Hawaii: La Roundtrip

Los Angeles, a sprawling Southern California city, is famed not only for its influence on the entertainment industry but also for its diverse cultural offerings and sunny coastline. Highlights include the Getty Center, where art and stunning architecture meet in an expansive hilltop setting, and the historic Griffith Observatory, which offers panoramic views of the city and beyond.

For those embarking mid-afternoon, a stroll through the vibrant streets of Santa Monica or a visit to the eclectic Venice Beach Boardwalk provides a perfect slice of local life. Both are excellent spots to enjoy the quintessential SoCal sun, sand, and surf, complete with shops, street performers, and seaside eateries.

While at sea, take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board, until we arrive at the next amazing destination.

The Port of San Francisco annually hosts more than 80 cruise ships at the James R. Herman Cruise Terminal (Pier 27) and nearby Pier 35. The terminal is in a prime location, with easy access to popular attractions including Pier 39, Fisherman's Wharf, the Ferry Building and Union Square.

One of the most spectacular things about cruising from San Francisco is passing under the Golden Gate Bridge. Make sure you are on the lido deck for the sailaway party. It’s certainly a ‘hold your breath’ moment as the ship sails under the bridge.

Your day at sea offers endless opportunity for activity and relaxation. Enjoy enriching onboard experiences like hot glass classes and archery tournaments, and you can send the kids to Camp at Sea for a fun-filled day of activities. Visit the state-of-the-art fitness center, where floor-to-ceiling windows provide stunning ocean views, and indulge in your choice of dining options, from breakfast to late-night snacks.

Big Island, officially known as Hawaii Island, offers a diverse range of attractions and landscapes. Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to witness the awe-inspiring activity of Kilauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world's most active volcanoes. The park’s lava flows and unique geological features make it a must-see destination.

Head to the east side and explore Hilo's lush rainforests, beautiful waterfalls like Rainbow Falls, and the serene Liliuokalani Gardens. The west side boasts sunny Kona, famous for its coffee farms and historic sites like Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. Don't miss a visit to the stunning black sand beaches of Punalu'u, where you might spot sea turtles basking in the sun.

The entire city of Hilo is like one giant greenhouse with spectacular tropical flowers at every turn. The vibe here is definitively Old Hawaii with well-preserved historic buildings, which date back to the turn of the century and showcase Hawaii's unique architecture. Explore the stunning Rainbow Falls, a picturesque waterfall set in a lush tropical landscape.

Nearby, the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden showcases a vibrant array of exotic plants and flowers. Wander through the historic downtown area to find unique shops, local markets, and the Pacific Tsunami Museum, which offers insights into the region's natural history. For a peaceful retreat, visit Liliuokalani Gardens, a beautiful Japanese-style garden perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Big Island, officially known as Hawaii Island, offers a diverse range of attractions and landscapes. Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to witness the awe-inspiring activity of Kilauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world's most active volcanoes. The park’s lava flows and unique geological features make it a must-see destination.

Head to the east side and explore Hilo's lush rainforests, beautiful waterfalls like Rainbow Falls, and the serene Liliuokalani Gardens. The west side boasts sunny Kona, famous for its coffee farms and historic sites like Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. Don't miss a visit to the stunning black sand beaches of Punalu'u, where you might spot sea turtles basking in the sun.

Kailua-Kona is located the beautiful western shore and is known for its sunny warm weather and calm, clear waters that offer the perfect playground for ocean adventures. Explore the historic Hulihe‘e Palace, once a vacation home for Hawaiian royalty, and visit Mokuaikaua Church, the oldest Christian church in Hawaii. Stroll along Ali‘i Drive for charming shops, cafes, and oceanfront views.

For ocean enthusiasts, Kailua-Kona offers exceptional snorkeling and diving at sites like Kahaluʻu Beach Park, teeming with colorful coral and fish. Don’t miss a tour of a local coffee farm to sample the world-renowned Kona coffee.

Oahu, known as "The Gathering Place," is a vibrant blend of natural beauty and urban charm. From Honolulu's Ala Moana Center, the largest open-air shopping center in the world or alternatively for nature enthusiasts, hike up Diamond Head for breathtaking views or relax on the famous Waikiki Beach. For a taste of local life, visit the North Shore to witness world-class surfing and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to sample local delicacies at a luau, where traditional Hawaiian cuisine and entertainment create an unforgettable evening.

Home to most of Oahu’s population, the port city of Honolulu extends across the southern shores of the island and offers multiple fascinating attractions. From Pearl Harbor to Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States, there’s so much to discover on a cruise to Honolulu. Visit the Honolulu Museum of Art for beautiful art collections that reflect Hawaii’s contemporary cultural landscape, including superb Asian art and fascinating Pacific and Polynesian artifacts.

Experience the Hawaiian tropical rainforest on a short 2-mile hike along the Manoa Falls Trail or visit the 200-acre Lyon Arboretum, which has one of the largest collections of palm trees in the world and over 5,000 tropical species flourish. Then, head over to in Honolulu’s Chinatown neighborhood for tasty noodles, juicy dumplings, and fresh seafood..

Your day at sea offers the opportunity to relax at the adults-only Solarium, or enjoy live music and games by the pool. In the evening, treat yourself to a gourmet dinner, watch a riveting performance at our high-tech theater, or enjoy cocktails at one of the lounge bars. End your day with a movie night under the stars, topping off a memorable day at sea.

With its warm climate, rich cultural heritage and activities for any adventurer, Ensenada is one of Mexico’s most popular cruise ports. Located on the west coast of Baja California, it is a colourful and exciting city that is also home to the largest production of wine in Mexico. Ships will dock at the Ensenada cruise port.

Top Things to Do in Ensenada:

• visit a winery in the Guadalupe Valley
• marvel at La Bufadora, the largest marine geyser in the world
• shop on Avenida Lopez Mateos
• snorkel around Todos Santos island

Los Angeles, a sprawling Southern California city, is famed not only for its influence on the entertainment industry but also for its diverse cultural offerings and sunny coastline. Highlights include the Getty Center, where art and stunning architecture meet in an expansive hilltop setting, and the historic Griffith Observatory, which offers panoramic views of the city and beyond.

For those disembarking mid-morning, a stroll through the vibrant streets of Santa Monica or a visit to the eclectic Venice Beach Boardwalk provides a perfect slice of local life. Both are excellent spots to enjoy the quintessential SoCal sun, sand, and surf, complete with shops, street performers, and seaside eateries.