myst

Sorry-Reposting same question with better title!

Wanted some opinions on tentative itinerary.

My BF and I love to hike and our vacations are always very active. In fact I burn to a crisp in 15 minutes and have purchased 45 SPF sunblock for my trip--so I need to limit my time at the beach and prefer some time in the rain.

Since we are staying in Hilo I realize we will have to drive alot, but we enjoy roadtrips. This is our first trip to Hawaii.

Day 1:
Arrive 11 a.m./pick-up rental car take a scenic drive to North Shore/Pali Lookout/Or take a shuttle tour of the city? Possibly find the shaved ice truck and have early bird dinner at Sarrento?s. Hotel Sheraton Waikiki
Day 2:
Go early to USS Arizona and Punchbowl. Afternoon and Eve @ PCC for Luau
Day 3:
Chinaman?s Hat and snorkeling at the three tables
Day 4
Fly to Big Island Arrive Kona @ 12.15 P.M. Drive the Northern Route to hotel in Hilo-- stop at waterfalls or beaches en route.
Day 5:
(Wednesday) Explore Hilo and Hilo market. Mauna Kea stargazing in the Eve
Day 6:
Volcano N.P: Full day/ Dinner at Volcano House/Inn?
Day 7:
Kayak Kakelakua/Captain Cook/Snorkel/Visit Place of Refuge
Day 8:
Waipo horseback riding or day of rest???.
Day 9:
Fly Back to Oahu. Arrive 11 a.m. -----Beach and relaxation day. Maybe Dim Sum in Chinatown.
Day 10:
Fly Home to California

WayneY

You're trying to see a lot in a short time, but it's doable. On Day 3, I'd recommend you start the day early, drive over the Pali, and watch the sunrise at Kailua Beach Park. You can walk the crescent beach, around 3 miles roundtrip. Afterwards, have breakfast at Brent's Deli. You'll be amazed at how uncrowded this world class beach will be and how memorable the sunrise is. Enjoy.

JohnD

Hello, On days 4 and 5 after checking out the market (BTW-I've read here Kona market is worthwhile, personally found Hilo market so-so) and perhaps the Pacific Tsunami Musuem, you might want to spend some time at beaches around the Kohala coast region, also if you have not been to Hilton Waikoloa you might consider dinner there or dinner at restaurants in other area upscale resorts.

Would also recommend viewing the active lava flows at the end of chain of craters road just before sunset, so you can hike in (with water)while there is daylight and hike out with flashlights after sunset .

If you do not have it already, suggest you pick up a copy of "Hawaii-The Big Island Revealed"-it is great for finding those hidden beaches/waterfalls/etc
http://www.wizardpub.com/bigisland/bigisland.html

You will love Hawaii!

myst

Thanks for the responses, I was starting to think my double post had irritated everyone. I wish they had an edit function. I will look into both your suggestions. Going to check out Kona Market info.

Molly2

Your itinerary sounds good to me.

I thought the Hilo market was great - but this was several years ago.

Don't skip seeing Waipio Valley. It was a highlight of our vacation. Rest when you get home LOL!

myst

I think we will rest at home. You only live once!