Road Scholar : Home
Surfing, Volcanoes and Tropical Forest Adventure: Intergenerational Hawaii

Program Number: 12426RJ
Start and End Dates:
7/12/2013 - 7/20/2013; 7/11/2014 - 7/19/2014;
Duration: 8 nights
Location: Hawaii
Price starting at: $2,780.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: Adventure Afloat Study Cruise; Ocean Cruises; Intergenerational
Intergenerational 		Activity Level: t (see description)
Meals: 23; 8 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 8 Dinners    

Program intended for grandchildren from 8 - 12 years of age.

Create memories with your grandchild on an interactive learning adventure that reveals Hawaii’s bountiful treasures on four different islands and at sea. Discover active volcanoes and tropical rainforests, roam coastal ecosystems, share the history of Pearl Harbor and celebrate your Hawaiian experiences at a fun-filled traditional luau.




Activity Particulars

This intergenerational program is for grandparents and children ages 8-12.



Itinerary At-a-Glance

Honolulu, Hawaii, 1 night; aboard Pride of America, 7 nights.



Coordinated by Hawaii Pacific University.



Days 1-2:
Arrival Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii / embark Pride of America:

Enjoy a lesson in surfing or outrigger canoe wave-riding from Waikiki's famous “beach boys.” Visit the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor.
Lodging: Comfortable hotel on Waikiki.



Days 3-4:
Maui:

Explore Iao Valley and learn the history of the great battle between King Kamehameha, who unified the Hawaiian islands and Maui’s warriors. Participate in planting or weeding taro, a tropical plant important to the Hawaiians as the main ingredient in poi.



Day 5:
Hilo (Big Island):

In Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, learn how measuring devices are used to predict volcanic eruptions and stand in awe of Kilauea. Walk through the 540-year-old Thurston Lava Tube.



Day 6:
Kona:

Explore a private cloud forest preserve.



Days 7-8:
Kauai:

Cruise along the breathtaking Na Pali Coast viewing cliffs that rise as high as 4,000 feet above the Pacific. Take a nature walk along the coast with a naturalist who points out lithified fossils of ancient creatures and a sinkhole known as Hawaii’s version of the La Brea Tar Pits.



Day 9:
Honolulu (Big Island) / disembark / departure




Pride of America

Built in 2005, the Pride of America is the only cruise ship in the world sailing under the American flag. It is 921 feet long by 106 feet wide and has 13 passenger decks with a total double-occupancy capacity of up to 2,144 passengers. The ship has free programming for children most evenings.
Accommodations
Comfortable hotel on Waikiki.

Road Scholar Instructors
These instructors are participating on at least one date of this program. Please note that changes may occur.
Gordon Piianaia
Gordon is respected in Hawaii and the South Pacific for his sailing skills as Captain of the famed Polynesian voyaging canoe Hokulea. Hokulea’s journey was historically significant as its maiden voyage used traditional methods of sailing and navigation; there was no use of modern navigational equipment or instruments. Gordon is a retired naval officer, geography professor at the University of Hawaii, and served as director of the Hawaiian Studies Institute for a private educational institution.
 
Rose Meece
Rose Meece is a veteran group leader, world traveler, and knowledgeable “kamaaina” (local resident) for Road Scholar learning adventures. After raising her family, Rose received a degree in culinary arts, and started her career working first in Alaska as a cook on an oil patch ship in the Bering Sea in the late 70's. She followed that up by working as a chef for the Hyatt Hotel in West Lake, Calif. and taught cooking classes for Road Scholar in her free time. In 1997, Rose moved to Hawaii, and has been a Road Scholar group leader ever since. She has led groups throughout Hawaii, Fiji,Tonga, Samoa, Cook Islands, and French Polynesia. When she is not leading a program, Rose volunteers at the Ronald McDonald family room at Kapiolani Women's and Children's Hospital, at Hanauma Bay as a docent for education programs, and at church. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of Hawaii and the aloha spirit with all those who cross her path.
 
