blue waters that surround it.
  Contact info: 3-5920 Kuhio Hwy.
Kapaa, HI 96746 USA
phone: 877-997-6667
web: www.astonalohabeachhotel.com
  Room amenities: Amenities include in room safe, refrigerators, in-room PlayStation®2 console to play DVD movies and games from unlimited access DVD (additional fee), hair edryer, daily in-room coffee and tea, and daily newspaper. Internet access and Wi-Fi is not available in rooms.
  Facility amenities: The resort features Kauai’s only protected swimming and snorkeling beach, two swimming pools, jacuzzi, fitness room, tennis, volleyball, shuffleboard, Now kiosk located in the lobby area, coin operated laundry, free Wi-Fi in the lobby, and free parking. Also on-site are the Kuhio Lounge and the poolside Kahanu Bar & Grill.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Waikiki Resort Hotel
Type: Hotel
  Description: The Waikiki Resort Hotel is very well located in the heart of Waikiki, half a block away from the Kuhio Beach section of world famous Waikiki Beach and in the shadow of iconic Diamond Head. Being near Kuhio Beach is a real plus, as it is the most interesting part of Waikiki Beach because it is wide, sandy, nicely landscaped, and it is home to the beachboy stands which send out surfers and outrigger canoes. The hotel is also within walking distance of other popular attractions such as Kapi`olani Park (great for morning or evening walks), the Honolulu Zoo, the Waikiki Aquarium, the International Marketplace, King's Village shops, and a multitude of restaurants and other attractions.
  Contact info: 2460 Koa Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96815 USA
phone: 808-922-4911
web: www.waikikiresort.com
  Room amenities: Each guest room is equipped with air conditioning, private balcony, high speed Internet access (plug in available in room, not Wi-Fi, for surcharge of $9.95 plus tax per 24 hour period as of 7/12), hair dryers, ironing boards with irons, refrigerator, shower or shower and 1/2 bath tub, clock radio, color TV with on demand movies and games, and an in-room safe (surcharge) .
  Facility amenities: Hotel amenities include an outdoor swimming pool and pool deck, sundry and gift shops, self-service laundry, a laundry and dry cleaning service, a 24-hour business center, two restaurants, and a 24-hour bell desk, front desk, Wi-Fi availalbe in lobby (no fee) and hotel security service.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights after: See rates in comments section 2013 Double/Single Rates: $120.00 + tax for January-March, July-August, & December $110.00 + tax for April-June, September -November
  Check out time: 12:00 PM


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
Registration between 3:00 -5:00 pm in Hilo Hawaiian Hotel Lobby. Upon arrival, please proceed to the hotel's front desk to check in. You will then be directed to the Road Scholar registration desk. You will be staying at Hilo Hawaiian Hotel that night.
  End of Program:
Program ends after breakfast. Independent check outs by 12:00 pm. You will be staying at Waikiki Resort Hotel the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. Participants are required to complete a Housing & Transportation form and a Health and Safety Questionnaire; Valid I.D. required for inter-island flights
  Parking availability:
Free parking at Hilo Hawaiian Hotel. Waikiki Resort Hotel charges $18 per day.
Transportation
To Start of Program
  Location:  Hilo, Big Island of Hawaii
  Nearest city or town:  Hilo
  Nearest airport:  Hilo Airport
  From End of Program
  Location:  Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii
  Nearest city or town:  Honolulu
  Nearest highway: H-1 Freeway
  Nearest airport:  Honolulu International Airport (HNL)
Travel Details
 

ITO (Hilo Airport)

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Taxi
Various

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Approximately $10.00 - $11.00 (subject to change)
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

10 minutes 
 

Distance:

 

3 miles
   

There are many taxi cab companies that service Hilo International Airport. The designated exclusive taxi lane for queuing is in front of the Baggage Claim Area. Approximate taxi rate is $3.00 flip + $.30 per 1/8th mile + $.30 per minute for waiting time + $1.00 per bag. Shaka! Taxi & Tours (808) 987-1111 Marhysa Taxi & Island Tours (808) 938-3285 Hot Lava Taxi & Tours (808) 557-0879 Helen's Taxi (808) 895-4400

 

Honolulu (HNL)

 

To Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Taxi
AMPCO Express
phone: 808-861-8294

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Approx $35.00 - $40.00
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

30 min - 45 min depending upon traffic 
   

AMPCO Express is the managing contractor of the Airport's Open Taxi System at Honolulu International Airport. The state established this Airport Open Taxi Management system for taxi drivers from all taxi companies to be able to pick-up at the airport. Taxi Service is available on the center median fronting the terminal baggage claim areas. See the taxi dispatchers (green shirts with black lettering, and the wording “TAXI DISPATCHER”) for service.

