As winter well and truly settled into New Zealand earlier this year, Doug and I finally had the chance to escape to the warmth of Hawaii. It was a trip long in the making, originally meant to celebrate my 50th birthday, before Covid postponed everything. Five years later, the dream became a reality, and we were on our way to the Hawaiian Islands for the very first time.
Set adrift in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, Hawaii is a captivating archipelago of volcanic islands that stretches across more than 2,400 kilometres. As the 50th state of the United States, it offers an extraordinary mix of natural wonder, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant island life. Known for its stunning landscapes, towering volcanic peaks, lush rainforests, and sun-kissed beaches, Hawaii is a dream destination for travellers seeking both adventure and serenity. This remote island chain, formed by volcanic activity over millions of years, is the exposed crest of the vast Hawaiian Emperor seamount chain. Its eight main islands—Hawai‘i (the Big Island), Maui, O‘ahu, Kaua‘i, Moloka‘i, Lāna‘i, Ni‘ihau, and Kaho‘olawe—each offer their own unique charm and rhythm.
INTERESTING FACT: The Hawaiian Islands were formed by a volcanic hotspot on the ocean floor. As the Pacific Plate slowly drifts northwest, at roughly the speed that human fingernails or hair grow, the hotspot creates a chain of islands. Each island is carried away from the hotspot over time, and a new one begins to form. Another island, called Lo‘ihi Seamount, is currently building to the south, though it won’t break the surface for thousands of years, so it’s far too early to buy real estate just yet!
Hawaii is a place where Polynesian roots run deep, interwoven with influences from American, Asian, and other cultures. Despite its geographic distance, nearly 3,000 kilometres from the nearest continent, Hawaii has played a central role in Pacific history, from its early Polynesian settlement to its pivotal position in U.S. history. Today, it stands not only as a world-class tourist destination but also as a living example of cultural fusion and environmental preservation, with much of its northwest reaches protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
First Impressions
After an 8.5-hour flight from Auckland, we landed in Honolulu, the capital of O‘ahu. Oʻahu is the third-largest, with an area of approximately 1,545 km². Despite being smaller, Oʻahu is the most populous island and home to Honolulu, Waikīkī, and Pearl Harbour.
A short transfer brought us to our first base, the Outrigger Beachcomber Hotel, right in the heart of Waikiki. The hotel was comfortable, modern, and perfectly placed for exploring the shops, eateries, and golden sands that make Waikiki so famous.
Waikiki felt like a gateway to Hawaii’s contrasts. It buzzed with visitors, beachfront hula shows, and street performers, yet turn your head and Diamond Head’s volcanic ridge rose up as a reminder that this island is as much about nature as it is about nightlife.
One evening, we attended Auana, Cirque du Soleil’s production staged at our Outrigger Beachcomber Hotel. Combining Hawaiian stories (or mo‘olelo) with Cirque’s artistry, it was a mesmerising performance of acrobatics, hula, and live music. More than just entertainment, it felt like an introduction to Hawaii’s deep cultural roots and resilience, a thoughtful way to begin our journey.
After three days of enjoying the hospitality of our first Outrigger Hotel and soaking in Waikiki’s beaches, food halls, and vibrant energy, it was time for the next stage: a seven-night cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America, the only ship that sails year-round, around the Hawaiian Islands.
Life Aboard Pride of America
Boarding in Honolulu was easy, and we were greeted with big smiles and a loud “Alooooha!” from the crew, we were also excited about the luxury of knowing we’d only unpack once for the next week. We celebrated embarkation with a steakhouse lunch at Cagney’s and a glass of merlot in hand, before settling into our cabin. That night, we watched a magician perform at the main stage and went to bed early, excited for the adventure ahead.
One of the beauties of Pride of America is its itinerary. Unlike many cruises, this one doesn’t waste days at sea. Instead, the majority of travel is covered overnight with every sunrise, delivering us to a different island, each with its own pace and personality.
Maui – Paddling With Locals
Our first stop was Maui, where we docked in Kahului. The island was lush and varied, though still marked by the scars of recent wildfires in Lahaina. Norwegian Cruise Line had contributed to relief efforts, and locals spoke about the challenges the community faced in rebuilding.
Excursions were plentiful, as they are in most ports – here we had the options of whale watching, snorkelling with turtles, visiting Haleakalā’s volcanic crater, cycling down its slopes, exploring gardens and waterfalls. After sitting about for a few days we wanted something hands-on, so we chose to join locals paddling outrigger canoes. Sliding across the water in sync with seasoned paddlers, we caught a glimpse of how these canoes remain both a sport and a link to Hawaiian heritage. It was one of those experiences that lingers, the rhythm of paddles, the crash of waves, and the pride of being welcomed, even briefly, into a tradition.
Because the ship stayed overnight in Maui, we had extra time to explore, shop, and take in the island’s unique character.
Hilo – Fire and Waterfalls
Our next stop, we woke to find ourselves in Hilo, on the Big Island’s lush eastern coast. With rainforests, gardens, and waterfalls everywhere, it felt like walking into a greenhouse.
We joined a tour to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, home to Kīlauea. Our guide, Robert, was a character in his own right – knowledgeable, witty, and seemingly with a story for every corner of the globe. Standing at the rim of an active volcano was humbling. The air was crisp, the ground warm in places, and the vast crater below reminded us of the islands’ fiery origins.
