kapoho2

I believe the shuttle to the shopping center is operated by the businesses there. It runs continuously and is free, but we always throw a tip in the basket for the driver.

There is a very nice beach that is just a 10 minute stroll from the cruise pier. This beach is in front of the Marriott Hotel. There is also a small shopping center there and they run a free shuttle back and forth to the cruise pier. You can return your rental car on the first day and enjoy this beach on the second day. There is also a Duke's Restaurant just off the beach at the Marriott that is great for drinks and lunch if you so desire.

The drive to Mauna Kea from Hilo is definitely shorter. But, driving back after dark is still going to be an adventure in driving in the dark. There is work going on right now to straighten out parts of the Saddle Road on the Hilo side, but there is still plenty of twists and turns. During the day, this drive is quite nice, but after dark it will need your full attention.

I think you may be trying to cram too much into what is basically about 30 hours on the ground. There is a reason it is called the Big Island....and it translates into a lot of driving. The Hilton is in an area about 30 miles from downtown Kona. It would be closer to Mauna Kea, but that much further from K-Bay and the coffee plantations which are at least another 30 or 45 minutes drive south of town.

I have not been to the top of Mauna Kea, so I can't comment on the drive up there. I would probably do a tour (although they are quite expensive) just to let someone else do the driving. It gets really, really dark here at night. There are no street lights because they would interfere with the telescopes up on Mauna Kea. The drive back from Mauna Kea to Kona (or the Hilton) involves driving on the Saddle Road which is narrow and winding and DARK. Honestly, we would not want to do it.

I'm sure you can narrow down your activities and enjoy at least a couple of things on your list. You just have to keep in mind that things happen slower in the islands!

Very much enjoyed Murray the Magician on the Star several years ago. Imagine my surprise when I then saw him as a finalist on America's Got Talent! His onboard shows were very, very funny. We also enjoyed Jose and Patty when they were on the the Wind doing the Hawaii and Fanning Island cruises.

Actually, another great overlook into Halema'uma'u is from the observation area at the Jagger Museum. There are placards and signs explaining everything you are viewing. And, the park rangers usually have some scopes set up so you can get real close up views of the steam, etc. And, there are park rangers available for questions. Also, the museum is great. Nice restrooms here also ;)

We have stayed at the Sheraton Waikiki twice...but both times were during this latest renovation while they were building the infinity pool and redoing the public areas. The rooms had already been renovated and were very nice and pretty. Both times we lucked out and were assigned rooms with the million dollar Diamond Head view. I believe it was called an "oceanview" room and I would spend the extra $$ to get this view. The rooms have very large lanais and we sat out there a lot enjoying the view.

Unfortunately, the infinity pool was not finished for us to enjoy. But, this hotel has a great location right in the middle of all the action in Waikiki. It is right next door to the Royal Hawaii...aka Pink Palace....which is THE place to enjoy a mai-tai.

Do not try to visit VNP while on a port stop in Kona on a cruise. TOO much driving. And, too much chance of missing your ship if anything would go wrong while on the road. There are plenty of terrific things to do while in Kona without taking this chance.

Anything sung by Raiatea Helm.

Public transportation here on the Big Island is spotty at best. The bus system is free, but has VERY limited routes and does not run very frequently or on any type of schedule for that matter.

Best bet is to rent a car to get anywhere. Driving is easy and there are very few roads. There is only one road that goes up to the VNP. When leaving the aiport with your rental car you will make a left at the traffic light onto the main road. The next turn you make will be another left at the entrance to the park....about 30 miles later :D

You CANNOT get lost!

Have fun!!