 

HNL

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
Speedi Shuttle
phone: 877-242-5777

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Arrival fares begin at $14.55; Round-trips from $26.79 – includes a 10% discount on the return seg
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

30- 45 minutes depending upon traffic 
 

Distance:

 

10 miles
   

Shuttle stops are conveniently located on the ground level at the tour group areas adjacent to Baggage Claims C and H, curbside between Baggage Claim D and E and the Commuter Terminal. Greeters & Shuttle Attendants wearing red aloha prints are present throughout baggage claim & at each pickup location to arrange your transportation. SpeediShuttle signage is located throughout the terminals & at each pickup zone. Shuttles depart within 20 minutes of check-in. More info @ www.speedishuttle.com

 

HNL

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Public Transportation
The Bus
phone: 808-848-4500

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$2.50 or $1.00 for Senior Citizen (with valid Medicare card)
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

45 minutes - 1 hour 
   

Buses operate from 5:30 am - 10:00 pm Hawaii Standard Time. Exact change is required. One (1) FREE transfer with each paid cash fare. For more information, go online to www.thebus.org
 
Driving Directions
  From the Continental US to Hawaii: Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on Oahu is Hawaii's major airport, serving as the entry point for most of Hawaii's visitors. All twenty-three major domestic carriers (such as American, Continental, Delta and United, etc.) and sixteen international carriers serve Oahu, so you can get here from just about anywhere. There are also direct flights from the mainland U.S. to Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii's Big Island, but for the most part, you may need to connect through Oahu to get to the neighbor islands. If your program begins on Maui, Kauai, Molokai or Hawaii's Big Island, and you need to transfer from Honolulu International Airport, you will need to take a short inter-island flight on one of the local carriers (Hawaiian Airlines, go!Airlines or Island Air.) Transfer flights are not difficult. They are short – 25 to 45 minutes long depending on the island destination – and frequent – there are multiple departures daily, often hourly. One-way flights between islands will cost generally start at $95 depending on the time and season. You can buy your flights directly on your own, through your local travel agent or over the Internet using the airline’s own website or through a travel website such as Expedia.com, Travelocity.com, Orbitz.com or Kayak.com. Hawaii’s Airport Codes HNL – Honolulu, Oahu OGG – Kahului, Maui KOA – Kona, Hawaii's Big Island ITO – Hilo, Hawaii's Big Island LIH – Lihue, Kauai MKK – Molokai Inter-island Airline Information: Hawaiian Airlines www.hawaiianair.com 1-800-367-5320 go!Airlines www.iflygo.com 1-888-435-9462 Island Air www.islandair.com 1-800-653-6541
  Hilo International Airport (ITO) to Hilo Hawaiian Hotel The total distance is 3.1 mi (about 8 mins) 1. Head west on Airport Rd - 0.2 mi 2. Continue onto Kekuanaoa St - 0.1 mi 3. Continue onto Airport Rd - 1.4 mi 4. Turn right onto Hawaii Belt Rd - 0.7 mi 5. Continue onto Banyan Dr Destination will be on the right 0.6 mi
  Waikiki Resort Hotel to Honolulu International Airport (HNL) 1. Head northeast on Liliuokalani Ave toward Kuhio Ave 2. Turn right at Kuhio Ave - go 0.3 mi 3. Turn left at Kapahulu Ave - go 1.3 mi 4. Slight left to stay on Kapahulu Ave - go 256 ft 5. Slight left at Waialae Ave - go 0.3 mi 6. Take the ramp onto I-H1 W -go 6.0 mi 7. Take exit 18 to merge onto HI-92 W/N Nimitz Hwy - go 2.0 mi 8. Turn left at Rodgers Blvd - go 0.2 mi Total Est. Distance: 10.2 miles Total Est. Time: 21 mins
Elevation Note: 3 nights at 4,000' elevation, walking field trip to 10,000' with lunch at 3,200'
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Independent arrivals/Introduction
(Monday, February 11)
   
 Afternoon: Road Scholar program registration -– Hilo Hawaiian Hotel Lobby
 Dinner: Queen’s Court Restaurant
 Evening: Introductions
   
Accommodations: Hilo Hawaiian Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2: Orientation
(Tuesday, February 12)
   
 Breakfast: Queen's Court Restaurant
 Morning: Orientation followed by Historic Hilo Overview Walking Excursion
 Lunch: at a local restaurant
 Afternoon: Depart on bus to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Arrive and check in to KMC. Program Orientation
 Dinner: Buffet dinner at 6:00 PM
   
