Our 10 night Hawaii cruise on the Wonder is only a little over a year away so it’s time to start planning! You guys have been so helpful in the past with recommendations and ideas and I’d love your help again! We’ve never been to Hawaii so this is all new to me!
It may seem to some of you that a year is a long time to plan in advance. But, I am an ultra-planner and that combined with a high degree of indecisiveness has taught me over the years that it is best for me to give myself plenty of time to make decisions and also to reserve things before they fill up. I have planned vacations in the past on little notice, but I usually find it stressful and not all that enjoyable.
Here are the logistics that I have so far, broken down by day:
Day 1
Fly to Honolulu (we live on the East coast so it will be a long day of travel)
rent a car at the airport
drive to the hotel, stopping for groceries along the way
Days 2 – 6
Explore Oahu
Day 7
Return rental car and board the Wonder
Day 8
Hilo (Big Island) from 7:45 AM – 5:00 PM
Days 9 – 10
2 days in Nawiliwili (Kauai) from 10:30 AM on 5/10 to 4:45 PM on 5/11
Day 11
Kahului (Maui) from 8:30 AM – 4:45 PM
Days 12 – 16
Sea days
Day 17
Disembark in Vancouver and fly home
Now here’s where I would love your advice! I need to decide on a hotel, as well as activities on each island. Here are my thoughts so far:
Hotel
Of course Aulani is the obvious choice and the only thing I considered for a while, but the more I think about it, the more I am not sure if it is right for our family in this particular instance. If we had been to Oahu before and were planning on spending lots of time at the resort, I would be all for it. But, we want to spend most days exploring the island and I really think that our time at the resort will end up being fairly limited. I have also read many reviews about Aulani feeling very crowded and pretty bad stories about the pool chair situation. You know my aversion to crowds, and the whole saving/stealing chairs situation is not something I want to be a part of, especially if our time at the resort will be limited and thus valuable. I am considering a hotel or condo that has lower crowds and a quieter atmosphere, where we could get better views and more space for a lot less money. Also, we will be getting our Disney fix on the cruise portion of this trip, so I don’t feel like it is a must to include it pre-cruise as well. I have narrowed it down to a couple of places, and would love recommendations as well as any Aulani advice. If we don’t stay at Aulani, will we regret it? Or if we do stay there, will we feel pressured to stay at the resort vs. explore the island since we are spending so much money to stay there?
Oahu
I just ordered this book and am waiting for it to arrive. I have done some online research and these things have piqued my interest:
I can’t decide which tour, but am thinking the 2 hour UTV tour or the movie sights tour
Hike Diamond Head:
Snorkel at Hanauma Bay:
I’ve read that it can be so crowded that it’s hard to snorkel, and we’ve done some incredible snorkeling before so I’m not sure if it’s worth the drive?
Zipline at Climbworks (FYI we’ve never ziplined before):
Nu’uanu Pali Lookout:
Lanaikea Beach to see turtles
drive along the North Shore for beaches/shave ice/food trucks
attend a Luau, but not sure which one and would love recommendations
Hilo (Big Island)
rent a car and visit Volcanoes National Park:
Nawiliwili (Kauai)
Rent a car and visit Waimea Canyon:
Sailing charter up the Na Pali Coast:
River tubing with Kauai Backcountry Adventures:
Kahului (Maui)
Private “Road to Hana” tour: Is the Road to Hana all it’s cracked up to be? Will we get car sick? Is it crowded? Is it safe? Will I be terrified? These are all questions I have after researching it and while it sounds beautiful, I do have reservations.
Rent a car and visit Haleakalā National Park
FYI, I should have mentioned this earlier but helicopter tours are not an option. I tolerate airplanes but I am a nervous flyer and helicopters are out of the question – I would be too terrified to enjoy it.
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Please send me your thoughts about any of the above places and/or any I haven’t mentioned! You can leave a comment below (it won’t post right away – I have to approve each comment due to the massive amount of spam comments I get), comment on the Facebook post, or email me at disneycruisemomblog@gmail.com.
