Polynesian Playgrounds with Waikiki Beach and Papeete Stays, 3 October 2026 (19 nights)

Honolulu is famous not only for laid-back Hawaiian style and gorgeous beaches, but also as the location of the attack on Pearl Harbor, which visitors can learn about at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. To explore the wilderness of Honolulu, the grand Iolani Palace and Nuʻuanu Pali mountain are also well worth a visit, while a Helicopter tour is a must for unrivalled views of land and sea.

Named after the light Hawaiian wood for making surf boards, Nawiliwili is the perfect destination for those looking for a grand panoramic view with many fantastic vantage spots, such as Kalalau lookout over the sea and Waimea canyon lookout with plunging waterfalls beyond. A helicopter tour is the best way to see the entire magnificent island at its best, while a Fern Grotto Tour treats visitors to tales of the region on a peaceful rowboat ride.

Located on the ‘big island’ of Hawaii itself, Hilo is a typical Hawaiian town closed to the Wailuku State National Park, famous for the rainbow falls due to the shimmering colours cast by the spray reflecting the gorgeous light of the sun above. The distinctive ‘boiling pot’ lava pools bubbling away are also in the vicinity, along with Kilauea and Mauna Loa active volcanoes

The island of Kona has a rich history, with Captain James Cook first setting foot there in 1778 (and eventually meeting a grizzly end). As well as its fascinating history, Kona has plenty of breath-taking landscapes to be discovered including Puuhonua o Honaunau National Park. Because of the idyllic location, Kona is also perfect for snorkelling amongst vibrant marine life including dolphins and manta ray.

The largest of the Marquesas Islands, the beautiful Nuku Hiva is a unique tropical destination situated at the northern tip of French Polynesia. Known for its picturesque natural landscapes, hiking trails and relaxed vibe, it’s a hidden gem that’s waiting to be explored. Top highlights on Nuku Hiva include the Notre Dame Cathedral, Vaipo Waterfall and the Tiki Tuhiva sculpture.

A quiet and remote island in French Polynesia, Huahine is known for its rich ancestral fishing legacy, beautiful arts and crafts and picturesque scenery. Although it's not a bustling island, there are lots of activities to enjoy here during your stop over, including a walk in the Plage Hana Iti nature reserve, a trip to the Anini Mara'e ruins and the awe-inspiring Coral Beach.

When you think of paradise, you can’t help but think of Bora Bora. A small island in the South Pacific located within French Polynesia, it’s surrounded by mountainous peaks, turquoise waters and coral reefs. Filled with different luxurious resorts, the island is a popular place to go scuba diving, to relax on the beach (particularly on Matira Beach) and to hike.

The capital city of French Polynesia, Papeetee – which is located on the iconic island of Tahiti – is a bustling, yet picturesque, port known for its stunningly clear waters, beautiful natural scenery, and interesting attractions. Despite being a rather small island, every type of traveller will find something they can enjoy here; Papeetee has beaches for sun lounging and swimming, bustling marketplaces for culture vultures who want to soak up the atmosphere of somewhere new, museums to explore if you’re someone interested in the history of this unique culture. The Gardens of Paofai and Bougainville Park also make for excellent places to stroll, with more adventurous hiking routes available further inland. Fort de la Fachoda, which is about a 20-minute drive from central Papeete, is a particular highlight of the area; home to an impressive waterfall, this is a beautiful spot to see more of the vibrant rainforests and intriguing ruins that litter this inland area. Although, really, however you decide to spend your time in Papeete, you’re in for a fantastic shore experience.