California & Hawaii

Admire the scenic beauty of San Francisco Bay and see the sights with your guide, including Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz Island, home to the infamous penitentiary that once incarcerated Al Capone. Be sure to head down to Fisherman’s Wharf, home to many museums as well as the famous Pier 39 and its colony of sea lions, and rice the city’s historic cable car system, the last manually operated cable car system left in the world.

Fly on to Honolulu, Hawaii’s capital city. It’s here that you’ll find the much photographed row of skyscrapers right along the beach. In fact, be sure to head down to Waikiki Beach for a swim or a sunbathe, or sign up for a beginner’s surfing class. While you’re here, you’ll learn about the history of Pearl Harbor, site of the Japanese attack of 1941. Tour the final resting place of the USS Arizona, which lies 12 metres beneath the waves.

Board your flight to Maui and laze on its gorgeous beaches. Here you can explore the stark landscape of Haleakala National Park, looking out for whales, seals, turtles and dolphins offshore. For something a little more relaxing head for the sun-drenched Kanaha Beach for a swim, or try your hand at surfing. If culture’s more your bag, take in a hula dance performance or listen to the drummers at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center.

Fly to Kauai, the Garden Island, so-called due to its lush, forested interior and verdant tropical plants. Here, you’ll find the impressive Waimea Canyon and the rugged yet beautiful Napali coastline, suitable for swimming, surfing and sunbathing. Look out for dolphins as you ride the waves on a stand-up paddleboard or take a kayak down the Koloa River. To see Waimea Canyon drive the Canyon Drive or head to the viewing point on Route 550.

The Big Island is big. And that means there’s plenty to explore, including Mount Kilauea, the most active volcano in the world. Head out to sea in a kayak and try stand up paddle boarding and snorkelling right by your hotel. Included in your Journey is a fun-filled tour of the Big Island: circumnavigate its entirety, calling in at the bays, rainforests, national parks, volcanic landscapes and museums on the way. You might even spot a turtle.

Finish your Journey in glitzy Los Angeles, California’s most happening town. LA is a great foodie destination – try Chinatown or Koreatown for authentic Asian cuisine, head out for a leisurely brunch or simply order a juicy burger from one of the many restaurants. While you’re here, don’t miss spotting the stars in Hollywood and walking the Walk of Fame, and for a spot of culture try the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, a massive, brash, yet welcoming cathedral.