Hawaiian Hiking and Cultural Adventure

We will spend a week (more or less) exploring the Hawaiian islands, by foot and vehicle, taking in the sights and scenery, as well as cultural activities.  The trip will start in Honolulu, with the intention of visiting three islands (Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island of Hawaii).  The focus will be on easy to moderate hikes around the islands, interspersed with sight-seeing, as well as local music, dance, art, and of course, Hawaii's outstanding cuisine.  Hike durations will range from several hours to all day.  Alternative activities will be possible on many days.

UPDATE (05/05/12): Estimated cost for the 8-day trip is $1500-2000, assuming shared accommodations and transport.  Note, this estimate does not include airfare to/from the mainland (currently ~$750-850) and local meals, some of which will be group meals or picnics. 

DEPOSIT (DUE 05/15/12): You will need to pay a deposit of $500 to hold your place, due on May 15.  The deposit is refundable (at least partially) until June 15.  The balance of the advance costs (estimated at ~$800) must be paid by June 15 to confirm your place.  After June 15, it is up to you to find a replacement and to coordinate the transfer of your deposit, if your schedule changes.  Contact Juli (Event Leader) for payment instructions and further details. 

Details about the attractive vacation rentals where we will stay, will be forthcoming soon.

Planned itinerary (with possible destinations, time and schedule permitting):

• 4 days on Oahu (Waikiki, Diamond Head, Beaches of Oahu, Pali Overlook, Kaena Point, Hanauma Bay, Mokapu Point)

• 3-4 days on Big Island (Hilo Town, Hamakua Coast & Waipio Valley, Kilauea Volcano, South Point & Green Sands Beach)

• Optional 1-2 days on Maui (Iao Valley, Hana Highway, Haleakala Volcano)

The trip will end in Oahu on Sunday, September 2, for Sunday evening departures to the mainland).

Trip cost estimates are given above. They do not include airfare (currently ~$750-800 RT Houston to Honolulu, as of 05/04/12). To keep costs reasonable, we will rent vehicles on each island, and drive ourselves.  We will stay in local hotels, condos, or rental houses, eat out and/or buy food for group meals.  Participants should purchase travel insurance to cover contingencies - more details will be provided later.

Bev Pennington will be the co-leader of this trip - she can be reached at bgp9166@att.net