Background: Aloha! We are just back from the cruise and I can't say enough good things about my experience. I traveled with my husband (30 y/o), parents (55&56), and younger sister (21). We all have never been on a cruise or to Hawaii.
Flights: We are from Michigan so it was a long plane ride. My parents and sister arrived Wed before the cruise while my husband and I had to wait until Friday due to work schedule. From Chicago we took the 9 hr plane ride to Honolulu which I would recommend. Coming home we had two layovers which we were basically running to the gates just to board another flight.
Hotel: We all stayed at Park Shore Waikiki which was a great hotel. Its a little older however was just remodeled. The beach is right across the street and walking distance to all the shopping. We took Roberts Hawaii from the airport to hotel like $13 per person. They meet you at your gate and guide you to baggage claim. They even give you a shell lei which I thought you had to pay extra for. On Sat prior to the cruise my sister and I went to Sea Life Park to swim with the dolphins. We have never done that before and it was amazing.