Compare USA Road Trip: Big Cities & West Coast Parks by G Adventures vs Cruising Hawaii's Paradise by Great Value Vacations
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
5 | Excellent
|
4 | Great
|
| Duration | 15 days | 11 days |
| Price From | $ 4,199 | $ 4,149 |
| Price Per Day | $ 280 | $ 377 |
| Highlights |
|
N/A
|
| Trip Style | Small group tour | Small ship cruise |
| Lodging Level | Camping | Standard |
| Physical Level |
|
|
| Travel Themes |
|
|
| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
|
N/A |
| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | NA |
| Activities | N/A | N/A |
| Meals Included | 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 8 dinners | N/A |
| Description |
If you want to explore six national parks, surf on the beach, glamp in a private canyon, eat pizza along the rim of the Grand Canyon, and see some of the tallest trees in the world then this is the adventure for you. This 16-day tour will both challenge and reward you. Feel the mist of Vernal and Nevada falls in as you hike in Yosemite, embark on a jaw-dropping full day exploration of Zion, and wander through the hoodoos in Bryce Canyon National Park. With plenty of time to catch your breath in between hikes with activities like stargazing, hanging out on the beach, and telling stories around the campfire it’s practically guaranteed that you’ll fall in love with travel all over again. |
Please note: For this vacation, the tour operator requires that travelers age 12 and older must provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination in the form of written documentation (paper or electronic copy), in English, for all vacations. Proof of vaccination must be completed at least 14 days prior to the tour start date. *Exceptions apply to children who do not qualify for vaccination. This new protocol will take effect for international vacations departing July 15, 2021 until further notice. Please click here for more information.
Sailing through the Hawaiian Islands is like sailing through a postcard. On this magical vacation, you'll experience everything from culture-packed city streets to remote mountains and sparkling waterfalls. Enjoy a stay in vibrant Honolulu, then board Norweigan Cruise Line's Pride of America for a 7-night adventure through Maui, Kona, Kauai, and Hilo, "The Big Island!" During your cruise, you'll have tons of opportunities to participate in thrilling aquatic activities, explore the lush rainforests, or simply sunbathe on the warm sand with a drink in hand. During the first leg of your trip in Honolulu, you'll embark on an included excursion to Pearl Harbor's famous Battleship Row, home of the USS Arizona. Learn all about the tragic yet historic Pearl Harbor attack and visit the memorials that commemorate the crewmen who lost their lives. Allow the beautiful scenery to lift your spirits, as you explore Diamond Head and the breathtaking Waikiki coastline. After a memorable stay in Honolulu, you'll board your cruise ship! First stop: Maui, voted the best island in the world! Known for its glistening beaches, cascading waterfalls, charming Hawaiian towns, and hilly green landscapes, Maui is a thrill for the senses. Next, you'll sail on to the Big Island, known for its black-sand beaches, unique lava formations, coffee fields, and the world's most continuously active volcano! Last but not least, you'll visit the stunning islands of Kona and Kauai, two tropical playgrounds of golden beaches and colorful rainforests. So, grab your camera, pack your swimsuit, and get ready to watch your dream vacation come true. |
Day 1 San Francisco/Yosemite National Park
The adventure begins this morning with the drive to Yosemite National Park. Along the way stop for some fresh produce at a farmer’s market in the central valley. Once in the park hike to Tuolumne Grove to see massive Giant Sequoias. Finish the day with a stop to see El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall en route to your camp for the night.
Day 2 Yosemite National Park
Enjoy free time to navigate the majestic Yosemite Valley at your own pace. Walk the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail or Swinging Bridge Loop Trail. Relax under the towering granite monoliths of Half Dome or El Capitan. Up for more of a challenge? Test your endurance on a more challenging hike like Upper Yosemite Falls or Four Mile. On the way back to camp, search for climbers on the sheer rock face of El Capitan.
Yosemite Village is a great starting point for launching into your adventure. Your CEO will help you get oriented to visit the Ansel Adams gallery, Ahwahnee Museum and the Yosemite Visitor Center. Here you can start a valley hike or catch a free shuttle around the park.
Day 3 Yosemite National Park
Today is all about getting active and exploring the landscapes of Yosemite. Head out on a hike to Vernal or Nevada Falls or opt to rent bikes and cruise around the valley. This park is a hiker’s paradise filled with different options for every skill level. From miles of trekking to short walks featuring amazing views, you won’t have a hard time finding a trail to set out on and enjoy. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and make sure to take plenty of pictures. In the evening relax around the fire and swap stories with your group.