Meals and Lodgings
   Waikiki Resort Hotel
  Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii 1 night
   Pride of America
  Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii
Kahului, Maui, HI
Hilo, Big Island of Hawaii
Kona, Big Island of Hawaii
Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii		 7 nights
 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 prior: 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 in time: 3:00 PM

 Pride of America
Type: Cruise Ship
  Description: Built in 2005, the Pride of America is the only cruise ship in the world sailing under the American Flag. It is 921 feet long by 106 feet wide and has 15 passenger decks with a total double-occupancy capacity of up to 2,138 passengers (of whom approximately 40 are Participants). The ship has free programming for children most evenings. Inside and outside cabins on middle decks; double-, triple- and quadruple-occupancy cabins with air conditioning and private bathrooms with shower.
  Ship Information: Operated by: NCL America, a subsidiary of Norwegian Cruise Line, Ltd., Miami, FL. Parent Company: Star Cruises, Malaysia. Registry: U.S.A. Cruising Region: Hawaiian Islands. Built: Lloyd Werft Shipyard, Bremerhaven, Germany. Inaugural Voyage: June 2005. Maiden Voyage: July 2005. Gross Tonnage: 81,000. Overall Length: 920.6 feet. Beam: 105.6 feet. Draft: 26 feet. Engines: Diesel Electric. Cruise Speed: 22 knots. Guests: 2144 (double). Crew: 900. Decks: Fifteen. Elevators: 10. Vessel completely air-conditioned; each stateroom equipped with individual thermostat controls. Electrical Current: 110V 60-cycle U.S. current in all staterooms. Stateroom Amenities: TV/Radio/Telephone/Refrigerator/Safe in all staterooms.
  Contact info: Norwegian Cruise Line
7665 Corporate Center Drive
Miami, FL 33126 USA
phone: 888-627-4477 xfollowprompts
web: www.ncl.com
  Room amenities: Each cabin has air conditioning, wall-to-wall carpeting, a sitting area, television,refrigerator, safe, and a private bathroom with shower. Please note that the ship reserves the right to upgrade cabins which may place participants on a different deck.
  Facility amenities: Pride of America features Freestyle Cruising offering guests a more relaxed, resort-style cruise with flexible dining options, resort casual attire and leisurely disembarkation. The ship features 8 restaurants, 10 bars and lounges, 2 swimming pools, 4 hot tubs, a spa and fitness center, jogging/walking track, basketball and volleyball court, golf pro shop, golf driving net, outdoor chess, Full service Spa, Soho Art Gallery, Newbury Street Shops, library, video arcade, and meeting rooms.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
Registration between 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. at Waikiki Resort 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 Waikiki Resort Hotel that night.
  End of Program:
Approximately 10:00 am at Honolulu Harbor with independent departures. You will be staying at Pride of America the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. All ADULT participants (16 years and older) need valid Photo Identification Documentation to board the ship. A U.S. citizen under the age of 16 does not require a government-issued photo ID. Acceptable identification includes a valid Passport, Government Issued Photo ID, or valid Driver's License that includes a photograph. A valid Passport is required for non-U.S citizens. Any passenger traveling without proper photo identification as described will not be allowed to board the vessel and no refund will be issued. For more information about this requirement please visit this NCL website (www.ncl.com) and look under Specific Requirements for NCL's Pride of America. NCL Parental/Guardian Consent Form & Release is also required for each child participant. Both parents/legal guardians must sign and complete this form and attach a copy of his/her driver's license or other government issued identification.
  Parking availability:
Parking fee at Waikiki Resort Hotel is $22 per day / Self parking is $10; limited availability.
Transportation
To Start of Program
  Location:  Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii
  Nearest city or town:  Honolulu
  Nearest highway: H-1 Freeway
  Nearest airport:  Honolulu International Airport (HNL)
  From End of Program
  Location: Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii
    (Additional transportation information same as above)
Travel Details
 

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
 

Pride of America (Port of Honolulu)

 

To Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
VIP
phone: 866-836-0317
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$12.00
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

10 minutes 
 

Distance:

 

5 miles
   

Shuttles 24 Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week To/From Honolulu Pier. Rates subject to change.

