Captain Cook’s Hawaii

Looking out the windows of your plane as it approaches Hawaii, you may be treated to the sight of a rainbow in a complete circle! A lei greeting upon arrival will welcome you to the Big Island of Hawaii. Here you will meet your group and guide to begin your experience of the Aloha spirit. Witness the power of volcanoes, breathtaking natural landscapes, and the wonders of the sea.

The charming historic town of Captain Cook invites you to begin exploring and learn about the Captain’s legacy. After a long travel day, you’ll enjoy a relaxing dinner. Then rest up overlooking vast ocean views as you look forward to the adventures that lie ahead.

Today begins with a stop at an island coffee shop with more beautiful views overlooking an incredible coastline. Here you can view the Arabica coffee trees growing in volcanic soil.

After a delicious breakfast, a walk on the picturesque Ka’Awaloa Trail will lead you to the Captain Cook Monument. In 1779, British Captain James Cook sailed his ship into Kealakekua Bay near Kauai where he was welcomed by the natives believing he was the god of agriculture and prosperity.

Getting to know more of his area today, you’ll visit the archaeological site of an ancient Hawaiian “place of refuge” at Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. Then back to coffee with a visit to the Kona Coffee Living History Farm with its coffee orchard and agricultural museum. You can also visit the Hiki’au Heiau. An ancient Hawaiian temple dedicated to Lono, the god of fertility, agriculture, rainfall, music, and peace.

As the day ends, relax in the botanical gardens of the Paleaku Gardens Peace Sanctuary. Walk among ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs and Tibetan Sand Paintings. Walk a Labyrinth and a Native American Medicine Wheel. If you’re looking for authentic Hawaiian gifts to take home, you’ll find beautiful items from local artists and farmers here.

Today you’ll sail the Kona coastline to see the Captain Cook Monument from a different perspective and enjoy some of the best snorkeling sites in Kealakekua Bay. Your guides bring it all to life with stories of the past. They’ll also provide you with the equipment you’ll need for snorkeling among the lava formations and vibrant sea creatures and enjoying a great time on the water.

You’ll continue to explore Kona’s coast today, ending with a relaxing sunset dinner with serene ocean views, and perhaps a dolphin or sea turtle sighting!

Rise early to travel to Volcanoes National Park, located between the Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes. Along the drive, you will stop at the Panalu’u Black Sand Beach, famous as a turtle nesting area. Keep an eye out for graceful sea turtles as they often swim quite close to shore!

When you arrive at the Park, you’ll check in with the rangers for the latest information and current situation with the active lava flows. You will be able to take a hike on volcanic trails and also find the best views of actively flowing lava. Explore the Jagger Museum, Thurston Lava Tube, and the Chain of Craters Road. At twilight see the incredible glow of the Kilauea Volcano under the stars.

Back in Kona today, explore the enchanting and mysterious undersea world on the environmentally safe Atlantis Submarine. These submarines are battery-powered, emit no pollutants, and move quietly through the water. Enjoy discovering the stunning natural reefs and the unique inhabitants that call the ocean world home.

This afternoon, say goodbye to the Big Island and depart for Kauai, Hawaii’s oldest and most beautiful island. It was here that Captain Cook landed in a paradise that often attracts Hollywood film-makers. Lush peaks and pristine beaches greet you as you visit the statue of Captain Cook in the town of Waimea.

You’ll continue to explore this historic seaport town on your way to Waimea Canyon. This incredible scenic canyon is described as “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific” and provides incredible panoramic views of rugged and craggy peaks and deep valley gorges.

No visit to Kauai is complete without spending the day cruising the spectacular scenery and majestic cliffs of the Na Pali coast. This area has been the backdrop for over 60 films dating back to 1934 – movies including Jurassic Park, Pirates of the Caribbean, Avatar, Hook, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and South Pacific. You’ll get some incredible photos as you travel under cascading waterfalls, explore natural sea caves, and even take time for snorkeling – all gear provided!

Tonight, you’ll relax and enjoy a celebration of food and Polynesian culture at a traditional Hawaiian luau.

Saying Aloha goodbyes to Hawaii is never easy. The beauty of the sights and sounds will always be with you. Cherish your memories and the new friends you met along the way.