Facts about Hawai’i (The Big Island)

Population: 121,218
Area: 4,037 sq. miles
Flower: Pua Lehua (‘Ohi’a Blossom)

Island Color: Red

Hawai’i: Namesake of the island chain and home of Madame Pele, the fire goddess of volcanoes. Variety is Hawaii’s offering from the black sand beaches to snowcapped mountains, crystal blue waters to manicured greens, cool fern forests to molten lava. Cruise out from Kona for the world’s best billfishing, saddle up near the largest privately owned cattle ranch in America, come back to a little grass shack in Kealakekua or be pampered at some of the most prestigious resorts in the world. Discover the history of Hawaii’s first capitol, visit quaint churches decorated by the Michelangelo’s of Polynesia, explore Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, tour fields of orchids and anthuriums, learn why our macadamia nuts are so delicious and meet some of the nicest people on earth.

RESERVATIONS AND INFORMATION: The following activities are recommended by Destination Discovery Travel during your leisure time at the Conference. We will be happy to make reservations, create an itinerary of activities to suit your interest and schedule, and answer any your questions and will be at the Conference desk during the hours of the meetings. Please contact Destination Discovery Travel.

GATHERING OF THE KINGS SATURDAY only $104.00 per adult $68.00 per child (6 – 12 years) Children 5 and below, complimentary Using a fusion of both traditional Polynesian and modern dance choreography, the "Gathering of the Kings," retells the story of the settlement of the Pacific.

Beginning in a time when the vast, open ocean was yet uncharted, discover how brave people whose descendents would be called - Polynesians, carved a path through this ocean thoroughfare to settle one of the most colorful and lively group of islands in the world. Displayed in its fullness is the mana (power) of the ali'i (chiefs) and how each would be forever linked to the one star that guided them...the "star of gladness" we call, Hokule'a. Receive a special lei greeting and dine on the treasures of Hawai'i, Samoa, New Zealand and Tahiti. From fresh seafood to papaya chicken and tropical fruit, this is an authentic blending of local Hawaiian favorites that must be experienced while in the islands. Location: Plantation Estates at the Fairmont Orchid Resort. Check-in 4:30pm - 5:30pm, 6:00pm Polynesian Buffet, 7:00pm Gathering of the Kings. Upgrades on request basis at an additional cost of $26.00 per person to include preferred seating, quick check-in, express line for lei  greeting/photo area, preferential buffet service, personalized craft demonstration in the seating area, 10% discount for retail sales, $5 coupon discount towards a printed photo.

ATLANTIS SUBMARINE TOUR: ODYSSEY ADVENTURE
Monday - Friday: 10:00am, 11:30am, 1:00pm, 2:30pm, (4:00pm on-call)
Saturday - Sunday: 10:00am, 11:30am, 1:00pm, (2:30pm on-call)
$107.00 per adult
$49.00 per junior (4 – 12 years – minimum 36” tall)
$50.00 per person (roundtrip transfers, minimum 2 people)

Explore the undersea splendor of the sparkling Pacific. Embark on a voyage of discovery aboard the Atlantis Submarine.

This adventure enables you to truly experience the wonders of the world beneath the sea. This tour takes you on a cruise of exploration through the living world of the tropical reef. The color and abundance of marine creatures and fascinating coral formations are unveiled outside your crystal viewing port. This submarine surrounds you with comfort and safety. Your crew includes a seasoned pilot to navigate the reefs and an experience co-pilot to guide and narrate your unforgettable journey. This tour is an underwater adventure of a lifetime you won’t forget! Roundtrip transportation not included. Children under the age of 4 will not be permitted. Check-in at the Atlantis office 30-minutes prior to departure time.

BIG ISLAND SPECTACULAR – HELICOPTER TOUR
Daily / Various departures
$430.00 per person (A-Star aircraft)†
$535.00 per person (ECO-Star aircraft)†

Tour the most geological environment on earth ... the famous Kilauea volcano. View lava flows and black sand beaches.

Experience all of Madame Pele's lava and volcanic badlands, then explore the lush rainforest of the coast. The towering sea cliffs open into the dramatically deep and meandering Kohala Mountains. Beautiful waterfalls cascade thousands of feet into the rainforest, remnants of ancient Hawaiian settlements are still visible. Approximate flight time: 2-hours. Departs from the Waikoloa Helipad .

