For many, cruising around the Hawaiian Islands on the Pride of America is a trip of a lifetime. This ship sails every week, Saturday to Saturday, from its Honolulu port. Norwegian is great about answering questions but they’re going to want you to purchase excursions from them. I’m going to walk you through the ports and present my take on the various islands based on my recent experience.
There may be affiliate links throughout the article, but there is no extra cost to you by clicking on them. It’s more of a coffee fund for me so thank you! I am not an affiliate for Norwegian. All opinions are of my own accord.
Cruising the Hawaiian Islands on Pride of America
Why cruise? It’s convenient, comparably inexpensive, and you get a feel for four of the six Hawaiian Islands: Oahu, Maui, Hawaii, and Kauai. By flying to and from Honolulu, you can explore Oahu on the front or back end.
Norwegian Cruise Pricing
The nice thing about a cruise is that the price you pay covers your transportation costs between islands, your lodging, and most of your meals. I say most because you may opt to eat some of your meals on the island while exploring. The ship is always available while in the port so ultimately you could come and go throughout the day if needed.
Organizing the Islands
If you are like most people, you’ve heard references to the Hawaiian Islands, cities, and beaches but overall, your score would be low if you had to label them for a geography test. No worries! I’m going to break them down in cruising order (not necessarily geographical order) and help you wrap your brain around them all.
Exploring Oahu
Oahu is a larger island, but it is not ‘The Big Island’. Honolulu, Pearl Harbor, and Waikiki Beach are all on Oahu. You will fly to the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport prior to boarding the Pride of America. Waikiki is just east of both the airport and the NCL port, so it makes a great place to grab a hotel prior to or after the cruise. The ship doesn’t leave until 7:00pm but I prefer to get to my destination a day or two early just to be sure that I have arrived with no unforeseen delays. Missing the ship is never on my itinerary!
Something else to consider when planning your trip is that most flights from Honolulu to the U.S. mainland are after 8:00pm on the day you disembark. This allows for several hours of touring Oahu on the back end as well.
Flying to Honolulu
Flights run the gamut based on where you’re flying from and when you purchase your ticket. One of my favorite ways to purchase flights is through the Chase app. Booking is easy, and options are given to pay with points, cash, or a combination. If you don’t have a Chase Sapphire credit card, it’s a great one to utilize for travel expenses. We booked our flights roughly seven months out and scored a stellar deal.
Oahu Lodging
We opted to stay at the Holiday Inn Express Waikiki by IHG. This allowed me to use points for our two nights’ stay. Hawaii is a pricier destination and any chance to cut costs without cutting comfort is a bonus.
Wondering how to earn IHG points? It’s easy! Open an IHG credit card through Chase. Once you meet the minimum spend within the first three months (usually around $3000), you’ll be awarded a hefty number of points to use at any IHG hotel around the world. Points vary but they’re typically 20,000-30,000 points a night. As a bonus, when you book four consecutive nights, you get one of those nights free.
Many Hawaiian hotels charge a resort fee which is separate from the nightly charge. This Holiday Inn was no different. At the time of our stay, it was $50 per night. Ultimately, we stayed in Hawaii for two nights for $100. Not too shabby!
Along with a free continental breakfast, the hotel also provides a concierge service. They were very helpful when we asked about booking a Pearl Harbor tour. If you have a rental car, an attached private parking garage is available. Parking will include an additional $50 per night. Other hotel amenities include: a game room, fitness center, swimming pool and jet spa, laundry facilities and business center.
Visiting Pearl Harbor can be a bit tricky to navigate. Tickets to ride the water shuttle to see the USS Arizona are technically free. But there’s a caveat. Tickets are available the day before at 3:00pm. If waiting until the last minute or watching your phone while on vacation is not your idea of a good time, then opting for a paid tour might be right for you. Besides booking with the IHG concierge (E Noa Tours), booking through Get Your Guide is also an option. Both companies will pick you up at a designated spot close to the hotel.
Renting a Car in Oahu
Even with paying the parking garage fee, obtaining a car rental right from the airport is a whole lot cheaper than requesting an Uber each time we planned to go out. It also saves time and allows you to check out more of the island. Expedia offers great rates.
Pearl Harbor
There is so much to see at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. Plan on 3-4 hours at a minimum. If you are a big history buff, plan on a full day. Besides walking through the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, you may also want to go through the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. These exhibits will all require an admission ticket. Free of charge are the additional covered displays, a short movie and the gift shop. The movie is great and shows a comprehensive overview of the events that shaped our nation’s involvement in the Pacific WWII theatre.
I do want to add that the gift shop has an extremely nice selection of books pertaining to WWII, Pearl Harbor, and individuals who have shared their personal stories regarding these events.
Additional Activities While on Oahu
Assuming you’ve secured a rental car, here are a few destinations that we visited. They are all worth visiting depending on your interests.