Day 4 Yosemite National Park/Hermosa Beach
Bid farewell to Yosemite this morning and get ready for some ocean waves and sand between your toes as the group heads south to Hermosa Beach. Travel through the rolling hills and vastness of the Central Valley and arrive at the Pacific coast just in time to walk the beach during golden hour and grab some delicious dinner by the sea.
After the forests of Yosemite the beaches of southern California will be a welcome change for some time to relax and recharge. So suit up, grab a towel, find a volleyball, and live out those California beach fantasies with your friends.
Day 5 Hermosa Beach
Live the California dream as you wake up to the distant sound of waves crashing against the sand. Then, suit up and get ready for your surf lesson where you'll learn a thing or two about what it takes to make riding those waves look so easy. Afterwards, enjoy free time on Hermosa Beach to lounge in the sun, walk out to the pier, or find a beachfront cafe with a table outside for some people watching. Or choose to rent bikes or surf boards and continue the adventure. Your only dilemma today should be deciding which burrito place you want to eat at.
Day 6 Hermosa Beach/Joshua Tree National Park
Depart the coast for the desert today, travelling through Los Angeles on the journey eastward to explore Joshua Tree National Park. Climb through the park’s famous rock formations and make sure to get some photos of the park's namesake tree as the sun lights up this desolate landscape.
Day 7 Joshua Tree National Park/Grand Canyon National Park
Drive down the famed Route 66 today as we cruise further east to the Grand Canyon. Get ready to see breathtaking views with arguably the best sunset you have ever seen overlooking the Grand Canyon. Kick off those shoes, sit back, relax, and enjoy one of nature’s finest performances. Enjoy a cheesy slice of pizza or two overlooking the Grand Canyon during sunset.
Day 8 Grand Canyon
Get up close and personal with the Grand Canyon as you spend the day hiking from the South Rim. There are a variety of hikes to choose from that will take you deeper into the canyon where you can really appreciate the size and depth of this national park. Choose whichever trail you wish or do short bursts of multiple hikes, just make sure you bring plenty of water and take your time.
Opt to book the Grand Canyon helicopter ride for a bird's-eye view during a 45 to 50 minutes flight over the canyon.
Day 9 Grand Canyon/Page/Bryce Canyon
Journey onwards from the Grand Canyon to Page, Arizona, the site of Lake Powell. There will be free time here. Opt to join a local Navajo guide and explore Antelope Canyon; a stunning natural sandstone slot canyon located on tribal lands. Then, lace up those hiking boots for a visit to Horseshoe Bend, a geological masterpiece that has been sculpted by the Colorado River. Walk to the overlook where you can hike along the rim and stare down into the flowing river far below. Snap some photos with your friends and just enjoy the moment. Finish the day with a picturesque drive to your camp in Bryce Canyon.
Day 10 Bryce Canyon
After a camp breakfast head out for a short drive into Bryce Canyon National Park. Once in the park, take advantage of your free time to hike through the wild and weird rock formations known as hoodoos. Opt to visit Inspiration Point, hit the rim trail, horseback ride, or hike the Queen’s Garden and Navajo loop trails to see sites like Thor’s Hammer and Wall Street. At night stargaze in a park known for its night skies.
Day 11 Bryce Canyon/Zion National Park
We pack up early this morning and move on towards Zion and our Glamping tents! Located in a private canyon away from civilization, but close to Zion National Park this location is made for outdoor enthusiasts who also like to be pampered a little. On route to camp we will make a stop at the lesser-known Coral Pink Sand Dunes and enjoy a scenic overlook of Utah’s surrounding landscape on the Colorado Plateau. It’s a unique geological feature that you shouldn’t miss. You’ll have free time in the afternoon and evening to become acquainted with your surroundings. Maybe hike the Water Canyon trail or enjoy camp and put on a cornhole tournament as a group. The only rule is to have a good time!
Day 12 Zion National Park
It’s all about Zion today as you get a chance to wander this beautiful national park in Southwest Utah. Take the shuttle into the park and spend the day exploring and hiking with your fellow travelers. Admire the monumental sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that tower into the sky and remember you can choose to turn around on these hikes at any point. In the evening enjoy leisure time back at our Glamping tents. Once it gets dark get ready to sit around the campfire and roast some marshmallows as a group.
Day 13 Zion National Park/Las Vegas
Today, take the short drive from Zion to Las Vegas. Upon arrival, enjoy free time in Las Vegas. Explore the strip, try your luck at a casino, or take in a glitzy show.
Day 14 Death Valley National Park
Drive from Las Vegas to Death Valley and visit the country's hottest, driest, and lowest national park. Death Valley is a land of extremes and you’ll get a sense of the striking contrast of this park’s landscapes with visits to Badwater Basin and Zabriskie Point. Then, transfer to the hotel in Ridgecrest and relax this evening.