KOHALA COAST ADVENTURE – HELICOPTER TOUR
Daily / Various departures
$230.00 per person (A-Star aircraft)†
$279.00 per person (ECO-Star aircraft)†

For those on a time budget, this popular, action packed tour will leave you awestruck at the incredible beauty of the Kohala Mountains with its towering ocean cliffs and deep meandering valleys including Waipio, Pololu and Waimanu.

Approximate flight time 50 minutes). Departs from Waikoloa Helipad.

CIRCLE OF FIRE – HELICOPTER TOUR
Daily / Various departures
$213.00 per person (A-Star aircraft)†

Tour the most geologically active environment on earth with emphasis on the current areas of volcanic activity. View the Hilo area waterfalls, lava flows and black sand beaches from the comfort and safety of your million dollar aircraft.

Approximate flight time: 45 - 50 minutes. Departs from Hilo Airport.

BODY GLOVE SNORKEL DOLPHIN SAIL
Daily / 8:00am – 12:30pm
$100.00 per adult (rate discount 12/2009 - 03/2010)
$78.00 per youth (6 – 17 years)
(5 and under free)

For those interested in scuba, please inquire for information.

Kailua Pier boarding at 7:30am. 4½ -hour Snorkel-Sail – Pawai Bay Marine Preserve. Start your day with a continental breakfast aboard the 55-foot trimaran, the Body Glove Boat, which sets sail to premier snorkeling and dive sites chosen especially for their beauty and abundance of marine life. After 2½ -hours of snorkeling and feeding the fish, enjoy a buffet deli style lunch. Snorkel Gear and Rx Masks, Snorkeling instruction, Floatation and Water Toys, 15’ Water Slide, Fresh Water Showers, No Host Premium Bar, Whale Watching (seasonal), Trolling for Game Fish, His/Hers Restrooms. Transfers to Kailua Pier not included but can be purchased (infants 2 and under free, 2-passenger minimum required).

WHALE WATCH SAIL
Daily
8am-10am Sail - Anaehoomalu Bay departure
10am-12pm Sail - Kawaihae Harbor departure
$95.00 per adult
$48.00 per child (6 - 12 years)
Infants, 5 and under: free

Encounter the majestic humpback whales in the National Marine Sanctuary located along the Kohala Coast.

Experience firsthand their dramatic behaviors narrated by our marine naturalist. Guaranteed whale sightings or come again FREE! Soft drink, juice and dry snacks included. Cruise departs from Anaeho’omalu Bay or Kawaihae Harbor.

WHALES & COCKTAILS SAIL
Daily
3pm-5pm (December 15th - April 15th)
$105.00 per adult (13-years and up)
$53.00 per child (6 - 12 years)
Infants, 5 and under: free

Enjoy Happy Hour with the Humpback Whales aboard our spacious and stable catamaran fleet. Our trained naturalists provide a narrated tour complete with hydrophones for listening to the whales play. Tasty Cocktails and Snacks are included as we explore the National Marine Sanctuary, the prime breeding and calving grounds for Humpback whales in Hawaii. Guaranteed whale sightings or come again free! Recommended: Bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, cover-ups and cameras.

CHAMPAGNE SUNSET SAIL
Daily
(Seasmoke @ Anaeho’omalu Bay; Alala @ Kawaihae Harbor)
4:00pm to sunset (approximately 6pm – winter)
5:00pm to sunset (approximately 7pm – summer)
$115.00 per adult
$60.00 per child (under 12)

Sail into the Kohala Coast sunset, the most beautiful in the islands. You may see the legendary “green flash” or dolphins, as they playfully escort our vessel. Champagne, Open Bar, Pacific-Rim style pupus (oriental tossed salad, Thai peanut pasta salad, vegetable egg rolls, pot stickers, teriyaki steak, kalua pork lu’au wraps), Soft Drinks an Juices included.

Cruise departs from Anaeho’omalu Bay or Kawaihae Bay.