I’m so excited for you and can’t wait to read your trip report after you go! I was in Hawaii for my honeymoon. We did one week in Maui and one week in Kauai. I can’t comment specifically on Aulani, but I will say that we did a mix of adventuresome excursions and then also down time at the hotel. We did this on both islands. So just take into account if you think you will be spending time lounging at the hotel, because the hotels/pools/oceans are beautiful. My recommendations for Kauai: definitely Waimea Canyon and try to do some easy hiking there. We did the snorkeling catamaran tour up the Napali coast, but the seas were very rough the day we went and the boat only made it part of the way before it had to turn around. So this wasn’t worth it in my opinion. We did love the helicopter tour in Kauai, but I understand your reservations. For Maui: we did not do the Road to Hana for the reasons you stated. Haleakala was great even though it was cloudy the day we went. Hookipa Beach is a hardcore windsurfing/surfing beach and it was so cool to hang out there one day and watch them on the water.
Thanks for all of the great advice!
We just went to Oahu in March for Spring Break and stayed 7 days at Aulani. We absolutely loved it. We did not find the pool chairs to be hard to find at all, but that was probably because of the particular week we were there. But, we rented the Executive Lanai as well as the Ama Ama Casabellas on three of our “resort” days as a home base and they were wonderful – if you don’t want to have to fight for chairs. Reserve those early if you decide to stay at Aulani! We also did the luau at Aulani and really loved it too. We have 2 boys, 8 and 10, and they really enjoyed the activities before the luau. We did pay for the VIP tickets and did not regret that at all. The luau seemed pretty culture-centered with very little “Disney” which was great, but it held the kids’ attention as well.
As for other things on Oahu, we went to Pearl Harbor one morning (half a day), we did Kualoa Ranch Private Movie Tour (awesome), we did a helicopter ride with Mauna Loa (excellent). But something I would DEFINITELY suggest if you can swing it is booking a private tour with Oahu Private Tours (oahuprivatetours.com). They will tailor an itinerary just for you and it will include off the beaten path (read: no crowds) places for food and exploring. We had the BEST time on our day with them. We went snorkeling at Paradise Cove, waterfall swimming at Waimea Falls, beaches on the North Shore, and food trucking in Haleiwa, Leonard’s Malasadas (from one of their food trucks – again, NO crowds). I almost regret not booking another day tour with them – it was that good.
I second the recommendation for Oahu Private Tours. We have been to Hawaii and Aulani many times but we used them the last time we were there and will use them again in November. Great way to maximize your touring time with a knowledgeable and friendly guide. Do not skip Pearl Harbor. The memorial should be repaired by the time you go.
I think I have decided to do Pearl Harbor after all, and Oahu Private Tours is now a must. Thank you!
Hi Rachel! I am definitely booking Oahu Private tours after so many people have raved about them. Which tour did you do?
You will not regret it! We did one of the Active Tours – an Adventure Tour with Waterfalls and Snorkeling as our two chosen “adventures.” We did so much more than those two things, though – like the North Shore beaches, Haleiwa food trucks, Leonard’s malasadas.
A note about Pearl Harbor too. We have two boys and one of them is absolutely fascinated by battleships and submarines, etc. So, we knew we’d want to go. But, even if that’s not your thing 😉 it is worth a quick visit. Everything I read about Pearl Harbor before we went said that we’d need a whole day to explore the things we wanted to see (USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, USS Bowfin submarine) and I knew we did not want to spend a whole day there. However, we just decided not to do any of the audio or group tours even when they were free. We just toured those things on our own and at our own pace. That is why we were able to just spend a few hours there in the morning with everyone still getting to see what they wanted. So, just FYI – you can spend as much or as little time there as you’d like!
