Family self-drive tour of Hawaii's highlights

The whole family will be thrilled by your morning snorkeling adventure. Learn about the area's unique geology as you make your way to the snorkel site, where you will see marine life exploring the sea caves and lava tubes right alongside you.

Today, you may wish to relax in Waikoloa and observe the strange volcanic beauty of the island. You can drive north to the small town of Hawi or south to Kona. Split your time between visiting a local coffee plantation and a local chocolate farm. There's something for everyone on this part of the island.

On your family's schedule, move from the island's western side to the east. Arrive at your hotel in the heart of Volcanoes National Park and soak in the singular atmosphere of the area.

Today, you will be met by your private guide. He will take you around the park at your family's pace, and you can ask questions about the geology, landscape, culture, and history that have shaped this National Park.

After a leisurely breakfast make your way to the airport for your flight to Maui. On arrival pick up your rental car and drive to your oceanfront hotel, an idyllic location for the family to relax at for the next four nights.

Spend the day exploring all that Maui has to offer your family. Get adventurous and take a trip to Haleakalā National Park to see Maui's highest peak, or visit Iao Valley State Park, home to one of Maui's most recognizable landmarks, the 1,200 ft Iao Needle.

Today, the whole family will get the chance to see Maui's resident sea turtles swimming in the ocean off the coast of Makena Bay on the southwestern part of the island, with a chance to see the tropical fish and maybe even a black tip shark in the Molokini Crater. This afternoon, you might like to take the car and drive up to the top of Haleakalā Volcano, where you can watch the sunset.

Driving Maui's Road to Hāna can be a highlight of your visit to the island and can be explored at your own pace. The road is full of hairpin turns and scenic overlooks, framed by lush rainforest scenery and dotted with tumbling waterfalls. Hundreds of birds nest in the rainforest, and there are often small stalls selling treats or souvenirs at the various stops.

Return your car to the airport this morning and bid Hawaii farewell for your flight back to the US mainland. On arrival in LA it is easy to source a ride-share or taxi to get to your convenient Santa Monica hotel.

Enjoy the day at leisure exploring Santa Monica's many family-friendly attractions, including children's museums and an amusement park, or simply unwind by the beach before the journey home tomorrow.

Make your way to the Los Angeles Airport, an easy journey from Santa Monica, for your flight home.