PICNIC SNORKEL SAIL
Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday (Seasmoke @ Anaeho’omalu Bay; Alala @ Kawaihae Harbor)
8:45am – 12:45pm
$135.00 per adult
$67.00 per child (6 - 12 years)
Infants, 5 and under: free

Enjoy 4-hours of ocean indulgence as we visit one of our remote snorkel destinations where few ever go. Our marine naturalists get in the water with you to teach you how to snorkel as they show you the remarkable marine life below. Exotic corals, tropical fish, turtles, will amaze you. We provide all snorkel gear, towels, instruction, and marine life talk. Enjoy great food from our award-winning chef.

GRAND CIRCLE ISLAND TOUR
Daily / 6:15am – 7:15pm (Mauna Lani, Orchid pick-up time)
$94.00 per adult (Orchid, Mauna Lani, Hapuna Prince, Mauna Kea)
$62.00 per child (3 - 11 years)

This highly personalized scenic tour is fully narrated by specially trained driver/guides and features many stops to allow you to get the most from your day. The tour includes Kailua Town, Kealakekua Bay Overlook,

Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, Volcanoes National Park (admission included), Kilauea Iki Crater, Thurston Lava Tube, Hawai’i Volcano Observatory, Jagger Museum, Steam Bluffs and Crater Drive, Fern Tree Jungle, Orchid and Anthurium Nursery, Hilo City Tour, Water Falls, Hamakua Coast, Sugar Cane Fields, Macadamia Nui Factory, Parker Ranch Lands, and the Waimea District. No host luncheon stop enroute.

KOHALA WATERFALL ADVENTURE
Daily / 6:50am - 3:00pm
$166.00 per adult
$135.00 per child (12 years and under)

Immerse yourself in Kohala's stunning beauty and rich history. On a fun off-road adventure and relaxed trail walk, experience dramatic view of Pololu Valley, charming foot bridges, historic taro terraces and intimate waterfalls. With an opportunity to swim at a waterfall and stroll the quaint plantation village of Hawi, this is the perfect tour for all ages. Short walk under 2-miles. Rated easy to moderate with several short climbs. One hour of rugged

off-road driving. Waterfall swim. Guest should wear closed-toe walking shoes or reef walkers or sports sandals, bathing suit under shorts, a hat, sunscreen and a light sweatshirt or jacket. Must be able to walk over uneven terrain and short climbs. Children under 3-years old must be carried in backpack carrier. Tour includes walking sticks, raingear, warm wear, daypacks, bottled water, access fee, lunch. Menu: deli-style wrap, chips, cookie, sodas and juice drinks provided. Pickup at the Fairmont Orchid.

HUALALAI HOLOHOLO ADVENTURE
Daily / Check-in 15-minutes prior
8:30am – 12:00pm, 12:45pm – 4:15pm
$135.00 per adult
$100.00 per child (8 – 12 years)

A rocky ramble up the cool and misty lavascaped slopes of Hualalai mountain. Our Pinzgauers are fast and fun and carry us from sea-level to 6,000 feet where a surreal scene of black lava flows and native dry land forest awaits.

See the geologic forces which created our islands at the heart of Hualalai’s 1801 eruption, Ka’upulehu Crater. Travel to magnificent coastal viewpoints and stunning lava formations, before exploring the mountain by foot. Walk amidst a forest of native birdsong and scramble through a lava tube. Meet at the Hawai’i Forest & Trails headquarters in Kailua-Kona.

Short walk under 1-mile. 2-hours to 2.5 hours of off road 6-wheel driving. Wear closed-toe walking shoes, hat, sunscreen and light sweatshirt or jacket. Must be able to walk over uneven terrain and short climbs. Not recommended for those with back and neck problems. Rain gear and beverage (bottled water, etc.) included.

KILAUEA VOLCANO ADVENTURE
Daily / 7:30am - 6:30pm
$188.00 per adult
$156.00 per child (12 years and under)

At Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, visit one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Let our interpretive naturalist reveal the legends, landscapes and life of this most remarkable natural setting. If an active lava flow is accessible, we will make that a priority. Easy to moderate for all ages. Meeting at King's Shops in Waikoloa. Short walks varying in length from .5-mile to 1-mile. It can get foggy, wet and cold. Wear closed-toe shoes, wear or bring long pants and a light sweater.

Not recommeded for physically challenged or unable to walk short distances on uneven terrain. Tour includes park entry fee, continental breakfast, lunch and beverage, bottled water, daypack, walking stick, rain gear and warm wear.