 

Pride of America (Port of Honolulu)

 

To Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Taxi
Various

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Approximately $25 - $30
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

10 minutes 
 

Distance:

 

5 miles
   

Taxis are available for hire curbside outside the Pier exit gate. There are various taxi cab companies that service Honolulu. Listed are a few established companies. Rates are subject to change. The Cab (808) 422-2222 Pony Taxi and Tours (808) 944-8282 Charley's Taxi 808-531-1333
 

HNL

 

From 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

 
Driving Directions
  From Continental US to Hawaii: Getting to Hawaii is Easier than You Think! 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.) serve Oahu, so you can get here from just about anywhere. Since Hawaii is the 50th state, you won't need to bring your passport unless you're visiting from outside the United States or traveling to another country after Hawaii. You can buy your flights directly on your own, through Road Scholar Travel Services, 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. Airport Codes HNL – Honolulu, Oahu 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
  From Ship to Airport and Waikiki The program concludes when the ship docks in Honolulu Harbor. Participants can make arrangements to get into Waikiki or to Honolulu International Airport from the ship's shore excursion desk while on board, or they can catch a cab after disembarkation. The ship also offers shore excursions which may be of interest on the last day, and those may include a drop-off at the airport or in Waikiki.
Elevation Note: 4,100' at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park site
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: Registration/Welcome
(Friday, July 12)
   
 Afternoon: Program Registration and hotel check-in.
 Dinner: Ilima Café- Lobby Level
 Evening: Welcome and introductions to the members of the group.
   
Accommodations: Waikiki Resort Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2: Surfing & Outrigger Canoe Wave Riding/Arizona Memorial/Board Cruise Ship/Ship Departs to Maui
(Saturday, July 13)
   
 Breakfast: Ilima Café- Lobby Level
 Morning: Enjoy instruction from Waikiki's famous "beachboys" in popular local beach activities including surfing, outrigger canoe wave-riding, and optional boogie boarding. No experience necessary or expected - great fun for grandparent and grandchild alike!
 Lunch: Picnic Lunch
 Afternoon: Check out of hotel and depart on Field Trip: USS Arizona Memorial National Historic Park - View a historical film in the theater, board the launch for a ride across Pearl Harbor to the USS Arizona Memorial, and explore the museum and book shop (please note that for security reasons no purses or bags of any sort, including camera bags, may be taken to the Arizona Memorial – you may leave them on the bus if you wish)
 Dinner: Aboard Ship.
 Evening: Free evening to relax and participate in shipboard activities. You may register for the Supervised Kid's Crew program available on the ship from approximately 7:00 - 10:00 pm Monday-Saturday.
   
Accommodations: Pride of America
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Iao Valley State Park/Maui Ocean Center/Luau Dinner/Luau Show & Festivities/Ship Overnights in Maui
(Sunday, July 14)
   
 Breakfast: Aboard ship.
 Morning: Field Trip: Iao Valley State Park - This lush green valley is a sacred site to the Hawaiian people and is the historic location of a fierce battle between Maui warriors and the army of Kamehameha I. Next we'll visit the Nature Center and go for a short nature walk.
 Lunch: Picnic lunch at Kepaniwai Gardens.
 Afternoon: Field Trip: Maui Ocean Center. Our interpretive visit to this state-of-the-art marine park features spectacular live coral displays (the largest collection in the nation), elusive garden eels and majestic lionfish, colorful Hawaiian wrasses, Hawaii's beloved green sea turtles, sharks, rays and more.
 Dinner: Old Lahaina Luau, an evening of traditional Hawaiian cuisine, music, cultural dances and island crafts.
 Evening: Luau and show continue, before returning to the ship for the evening. Ship overnights in Maui.
   