Thank you for the Pearl Harbor perspective! I don’t want to spend a whole day there either, so now that I know we can go for just a few hours, I’m in. I haven’t started researching it yet – how does the ticket situation work?
We did the Passport to Pearl Harbor ticket package because we knew we wanted to see more than just the memorial. It included the battleship and submarine as well as other things. But if you just want to check out the USS Arizona memorial, it’s free and you can reserve a time (it operates on times entry tickets with a certain number of visitors per day) online up to 60 days before your visit date. Go to https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/233338
I’d recommend doing this to have a better chance at getting a time that you can plan around. Also, you’ll be sure to have tickets for your desired date. There are a certain number of tickets available on site the day of your visit, but you run the risk of getting a ticket time that doesn’t work with your schedule, or not getting tickets at all. Obviously this depends on the popularity of the date you visit…there were plenty of tickets available the day we went.
Oahu Private Tours is handcrafted to your family’s interests. They will work with you to find the best sites for your family to visit. Each tour will be a different experience.
Can I ask what the weather was like in March? And the water temp? I have heard it’s chilly yet in March and we like warm water!
We were there March 9-16 and found the weather to be really pleasant. Hardly any rain and temps between 65-78 mostly. For the early mornings and evenings where it was in the 60’s, I wore a light jacket because I’m always cold. However, lots of people (including my husband and boys) were perfectly comfortable without one. The water was a little bit cold for MY taste first thing in the morning, but as the temps outside got warmer in the middle of the morning, I enjoyed the ocean and pools and thought they were very comfortable – and again, I’m always cold. My boys thought the water was great all the time. 😉 Hope that helps.
Re: Kauai
Tubing is AWESOME!! Water is “refreshing” don’t say cold! (Done it multiple times as my parents live on Kauai part time.)
If you can fit it in I’d also recommend an ATV experience (Kauai ATV – motto is do something dirty or Kipu ranch ATV) both are on the south shore.
Hi Rebecca! Is it “refreshing” the whole time or do you get used to it? And thanks for the idea of the ATV experience!
We’ve been to Maui and did a portion of the Road to Hana. It does get crowded and some of the road is only wide enough for one vehicle so you have to pull to the side at times. The waterfalls were spectacular but if you have reservations, I would say pass.
Thanks for the advice!
I love staying at the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Oahu. Great resort with lots of amenities, but an easy walk to other restaurants and shopping. There is a bus stop at the entrance, which is a very quick ride to Diamond Head. I don’t like to drive in Oahu, so if I can take public transportation or a cab, I usually do that. There is a car rental place right across the street from the Hawaiian Village (major chain, but I don’t remember which one) that I have used for day trips. I’ve found this to be easier and cheaper (don’t have to pay high resort parking fees) because when you’re centrally located there you definitely don’t need a car every day. What a great trip to be planning for!
Thank you for all of the tips!
If you want a classic luau try looking at the one at the Royal Hawaiian. You’ll get a good look at the “pink palace” hotel as you walk to the luau sight. Don’t miss Pearl Harbor or the Hawaiian Cultural Center near the North shore side of the island. Worth a half day at each. For big waves it’s the North shore but be aware with big waves also come strong currents. Do Hananuma Bay early to avoid crowds. Renting a car is a good idea then just take off on the one highway and do a circle tour of the island. Lots of turn outs, great views and road side stands, etc. When you get out of Wikiki area not so touristy. Look into a sunset catemeran dinner tour, slow but beautiful.
On Oahu- hike diamond head early to see the sunrise (bring flashlights and water bottles), Pearl Harbor, souvenears at the Aloha football Stadium (certain days they have a market- great prices, not sure they still do it, look into it more), Chinaman Hat scenic area, Polynesian Center
On Oahu, you need to check out Lāʻie Point State Wayside. We stumbled upon it because you have to go through a neighborhood. It’s beautiful! Also, Road to Hana is amazing as long as you aren’t the one driving! A private tour is the way to go. You shouldn’t get car sick. It is a littler nerve racking if you look over the edge sometimes, but if a professional is driving then you have nothing to worry about. We personally didn’t enjoy the Polynesian Culture Center, but you might. Definitely hike Diamondhead. It won’t be difficult for your family. Y’all are going to have a blast!