MAUNA KEA SUMMIT & STARS ADVENTURE
Daily / 8-hour tour (tour time’s change seasonally with sunset)
$200.00 per adult (must be 18-years or older)

The summit of Mauna Kea is renowned as the world’s greatest astronomical observation site. It is also one of Hawaii’s most sacred cultural sites. Travel through space and time as we transport you across striking and surreal landscape that reveals Hawaii’s past. Learn about the remarkable evolution and changes our island’s natural world has experienced.

Stand in awe at the top of the world’s tallest volcano amidst the largest collection of telescopes on earth, and some of the most dramatic scenery you’ll ever witness. And then, after a sensational sunset, let your interpretive naturalist reveal the wonders and world-class clarity of our Hawaiian night skies. Weather conditions not guaranteed. Rated easy but not advised for those with respiratory, circulatory, or heart conditions, pregnancy, or poor health should not access the summit. Scuba divers note summit altitude is over 13,000 feet elevation. Wear long pants and covered walking shoes. You may want to dress in layers which will help to keep you warm. Tour includes hooded winter parka, hot picnic dinner at a private location, private star show with telescope, hot cocoa and chocolate coma cookies! Meet at the King's Shops at Waikoloa (by Roy's Restaurant).

WAIPIO RIM HIKE ADVENTURE
Daily / 6:50am-3:00pm
$156.00 per adult
$124.00 per child (12 and under)

Witness the majesty of Waipio - Valley of the Kings. Hike over a thousand feet above the valley floor on a historic trail that reveals inspiring views of two rivers, thriving taro farms, ocean vistas, native forest and numerous waterfalls, including a secret view of world renowned Hi'ilawe Falls. Perhaps no other trail in Hawaii offers so much beauty and history than on this exclusive three mile rim hike.

Rated Moderate with several short climbs. Guests should be able to walk over uneven, rocky and muddy terrain in some locations on the trail. Short up and down climbs during the hike. Ages 8 and older. Walking staffs, warm wear, drypacks, bottled water, access fee, lunch provided. Menu: deli-style sandwich, chips, cookie, sodas and juice drinks. Pickup at the Fairmont Orchid.

WAIPIO ON HORSEBACK AND TARO FARMS
Daily except Sunday / 9:30am and 1:30pm
$89.00 per person (no children under 8)

This is a special guided excursion on horseback in secluded Waipio Valley. Our small groups (minimum 2 – maximum 14) savor the charm of this 2½-hour adventure in old Hawai’i. The trek takes a leisurely pace and guides narrate throughout the ride, providing history, legends and facts of life in the valley.

The path meanders through lush jungle trails along the hillside, through streams and rivers and on to ancient Hawaiian villages. Riders see dramatic 1,200-foot waterfalls, taro patches, lotus ponds, wild horses, exotic flowers, plants, native trees and birds. Spend quality time at a taro farm. Meeting point is the ATV Ranch off highway #240. Stop by the hospitality Desk for directions. A waiver must be signed for this trip.

ATV RANCH RIDE
Daily / 9:30am & 1:30pm – special ride during summer months only.
$105.00 per person (16-years minimum age)

A 2 ½-hour adventure on a real-life working ranch, through some of the most picturesque ranch land located on the Big Island’s Hamakua Coast.

The journey begins from the high lands and native forests, and meanders onto the open range of the middle and lower ranch. The ride descends toward the ocean passing through portions of the old Hamakua Highway. Panoramic sloping views as we ride on lower view of the pounding Pacific and dangerous surf below. Meet at the ATV Ranch off highway #240. Stop by the Hospitality Desk for directions.

FAIRWIND SNORKEL & DIVE – AFTERNOON SNACK CRUISE
Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday/ 2:00pm – 5:30pm
$78.12 per adult (13 years & over)
$46.87 children (4 – 12 years)
Toddler 3 & under, no charge

This 3½-hour cruise departs daily from Keauhou Bay with a minimum of 25 passengers. It includes 1½-hours of snorkeling at pristine Kealakekua Bay, snorkel gear, instruction, and a 15’ water slide. Guests are served snacks of fresh island fruit, snack mix and tropical fruit juice. A no-host bar is open during the cruise and a one-tank scuba dive is available for optional purchase, with minimum of (2) divers per cruise.