Accommodations: KMC Lodging
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Geology Lecture/Nature Walk
(Wednesday, February 13)

Note: 2 mile level hike from KMC to Volcano Art Gallery.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at Crater Rim Cafe
 Morning: A geology lecture introduces the formation of the Hawaiian Islands.
 Lunch: Lunch at Crater Rim Cafe
 Afternoon: Nature walk to Hula Platform, Volcano Art Gallery, and Kilauea Visitor Center; 2 miles total
 Dinner: Dinner buffet at Crater Rim Cafe
 Evening: Cultural Discussion
   
Accommodations: KMC Lodging
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Volcanoes Park Field Trip/Lava Field Trip
(Thursday, February 14)

Note: Hike out to views of active flow,approx 2 miles total; return after dark; good shoes, water, & flashlights required
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast
 Morning: Field Trip: Volcano Museum, View Crater close-up, Devastation Trail - one-mile walk
 Lunch: Lunch at Crater Rim Cafe
 Afternoon: Free time. Depart for Lava Field trip mid/late afternoon
 Dinner: Picnic supper (box supper)
 Evening: Night time views of lava at the coast (conditions permitting)
   
Accommodations: KMC Lodging
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Kona Field Trip/National Historical Park
(Friday, February 15)

Note: Walk on sandy trails about 2 miles; hat, sunscreen, water recommended
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at Crater Rim Cafe
 Morning: Field trip to Kona - stop at black sand beach
 Lunch: Lunch en route at southernmost town in USA
 Afternoon: Pu'uhonua o Honaunau (Place of Refuge) National Historical Park - located at sea level Check-in hotel in Keahou
 Dinner: Dinner at hotel dining room with ocean & sunset views
   
Accommodations: Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Field Trip to Kaloko-Honokohau NHP/Puukohola Heiau
(Saturday, February 16)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast buffet at hotel
 Morning: Field Trip to Kaloko-Honokohau NHP, the newest national park in Hawaii and Puukohola Heiau Historic Site
 Lunch: Picnic lunch at coastal beach with views of ancient fishponds, Maui mountains, and local wind surfers
 Afternoon: Afternoon swim at sandy beach, views of turtles and reef fish; return to hotel
 Dinner: Dinner at hotel dining room
   
Accommodations: Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Flight to Maui / Iao Valley
(Sunday, February 17)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast buffet at hotel
 Morning: Free morning; check-out of hotel; transfer to Kona Airport
 Lunch: Lunch at the airport
 Afternoon: Flight to Maui Island; arrival & collect luggage; visit Iao Valley with Hawaiian cultural specialist; check-in hotel
 Dinner: Dinner buffet at Maui Beach Hotel dining room
   
Accommodations: Maui Beach Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Field Trip Haleakala National Park/Visit to Plantation Towns
(Monday, February 18)

Note: The high altitude at the summit area of Haleakala National Park (10,023 feet) may complicate health conditions and cause breathing difficulties. People with respiratory, heart conditions or people prone to elevation sickness should consult their doctors prior to traveling to high elevations. Short walk on trail leading into crater at summit.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel dining room
 Morning: Field Trip: Haleakala National Park; visitor center and spectacular crater views
 Lunch: Lunch at Kula Restaurant, 3200 ft. elevation
 Afternoon: Visit plantation towns of up-country Maui - Olinda, Makawao, and Pa'ia with brief stop at Ho'okipa Beach Park, world-class wind surfing
 Dinner: Dinner at hotel dining room
   
Accommodations: Maui Beach Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Field Trip to Hana/Hawaiian Style Lunch
(Tuesday, February 19)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel dining room
 Morning: Field Trip to Hana, Maui's East End - 50 miles of sea cliffs, waterfalls, hairpin curves, and 54 narrow bridges. Visit the largest temple in Polynesia.
 Lunch: Hawaiian style lunch in Hana at private home located on the coastline
 Afternoon: Return trip along leeward coast, weather permitting. Journey completely around the edge of Haleakala, with changing landscape from lush rain forest to desert.
 Dinner: Dinner at hotel dining room
   
Accommodations: Maui Beach Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Class: "A Changing Maui" Free Time/Lahaina/Ferry to Molokai Island
(Wednesday, February 20)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel dining room, Class: "A Changing Maui"
 Morning: Free Time to pack or relax before lunch and departure to Lahaina.
 Lunch: Lunch at hotel dining room
 Afternoon: Depart for Lahaina. Upon arrival, enjoy some Free Time to explore and learn about this old whaling town and its history. Gather at Lahaina Harbor for a 2-hour ferry ride to Molokai Island.
 Dinner: At a local restaurant.
 Evening: Check In Hotel Molokai
   
