KarenWhitworth

Yes! Do upgrade to the balcony! SO worth it!

I realize this is an old thread now, but it popped up in my research for another topic. I just wanted to add that the advice here is really good. I am a professional artist and while reading through, I wanted to high five half the profiles in this thread.
Or... I guess we have to elbow bump, now? 🙂
Well done team!

On 2/12/2020 at 10:29 AM, scottca075 said:

The only way I would do a Na Pali tour on a short window (8AM to 5PM) is on the official cruise company tour.

I second Scott. 

Also, I am SO excited for you to see it! ❤️ It is BY FAR my favorite activity on all the islands. It is incredible.

On 1/24/2020 at 2:43 PM, princeton123211 said:

As others have said-- its about a 45 minute ride each way if you don't run into backups (and there are backups to be run into on that road). It's also not the most scenic drive in Hawaii-- a lot of flat lava fields that look like a moonscape until you get to the resort area. 

 

You are going to want to rent a car to do this-- Uber or taxi are going to be very expensive. Frankly not sure if I would personally spend 2 hours in the car for this if my time were limited to a day port visit. 

While I absolutely adore Waikoloa village, I second this. Just not enough time to enjoy it. Plus most of those hotels will charge you through the nose for parking. The small public beach parking is often full.

What about heading south a little ways? The scenery is more interesting for an afternoon outing. Are you into coffee? That's where all the Kona Coffee growers and tasting rooms are. 🙂

I am so glad someone recommended the Marriott. I forgot just how beautiful their courtyard is. And the gallery there hosts local artists who will often be working on original paintings and happy to chat about their work, Hawaii, etc. The hotel is really a fun yet peaceful stop to enjoy such a gorgeous island.