Accommodations: Pride of America
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Hidden Valley Exploration/Ship departs for Hilo/Free Evening at Sea
(Monday, July 15)
   
 Breakfast: Aboard ship.
 Morning: Visit a hidden valley to explore native Hawaiian practices and ethnobotany - includes getting muddy in the loi kalo (taro terrace), where kids and adults can help plant, harvest, or weed taro, depending on what?s happening at the time of the visit. Taro is a very important plant to the Hawaiians, both nutritionally and spiritually - it is regarded as an ancestor.
 Lunch: Picnic Lunch in the valley.
 Afternoon: Depart this remote valley and return to the ship. There will be a little time to explore Maui on your own before the ship sails back to Oahu.
 Dinner: Dinner aboard ship.
 Evening: Free evening to relax and participate in shipboard activities. Supervised Kid's Crew program available from ship from approximately 7:00 - 10:00 pm.
   
Accommodations: Pride of America
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park/Ship departs for Kona
(Tuesday, July 16)

Note: Thurston Lava Tube: Can be wet and slippery, 15 -20 stairs down to the tube and 15- 20 back up. Walking on uneven ground, on and off busses all day. Approx total 1-2 miles walking.
   
 Breakfast: Aboard ship.
 Morning: Field Trip: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Stops include: •Jaggar Museum and its overlook into Kilauea Caldera. The measuring devices that monitor eruptions are available for viewing. Volcanic activity may be visible. •A walk through a lush rainforest to Nahuku (Thurston) Lava Tube, a natural cave formed by ancient lava flows. •Kilauea Visitor Center to see exhibits on volcanoes, rainforest, and island formation. Films and videos are also available for viewing
 Lunch: Deli lunch in the Volcano area.
 Afternoon: Depart the volcano area for Hilo with a brief stop at an orchid nursery along the way. The exporting of orchids is a growing business in Hawaii.
 Dinner: Aboard ship.
 Evening: Free evening to relax and participate in shipboard activities. Supervised Kid's Crew program available from ship from approximately 7:00 - 10:00 pm (included in cruise fare).
   
Accommodations: Pride of America
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Cloud Forest/Free Time - Historic Kailua-Kona/Ship departs for Kauai/Free Evening at Sea
(Wednesday, July 17)
   
 Breakfast: Aboard ship.
 Morning: Visit a privately owned cloud forest preserve on the slopes of Hualalai Volcano. Includes interpretive nature walk to learn about plants and the unique character of the cloud forest environment.
 Lunch: Aboard ship.
 Afternoon: Free Afternoon to explore the historic town of Kailua-Kona or to enjoy the ship. There is a good snorkeling spot about 10 minutes outside of the main part of Kona - a great optional activity for those who want to snorkel during the program.
 Dinner: Aboard ship.
 Evening: Free evening to relax and participate in shipboard activities. Supervised Kid's Crew program available from ship from 7:00 - 10:00 pm (included in cruise fare).
   
Accommodations: Pride of America
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Kauai Coastal Nature Walk and Beach Time/Continue Field Trip//Free Evening - in port on Kauai
(Thursday, July 18)
   
 Breakfast: Aboard Ship.
 Morning: Naturalist-guided nature walk along one of Kauai's hidden treasures, the spectacular Maha`ulepu coastline. "Lithified" sand dunes provide a geologic record of the changing ocean levels and a fossil record of Kauai's coastal plants and animals over the past 500,000 years, including many now extinct. Stop at a sinkhole in the dunes described as "Hawaii's La Brea Tar Pits" due to its extensive fossil record of now extinct birds and other animals. Our nature walk also includes discussion of plants and wildlife that inhabit this part of Hawaii. The field trip includes a chance to swim at the beach (with lifeguard supervision).
 Lunch: Picnic Lunch.
 Afternoon: Continue the nature walk/beach time field trip and then return to the ship for a few hours of free time.
 Dinner: Aboard Ship.
 Evening: Free evening to continue exploring Kauai or to relax and participate in shipboard activities. Supervised Kid's Crew program available from ship from 7:00 - 10:00 pm (included in cruise fare).
   