Hi Lauren! I will definitely hire driver for the Road to Hana should we decide to do it – I would not enjoy it at all otherwise! Did anyone in your group get car sick? Was it really hot at Diamond Head?
No one got car sick, but we were in a mini bus with a couple other families. My husband and I hiked Diamond Head in the morning so we were done before the heat of the day. It was late May and just a little warm since there was no shade.
Will second the before Dawn hike up Diamond Head, less crowds and wonderful view. In last post I meant to say Polynesian Culture Center near the North Shore side of island. Go early cause can get hot because on leeward side of island. Also agree don’t need to rent a car everyday. Hotel parking, street parking (if you find it) is expensive. Take a cab or shuttle to your hotel. Use the bus to get to beach, Diamond Head and Hamnanuma Bay then find a rental car office (Budget is everywhere) and rent when you need it and you won’t have to go back to the airport to return it. No need to pay for parking when spending a day at the resort of your choice.
How exciting – I was debating the DCL Hawaiian Cruises, but decided against it as my daughter starts Grade 7 – High School – for us here in Australia and didn’t want to take her out. So we are heading to Waikiki this December – we have chosen to stay at the Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger for 6nts. We are going to Pearl Harbor and Diamond Head. My daughter is taking a surf lesson and wants to shop of course. As I am not keen to drive on the “other side of the road”, we are doing both the North and South Shore tours through Oahu Private Tours – as highly recommended through people on the DisBoards – that way ensuring that we get to see and experience the natural wonders that the island has to offer, as well as experiencing the food trucks – Leonard’s Malasadas in particular. We also plan on having a meal at Dukes.
We are then staying at Aulani for 5nts and just enjoying all that Aulani has to offer, as well as doing the Luau (VIP tkts) and the Character Breakfast. I will also be reserving a treatment at the Spa and enjoying the outdoor hydrotherapy garden.
I am sure that you and your family will have a wonderful time, regardless of what you decide to do – jealous of the DCL cruise though!
Hi Janine! Your trip sounds incredible!!! I have heard great things about Oahu Private Tours as well and will definitely use them. Even though there’s no cruise portion of your trip, you are going to get to see and do so much more than we will on Oahu!
The only problem with staying at Aulani is you don’t want to leave once you get there, it’s that nice a resort. If you want to see Oahu and the sites around the island you might want to stay closer to Honolulu. But, be prepared for crowds and a lot of homeless people around town. My wife and I are Disney Vacation Club members and we stayed at the Aulani in August 2015 and it was very crowded and pool chairs and kids in the adult area were a problem. Still had a great time! If you stay in May it my not be that bad, after spring break and before school is out. This year we’re going in early November so I’ll have an idea on how busy it is in the off season. If you have a kitchen, DVC rooms have them, in your room there is a Costco and shopping nearby where you can stock up. All the other advice people have given you is good stuff and you should have a great time. Liked you trip report on your Panama Canal cruise, wife and I are going next March from New Orleans. Thanks!
You must find Secret Beach in Kauai. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The colors, temperature, sounds were breathtaking. I had never seen colors like that in my life. A taste of heaven. Truly paradise. My favorite area in Oahu would be Haleiwa. There are great Shrimp Trucks there (kinda like taco trucks). And there’s a famous Hawaiian shaved ice shop there. The line is usually out the door. Worth it! The best place to buy souvenir would be @ the stadium on Wednesdays & Saturdays. The stadium turns into a giant swamp meet.
I’ve been to Kauai many many times because my family has a time share there. We’ve done Kauai Backcountry Adventures tubing twice and its very fun! The tubing itself is great and you also get to see some cool caves. I will say that while it is great, if something else speaks to you more don’t hesitate because it is at the end of the day just tubing. Spouting Horn is also a great spot. It is a natural blowhole that is fun to watch, and there are shops surrounding it.
