If you read more closely, Lookin_Glass, you'll see that first time visitors typically don't visit (especially) Molokai and the Big Island. It's usually Oahu and Maui and/or Kaua'i and/or Big Island for the volcano. So I was trying to get a sense of what Nickie is hoping/expecting to see/experience. It's different from island to island, you know. But I don't know why I need to explain my post to you! Are you the forum moderator?

s/b "If you read more closely...you'll see I said that..."

Did not the poster ask about Molokai and Hilo and Kona and Big Island?

"I would like to visit Molokai (leper colony) and then to big Island - Hilo for a couple of days then Kona for the balance of our stay."

You should also take into consideration that December is *winter* in Hawaii. Northern shores will likely have wind and rain and rough oceans. Hilo will be wet. Higher elevations will be wet.

Won't you have had enough of Hilo on your cruise?

I suggest you stay in the Kohala area on Big Island rather than in Kona. There are nicer hotels and condos there. It's more likely to be vog-free. It's where that island's relatively few easy-access beaches are located. You can drive up to Waipio and back through Waimea quite easily.

I would want a car at some ports rather than take expensive and limiting ship's tours. I'd want a car for at least a day to drive Oahu's pretty east and north shores.

Will you be arriving and departing Honolulu?

I agree with ChiSue.