Iolani Palace
Did you know Hawaii is the only state with a legit palace? Prior to the islands becoming a U.S. territory, they were ruled by royal family. Queen Liliuokaani was the last member to hold the throne. Her statue is outside the state capital building. You can tour the inside of the palace with paid admission.
Hawaii State Library
A short distance from both the palace and the capital building is the Hawaii State Library. Built in 1913, and funded by Andrew Carneige, this gorgeous two-story Beaux-Art structure stands out among its more modern neighbors. Stepping inside, you’ll be greeted by an impressive foyer which then leads to an open courtyard. The courtyard is accessible from multiple areas of the library and makes an ideal space while taking advantage of Hawaii’s moderate temperatures.
Dole Plantation
Whether or not you want to partake in the plantation’s pineapple tour, train ride or maze, stopping in to try their pineapple whip is a must. I heard it was going to be good, but I didn’t expect it to be THAT good. Worth the stop. The eucalyptus trees in the parking lot are cool too. You’ll have the opportunity to get a second serving in Kauai while sailing Pride of America.
Oahu’s Botanical Gardens
Lush vegetation is a highlight throughout the islands. Plants that most of us only know as indoor species thrive in the outdoor Hawaiian climate. We witnessed an older gentleman beside himself because he was finally seeing a cacao tree with ripening pods in person for the first time in his life. With such a wide variety, it’s easy to find a tree, plant, or flower that takes your breath away.
Waimea Botanical Garden
On the northwestern coast, you’ll find Waimea Botanical Garden and Wailele Falls. This is a great destination for a one-stop nature ‘shopping’ experience. Within a small setting, you’ll find a paved path leading you past birds, flowers, plants, trees, and cultural sites. The end of the path is where you’ll find Wailele Falls. Here you can sit for a while and enjoy the ambiance or take a swim under the cascading water. Life jackets are provided and required. There is a small café at the entrance and a snack shack at the waterfall.
Banyan, Ficus, eucalyptus, bamboo, and screw pine are just a few of the impressive trees you’ll find here as well as around the various islands.
Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden
On the opposite side of Oahu is another stunning botanical garden. Distinct in its own way, Ho’omaluhia has several of the same species, yet fluidly designed in a completely different landscape. Here, you will find a meandering path that leads to a large pond. Multiple koi call this place home.
Koko Crater Botanical Garden, Wahiawa Botanical Garden, Foster Botanical Garden, Lil’uokalani Botanical Garden and Lyon Arboretum are other natural spaces to consider.
Leonard’s
Craving something sweet? Love checking out tried and true Mom ‘n Pop businesses? If so, you need to make a run to Leonard’s for their irresistible malasadas. There will be absolutely no judgement if you opt for the original as well as the malasadas puffs: custard, dobash, haupia, macadamia, and guava. This shop has been serving tasty treats since 1952.
Books and Coffee
My Oahu explorations wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t feature a locally owned bookstore and coffee shop. Bookends sells both new and used books with comfy chairs throughout for your browsing pleasure. Next door is Morning Brew. Their food and drinks are delicious. The two businesses pair perfectly together.
Boarding Pride of America
You’ve packed, flown, and explored. Now it’s finally time to return the rental car, grab an Uber to the NCL Cruise Terminal and get ready to set sail. The ship leaves at 7:00pm so you can decide if you want more time on the ship (board early) or more time in Honolulu (board later). Regardless of what you choose, lunch and dinner can be enjoyed on the ship.
It’s great to use this time to get acquainted with the ship. Walk around, enjoy the Hawaiian dancers, grab the drink of the day and watch the sunset. Note that there is a Starbucks on board but no casino.
First Stop on Pride of America: Kahului
Kahului is a city on the north side of the island of Maui. The port is nothing to write home about. Very industrial. It’s roughly a 15-minute walk to Long’s Pharmacy (70 E. Kaahumanu Ave. Kahului) which is where you can pick up an Uber. If you are opting for a rental car while in Maui (recommended if you’re not doing an excursion), many of the popular businesses have inventory at the Kahului Airport which is 10 minutes away. If you want to keep your car for two days, ask at the rental car counter and they’ll advise you on where you can park it overnight.
Pride of America Bike Excursion
We chose the Norwegian Maui Downhill Bicycle Adventure as our first day’s excursion. Our group met right outside the ship’s ramp where we were then shuttled to our guide’s office about 30 minutes away. After signing forms, grabbing a snack and drink, and using the restroom (last indoor option for a while), bikes and helmets were loaded, and we ventured up the mountain in the van.
Currently, no one is allowed to bike from the very top of the Haleakala National Park. Instead, this is the only company that has a special permit to drop participants off part way down the hill. Even with that, we were still able to enjoy multiple switchbacks speeding down the paved blacktop at 20-25mph.