Day 15 Ridgecrest/Los Angeles
Wake in Ridgecrest and drive southwest to Los Angeles. Tour ends on arrival to L.A.
Day 1 Welcome to Honolulu!
Aloha! Upon arrival in Honolulu, make your way to your luxurious hotel in Waikiki. Once you settle in, spend the afternoon getting to know the area. Take a walk on the beach and treat yourself to a delicious first-night meal.
Day 2 Honolulu
Begin your day with a tour of Pearl Harbor's infamous Battleship Row. Listen to a narration of the dramatic air attack of December 7, 1941, and visit the USS Arizona and the impressive memorial dedicated to the 1,102 people whose lives were lost. You will also have the opportunity to visit the museum, where you can learn about military craft and complicated history. After a solemn, yet interesting morning, you will enjoy an afternoon of sightseeing. Visit Chinatown, the Hawaii State Capitol, Iolani Palace, the statue of Kamehameha the Great, and more. Tonight, enjoy a lovely included dinner at your hotel.
Day 3 Honolulu
Feel free to sleep in; today is all yours! Spend the day relaxing, swimming, enjoying water sports, or lounging on the beach. This evening, you might want to join an optional sunset cruise with dinner, Hawaiian cocktails, and splendid views of the glittering Waikiki coastline and Diamond Head. If you decide to stay on the mainland, your local host will have great recommendations for shopping and dining!
Day 4 Honolulu - Cruise Departure
Enjoy a pleasant morning at leisure, then get ready to board your cruise ship, the Pride of America! Bid farewell to your local host and get ready for an adventure at sea. Once on board, you'll have time to explore your home for the next seven nights. Enjoy an included dinner and say "cheers" to a wonderful journey. Anchors aweigh!
Day 5 Maui
Rise and shine! Welcome to Kahului, Maui - the "Valley Island!" This tropical paradise has it all: hundreds of spectacular beaches, cascading waterfalls, flourishing jungles bursting with color and birdsong, dramatic volcanic craters, and charming Hawaiian towns. You'll quickly agree that it's a world in its own. The next two days will be yours to spend at leisure. Join one of the many available excursions, take advantage of the ship's amenities, and soak up the beauty of Maui's bright blue sea.
Day 6 Maui - Hilo
Ahh, another day in paradise! Today, enjoy one of the many beaches that surround Maui. If you're an early riser, consider an unforgettable excursion to view Haleakala Crater at sunrise! This optional adventure takes you 10,000 feet above sea level, to the top of Haleakala volcano. Marvel at the crater's otherworldly, lunar-like landscape and become awestruck by the breathtaking view. This evening, relax and unwind with a delicious dinner. Around 6 pm you'll head to to the "Big Island!"
Day 7 Hilo - Kona
Did you know that the Big Island (Hilo) is larger than Hawaii's other main islands combined? With pristine beaches, curious lava formations, Earth's tallest sea mountain, and one of the world's most active volcanoes, the Big Island is spectacularly diverse in its landscapes and activities. Today, you might want to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the 80-foot-high Rainbow Falls! Recharge with a tasty dinner as you depart for Kona.
Day 8 Kona - Kauai
Get ready for an amazing day in Kona! Today, you may want to spring for an optional helicopter ride over Kilauea Volcano's active areas, the lush rainforest, or the Hamakua coastline. For those looking to stay a little more grounded, discover the historic city of Kona along Hawaii's beautiful sun-drenched Gold Coast. Along the route, you'll find ancient temples, coffee and macadamia nut fields, and stunning coastal scenery. Tonight, enjoy dinner as you set sail for Kauai.
Day 9 Kauai
The "Garden Isle" of Kauai boasts a lush, rural feel and a laid-back lifestyle. It's also Hawaii's oldest island! Throughout Kauai, you'll find tropical rainforest, cascading waterfalls, golden-sand beaches, swaying palms, and majestic mountains. Today, consider an excursion to the dramatic 2,857-foot-deep Waimea Canyon. Take a ride up the Wailua River to the famed Fern Grotto!
Day 10 Kauai - Honolulu
Make the most of your morning! Enjoy a few hours on the sandy beaches of Kauai or do some souvenir shopping before departing for Honolulu around 2pm. Enjoy an afternoon of fun aboard the ship, then unwind with some cocktails!
Day 11 Depart Hawaii
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your luggage and wave goodbye to beautiful Hawaii. After docking in Honolulu, make your way to the airport for your flight home. A hui hou! Until we meet again.