Accommodations: Hotel Molokai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Field Trip East Molokai/Halawa Valley
(Thursday, February 21)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel dining room
 Morning: Field Trip in school bus to East Molokai - Molokai Museum & Sugar Mill, visit a private home and garden with tropical flowers and native birds
 Lunch: Lunch
 Afternoon: Continue on to Halawa Valley the oldest recorded habitation site on Molokai
 Dinner: Dinner at Molokai Restaurant
 Evening: Preview of next day
   
Accommodations: Hotel Molokai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Kalaupapa National Historical Park
(Friday, February 22)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel dining room
 Morning: School bus transfer to Molokai Airport; 15-min. air shuttles in small commuter planes down to Kalaupapa National Historical Park; guided tour in school bus of the isolated peninsula where Father Damien ministered to leprosy patients
 Lunch: Lunch at Kalaupapa
 Afternoon: After conclusion of national park visit, air shuttles return visitors to top-side; school bus transfers group to hotel
 Dinner: Hawaiian Paina/Luau presented at Molokai Museum
   
Accommodations: Hotel Molokai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Field trip to Waimea/Kokee State Park
(Saturday, February 23)
   
 Breakfast: Tailgate Breakfast
 Morning: Morning flight from Molokai to Kaua'i via Honolulu. Upon arrival in Kaua'i, board school bus for field trip to Waimea, on west end of island
 Lunch: Picnic lunch at Kekaha Park, the gateway to Waimea Canyon; views of Ni'ihau Island
 Afternoon: School bus trip up to Waimea Canyon, 4,000 ft. elevation, and Koke'e State Park and Kalalau Lookout. Panoramic views of oldest island, isolated valleys, waterfalls, unspoiled landscape; 2 hour drive to hotel on east end, check-in.
 Dinner: Dinner at hotel dining room - Free Evening
   
Accommodations: Aston Aloha Beach Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14: Hanalei Valley/Kilauea Lighthouse
(Sunday, February 24)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast buffet in hotel dining room
 Morning: Hanalei Valley - encircled by waterfall draped mountains. Visit Kilauea Lighthouse NWR with park guides, 1 mile walk to lighthouse; birders paradise with views of Hawaii's coastal sea birds - albatross, frigate, shearwater, etc.
 Lunch: Picnic lunch at Hanalei Bay
 Afternoon: Optional swim at white sand beach in Hanalei, or walk to the historic town which was the setting for "South Pacific"; return to hotel
 Dinner: Dinner at hotel dining room
   
Accommodations: Aston Aloha Beach Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15: Flight to Oahu/USS Arizona Memorial/National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific/Orientation
(Monday, February 25)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at Kaua'i hotel dining room
 Morning: Morning air flight to Oahu Island; upon arrival, board bus for lunch.
 Lunch: Lunch
 Afternoon: Visit the USS Arizona Memorial National Historic Park at Pearl Harbor and view a historical film in the theater, board the launch for a ride across Pearl Harbor to the USS Arizona Memorial, explore the museum and book shop. From there we will travel to The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, commonly known as "Punchbowl" before heading the hotel for check-in.
 Dinner: Dinner at the hotel
 Evening: Oahu Orientation
   
Accommodations: Waikiki Resort Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16: Oahu's East End/Kawainui Marsh/ Pali Lookout/Class: Hawaiian Values/Aloha Program
(Tuesday, February 26)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel
 Morning: Field Trip today starts with a morning drive around Oahu’s spectacular east end by Diamond Head along a coastal road providing spectacular views. Arrive at Kailua Ahupua'a and Kawai Nui Marsh on windward O`ahu. Considered sacred to Hawaiians, Kawainui Marsh, is the largest remaining emergent wetland in Hawai`i and Hawai`i’s largest ancient freshwater fishpond. Learn about Hawaiian Traditions and Conservation from a local conservation group. Trip continues with a scenic stop at the Ko`olau Mountains’ beautiful and historic Pali Lookout, and a drive through Historic Honolulu including Chinatown, Downtown Honolulu, and the capitol district before returning to the hotel.
 Lunch: Lunch at the hotel.
 Afternoon: Class: Hawaiian Values, with Hawaiian cultural specialist, writer, and language teacher
 Dinner: Aloha Farewell Dinner
 Evening: Finale: Aloha Program with Hawaiian Club of singers, musicians, and dancers
   
Accommodations: Waikiki Resort Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17: Aloha! End of Program and Departures
(Wednesday, February 27)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel restaurant; group farewell; program offically ends after breakfast
 Morning: Independent departures to Honolulu Airport. Check-out time from hotel is 12:00 NOON.
   