Time literally speeds by, so I really don’t know the distance we went before having to all stop as a group. That was our trial run. Bikes were loaded up, participants loaded back in the van, we drove back up to our starting point and did it all over again. A bit more confidence and a little less braking.
There is another stretch of the road where cyclists can’t ride, so bikes and riders were loaded up again and transported to a new location further down the mountain. This was again another fun stretch. The switchbacks weren’t quite as intense, nor was the gradient of the road, but still fun with a great cruising speed.
Time in Maui
There are so many things to do and see in Maui you must pick and choose. Two days inland isn’t enough to do them all.
Whale Watching in Maui
After returning from the bike excursion, we fueled up on the ship (aka ate a late lunch) and headed south to Kama’ole Beach Park 2. Since we were sailing in January, whale migration was happening. Sitting on a park bench looking out towards the horizon we were able to see multiple spouts of water crest through the water’s surface and even a breeching whale.
Road to Hana
Although the complete road to Hana is a mere 64 miles, the trek takes 10-12 hours without stops. As you can guess, hairpin turns, narrow lanes, one-way bridges and even dirt roads comprise this famous journey. The views along the way are only part of what makes it so luring. Lush vegetation, captivating beach towns and botanical gardens create a memorable road trip. Even if you don’t go all the way to Hana (which the locals say not much is even there), a few hours on the road will give you a taste of what everyone is talking about.
Heading east from the port, you’ll soon arrive at a pull-off park brimming with aquatic activity. This is a great place to spend some time soaking up those sought after Hawaiian coastal views and watching experienced surfers catch the perfect wave.
A bonus for us was to watch a local artist masterfully complete his painting and to witness our first green sea turtle sunbathing on the protected beach.
Along this same road, you’ll see a turn off for the pleasant cowboy towns of Paia and Makawao. They are great destinations for shopping, coffee, and dining. Our favorite was The Maui Cookie Lady. So adorable!
Continuing Along the Maui Coast
We did not navigate the entire Road to Hana due to time and weather restraints. Our turn around point was the Keanae Arboretum. This very small nature loving oasis is home to a bamboo cluster, a eucalyptus cluster, some amazing Ficus trees, Torch Ginger, Breadfruit, and an abundant variety of flora.
Second Stop on Pride of America: Hilo
Hilo is a city on the northeastern side of the island of Hawaii. This island is often referred to as ‘The Big Island’. Again, the action is not at the port, and you will want to book an excursion or get a rental car.
As you disembark for the day, you will be met with a plethora of tour companies vying for your business. The big question you’ll need to decide is if you want to explore the Hilo area or if you want to go to Volcanoes National Park (UNESCO site). You won’t have time to do both if you book a tour.
We opted for a tour through the Hoppa-On Hoppa-Off Hilo City Tour company. They offer an all-day guided/self-guided transportation service ($45) and a Volcanoes National Park Tour ($145). We chose to stay in town and see its highlights. Our tour included stops at Big Island Candies (delicious Kona coffee, chocolates and ice cream), the King Kamehameha Statue, Wailoa River State Park, Liliuokalani Japanese Gardens, Carl Smith Lagoons, Richardson Blacksand Beach, Hilo Farmers Market, and Rainbow Falls (where you can get Pineapple Whip!). For the price, narration, and ease I would highly recommend going with this company.
Throughout our day, some of our highlights included:
- Seeing the street of banyan trees that have been planted by famous people over the years. Two examples include Amelia Earhart (1935) and George Herman BABE Ruth (1933).
- Running the wavy bridge at the state park
- Watching a random show of local Hawaiian dancers.
- Learning about and buying some fruit at the farmers market to take to the beach, as well as some souvenirs.
- Getting to walk across our first black sand beach. (bring water shoes, snorkeling gear, flip flops, bathing suit, sunscreen and a towel for an optimal day)
- Seeing four more green sea turtles sunbathing on the black sand.
Travel tip: Across the street from the farmers market, there is a self-serve bike rental station.
Third Stop on Pride of America: Kona
Nature has a way of doing its own thing regardless of what plans you have made. Attitude is everything. Because the swells were too high to tender on our Kona port day, the captain of the ship made the decision that it was unsafe to dock. That meant we would be spending a day at sea instead, heading to our next destination. He maximized our change of plans by choosing to sail past the cliffs of Molokai, the tallest sea cliffs in the world. The only way to view these cliffs is by helicopter or boat.
If this happens to you, be on the lookout for a massive waterfall and two gorilla illusions on the side of the cliffs. These beasts are credited to guarding the valley as it is aptly named Kong Valley.
Our new trek also took us through a whale sanctuary where we were able to spot several whales as they surfaced.