Accommodations: Pride of America
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Free morning to explore Kauai/Ship sets sail for Oahu/At sea - Kauai's Na Pali Coast/Farewell Dinner
(Friday, July 19)
   
 Breakfast: Aboard ship.
 Morning: Free morning to explore Kauai on your own.
 Lunch: Aboard ship.
 Afternoon: Ship departs for Honolulu, Oahu via the spectacular Na Pali ("the cliffs") coast of Kauai. Free afternoon to relax and participate in shipboard activities. Supervised Kid's Crew program available from ship from approximately 2:00 - 5:00 pm.
 Dinner: Farewell Dinner Aboard ship.
 Evening: Free evening to relax and participate in shipboard activities. Supervised Kid's Crew program available from ship from approximately 7:00 - 10:00 pm.
   
Accommodations: Pride of America
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Disembark and Aloha (Farewell) at Honolulu Harbor, Oahu
(Saturday, July 20)
   
 Breakfast: Aboard ship.
 Morning: Disembark ship. Independent departures for airport or other destinations. The ship's shore excursion desk does offer optional activities for this day for those of you who may have late flights and be interested in one of their activities (fee - book through shore excursions desk aboard ship).
   
Meals Included: Breakfast

Free Time Opportunities
  
  Hilo, Big Island of Hawaii Imiloa Astronomy Center
The relationship between Hawaiian culture and the universe is showcased through a colorful variety of displays and interactive exhibits. There are daily Planetarium shows, an extensive Exhibit Hall to discover, landscape tours. Lunch is available at the on-site restaurant. Hours of Operation are: Tuesday through Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day Admission Rates: Adults (13 and up) $17.50 Located at: Nowelo St, Hilo, HI 96720 Reservation Info Phone:(808) 969-9700 Fax:(808) 969-9748 For additional information, visit www.imiloahawaii.org
  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
  Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii Diamond Head
Diamond Head State Monument is a true gem on Oahu. Actually named Leahi by Hawaiians, it received its more well known name in the late 1700’s when British seamen saw calcite crystals sparkling in the sunshine and thought they had found diamonds. A hike to the top of Diamond Head takes about an hour over a well-worn path. The summit offers a spectacular 365-degree view of Oahu and is a must trip for photography enthusiasts. Oahu District Office, Hawaii State Parks P.O. Box 621 Honolulu, HI 96809 Tel: 808-587-0300 Open: 6:30 AM - 6:00 PM Year round. For additional information, visit http://www.hawaiistateparks.org/parks/oahu/index.cfm?park_id=15
  Discover Historic Honolulu
Located in the heart of Honolulu you'll find many of Hawaii's most historic buildings including the Hiilani Palace home to Hawaii's last monarchs and the only palace on U.S. soil. You'll also want to visit the Hawaii State Capitol, the Kamehameha I Statue, Kawaiahao Church -the first Christian church in Hawaii, the Mission Houses Museum and the Old Federal Building. All of historic Honolulu is within walking distance of downtown parking at the equally famous Aloha Tower. For additional information, visit www.honolulu.gov/moca/historichonolulu.htm
  Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is one of the most spectacular natural resources in Hawaii and is dedicated to safeguarding the fragile marine life in the Bay. It is one of the more popular recreational swimming, snorkeling and picnicking areas on O`ahu. The bay itself is legally designated as a State Underwater Park and is the first Marine Life Conservation District in the State. 7455 Kalaniana`ole Highway. (Enter Hanauma Bay Education Center off the main coastal road Kalanaianaole Highway Route 72 near the eastern tip of Oahu). Pre-recorded Information: (808) 396-4229. Open daily from 6:00a.m. to 6:00p.m. except on Tuesdays. For additional information, visit www1.honolulu.gov/parks/facility/hanaumabay
  Honolulu Zoo
The Honolulu Zoo covers 42 lush, shady acres at the Diamond Head end of Waikîkî. It features some special exhibits such as the Nene (the Hawai`i state bird), native Hawaiian forest birds, and the highlight of the zoo, the Kabuni Reserve. The African savanna covers 12-acres where animals roam freely behind disguised barriers in 30 different habitats. The zoo is located near Kapiolani Park at the corner of Kapahulu and Kalakaua Avenue. Up against the zoo fence, local artists display their paintings and crafts. 151 Kapahulu Avenue Honolulu, HI 96815 Tel: 808-971-7171 Hours: 9:00 am-4:30 pm daily For additional information, visit www.honoluluzoo.org
  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.