Later, we visited Rainbow Falls, where sunlight transformed the spray into shifting colours, and Akaka Falls, which plunged dramatically 442 feet into a gorge. Time didn’t allow us to soak in Hilo’s natural hot springs, but we left with a vivid impression of a place where fire and water meet in spectacular harmony.
Kona – Coffee and Coral
From the rainforest east, we sailed to the dry western coast – Kona, famous for coffee.
Visiting a local farm, we traced the journey from bean to cup. Sampling Kona coffee at its source was a delight – smooth, rich, and distinctly different from anything at home. For coffee lovers, it’s a pilgrimage worth making.
Kona also offered a chance to explore underwater. We boarded Marian, a timber glass-bottom boat built by our guide Amy’s father, right there on the island. Floating above coral gardens, we saw yellow tang in their hundreds, orange band surgeonfish, pufferfish, and even a sea turtle gliding serenely below. The clarity of the water and the abundance of life made it feel like looking into another world. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeler, Kona’s underwater spectacle is a sight to behold.
Kaua‘i – The Garden Isle
Our final stop was Nawiliwili on Kaua‘i, the oldest island in the chain. Its beauty is legendary – emerald valleys, jagged cliffs, and dramatic coastlines shaped by time.
We took a hop-on hop-off bus to explore at our own pace, visiting Smith’s Gardens, Kukui Grove Centre, and the Coconut Marketplace. The highlight was Kilohana Plantation, once a working sugar estate, now offering a glimpse into Kaua‘i’s agricultural past and cultural traditions.
Nature here was the true star. Waimea Canyon stretched vast and red, earning its title “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” The Nā Pali Coast, visible from the ship, was a tapestry of steep cliffs and deep valleys dropping straight into the ocean.
That evening, the crew staged a farewell show – hundreds of staff filling the stage to wave us goodbye. It was both warm and bittersweet, a reminder that our week afloat had flown by. We couldn’t thank the crew, particularly Christopher Torbik, our Concierge, and Luis Principe, the Group Service Coordinator & Access Officer, enough for going the extra mile to ensure we had the best experience possible.
Back on O‘ahu – History and Reflection
Disembarking in Honolulu, we checked into the newly renovated Outrigger Paradise Hotel, a stylish retreat with a calm poolside area and spacious suite – we were very impressed. From here, we set out for one of the most anticipated parts of our trip: Pearl Harbour.
We were fortunate to have a private guided tour with Chief of Staff Lee John Collins Sr. He walked us through the Visitor Centre’s exhibits, explaining the lead-up to the Japanese attack on December 7, 1941, and its aftermath.
At the USS Arizona Memorial, built above the sunken battleship, we stood in silence as oil still rose from the wreckage below. Over 1,100 sailors rest there, and the site carries a weight words can hardly capture.
Nearby, we toured the battleship USS Missouri, the site of Japan’s formal surrender in 1945, marking the end of World War II. Walking her decks and standing on the exact spot of the ceremony felt like stepping directly into history. We also explored the USS Bowfin submarine and the Pearl Harbour Aviation Museum, with its restored planes and control tower overlooking the harbour.
The day was sobering yet profoundly meaningful. Hawaii isn’t only about beaches and volcanoes; it’s also a place of memory, sacrifice, and resilience. A place that changed the future.
A Sunset Farewell
For our last two nights, we stayed at the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort, right on the sand. From our room, the Pacific stretched endlessly, waves rolling in under a golden sky.
On one of the evenings, we boarded Kamoauli, a traditional Polynesian double-hulled canoe, for a sunset sail. As the crew shared stories, sang songs, and offered taro prepared in the traditional manner (which we actually participated in), we felt immersed in living culture rather than just observing it. Sailing the coastline as the sun dipped behind the horizon was the perfect blend of beauty and meaning.
Our final day was deliberately slow: swims in the pool and ocean, last-minute shopping, and a farewell dinner at the famous Monkeypod Kitchen which was within our hotel complex. With ocean views, farm-to-table cuisine, and a warm breeze on our skin, it was hard to imagine a better ending.
Looking Back
Hawaii more than lived up to its reputation. Each island offered something distinct: Maui’s culture and resilience, Hilo’s volcanic power, Kona’s coffee and coral reefs, Kaua‘i’s wild beauty, and O‘ahu’s blend of energy and history. The cruise proved to be the ideal way to see it all, without the need for multiple flights or constant unpacking. Waikiki added vibrancy, Pearl Harbour added reflection, and the Polynesian canoe sail gave us cultural depth.
What tied it together was the aloha spirit, a warmth that went beyond greetings.
From the:
– Outrigger Group hotel staff (our stay in all three properties was excellent. It was great to experience the varied properties at different price ranges – something for every budget, with little or no obvious compromise)
– NCL cruise line crew – couldn’t do enough to make sure our cruise was memorable;
– Uber drivers – so friendly and helpful;
– The locals who shared their traditions;
It was this hospitality that made the islands feel less like a destination and more like an embrace.
Hawaii is a place where volcanic fire, tropical rain, and human history collide. It’s a land of contrasts – raw yet welcoming, ancient yet modern, busy yet tranquil. For us, it was a trip five years delayed, but worth every moment of waiting. These special islands gave us not just a holiday, but memories stitched together; a picture of paradise that will remain with us always.