Fourth Stop on Pride of America: Nawiliwili
Nawiliwili is a city on the island of Kaua’i. The Pride of America docks here for the last two days of the cruise. Unlike the other ports, this one has a few more things to do within walking distance. There is a relatively close beach, a few touristy shopping spots, and a local coffee shop. Ultimately, to make the most of your time on the island, you’re best to arrange an excursion or to book a car rental. You can meet an Uber right by the ship and head to the airport to pick up your vehicle. This island was my personal favorite as it has a lot more greenery and not as many developed areas.
Sightseeing Kaua’i
Hawaiian Luau
We purchased luau tickets for the first night in Kaui. Luaus are pricey but it’s hard to come to Hawaii and not experience such a core part of their culture. The Norwegian excursion included transportation, a buffet dinner, unlimited drinks, and a fantastic show. We paid extra for front row seating, and it was well worth it. The fire show – top notch!
Wailua River Cruise and Fern Grotto
Smith’s Boats is a family run business that takes an open-air boat down the Wailua River, docking at the Wailua River State Park Fern Grotto. A nice narration is given as you peacefully glide down the waterway. Upon docking, you’ll follow a paved trail past a creaking bamboo forest and through a jungle until you approach the fern grotto. It’s a stunning area full of beautifully orchestrated greens.
At the grotto, the family shares a bit of its history and plays a few traditional Hawaiian songs. The leisurely hike continues through the jungle passing all sorts of exotic and common plants and trees.
During the ride back, the family continues their musical entertainment, evening teaching a few Hawaiian dance moves.
Travel hack: Arrive around 9:00am to catch the first boat out and you’ll optimize your time on the island.
Wailua Falls
Although connected by water, viewing Wailua Falls requires you to drive about 15 minutes from the Wailua River Cruise up a steep mountain. There is limited parking so be prepared to park along the berm and walk a bit. Cascading nearly 170 feet, this double tiered waterfall eludes peace and tranquility along with water’s ferocious strength.
Tree Tunnel (Maluhia Road)
We almost missed out experiencing this iconic one mile stretch and I would have been so disappointed. Thankfully, the travel angels aligned and during our fourth time in the area we randomly ended up on the correct road where over 500 arching century-old eucalyptus trees showcase their beauty.
Old Koloa Town
By way of recommendations, we spent the rest of our time on Kaua’i along the southern route. The views were spectacular, the towns were quaint, and the habitat was plentiful.
Koloa is a Hawaiian Mayberry. If you need a little zest for your day, Java Kai is going to be a great stop to fuel up. This open-air coffee shop is cute as a button situated under a massive monkeypod tree. Additionally, you’ll find a lot of adorable shops with very reasonable prices.
Poipu Beach
We ended up visiting Poipu Beach on both days because the snorkeling was so amazing. Nukumoi Surf Co. rents the full snorkeling gear for $10 a day. It was the best $10 I spent on the entire trip. The beach is popular for visitors and locals. Green sea turtles love it, too. We saw nine at one time hanging out in the sun.
With flippers on, you can walk right into the water and begin seeing tropical fish galore. I was so shocked at the amount and variety of fish that were swimming right in the shallow area. Snorkeling on out to the island and around the black rocks resulted in even more pleasant encounters.
Travel hack: One thing I wish I would have brought with me was a disposable underwater camera.
Spouting Horn
There are signs to the spouting horn near Poipu Beach. It’s nothing over the top but it is fun to watch. As the waves crash against the rocky shore, water makes its way into lava tubes creating a natural blowhole. The wave size will be the deciding factor on how big of a burst you’ll see.
Hanapepe Valley Lookout
As we were driving along, I saw an upcoming sign for a lookout. With no expectations in mind, I decided to pull over and take a look. When we stepped out of the car to make our way to the retaining wall, our mouths dropped. The view is so stunning it almost looks fake.
This area was the filming location for Lilo & Stitch as well as inspiration for scenes in Jurassic Park.
Waimea Canyon Lookout
This state park is a long haul, taking you out to the western part of the island, but the reward at the end makes every climbing curve worth it. Calling it a ‘little Grand Canyon’ initially comes to mind, but it is grand and lush in its own individual splendor. Although it is dwarfed by the mainland’s Goliath, measuring 13 miles long, 1.5 miles wide and up to 2,500 feet deep it’s fair to say this David packs a viewing punch. This is a great place to bring your binoculars to key in on the tiny Waipo’o Falls across the way that is cascading down the mountain side for 800 feet.
Be sure to ascend each overlook tier as the view changes with each angle.
Wrapping up the Pride of America Cruise
Driving back to the port after a full week of basking in nature’s awesomeness, I felt a wave of contentment wash over me. We saw so much, learned so much, and yet had a very leisurely week taking it all in.
Everyone’s cruising experience will be unique. I hope what I’ve shared will allow you to amply prepare for a fantastic time in the Hawaiian Islands. Feel free to email me with any questions you may have and I’ll do my best to answer them based on my travels.
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