  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.
  Kahului, Maui, HI Bailey House Museum
Built in 1833, the Bailey House is now a museum showcasing Hawaiian culture, artifacts, paintings, and furnishings from nineteenth-century Maui. Located in historic Wailuku Maui, built on the site of the Royal compound of Kahekili, last ruling chief of Maui, the house served as the Mission station for the Wailuku Female Seminary for Girls until 1847, then occupied by Edward Bailey and his family until 1888. 2375A Main Street Wailuku, HI 96793 Tel. (808) 244-3326 Monday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; Closed Sunday & Major Holidays Adult $7, Senior $5 For additional information, visit www.mauimuseum.org/
  Maui Nui Botanical Gardens
Garden Tours Available: Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM, weekly. 150 Kanaloa Ave. Kahului, HI 96732 Tours cover the natural history, conservation and ethnobotanical uses of native Hawaiian and Polynesian-introduced plants as well as the Gardens' projects in these areas. Tours are free with a suggested donation of $5 per person. For more information or to make a reservation, please call 808-249-2798. For additional information, visit www.mnbg.org
  Kona, Big Island of Hawaii Hulihee Palace
Built in 1838 by Governor John Adams Kuakini, Hulihee Palace remained until 1916 a retreat and vacation spa for Hawaiian royalty. The Palace is now a museum, displaying historical treasures from Hawaii's past including a collection of former Hawaiian royalty furniture and effects, as well as ancient artifacts. In 1925, the palace was purchased by the Territory of Hawaii and turned over to the Daughters of Hawaii, an organization dedicated to perpetuate the memory and spirit of old Hawaii and of historic facts. 75-5718 Alii Drive Kailua-Kona, Hawai'i 96740 Tel: (808) 329-1877 Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10am-3pm For additional information, visit www.huliheepalace.org
  Kahua Ranch
Kahua Ranch is located on the western slope of the Kohala Mountains, 3000 feet above sea level. This 8,500 acres of private ranch land provides a variety of landscapes. It is a working ranch with cattle and sheep ranching, hydroponic greenhouses, and also offers visitor related activities including ATV and horseback tours, paniolo bbq, shooting range, and hiking. Reservation Information: Phone:(808) 882-4646 Fax:(808) 882-4444 For additional information, visit www.kahuaranch.com/
  Kona Coffee Plantation and Factory Tour
Almost everyone has heard about the magnificent taste of hand-picked Kona coffee. Some of the best coffee in the world is grown on a narrow strip of land in the mountain slopes above Kailua-Kona. Nearly 600 farms share space in this 20-mile-long, 2-mile-wide coffee-rich corridor. Island Sun Coffee or Greenwell Farms are a couple of farms that offer a plantation tour and tasting for a unique sightseeing and educational experience. For additional information, visit www.konacoffeefest.com/vendors.html
  Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii Kauai Museum
The history of Kauai is kept safe in this great little museum and is worth a stop at before you set out to explore the island. It contains a wealth of historical artifacts and information tracing the island's history from the beginning of time through Contact (when Capt. James Cook "discovered" Kauai in 1778), the monarchy period, the plantation era, and the present. See old poi pounders and idols, relics of sugar planters and paniolos, a nice seashell collection, old Hawaiian quilts, feather leis, a replica of a plantation worker's home, a model of Cook's ship, and much more. 4428 Rice Street Lihue, HI 96766 Ph: 808-245-6931 Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-4pm; Sat 10am-4pm Admission: Admission General Public: $10.00 Seniors (65+): $8.00 For additional information, visit www.kauaimuseum.org
  Kilohana Plantation
This 1930's plantation estate was the home of Gaylord and Ethel Wilcox, descendents of missionary families. Gaylord was the manager of the Grove Farm Plantation. His 16,000 square-foot mansion was loving restored and is open to the public. The motif of the house shows how Kauai's rich and famous lived back when sugar was king of the islands. On premise they have Gaylord's Restaurant, a terrific boutique, a country store, and galleries. Guided Plantation tours are available for a fee. 3-2087 Kaumualii Highway Lihue, HI 96766 Ph: 808-245-5608 Hours: Mon-Sat 9:30am - 9:30pm Sun 9:30am - 5pm Tour hours: 11:00am 6:30pm daily Admission to the house: FREE For additional information, visit kilohanakauai.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