FAIRWIND SNORKEL & DIVE – DELUXE AFTERNOON CRUISE (Summer Only)
Monday, Wednesday, Friday / 2:00pm - 6:30pm
(spring/summer only: 3/20 - 4/14 and 6/2 - 8/28) $113.54 per adult (13 years & over)
$71.87 per child (4 – 12 years)
Toddler 3 & under, no charge

This 4½-hour cruise is available during spring and summer season. The catamaran departs from Keauhou Bay and includes 2-1/2 hours of snorkeling at pristine Kealakekua Bay, snorkel gear, instruction, and a 15’ water slide.

FAIRWIND DELUXE MORNING LUNCHEON CRUISE
Daily / 9:00am – 1:30pm
$134.37 per adult (13 years & older)
$78.12 per child (4 – 12 years)
$30.21 per toddler (3 & under)

This 4½-hour cruise departs from Keauhou Bay and includes 3½-hours of snorkeling at pristine Kealakekua Bay, snorkel gear, instruction, and a 15’ water slide.

Guests are served a tropical continental breakfast of bagels and cream cheese, muffins, Danish, fresh island fruit, 100% Kona coffee grown on our estate farm, herbal tea and juice. Lunch includes BBQ cheeseburgers, garden burgers (for vegetarians), hot dogs, complete condiments, pasta salad, fresh pineapple, chips, cookies, soft drinks and tropical fruit juice. A no-host bar is open during the cruise.

FAIRWIND’S “HULA KAI” DELUXE MORNING LUNCHEON CRUISE
Daily / 9:30am – 2:30pm
$161.46 per person (passenger must be 18-years and up)

Enjoy two snorkel/dive destinations along the Kona Coast aboard Fair Wind’s newest vessel, Hula Kai. This 5-hour cruise departs from Keauhou Bay and includes two unique snorkel destinations, snorkel gear and instruction.

Guests are served a continental breakfast of mini croissants, frittatas, fruit salad, yogurt and granola, tea and juice. Our gourmet barbeque lunch includes Angus burgers, teriyaki chicken tenders, potato salad, green salad with a selection of dressings and brownies for dessert. Additional options available for purchase are one and two tank SCUBA dive (certified divers only) and a no-host bar.

FAIRWIND'S "HULA KAI" NIGHT MANTA RAY SNORKEL
Nightly except Sundays / Time varies determined by sunset
$103.12 per person (minimum age 5 and up)

Manta Rays feed on plankton that rises towards the surface at night. The best viewing of these graceful creatures are on night dives. Using the night lights that are safe for the manta, we are able to attract the plankton which attracts the mantas.

Manta Rays don't have "stingers" like the Sting Rays and are completely safe to be around. A 2-hour trip departing Keauhou Bay aboard the Hula Kai, you spend 1-hour in the ocean.

WAIKOLOA BEACH LU’AU
Sunday and Wednesday only / 5:00pm – 8:30pm
$88.00 per adult
$40.00 per child (6 – 12 years)
Children 5 and below, free

As the sun sets over Anaeho’omalu Bay, torches are lit on the hotel’s historic grounds. An ancient chant welcomes all to witness the opening of the “imu,” the underground pit where a whole pig has been cooking all day.

ISLAND BREEZE LU’AU (KING KAMEHAMEHA)
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday / 5:00pm – 8:45pm
$79.00 per adult
$50.00 per child (5 -12 years)
(Child under 4 free)

On the historic ground of the King Kamehameha Hotel, receive your lei greeting and participate in the Hawaiian and Polynesian Arts and Crafts demonstrations followed by the Royal Pageant, torch lighting and imu ceremony.

Mai Tai’s and standard bar services and a sumptuous lu’au dinner buffet follows. Traditional Pacific Island dances, featuring an authentic Samoan Fire Knife Dance. Roundtrip transportation not included.

HILO HATTIE
Daily / 8:30am – 5:00pm
Complimentary Admission

Exclusive fashion designs of the largest selections in Hawai’i at substantial savings. Visitors will be greeted with a lei. See our exclusive tropical prints available in quality aloha wear for the entire family. Made in Hawai’i. Factory outlet values. Free alterations while you wait.