Boston Flora

Tag: Kilauea

  • Sunday, April 27 – Saturday, May 3 – Tropical Treasures: Hawaii’s Garden Delights & Lei Day Festivities

    Embark on a breathtaking journey to the Hawaiian Islands of Kauai and Oahu with American Horticultural Society and host Keith Tomlinson. From ancient lava flows and craggy volcanic peaks to emerald river valleys and fluted sea cliffs, the Hawaiian Islands are an awe-inspiring horticultural and geological wonderland. Natural wonders on Kauai and Oahu include lush greenery, thundering waterfalls, deserts, rain forests, volcanoes, golden beaches, and more. Discover a wide range of natural habitats and a fascinating diversity of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and possibly humpback whales that migrate to Hawaiian waters for the winter. On relaxed hikes, search for elusive forest birds, sea birds, spectacular geologic formations, and eye-catching endemic plants. Spring is a time of celebration worldwide, and Hawaii distinguishes itself in unique and culturally rich ways on Lei Day. Experience a festive parade and Lei Day festival at Kapiolani Park in Honolulu, featuring a lei making competition, crafts on display, and hula performances. AHS Host Keith Tomlinson will provide insights from his time as a student at the University of Hawaii and work in the Botany Department at the Bishop Museum in Honolulu. An optional post-trip extension on the Big Island is also available. Email travel@ahsgardening.org to express interest and pre-register. Join an optional post-trip extension on the Big Island, including exploration of Kilauea volcano, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, and coffee and garden tours on the Kona coast.

  • Wednesday, May 10 – Wednesday, May 17 – Astronomy and Natural Wonders of Hawai’i

    Discover the wonders of the universe and marvel at Earth’s immense geological forces and the undersea world during this unique tour of the Hawaiian islands of Maui and Hawai’i.

    This unique natural history tour of Hawai’i with Smithsonian Journeys focuses on the wonders of the universe, the Earth’s immense geological forces, and the amazing world under the sea. Discover the islands of Maui and Hawai’i through the lens of astronomers, geologists, and marine scientists, and through native Hawaiian culture and history.

    Highlights Include

    • Maui: Ascend to the summit of Haleakala for a behind-the-scenes tour of one of the telescopes at the Haleakala Observatory site. Pan-STARRS utilizes very large digital cameras, telescopes, and computing facilities in its search for new asteroids, comets, and other celestial objects. Then enjoy spectacular vistas of Maui from Haleakala National Park. During a nature walk, marvel at the volcano’s moon-like crater and learn about endemic plants and native birds. Later, take a private tour of the Maui Ocean Center, where a marine biologist provides insight into this three-acre tropical reef aquarium and marine science center. And learn more about the night sky from an astronomer during a stargazing cruise aboard a catamaran in Ma’alaea Harbor.
    • Hawai’i: Trace the history of traditional Hawaiian celestial navigation during a curator-led tour of the Imiloa Astronomy Center and watch a planetarium show about the night skies. Stop in Hilo, a traditional Hawaiian town located on a picturesque bay on the windward side of the Big Island. Explore the farmers market, parks, shops, and visit one to the telescope headquarters located in Hilo to learn about the innovative research being done at the summit. (Should the Mauna Kea Observatory Complex be accessible, travelers will instead ascend to the summit and meet scientists at Smithsonian’s Submillimeter Array.) Gain insight from a resident geologist at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, home to Kilauea and Mauna Loa and the volcano goddess Pele. Observe the volcanic activity from Steaming Bluff and view exhibits at Kilauea Visitor Center. Descend along the Chain of Craters Road to view huge mounds of black lava flows. Take a walk in the North Kohala backcountry, known for its waterfalls and breathtaking views.
    • Accommodations: Enjoy stays at delightful hotels that feature spectacular views, luxurious pools, gardens, and beach, plus another stay near Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.

    For more information and pricing visit https://www.smithsonianjourneys.org/tours/hawaii-astronomy/itinerary/