Thank you Kara! I will keep the tubing advice in mind as I try and decide what to do.
Hey there! I’ve been to all the islands, and here are my recommendations:
1. Oahu – We stayed at the Hilton Hawaiian Village at Waikiki and can vouch for the splendid location at the end of the beach. Great view of Diamond Head, etc. Hiked up to the top of Diamond Head one morning, but it was summer time, and I became drenched with sweat. Then, I got drenched by a rain shower! Views were nice, but I didn’t really feel like it was worth it. We snorkeled Hanauma Bay – wonderful beach and snorkeling. Highly recommend getting there early, as the parking lot can fill up. My favorite beach on the island is Lanikai Beach near Kailua on the eastern shore. No major waves and absolutely spectacular water/views. Be sure to drive to the North Shore and check out the cool surfing beaches (usually too rough to swim).
2. Maui – We did a tour that took us on the road to Hana. Pretty amazing route (lots of waterfalls), and we got to swim in the Pools of Oheo after we passed Hana. Maui is known for its amazing beaches (much better than the Big Island). I highly recommend Kapalua Beach.
3. Kauai – My favorite of all the islands. North Shore is AMAZING! Try to go to Tunnels Beach, which is at the end of the road (and where the Na Pali Trail begins). It is hands down one of the most beautiful beaches I have ever visited, and I’ve been to beaches all over the Caribbean/Bahamas, Mexico, Europe, etc. I’ve also been to Waimea Canyon – it was nice, but the North Shore is way better.
4. Big Island – Volcanoes National Park is definitely the highlight. It’s been a year since the last big eruption, so it should be interesting to see how the park has been transformed.
Having only been to the airport in HI (long story), I’m not an expert, but from good source there are two words that describe a magical Hawaiian adventure (and great way to see islands):
Helicopter ride
Will be great to read about your planning and ultimately the adventure!
Oh I wish I was brave enough to do a helicopter – but that is a big heck no for me!!!
Sorry! Little late to this party, but thought I would comment since I live on Oahu. I love Aulani but wouldn’t recommend aulani if you don’t like crowds and plan on spending time away from the resort. I agree that Aulani is very crowded. On the weekends, it’s packed with locals. Unless you’re willing to spring for a cabana, you need to stake out a spot early at the pool.
I recommend the Kahala hotel. The pools are smaller and less impressive than the bigger resorts but there’s a kiddie pool and an awesome kid friendly beach (better than the beaches by Aulani, IMHO). It’s reefed, clean, empty and no waves and steps from your room. They rent paddle boards at the beach, similar to Aulani. Aulani is far from town (hour drive) which makes going to other sights around the island more difficult, especially if you plan on going anywhere with rush hour traffic. Kahala is right in town but not in Waikiki so not as touristy. The spa and restaurants at kahala are awesome.
I’ve been to all the other islands multiple times, so let me know if you have specific questions about them.
Thank you Jennie! Off to research it now!
Just an update on how crowded the Aulani was in early November. The resort was remodeling the pools when we were there, they did it in two segments starting in August. The big family pool near Off The Hook bar was closed along with the fish grotto and one slide. Kind of hard to make a fair judgement when some of the pools and deck areas are closed. Still had the Pacific Oceans and loungers on the beach.
On weekdays I could find a lounger around the pool no problem, if you were looking for four or five together later in the day you may have to look hard. Only saw people staking out chairs before 8:00 am on the weekend. It did get a little crowded on the weekend when the locals showed up to enjoy the Aulani. If all the pools were open it would have been no problem finding space in the pool areas.
Driving around Honolulu is still a challenge with all the traffic, give yourself plenty of time to get where you want to go. Have Fun!
Thank you so much Earl! Glad to hear that the crowds weren’t terrible.