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Hawaii

On the Road: Best of Hawaii, Maui, Kauai and Oahu

Program No. 1410RJ
Hit the road for an in-depth exploration of four Hawaiian islands, learning about traditional culture, active volcanoes, vibrant wildlife and the true essence of this paradise on earth.
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National ParksRegional StudiesOn the RoadNature & Environment
Length
21 days
Rating (4.94)
Activity Level
Starts at
12,799
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21 days
20 nights
53 meals
18B 17L 18D
1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Hilo, Hawaii
2
Lyman Museum, Rainbow Falls, Hawaii’s Ancient Places
Hilo, Hawaii
3
North Hawaii Field Trip, Waipio Valley, Kamehameha’s Temple
Hilo, Hawaii
4
Tsunami Museum, Native Hawaiian Plant Garden
Hilo, Hawaii
5
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Kona
Kona, Hawaii
6
Snorkeling, Historical Kailua-Kona Walk
Kona, Hawaii
7
Free Day
Kona, Hawaii
8
Pu'uhonua o Honaunau NHP, Kona Coffee Farm
Kona, Hawaii
9
Fly to Maui Island
Maui
10
Historic Lahaina town, Humpback Whale Talk
Maui
11
Free Time, Maui Botanical Garden & MACC Gallery
Maui
12
Haleakala National Park
Maui
13
Fly to Kaua’i, Spouting Horn Blowhole, Botanical Garden
Kaua'i
14
Free Day
Kaua'i
15
Waimea Canyon, Koke'e State Parks
Kaua'i
16
Hanalei Town and Bay & National Wildlife Refuge
Kaua'i
17
Fly to O'ahu Island, Pearl Harbor Memorial
Honolulu
18
Bishop Museum, Waikiki Aquarium, Luau
Honolulu
19
Pali Lookout, 'Iolani Palace, Chinatown
Honolulu
20
Windward & North Shore O'ahu, Waimea Valley Park and Gardens
Honolulu
21
Program Concludes
Honolulu
View Full Itinerary

At a Glance

Explore the unique beauty of four Hawaiian Islands: the Big Island of Hawaii, the Valley Isle of Maui, the Garden Isle of Kauai and Oahu, the Gathering Place. Hear the stories of Hawaii as told in song and dance and savor the “mana” or spiritual essence of the land. Experience aspects of the islands’ culture and environment not seen by the casual visitor, as you learn from local experts about ecology, language and history. Experience the spectacular beauty and vibrant history of Hawaii’s four main islands.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Walking up to one-half mile on uneven terrain. Elevations of 4,000-10,000 feet.

