Hawaii - Trails of the South Pacific, Kailua-Kona to Maui (14 Days / 13 Nights)

Private driver-guide and the archipelago's top day hikes

$ 7,050.00 per person based on 2 people sharing.

$ 9,370.00 for single supplement

**Due to the limited capacity of this tour, Please inquire for live availability.

This tour can be booked with a 10% Deposit, with the balance payable 8 weeks prior to departure.

Hiking Grade: 3 (Introductory)

The trails used are well defined and the walking distance will not exceed 3-6 hours. However there are stages of the trip which are currently more demanding. You will need a reasonable level of fitness and good health. Please note that our Hawaii hiking itinerary could also be considered an "adventure touring" (level 2) itinerary in the sense that there is a good amount of touring included and most hikes are technically optional. However, as this is primarily a hiking tour, we suggest that you prepare accordingly. Walkers should carry walking sticks to assist with steep ascents and descents, particularly if you have a history of back or knee problems. The touring component of the trip is fast paced with long drives on some days. However, the vehicle will be air-conditioned and relatively comfortable, and the scenery quite stunning. It is well worth taking the time to prepare physically and mentally for the journey in order to get the most of the trip. We suggest that you undertake regular exercise - power walking, swimming or cycling three times a week for at least three months prior to your departure. It is also a good idea to take in some day walks in hilly areas near to your home to prepare yourself for walking with a day pack.

Description:

Rising out of the deep blue waters in the midst of the Pacific Ocean, the Hawaiian Islands are one of the most diverse and rewarding of the South Sea destinations, and a world away from the USA Mainland. Isolated from any other landmass, these islands were created by continuous lava flows and shifting tectonic plates on one of the earth's major hot spots. Over time, wind and currents brought plant and animal life that created a unique endemic ecosystem with over 6,000 species that can only be found in these islands. Our land explorations will lead us to the famous and hidden natural treasures of Hawaii – white, green and black sand beaches; giant craters, frozen lava lakes, lava sputtering volcanoes, stunning waterfalls, and ancient rock art sites. Our paths will lead to incredible viewpoints overlooking the famous North Shore of Kauai, through tropical swamps and cloud forests, and stark high altitude alpine deserts. There is also ample time to enjoy the magnificent beaches and coral reefs, many known only to locals. With a little luck, we may snorkel with sea turtles and swarms of colourful tropical fish, or see humpback whales and pods of spinner dolphins.

Trip Highlights:

• Explore 3 islands - Big Island, Kauai and Maui
• Explore active volcanoes and craters of the Big Island's Volcanoes National Park and hikes through endemic rain and bamboo forests
• Hike the famous Kalalau Trail on Kaui
• Indulge your senses at the remote, red sand beaches of Hana
• Enjoy swimming and snorkelling on coral reefs
• Walk along historical trails and marvel at seemingly endless waterfalls
• Explore off-the-beaten path at Waianapanapa State Park

Inclusions:

• 13 breakfasts (self-made while in condos), 12 self-made picnic lunches
• 2 internal flights
• 10 nights in 2-3 star accommodation
• 3 nights in 2-bedroom condos on a 2-4 share basis
• One highly-trained driver-guide conducting the tour and guiding the hikes
• Most walks are guided, except where government laws do not allow commercial guiding
• Private transport in 15 passenger vans
• Entrance fees to National Parks

Exclusions:

• International flights
• Airport transfers on Day 1 and Day 14
• Luggage fees for inter-island flights (approx US$25/bag per flight - subject to change)
• Airport transfers for inter-island flights for passengers who have booked within 45 days of departure and were unable to get onto group flights
• Meals not listed in itinerary
• Water and other beverages
• Tour leader tip (USD$15-20 per day)
• No cleaning service provided while staying in condos
• Single supplement if single room desired
• Optional excursions
• Visa
• Travel insurance (mandatory)

Departure Dates:

2026: 

8th March - 21st March

6th September - 19th September

Day 1: Arrival in Kona

Welcome to the most isolated population center on the face of the earth! Hawaii has its own time zone (Hawaiian Standard Time) and there is no daylight savings time. Arrive at your hotel via an airport shuttle or local taxi and settle in after your long journey. Take time to relax this evening in preparation for the great adventures ahead. Airport transportation options vary in cost and convenience, you can choose based on your preferences and schedule.

Airport Shuttle: Several companies offer shuttle services from Kona Airport to hotels in the area, including Royal Kona Hotel. These can be booked in advance or at the airport and generally cost around $20-$30 per person. We recommend booking in advance at speedishuttle.com

Meals Included: N/A

Overnight: Royal Kona Resort

Day 2: Polulu Valley and Kohala Coast

At 8:00am your guide will welcome you at the hotel. Of all the islands, Hawaii, or The Big Island, is known for its authentic atmosphere. This Island has preserved much of its original Hawaiian character and culture. Not only is the Big Island by far the largest of the Hawaiian Islands, it is also the most diverse, offering active volcanoes, vast coast lines with white, black and green beaches, rain forests, giant waterfalls, lava deserts and ocean hot springs. With our local knowledge, we will explore many hidden sites, hike to remote beaches full of sea turtles, hike into the heart of an active volcano, and with a little luck get REALLY close to lava. Today we explore one of the most remote valleys of Hawaii, the wild and remote Polulu Valley. We hike to the bottom of the valley and explore the wild beach. In the afternoon we explore the dry Kohala Coast, where we stop at Puukohola and Lapakahi, both remarkable sites of ancient Hawaiian temples. We walk along the shore, hopefully seeing turtles resting on the wild beaches. In the evening, we find ourselves at a local hang out, the iconic Lava Lava Beach Restaurant, where we hope to enjoy a classic Hawaiian sunset (dinner not included).