Meals Included: Breakfast

Free Time Opportunities
  
  Hawaii National Park, HI Hawaii Visitors Bureau
Phone: 808-961-5797 For additional information, visit www.gohawaii.com
  Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Phone: 808-985-6017 For additional information, visit www.nps.gov/havo/home.htm
  Kahului, Maui Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau
Comprehensive listing of events and activities for the state. Contains much information about local events and activities. Searchable by dates, activity, etc. - To find information on the island's events and activities, click on the island in the map at the top of the home page. Or, you may call 1-800-Go-Hawaii. For additional information, visit www.gohawaii.com
  Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau
Comprehensive listing of events and activities for the state. Contains much information about local events and activities. Searchable by dates, activity, etc. - To find information on the island's events and activities, click on the island in the map at the top of the home page. Or, you may call 1-800-Go-Hawaii. For additional information, visit www.gohawaii.com
  Waikiki at Night
At night Waikiki is an exuberant world of shops, bistros and neon lights, alive with people, and complete with amusing street entertainers. Often heralded as the ambassadors of aloha, these musicians, singers, mimes, drummers, and a myriad of other performers give Waikiki a local color and ambience found nowhere else in the Hawaiian Islands. Street performers start about 8pm and ends about 10pm For additional information, visit www.gohawaii.com
  Shop in Waikiki and in the Greater Honolulu Area
Waikiki is a great place to shop and offers prestigious retailers such as Tiffany & Co., Chanel, Gucci and Louis Vuitton as well as more modest stores such as the ever-present ABC Stores and the world-famous International Market Place. The Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center contains 150 stores and restaurants on four levels. Ala Moana Shopping Center, located in the heart of Honolulu, is one of the largest open-air shopping centers in the world with more than 200 stores to meet your every need. The Center is recognized as having the flagship stores for most major international, national and local retailers. Other nearby malls in Honolulu to shop at include Aloha Tower Marketplace; Ward Warehouse and Ward Center, across from Fisherman’s Wharf; and Kahala Mall in Kahala. For additional information, visit www.gohawaii.com
  Hilo, Big Island of Hawaii Liliuokalani Park Gardens
The Liliuokalani Park and Gardens covers almost 30 acres on the Waiakea Peninsula. This authentic Japanese garden park was built in the early 1900's as a memorial to the Japanese immigrant sugar plantation workers who developed the old Waiakea Sugar Plantation. It is named in honor of Hawaii's last reigning monarch, Queen Liliuokalani who bequeathed part of park land for public use. Beautiful grounds for a leisurely stroll featuring gazebos, fish ponds, bridges, statues and a panoramic view across Hilo Bay. Phone: (808) 826-1053 Hours: Grounds are always open For additional information, visit www.gohawaii.com
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List


Beyond Paradise


Author: Adler, Peter S


Hawaii - A Natural History


Author: Buck, Elizabeth


The Islands of Life


Author: Daws, Gavin


Shoal of Time


Author: Daws, Gavin


The Illustrated Atlas of Hawaii


Author: Daws, Gavin


Man, Gods & Nature


Author: Dudley, Michael Kioni


Hawaii Parklands


Author: Hagmann, Marnie


Hawaii’s Birds


Author: Hawaii Audubon Society


Volcanoes in the Sea: The Geology of Hawaii


Author: Macdonald, G. A., A. T. Abott, and F. L. Peterson


Haleakala - The Story Behind the Scenery


Author: Mack, Jim


Stepping Into Time - A Guide to Hawaii’s Historic Landmarks


Author: Peek, Jeanette Murray


Volcanoes: Global Perspectives


Author: Lockwood, John P. and Richard W. Hazlett


Description: Volcanoes are essential elements in the delicate global balance of elemental forces that govern both the dynamic evolution of the Earth and the nature of Life itself. Without volcanic activity, life as we know it would not exist on our planet. Although beautiful to behold, volcanoes are also potentially destructive, and understanding their nature is critical to prevent major loss of life in the future. Co-author, John Lockwood, is a volcanologist with Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.



Plants in Hawaiian Culture


Author: Krauss, Beatrice H


Description: This introduction to the ethnobotany of the Hawaiian culture before contact with foreigners describes the plants themselves, preparation and uses of plant materials, and how the plants and artifacts made from them were used as food, canoes, houses, wearing apparel, musical instruments, medicine, and in fishing, games and sports, war, religion, and burial.





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