What You'll Learn

  • Visit Kilauea, the world's most active volcano, and Haleakala, the great dormant volcano with a summit 10,000 feet.
  • Experience Waimea, the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”
  • Honor those who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor in December 1941 at the USS Arizona Memorial.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
John Stallman
John Stallman has been an Interpretive Ranger at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. His background is biology and native plants of Hawaii, particularly sandalwood. He is a frequent lecturer on the natural history of Hawaii and a much sought after speaker on native Ohi'a trees. John currently lives in Puna on Hawaii Island, and advises community groups on ways to preserve the native landscape.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of John Stallman
John Stallman View biography
John Stallman has been an Interpretive Ranger at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. His background is biology and native plants of Hawaii, particularly sandalwood. He is a frequent lecturer on the natural history of Hawaii and a much sought after speaker on native Ohi'a trees. John currently lives in Puna on Hawaii Island, and advises community groups on ways to preserve the native landscape.
Profile Image of Susan McGovern
Susan McGovern View biography
Susan McGovern was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, of Chinese-Hawaiian ancestry. She has been leading Road Scholar groups since 1985. A former Park Ranger, she enjoys sharing the unique native plant and animal environment of Hawaii, as well as the values and traditions of her native culture. She and her Irish-born husband Rob have lived in Volcano for nearly 30 years, and continue to enjoy the dynamic life on the Big Island.
Profile Image of Tai Crouch
Tai Crouch View biography
Tai Crouch was born and raised in O'ahu. He is a Kanaka Maoli (Hawaiian) cultural practitioner, lecturer, and carver. He taught at Punahou School for over 25 years. He currently resides in Hilo with his wife, and continues to lead Road Scholar groups throughout the Hawaiian Islands.
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Meals
53 Meals
18 Breakfasts
17 Lunches
18 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance:
Lodging
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Display
Apr 07, 2025 - Apr 27, 2025
  • Apr 07, 2025 - Apr 27, 2025
  • Jan 20, 2025 - Feb 09, 2025 (Hilo, Hawaii to Honolulu)
  • Feb 24, 2025 - Mar 16, 2025 (Hilo, Hawaii to Honolulu)
  • Apr 07, 2025 - Apr 27, 2025 (Hilo, Hawaii to Honolulu)
Hilo Hawaiian Hotel
4 nights
Hilo
Hilo's best full service hotel, the newly renovated Hilo Hawaiian Hotel offers outstanding views of the ocean or quaint Hilo town framed by the backdrop of Mauna Kea. Located on Hilo Bay, and approximately six miles from Hilo Airport, a perfect headquarters for exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The hotel is located on historic Banyan Drive, across from charming Lili'uokalani Gardens, and short walk across the bridge to Coconut Island.
TripAdvisor Reviews
Royal Kona Resort
4 nights
Kailua-Kona
The Royal Kona Resort is commonly referred to by old-timers as the "former Hilton Hotel." The hotel consists of three towers: the Ali'i Tower (Main building), the Lagoon Tower (overlooking the hotel's private pocket beach), and the Village Tower (closest to town). This hotel is located on the ocean looking out at Kona Bay, famous for marlin and big-game billfishing. The hotel is easy walking distance to restaurants, shops, churches, etc. Famous Don the Beachcomber Restaurant and Bar is next to the fresh water pool, which is adjacent to the hotel's lu'au grounds. It's not unusual to see dolphins from the outdoor terrace each morning during breakfast.
TripAdvisor Reviews
Ka'anapali Beach Hotel
4 nights
Lahaina
Ka'anapali Beach Hotel is situated in the heart of the Ka'anapali Beach Resort. The resort overflows with world class shopping, award-winning dining, and lots of options for outdoor recreation enthusiasts. Enjoy swimming in the hotel's whale-shaped pool, Billed as Hawaii's Most Hawaiian Hotel, there are dozens of complimentary Hawaiian activities. This hotel is situated oceanfront on Ka'anapali Beach, long, narrow white-sand beach on Maui's west side, 25 miles from the major airport, and 3 miles from historical Lahaina town.
TripAdvisor Reviews
Hilton Garden Inn Kaua'i
4 nights
Kapaa
Hilton Garden Inn Kauai is located on scenic Wailua Bay, just a few miles from Kapaa town and five miles from Lihue Airport (LIH). Open-air lobby catches the warm, balmy trade winds coming off the ocean. Guest rooms feature Serta beds and complimentary WiFi. Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner; bar and beverage area; plus 24-hour convenience store. Adjacent to the hotel is Lydgate Beach Park, one of the best family-friendly beaches on Kauai. Walking path connects hotel to nearby shopping and swimming along coastline. Other amenities: two outdoor pools, a whirlpool, a well-equipped fitness center, coin laundry, concierge desk.
TripAdvisor Reviews
Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach
4 nights
Honolulu
Located just a block from world-famous Waikiki Beach, the Hyatt Place Waikiki is a newly renovated high rise near the Diamond Head end of Waikiki. It is within walking distance of bus stops, ABC stores, Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium, and Kapiolani Park.
TripAdvisor Reviews
Hilo Hawaiian Hotel
4 nights
Hilo