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch 
• Overnight: Royal Kona Resort
• Drive time: 60 mi / 100 km, or 2 hrs
• Hiking today is made of several shorter walks of approx. 3-4 mi / 5-7 km, 2-3 hours, +/-200 m

Day 3: City of Refuge and Captain Cook´s Memorial

Today we will explore the fabulous “City of Refuge” or “Pu’uhona O Honaunau” National Historical Park, which houses a picture perfect Polynesian Village perched on lava cliffs. We have time for some shorter walks, to tour the village and to swim/snorkel in one of the islands’ best reefs before we look at the Captain Cook Monument which commemorates the site where the famous explorer met his end in 1779. We will take a shorter walking tours of the village and have a chance to swim or snorkel in one of the islands’ finest reefs. In the afternoon, pending availability, those who are feeling adventurous can partake in a world-famous snorkeling excursion with manta rays (approx. $150/pp, not included). Or choose to do a guided kayak trip (approx. US$100), or simply explore remote beaches north of Kona.

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch 
• Overnight: Royal Kona Resort
• Drive time: 60 mi / 100 km, or 2 hrs
• Various Hikes: ~2-3 mi / 3-5 km, 1-2 hrs

Day 4: Kaloko-Honokohau and Lava Desert

Start your morning in beautiful Kaloko Honokohau National Historic Park. Along the coral beaches we walk to ancient fishponds and historic petroglyphs created by the ancient people. In the afternoon we head over the Saddle Road, where you'll be treated to panoramic views of the Big Island’s diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to stark volcanic terrain. We will climb from sea level as we head towards Hawaii's most renowned volcanoes. Mauna Loa stands at about 4,170 meters above sea level while Mauna Kea is slightly taller, reaching about 4,205 meters above sea level. Both are part of the Hawaiian Islands' volcanic landscape, but Mauna Kea is actually the tallest mountain in the world when measured from its base on the ocean floor. We’ll finish our day’s adventuring walking Pu'u Huluhulu trails which will give us panoramic views of Mauna Kea as we walk through juxtaposing landscapes of volcanic terrain and lush vegetation spared by eruptions.

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch 
• Overnight: Hilo Hawaiian Hotel
• Hiking: 3-5 mi / 5-7 km, 3-4 hrs, +/-100 m

Days 5-6: Volcano National Park

After a leisurely morning, we explore Volcano National Park which is part of Mauna Loa - the World's largest shield volcano. The park is remarkable as it sits on the actual hot spot where islands are being born, producing never - ending volcanic activity and eruptions (Check conditions online at www.nps.gov). Trails lead through massive, cooled craters, steep banks venting sulfurous gasses and fern covered lava tubes. This is truly a primordial landscape, raw and still in the making. Our daytime walks will take us along Kilauea Crater’s Rim, edged with cloud forests of tree ferns and native Ohia. The views are spectacular. If the lava flows are above ground, we may organise a walk to erupting lava (additional fees may apply, depending if the lava is on private land or inside the national park). The group may also choose to visit Akaka Falls, and Waipio overlook, or swim in the ocean at Richardson Beach Park. There is also a chance to take helicopter flights here as well (optional activities not included, starting at US$320pp).

PLEASE NOTE: Every month the lava flow changes. At times the lava flows inside the national park, and at others, it flows outside the park. Sometimes it reaches the ocean, sometimes it doesn’t. At the start of the tour we will check the status of the volcano. Due to the nature of the volcano, trails may close any time. Please be flexible. When the lava is outside the national park boundary, the best way to see the lava is either by boat or with a local guide that knows where the lava flows. Your guide would be able to get you very close to the actual lava while keeping you safe.

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch 
• Overnight: Hilo Hawaiian Hotel
• Various hikes between 4-6 hrs, +/- 300 m; daily activity will depend on the actual location of the lava flow. If at all possible we will walk at night to the lava flows.

Day 7: Green and Black Sand Beaches of Kona

Heading back to Kona we soon reach Punaluu Beach, a well known jet-black sand beach, and where frequent sightings of Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on the shore occur, offering a unique and serene coastal experience.. Then we continue to the wind swept southern most point in the US. We walk dirt tracks towards the famous Green Sand Beach, created by Olivine Crystals from ancient volcanic eruptions. We return to Kona for one last night.

