Compare California Panorama by Omega Tours vs Cruising Hawaii's Paradise by Great Value Vacations
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
5 | Excellent
|
4 | Great
|
| Duration | 8 days | 11 days |
| Price From | $ 2,127 | $ 4,149 |
| Price Per Day | $ 266 | $ 377 |
| Highlights |
N/A
|
N/A
|
| Trip Style | Group tour | Small ship cruise |
| Lodging Level | Premium | 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 | N/A | N/A |
| Description | Tick off all the Californian must-sees on this fantastic escorted tour as you experience Las Vegas in all its glittering glory, see the spectacular Yosemite National Park in awe and embrace San Francisco with its diverse and incredible surroundings including the Golden Gate Bridge, Union Square, and Fisherman’s Wharf. Discover all the glamour Los Angeles has to offer with stops at some of its most famous spots and much more |
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: LOS ANGELES ARRIVAL
Arrive at Los Angeles International Airport and transfer independently to the hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Accommodation at the Hilton Los Angeles Airport, Los Angeles, or similar
DAY 2: LOS ANGELES > MOJAVE DESERT > LAS VEGAS
Meet your Tour Director and depart for Las Vegas, the glittering “Entertainment Capital of the World,” for non-stop fun, gambling, and world-class entertainment. Your tour stops at the iconic Las Vegas Welcome Sign where you may wish to capture your photo memory of Las Vegas.
Accommodation at the Luxor Las Vegas, Las Vegas, or similar
DAY 3: LAS VEGAS > DEATH VALLEY > MAMMOTH LAKES/FRESNO
Having enjoyed glamorous Las Vegas, it will be a sharp contrast this afternoon to enter the quiet and extreme environment of Death Valley. Stop at Zabriskie Point and Furnace Creek Ranch/Visitors Center before continuing across the valley and ascending the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the alpine resort town of Mammoth Lakes. The area gained prominence as a gold mining town in the 19th century and today is renowned for its superior skiing terrain and staggeringly beautiful mountain vistas.
Important note: Winter Routing The Tioga Pass may be closed due to weather or road conditions, in which case you will overnight in Fresno or Visalia and a visit to Mammoth Lakes will not be possible (winter routing applies to all departures between October and May under normal snow conditions).
Accommodation at the Mammoth Mountain Inn, Mammoth Lakes, or Piccadilly Inn, Fresno
DAY 4: MAMMOTH/FRESNO > YOSEMITE > MODESTO
Your journey today brings you to the Tioga Pass (please see important note on day 3) into the scenic wonderland of Yosemite National Park. Here, you will experience the valley floor and its splendors including the glacial-shaped granite formations of El Capitan, Half Dome, the magnificent Bridal Falls, and Yosemite Falls. Overnight in Modesto.
Accommodation at the Doubletree by Hilton Modesto, Modesto, or similar
DAY 5: MODESTO > SAN FRANCISCO
Depart early this morning to arrive in San Francisco, one of the most beloved cities in America. Enjoy a comprehensive sightseeing tour before arriving at your hotel. This evening take a memorable City by Night Tour (optional).
Accommodation at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square, San Francisco, or similar
DAY 6: SAN FRANCISCO (NAPA VALLEY OPTIONAL)
Day at leisure! Your Tour Director is on hand to assist with making your plans for the day: perhaps a cable car ride to Fisherman’s Wharf where one may enjoy a “Taste of San Francisco”: local seafood, famous sourdough bread, or decadent Ghiradelli’s Chocolate. Or take a stroll by Sea Lions’ Marina to watch them frolic.
Be sure to gaze across the bay to Alcatraz Island where “America’s Most Wanted” such as Al Capone and ”Machine Gun” Kelly were incarcerated. Or visit Union Square for a shopping stop at Macy’s Department Store. You also may choose to embark on a wine-tasting tour to Napa Valley, world-renowned for its fine wineries and beautiful scenery (optional).
Accommodation at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square, San Francisco, or similar
DAY 7: SAN FRANCISCO > MONTEREY/ CARMEL > CENTRAL COAST
Depart San Francisco this morning for the drive to the Monterey Peninsula, known for its magnificent homes and lovely beaches. In Monterey, visit Fisherman’s Wharf and famous Cannery Row Then tour charming Carmel-by-the-Sea, noted for its quaint houses, upscale art galleries, and unique stores. In the afternoon your tour continues through Paso Robles, home of fine wineries. Overnight in a quaint Central California Coast town.
Accommodation at the Radisson Santa Maria, Central Coast, or similar
DAY 8: CENTRAL COAST > SANTA BARBARA > SANTA MONICA > LOS ANGELES DEPARTURE
Journey south through the Santa Ynez Valley into Santa Barbara where palm-lined walkways border white sandy beaches. Upon arrival in Los Angeles, an orientation tour commences to include Hollywood, portions of Beverly Hills, and Century City before arriving in Santa Monica, home to the finish line of Historic Route 66, where you may enjoy an optional lunch on the pier before departure or arriving at your hotel.
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.