Hilo's best full service hotel, the newly renovated Hilo Hawaiian Hotel offers outstanding views of the ocean or quaint Hilo town framed by the backdrop of Mauna Kea. Located on Hilo Bay, and approximately six miles from Hilo Airport, a perfect headquarters for exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The hotel is located on historic Banyan Drive, across from charming Lili'uokalani Gardens, and short walk across the bridge to Coconut Island.
TripAdvisor Reviews
Royal Kona Resort
4 nights
Kailua-Kona
The Royal Kona Resort is commonly referred to by old-timers as the "former Hilton Hotel." The hotel consists of three towers: the Ali'i Tower (Main building), the Lagoon Tower (overlooking the hotel's private pocket beach), and the Village Tower (closest to town). This hotel is located on the ocean looking out at Kona Bay, famous for marlin and big-game billfishing. The hotel is easy walking distance to restaurants, shops, churches, etc. Famous Don the Beachcomber Restaurant and Bar is next to the fresh water pool, which is adjacent to the hotel's lu'au grounds. It's not unusual to see dolphins from the outdoor terrace each morning during breakfast.
TripAdvisor Reviews
Ka'anapali Beach Hotel
4 nights
Lahaina
Ka'anapali Beach Hotel is situated in the heart of the Ka'anapali Beach Resort. The resort overflows with world class shopping, award-winning dining, and lots of options for outdoor recreation enthusiasts. Enjoy swimming in the hotel's whale-shaped pool, Billed as Hawaii's Most Hawaiian Hotel, there are dozens of complimentary Hawaiian activities. This hotel is situated oceanfront on Ka'anapali Beach, long, narrow white-sand beach on Maui's west side, 25 miles from the major airport, and 3 miles from historical Lahaina town.
TripAdvisor Reviews
Hilton Garden Inn Kaua'i
4 nights
Kapaa
Hilton Garden Inn Kauai is located on scenic Wailua Bay, just a few miles from Kapaa town and five miles from Lihue Airport (LIH). Open-air lobby catches the warm, balmy trade winds coming off the ocean. Guest rooms feature Serta beds and complimentary WiFi. Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner; bar and beverage area; plus 24-hour convenience store. Adjacent to the hotel is Lydgate Beach Park, one of the best family-friendly beaches on Kauai. Walking path connects hotel to nearby shopping and swimming along coastline. Other amenities: two outdoor pools, a whirlpool, a well-equipped fitness center, coin laundry, concierge desk.
TripAdvisor Reviews
Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach
4 nights
Honolulu
Located just a block from world-famous Waikiki Beach, the Hyatt Place Waikiki is a newly renovated high rise near the Diamond Head end of Waikiki. It is within walking distance of bus stops, ABC stores, Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium, and Kapiolani Park.
TripAdvisor Reviews
Hilo Hawaiian Hotel
4 nights
Hilo
Hilo's best full service hotel, the newly renovated Hilo Hawaiian Hotel offers outstanding views of the ocean or quaint Hilo town framed by the backdrop of Mauna Kea. Located on Hilo Bay, and approximately six miles from Hilo Airport, a perfect headquarters for exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The hotel is located on historic Banyan Drive, across from charming Lili'uokalani Gardens, and short walk across the bridge to Coconut Island.
TripAdvisor Reviews
Royal Kona Resort
4 nights
Kailua-Kona
The Royal Kona Resort is commonly referred to by old-timers as the "former Hilton Hotel." The hotel consists of three towers: the Ali'i Tower (Main building), the Lagoon Tower (overlooking the hotel's private pocket beach), and the Village Tower (closest to town). This hotel is located on the ocean looking out at Kona Bay, famous for marlin and big-game billfishing. The hotel is easy walking distance to restaurants, shops, churches, etc. Famous Don the Beachcomber Restaurant and Bar is next to the fresh water pool, which is adjacent to the hotel's lu'au grounds. It's not unusual to see dolphins from the outdoor terrace each morning during breakfast.
TripAdvisor Reviews
Ka'anapali Beach Hotel
4 nights
Lahaina
Ka'anapali Beach Hotel is situated in the heart of the Ka'anapali Beach Resort. The resort overflows with world class shopping, award-winning dining, and lots of options for outdoor recreation enthusiasts. Enjoy swimming in the hotel's whale-shaped pool, Billed as Hawaii's Most Hawaiian Hotel, there are dozens of complimentary Hawaiian activities. This hotel is situated oceanfront on Ka'anapali Beach, long, narrow white-sand beach on Maui's west side, 25 miles from the major airport, and 3 miles from historical Lahaina town.
TripAdvisor Reviews
Hilton Garden Inn Kaua'i
4 nights
Kapaa
Hilton Garden Inn Kauai is located on scenic Wailua Bay, just a few miles from Kapaa town and five miles from Lihue Airport (LIH). Open-air lobby catches the warm, balmy trade winds coming off the ocean. Guest rooms feature Serta beds and complimentary WiFi. Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner; bar and beverage area; plus 24-hour convenience store. Adjacent to the hotel is Lydgate Beach Park, one of the best family-friendly beaches on Kauai. Walking path connects hotel to nearby shopping and swimming along coastline. Other amenities: two outdoor pools, a whirlpool, a well-equipped fitness center, coin laundry, concierge desk.
TripAdvisor Reviews
Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach
4 nights
Honolulu
Located just a block from world-famous Waikiki Beach, the Hyatt Place Waikiki is a newly renovated high rise near the Diamond Head end of Waikiki. It is within walking distance of bus stops, ABC stores, Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium, and Kapiolani Park.
TripAdvisor Reviews





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