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch 
• Overnight: Royal Kona Resort
• Drive time: 4 Hours total
• Hiking various cliffs & beaches: ~ 5 mi / 8 km, 3-4 hrs, +/-100 m

Day 8: Fly to Kauai

We take an inter island flight to Lihue on Kauai and transfer to our hotel. Kauai is called the "Garden Isle" and considered by many to be the most beautiful of the Islands. Kauai is also the oldest Island as well, where volcanic activity has been dormant for over one million years. Erosional forces have created a truly stunning landscape of sheer volcanic cliffs and spires. The afternoon is reserved for you to enjoy the local beaches.

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch 
• Overnight: Kauai Shores Hotel
• Drive time: 40 minutes

Day 9: Waimea Canyon

When Mark Twain visited the islands, he dubbed Waimea Canyon the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”. Both the canyon’s deep red color and its size are remarkable. An early start brings us to the fantastic Kalalau Lookout, with incredible views over the wild North Shore 1,200 m below. Next, we’ll hike through one of earth’s wettest spots in the famous Kokee State Park. The Awa’awapuhi Trail will lead us to amazing viewpoints over the remote North Shore. On a rainy day, we may choose to shift the walk to the drier side of the canyon. The elevation is 1,000-1,200 m, which makes for crisp air. With a little luck, we will see the endangered Nene Goose, a Hawaiian native.

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch 
• Overnight: Kauai Shores Hotel
• Drive time: 60 mi / 100 km, or 2 hrs
• Awa'awapuhi Trail: 5.8 mi/9.5 km, 4-5 hours, +/-580 m

Day 10: Shipwreck Beach and optional Helicopter over Kauai

This morning you have the opportunity to book an unforgettable helicopter flight over the sheer cliffs of Kauai (from US$339 for a 1 hr flight, optional, not included). Considered by many to be one of the world’s best heli rides. Or, soak in some sun at one of the local beaches. Afterwards you will take the short drive out to beautiful Kaiolohia (Shipwreck Beach) to walk, explore and perhaps enjoy a to swim on this 8-mile stretch of beach famous for its offshore shipwrecks.

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch 
• Overnight: Kauai Shores Hotel
• Drive time: 2 hrs

Day 11: Kalalau Trail. Fly to Maui

Kauai’s North Shore is famous for its one-of-a-kind scenery. A narrow, winding road leads to the far end of the island where we hike the famous Kalalau Trail high above ocean cliffs. The views are superb (Permits are required for this trail and sell out immediately when released. We strive to obtain this permit however we can not guarantee that we will obtain reservations for everyone. Alternative options will be advised locally). Kalalau Trail is a self-guided walk due to State Park regulations. This afternoon you will transfer to the next highlight of the tour, Maui. Maui is a large Island consisting of two massive, dormant shield volcanoes. From December to April Alaskan humpback whales give birth on Maui’s West side and can be easily seen from whale watching boats. Molokini crater, a submerged cinder cone, is also a world famous snorkel and dive site if you prefer some more adventurous options.

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
• Overnight: Kamaole Sands Condo (1-2 bedroom shared by 1-4 travellers, with full kitchen and 1-2 bathrooms)
• Drive time: 2 Hours
• Kalalau Trail: 4 mi / 7 km, 2-3 hrs, +/-200 m

Day 12: Waihe´e Ridge Trail and a visit to Lahaina

Today we hike in the hills of the Pu’u Kukui Volcano on the Waihe Ridge Trail walking through lush rainforest valleys with spectacular views overlooking the ocean and Makamakaole Falls in the distance. We’ll also visit the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum, dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of the sugar industry of Hawaii. Here we’ll learn why Hawaii is the “melting pot of the Pacific.”If you desire, you can book a day tour to Haleakala National Park’s crater at 3000 m elevation (optional, not included)

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch 
• Overnight: Kamaole Sands Condo
• Hike: 4 mi / 7 km, 4 hrs, +/-500 m

Day 13: Road to Hana

Today we embark on a long driving day, but scenic none-the-less. We start out early on the remarkable Road to Hana, a narrow, cliff-hanging road skirting the remote side of Maui. We stop at Waianapanapa State Park and walk over cliffs on the ancient Kings Trail. Then we head to a hidden gem, the remote red sand beach in Hana, where giant waves break on the cliffs. Our tour around the east end of the island concludes with vast views of the Maui's high country.

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch 
• Overnight: Kamaole Sands Condo
• Drive time: 8-10 hours with plenty of stops and time to explore

Day 14: Depart from Maui

This morning we have a chance to witness sunrise in Haleakela National Park, the massive shield volcano towering over Maui. Your tour leader will offer an excursion for about US$150 per person - Those who opt for the tour will return before noon to the condos. Your trip concludes today, however there is so much more to see on Maui. We recommend you book an extension to your vacation to enjoy the spectacular beaches; for example take a whale watching tour or snorkel tour to Molokini. If you are ready to return to your home or the next destination, today is set for individual departure.

We recommend you take the airport shuttle operated by Speedishuttle to the airport for approx. $35/pp (not included) - Speedishuttle.com.

Meals Included: Breakfast

About Your Leader

All of our tour leaders are certified in First Aid and CPR and registered as official guides with the national parks. Most are bilingual and many of our departures are conducted in English as well as one other language (typically German or Spanish). Your tour leader is from the USA and may have grown up here or may have moved here from another country - As many Americans do!