The Big Island – Kona and Hilo
Hawaiian Islands Cruise from San Francisco
Kona
The Kona Coast is an idyllic stop over on the Big Island. This is the place where turquoise waters lap onto pristine beaches along a magnificent coastline. Where a cloud forest sanctuary clings to the slopes of a sleeping volcano. And where a monument was erected to the explorer Captain Cook in 1874. It’s also home to Kona coffee, one of the most expensive (and delicious) coffees in the world.
I booked the Captain Zodiac Rafting & Snorkeling Adventure. It featured a thrilling, high-speed ride along the coast where I was lucky to get up close to a school of Pilot Whales. This was followed by a snorkel adventure in the warm, crystalline waters of the protected marine sanctuary to explore the colourful coral and amazing array of tropical fish. All polished off with an incredible lunch at Da Poke Shack. Superb.
Hilo
Discover a paradise of volcanic mountains, tropical rainforests and black-sand beaches. From Mauna Loa, the largest mountain on the planet, to the bleak lava fields of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and the lush rainforests of the Valley of the Kings. This incredible landscape is steeped in history from Polynesian kings to sugar barons. There’s also a rather famous sweetie shop.
I booked the Tropical Rainforest Mountain Biking Adventure. The half-day excursion was a 12 mile guided tour, cycling on quiet roads and trails taking in the sights and sound of the lush green rainforest. The tour also included a stop at the famous Kama ‘e’ e Falls. Brilliant fun if you love biking.
Next port of call
Let’s go!
Princess 16-Day Hawaiian Islands Cruise
Roundtrip from San Francisco, California
Interior cabin from £1,399*
* Prices are per person and based on double occupancy and do not include flights, transfers or accommodation in San Francisco.
https://www.princess.com/cruise-search/details/?voyageCode=3402
Go-Solo Star Rating
* * * *
