Description
Big Island, Hawaii
A Scenic Journey and Snorkeling Adventures on the Big Island, Hawaii for Six Days & Five Nights at the Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii for Two, Including a Big Island in a Day Tour of Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing and History, and Your Choice of a Snorkel by Wild Dolphins Tour or a Nighttime Manta Ray Adventure (Land Only)
Warm your soul with new memories yet to be made throughout your stay at this gorgeous luxury Hawaiian resort! Nestled on 32 oceanfront acres, the island oasis of The Fairmont Orchid offers you everything you need to make your stay in Hawaii one to remember, from succulent dining to tranquil accommodations, an award-winning 36-hole championship golf course, and blissful luxury in all the details. During your stay in paradise, make time to enjoy the wonders of Hawaii, including the thundering waterfalls, flowing lava of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and the southernmost point of America on your Big Island tour, in addition to a snorkeling tour with either wild dolphins or manta rays!
The Big Island, regarded as the pinnacle of playgrounds, a land of uncommon beauty, startling diversity, and welcome weather, has much to offer the spirited traveler. Beachside, you'll meet the native Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles that bask on the shoreline every afternoon. Or discover island-style fun and culture as you paddle an outrigger canoe, hike through the largest petroglyph field in the Pacific, learn to weave a coconut leaf basket and more guided by the Orchid Beachboys.
The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii offers guests an exotic blend of the essence of Aloha with the relaxed, tropical spirit that is Hawaii. The resort's oli (Hawaiian song) speaks to the aromatic fragrance of laua?e (fern) and puakenikeni (flowers), of ocean spray at Pauoa Bay and the beckoning coconut trees. Centered within the safety of four dormant volcanoes (Hualalai, Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea on Hawaii Island and Haleakala on Maui) and the impressive Kohala mountain range to the north, the resort and spa blend elegance, comfort and Hawaiian style that captures the mana (power) of the island.
Your full-day adventure of the Big Island of Hawaii begins on the Kona coast, where you'll be picked up from your hotel, and driven north on a scenic journey past historic Parker Ranch, which has operated as one of the largest ranches in America since 1847. As you pass through the ranching town of Waimea, watch as the landscape changes from pastures to green, tropical rainforest, as sweeping views of the Hamakua Coast start creeping into view. During a stop at Waipio Valley lookout, marvel at the way the vertical cliffs seem to explode from the green valley floor and hear the tales of how King Kamehameha was raised in this valley as a child. The adventure continues as you wind your way down the Hamakua Coast, past roadside towns with singsong names until you reach Akaka Falls and Rainbow Falls, the most dramatic waterfalls on the island. You'll then make your way back toward sea level at Punalu'u Beach, where you'll take a stroll on a black-sand beach where, if you're lucky, you'll find Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on the coast! Head next to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, before rounding the southern tip of the island, the southernmost point in America. Look out for Kealakekua Bay, the spot where Captain Cook was killed in a skirmish with Native Hawaiians. Since the tour only requires a moderate amount of walking, it's an educational adventure for travelers of all ages, with snacks and refreshments included.
For an exhilarating and intimate dolphin watching experience, join this small group snorkeling adventure tour! Board a RIB Zodiac Speed Boat that takes up to 14 guests maximum for an adrenaline-pumping ride out to where the dolphins are swimming. The boat rides low in the water, ensuring everyone an up-close and personal view, and easy access for everyone will be able to slide off at once to ensure you get the opportunity to snorkel with dozens of wild dolphins! All snorkeling gear, snacks, and drinks are provided.
A manta ray night snorkel is a must do when you're in Hawaii, a once in a lifetime opportunity to see giant manta rays up close as they feed and interact with other ocean creatures under neon lights! Led by a local guide, you'll take a short cruise out to the manta site, where you'll watch the beautiful Hawaiian sunset before dipping into the water to observe the beautiful manta rays gliding through the water - a truly memorable and magical moment! All necessary equipment will be provided for your excursion, as well as light refreshments and snacks to enjoy on board.
Your trip for two includes:
6 days/5 nights accommodations at the Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii
Daily complimentary breakfast
All room-related taxes
Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, History sightseeing tour, including hotel pickup, professional guide and lunch
Your choice of a wild dolphin snorkel experience with RIB Zodiak Speed Boat ride or a nighttime manta ray snorkeling adventure
Complimentary self-parking for one vehicle per room
Complimentary on-demand 24-hour shuttle service within Mauna Lani Resort.
Complimentary unlimited basic WiFi access in guest rooms and resort public areas
Complimentary stargazing sessions courtesy of Star Gaze Hawaii (weekly)
Complimentary storytelling sessions which share the legends and lore unique to the island of Hawaii (weekly)
Complimentary Hui Holokai Beach Club activities, including hula lessons, petroglyph hikes, turtle talk session, ti leaf lei making, ukulele lessons, introduction to Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Paddling and coconut palm frond weaving
Complimentary snorkel equipment rental (based on two sets per room, per day, resort use only)
Free concierge reservation service
Item Special Note
TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Travel package is non-refundable and subject to availability. Certificates/gift cards cannot be replaced. Tour runs on specific days of the week and at specific times. If tour is not available, it may be substituted with equal or similar experience. Minimum age for dolphin snorkel experience is 6 years old. RIB Speed Boat ride for dolphin snorkel experience may be on rough or choppy water. A minimum 30 day advance reservation is required. Complimentary amenities are subject to availability. Please email auction@stmaryhs.org to find out out deadline to travel. Blackout dates: Dec 23-Jan 1.