Highlights of Hawaii

Arrive into Honolulu, where your family adventure begins. Collect your car and drive along the island’s famed North Shore, known for surf beaches and laid-back charm. Your base is the Ritz-Carlton Residences at Turtle Bay, set on a vast stretch of coastline. The resort offers plenty of space for children to explore safely, while parents can unwind with Pacific views. Spend the afternoon settling in, perhaps with a gentle beach walk or splash in the pool, before your first island sunset.

 The following morning, set out with your private guide for a day designed with younger travelers in mind. Discover gentle trails and sheltered coves where children can safely snorkel, spotting colorful fish and even Hawaiian green sea turtles. Along the way, your guide shares island stories and points out wildlife you may otherwise miss. Stop in the surf town of Haleiwa for a relaxed wander, an easy bite, and a Hawaiian shave ice treat that little ones will love. Return to Turtle Bay for an evening at leisure.

Begin the day with a manageable walk up Diamond Head Crater, where panoramic views reward the effort and children feel part of the adventure. Continue with a light driving tour through Honolulu before visiting Pearl Harbor. Here, your guide provides context suitable for all ages, bringing history to life in a thoughtful way. Later, fly to the Big Island, where your driver will take you to Auberge Mauna Lani. With its oceanfront setting and family-friendly spaces, it’s an inviting base to begin your island discoveries.

The next morning unfolds at a gentler pace, with time to enjoy the pools or beach at Mauna Lani while children recharge. In the evening, head out on a private catamaran for a gentle sunset sail. After dark, the water is illuminated for an unforgettable wildlife encounter: snorkeling with manta rays. These graceful giants glide silently below, offering an awe-inspiring yet safe experience for families. Parents and children alike will be captivated, making it a highlight of your time on the Big Island.

Your adventure continues with a private helicopter flight, a thrilling yet comfortable way for families to explore the island. Fly over volcanoes, lush valleys and hidden waterfalls, with headsets allowing children to ask the pilot questions. A remote landing offers the chance to stretch little legs and feel the wildness of Hawaii up close, before continuing along the dramatic coastline. Return to your resort with plenty of time to relax, perhaps sharing the day’s highlights together over an early evening swim.

The following day brings a mix of adventure and discovery in North Kohala. With expert guides ensuring safety, children can try ziplining through the treetops, crossing suspension bridges and taking in ocean views — exciting but always carefully managed. Afterwards, enjoy a gentle nature walk through a private reserve, leading to a secluded waterfall where families can paddle or swim together. The variety of activity keeps children engaged without overwhelming, and the day ends back at Mauna Lani for a relaxed evening.