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An Extended Exploration of the Hawaiian Islands Itinerary
Day 1 - Vancouver, British Columbia
Surrounded by mountains, vibrant Vancouver is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and cosmopolitan adventurers alike. Meandering oceanside pathways surround eclectic neighbourhoods – Stanley Park, the West End, Gastown, Yaletown, Chinatown. A major global city, it is renowned for its cultural diversity and thriving art, theatre, music and food scenes. Its perfectly picturesque setting makes it popular filming location – with old-growth cedar forests, mountains covering 75% and two-thirds of Canada's bird species and land mammals. A big, bustling city perched on the edge of wilderness.
Day 7 - Hilo, Hawaii
Located on the north-eastern side of the island of Hawai’i, Hilo nestles into a verdant valley punctuated with dramatic waterfalls, fertile rainforests, gorgeous gardens, ranch land, macadamia nut and coffee farms. Polynesian traditions began around 1000 AD with the arrival of the first settlers. The birthplace of the great warrior, diplomat and leader, King Kamehameha I –immortalized for uniting the Hawai’ian Islands into one kingdom in 1810 after years of conflict. Now, a blissful tropical paradise with magical orchids to jet-black sands, snow-capped heights to lush valleys – the island of Hawaii is an unrivalled expression of the majesty of nature. As the proverb reminds, “Kahuna Nui Hale Kealohalani Makua”, love all you see, including yourself.”
Day 8 - Hilo, Hawaii
Located on the north-eastern side of the island of Hawai’i, Hilo nestles into a verdant valley punctuated with dramatic waterfalls, fertile rainforests, gorgeous gardens, ranch land, macadamia nut and coffee farms. Polynesian traditions began around 1000 AD with the arrival of the first settlers. The birthplace of the great warrior, diplomat and leader, King Kamehameha I –immortalized for uniting the Hawai’ian Islands into one kingdom in 1810 after years of conflict. Now, a blissful tropical paradise with magical orchids to jet-black sands, snow-capped heights to lush valleys – the island of Hawaii is an unrivalled expression of the majesty of nature. As the proverb reminds, “Kahuna Nui Hale Kealohalani Makua”, love all you see, including yourself.”
Day 9 - Honolulu, Hawaii
With its turquoise water lapping Instagrammably-perfect beaches, framed by mountains, volcanoes, and greenery so lush and beautiful, it’s hard to focus the eye on one place for too long, for fear of missing the next natural wonder. Its most iconic landmark, Diamond Head Volcano offers panoramic views of the world-famous beaches of Waikiki, surrounding mountains and volcanic craters. Just west is Pearl Harbour and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl), which honours the veterans of four wars with striking views set in a majestic volcanic crater. In the island centre, stunning views abound at Manoa Falls, a spectacular 150-foot waterfall. The North Shore draws the best surfers in the world and those who simply sunbathe and stroll along the shore. With its natural beauty and fusion of cultures rooted in the values and traditions of the Native Hawai’ian people, the island evokes “mahalo”, thankfulness for the richness that makes life so precious.
Day 10 - Honolulu, Hawaii
With its turquoise water lapping Instagrammably-perfect beaches, framed by mountains, volcanoes, and greenery so lush and beautiful, it’s hard to focus the eye on one place for too long, for fear of missing the next natural wonder. Its most iconic landmark, Diamond Head Volcano offers panoramic views of the world-famous beaches of Waikiki, surrounding mountains and volcanic craters. Just west is Pearl Harbour and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl), which honours the veterans of four wars with striking views set in a majestic volcanic crater. In the island centre, stunning views abound at Manoa Falls, a spectacular 150-foot waterfall. The North Shore draws the best surfers in the world and those who simply sunbathe and stroll along the shore. With its natural beauty and fusion of cultures rooted in the values and traditions of the Native Hawai’ian people, the island evokes “mahalo”, thankfulness for the richness that makes life so precious.
Day 11 - Lahaina, Hawaii
In Hawai’ian mythology, Maui is a heroic ancient chief who, with his giant, magical fish hook, created the islands by raising them from the ocean floor. While Maui stood at the summit of Haleakala Volcano, one of the great natural wonders of the world, he lassoed the sun from its journey across the sky, and slowed its descent to make the day last longer. Unique geography earned the island its nickname – peaceful valleys between mountains blanketed with lush palm forests. Aloha has a special significance here, an expression of love and connection to nature – stunning waterfalls tucked along the road to Hana, sacred sunrise at Haleakala, relaxing little surf towns, sumptuous golden, black and red sand beaches, the lavender farms of upcountry. You’ll find yourself thinking, “a hui hou”, until we meet again.
Day 12 - Nawiliwili, Hawaii
Rugged, verdant mountains rise sharply from the serpentine shoreline of Nawiliwili, named for the Wiliwili trees that were once abundant in the area (and made super surf boards). Known as The Garden Isle for 97% of its land is undeveloped mountain ranges and rainforests. This film-worthy locale looks so pre-historic, it was chosen as the setting for Jurassic Park. Waimea Canyon, “the Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, is a spectacular destination for its scenic beauty, hikes, and waterfalls. The power of nature, preserved in “aloha aina”, love of the land.
Day 18 - Victoria, British Columbia
On the rugged southern edge of Vancouver Island, Victoria, bustling capital of British Columbia, dynamically harmonizes with the magnificent Olympic Mountains. Victoria’s history dates to pre-colonial time when native peoples inhabited the area. In 1849, Vancouver Island became a British crown colony, widely evident in Victorian architecture, including the majestic Craigdarroch Castle. Indigenous Peoples’ legacies live on in festivals, ceremonies, dances, and art. Along the rugged Pacific coastline, lush rainforests, gardens, lakes, waterfalls, and charming fishing villages. Majestic mammals and marine wildlife abound in its waters, including four species of whales. Vibrant and verdant, you too will blossom in its perfect climate.
Day 19 - Vancouver, British Columbia
Surrounded by mountains, vibrant Vancouver is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and cosmopolitan adventurers alike. Meandering oceanside pathways surround eclectic neighbourhoods – Stanley Park, the West End, Gastown, Yaletown, Chinatown. A major global city, it is renowned for its cultural diversity and thriving art, theatre, music and food scenes. Its perfectly picturesque setting makes it popular filming location – with old-growth cedar forests, mountains covering 75% and two-thirds of Canada's bird species and land mammals. A big, bustling city perched on the edge of wilderness.