We are signed up for a cruise next week that goes to several stops and stays the whole day or even two--Maui (kahului), Kaui (Nawiliwili), Hilo and Kona. Can anyone advise us about where would be interesting natural sights we could visit in a day? We are active middle agers, but not adventure travellers per se. We like snorkeling, walking, history, and wildlife. On any recommendation, can you also suggest an inexpensive way to get there and the approx costs? (ie. busses, local taxi). We don't want to do the cruiseline-based tours. Thanks!

Also we are getting from LAX to HNL on United in Y. Can anyone advise about the for-purchase meal on this flight? Would we be better off buying something in LA and packing it along? Anything else we should know about?

Thanks!

Here in KAUA'I, there is virtually nothing to do at Nawiliwili, where the boat docks. It isn't a very nice part of the island and is primarily industrial. You are stuck and captive. Perhaps the best way to get around would be to rent a car for the day (no, not moped). The car rentals will pick you up. Then you can have your choice of Waimea Canyon, Hanalei and the north shore, or a plethora of other choices. If you keep the car overnight, it costs $10 to park near the boat, although you could leave it in the nearby county park (questionably worth it, and not advisable late at night).

PS. Cabs in Hawaii will cost you a $$$ for short distances. Seriously, we were at Kahalui recently and went to the mall (nearly walking distance), perhaps a mile away. The metered fare was about $15 in each direction. Reminded me of taking a cab in Germany or Switzerland.

I'm quite sure that you'd be better off packing your own sandwich rather than eating the airline's provided food in Y.