Best of Hawaii & the Californian Coast

Begin with VIP airport lounge access before boarding your day flight to San Francisco. On arrival, make your own way to your hotel and check in to the Handlery, a smart hotel in the centre of the city that’s all high ceilings, traditional rooms with spectacular city views and a courtyard swimming pool and sauna, perfect for relaxing after your flight. Or, upgrade and opt for the Argonaut right by the famous Fisherman's Wharf, with charming, nautical rooms, many with views to Alcatraz, and a fabulous onsite fresh fish restaurant – the seafood chowder is particularly excellent and a fitting start to your San Fran adventure.

You’ve got the next two days to explore San Francisco – don’t miss a look at the famous basking seals on Pier 39 before heading on a tour of Alcatraz (not included; booking early is advised) from Fisherman's Wharf. Take some time to relax in Golden Gate Park, drive the famously crooked Lombard Street and marvel at the Victorian Painted Ladies houses before hopping on one of the city’s historic trams that'll see you spot epic street art and murals that seem to adorn every corner. You could even head an hour or two north to the sprawling vineyards, spectacular views and luxury eateries of California's world-renowned wine countries, Napa and Sonoma. 

Head to the airport for your flight to O’ahu, where, on arrival, a private transfer will see you to your hotel, The Modern Honolulu. Enjoy spectacular city views, ultra-modern rooms with splashes of oh-so-Hawaiian furnishings, sunset and sunrise pools and an exquisite al fresco restaurant among ferns and palm fronds offering everything from crab carbonara with smoked bacon to braised short ribs. Or, opt for the luxury beachfront Kahala Hotel, all free-standing baths, a luxury spa and four truly exquisite restaurants – such as authentic Italian at Arancino or global Hawaiian flavours such as island poke, boat scallop and shellfish ravioli. Spend the next few days hiking through the rainforest, relaxing on powder-white beaches, parasailing, snorkelling with turtles and more. We’ve also included a Pearl Harbour Arizona Memorial City Tour where you'll discover WWII history and explore Hawaii's royal past, from the historic sites of Pearl Harbour and the US Arizona memorial to the WWII museum and historic downtown Honolulu.

Stay: The Modern Honolulu (Superior) or The Kahala (Deluxe)

After a private airport transfer, board your flight from O’ahu to Maui and, on arrival, pick up your included hire car to head to your hotel, the Kaanapali Beach Resort. Here, beautiful oceanfront views set the scene for authentically Hawaiian rooms and traditional restaurants such as Tiki Terrace – offering a fabulous champagne brunch on Sundays. If you’ve opted for the deluxe choice, you’ll check into Fairmont Kea Lani, featuring an indulgent spa, island-inspired cuisine and cocktails, a bakery, fresh fish restaurant and more.

Stay: Kaanapali Beach Resort (Superior) or Fairmont Kea Lani (Deluxe)

The next three days are yours at leisure to explore these magical islands. For those who like to stay active, head to dormant volcano Haleakalā National Park, snorkel on the crescent-caped Molokini Island or hike the lush mountain valley of Iao. Of course, the powdery white beaches are also perfect for sunbathing with a cocktail or two, stand up paddle boarding, snorkelling and even conch shell blowing. Come back each night to typical Hawaiian fare and cultural performances in the comfort of your hotel.

Stay: Kaanapali Beach Resort (Superior) or Fairmont Kea Lani (Deluxe)

After breakfast on day 11, head to the airport to drop off your hire car and fly from Maui to Santa Monica. On arrival, make your way to your hotel, the Meridien Delfina, just moments from the beach with an outdoor heated pool and balcony-adorned suites. Or, perhaps upgrade to the Viceroy, offering stunning ocean-view suites framed by distant mountains; its renowned restaurant offers stylish outdoor cabanas where you'll enjoy classic Californian fare and freshly-crafted cocktails. Spend the next two days relaxing, surfing and exploring the Santa Monica Pier with its iconic Ferris wheel and vintage carousel. Other highlights include the al fresco eateries along Ocean Avenue, cycling through the palm-lined Palisades Park and browsing Santa Monica's famous local farmer’s market.

Stay: Le Meridien Delfina (Superior) or Viceroy Santa Monica (Superior)

You’ve got a final morning to explore Santa Monica making your own way to Los Angeles airport for your overnight flight back to the UK, arriving on day 14.