Discover Hawaii's Sandy Beaches and Tidepools


Author: Katherine Orr


Hawaii Facts and Symbols


Author: Emily McAuliffe


Hawaii's Sea Creatures: A Guide to Hawaii's Marine Invertebrates


Author: Hoover, John P.


Description: Hawaii's seas teem with life. Living creatures--swimming, creeping, floating or crawling--have invaded every possible undersea habitat. They have multiplied and diversified into every imaginable shape and form, from 20-foot giant squids to tiny creatures living between sand grains. Ninety percent of these animals are invertebrates-- animals without backbones. Many are beautiful, a few are bizarre, all are fascinating. This book, a sequel to the John Hoover's best-selling guide Hawai`i's Fishes, leads the reader deeper into the undersea realm with 660 underwater photographs of over 500 species of lobsters, shrimps, crabs, shells, octopus, corals, anemones, urchins, stars, sponges, slugs and a host of other lesser-known creatures. Virtually all the animals encountered by snorkelers, divers and beachgoers in Hawai`i are here. Hoover provides scientific, common and Hawaiian names for each animal, as well as a wealth of information on its natural history, ecology, cultural importance, and even suitability for aquariums.



Hawaii: The Aloha State


Author: Marcia Amidon Lusted


Hawaiian Plants and Animals Coloring Book


Author: YS Green


Description: Rich cross-section of the islands' characteristic flora and fauna accurately depicted in 44 excellent illustrations. Ready-to-color images of the mango, breadfruit, wild ginger, prickly poppy, tree fern, and other plants, plus such exotic forms of animal and plant life as the slipper lobster, cone-headed grasshopper, damselfly, and house gecko. Includes brief descriptive captions. Ages 8+



Islands in a Far Sea: Nature and Man in Hawaii


Author: Culliney, John L.


Description: Beginning some 1,500 years ago, Hawaii was one of the last Edens to be exploited by human beings, and its transformation has been among the most rapid. Seeking to improve life, humans have grossly altered the living nature of the Islands from the coral reefs to the volcanic summits. Since the first arrival of Polynesian canoes, Hawaii has been a venue of accelerating extinction and today leads the United States in the rate of permanent loss of native plants and animals.



Kid Stuff About the Ocean Creatures of Hawaii


Author: Wren


Description: Mazes, puzzles, games, and activities that teach children about Hawaii's diverse marine life. Ages 8+



Sea Turtles: An Ecological Guide


Author: Gulko, David and Eckert, Karen


Description: Explore the amazing world of sea turtles - their natural history, their life cycles, habitats and their struggles against the mounting threats posed by humans. Sea Turtles: An Ecological Guide is a must-have for educators, biologists, conservationists, and divers. Over 200 photographs and illustrations clearly depict every facet of a sea turtles life and habitat. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this book benefits the Wider Caribbean Sea Turtle Conservation Network (WIDECAST.) Dr. Gulko is a widely recognized expert in coral reef ecosystems who is now a coral reef ecology manager for the state of Hawaii. Dr. Eckert is a sea turtle ecologist and a professor at Duke University.



The Book of Honu: Enjoying and Learning about Hawai'i's Sea Turtles


Author: Peter Bennett, Ursula Keuper-Bennett


Description: Accessibly written and extensively illustrated, The Book of Honu will alert turtle enthusiasts on what to expect when they come across these gentle creatures and how to observe them respectfully.



The Illustrated Atlas of Hawaii


Author: Gavan Daws, O.A. Bushnell, Andrew Berger


Description: This perennial favorite offers a wonderful introduction to the Hawaiian Islands. With its active volcanos, pristine beaches, dramatic sunsets, and leisurely lifestyle, Hawaii has something for everyone. This large-format tribute deepens readers' understanding of this unique state. The authors profile historical events from Hawaii s discovery to its statehood. They present a fascinating range of facts about the ecology of the islands, including its rare plants and animals, and a sampling of local expressions. The Illustrated Atlas of Hawaii is equally useful as a reliable reference, a keepsake for visitors, and a lively read for anyone interested in learning more about this island paradise. Offering a wonderful introduction to the Hawaiian Islands, its colorful illustrations graciously complement the enlightening text. Written by experts on Hawaii s history and heritage, this unique atlas contains an abundance of fascinating information on some of the world s most beautiful islands.



The Incredible Coral Reef: Another Active-Learning Book for Kids


Author: Toni Albert


Description: The Incredible Coral Reef, winner of a Teachers' Choice Award and a Parents' Choice Approval, invites kids to explore the dazzling coral reefs and to learn how we can help protect them. The book has loads of activities! Kids can make a wave bottle or a fish print, learn how to adopt a sea turtle, or explore a tide pool with a viewing box. The author's "Reef Report" is a delightful journal of her underwater adventures, which include swimming with stingrays, exploring a sunken wreck, and holding a baby sea turtle. Her stories inspire youngsters to respect and protect the living reefs, and she gives practical advice on how to do it. The Incredible Coral Reef is meticulously researched, contains up-to-date information, beautiful photos and artwork, and helpful references, including a glossary, a bibliography of books for kids about the rainforest, and lists of environmental organizations and rainforest exhibits. Great teacher resource! Reproducible pages. Grades 3-8.



The Islands of Life


Author: Daws, Gavin


The Ultimate Guide to Hawaiian Reef Fishes: Sea Turtles, Dolphins, Whales & Seals


Author: Hoover, John P.


Description: The Ultimate Guide to Hawaiian Reef Fishes, Sea Turtles, Dolphins, Whales, and Seals features more pictures, more stories, and more species than any other softcover field guide. Clear underwater photos and scientifically up-to-date descriptions make it easy and fun to identify 386 Hawaiian reef and shore fishes. The ten whale, dolphin, and turtle species seen most often in Hawai`i are included too. Indispensible for snorkelers, divers, teachers, students, and anyone else interested in the sea, this is the ultimate identification book for Hawaiian marine vertebrate animals.





You can't find a better value than Road Scholar.


As a not-for-profit organization, we are dedicated to providing all-inclusive educational programs at great value. From lectures to gratuities to field trips to accommodations - the tuition you pay up front is all that you pay.



Specifically, this program includes:

Plus these special experiences...

View the Daily Schedule to see more

And included with all Road Scholar programs:


© Road Scholar 2013 | Call toll-free: 1-800-454-5768