From the tropical rainforests to the vibrant ocean reefs dancing with sea turtles and colorful fish, immerse yourself in two weeks of sheer beauty! Exploring two of the islands in the Hawaiian archipelago, Oahu and Hawaii (aka the Big Island), we learn what makes them each unique and why this small dot in the Pacific is such a renowned destination. Experience the rich history of this Polynesian culture, from participating in a traditional imu feast, to surfing. Dive into clear tropical waters with sea turtles, dolphins and manta rays. Witness the volcanic forces that continue to shape these islands. Sleeping under the stars in our private beachside paradise, we play games, share laughs and watch the sun rise and set across turquoise blue waters. Hike past towering waterfalls, wander through quaint beach towns and gaze down from stunning panoramic vistas.
Hawaii
Blue Water Adventures
15 days
Trip duration
7th & 8th
Grades
15 days
June 28 – July 12
July 18 – August 1
Kailua-Kona, HI
Arrival
Honolulu-Oahu, HI
Departure
$4,795
Tuition
15 days
Trip duration
June 28 – July 12
July 18 – August 1
7th & 8th
Grades
*Inter-island Airfare Included in Tuition Price
Overview
Highlights
- Witness Ancient Volcanic Lava Flows and Work Alongside Rangers in Volcanoes National Park
- Learn the Ancient Art of Hula and Traditional Hawaiian Cooking
- Come Face-to-Fin With Gentle Manta Rays During a Night Snorkel Off the Kona Coast
- Explore Iconic Hawaiian Trails and Viewpoints Including Diamond Head National Monument
- Surf the Perfect Wave Breaks of Oahu
- Protect Hawaii’s Ecosystem Alongside Grassroot Organizers and Embrace the Aloha Spirit
- Paddle a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe
- 15 Hours of Community Service
Adventure
Learn to paddle a Wa’a (Hawaiian outrigger canoe) and about how early Polynesian explorers navigated. Embark on a late night snorkel like no other, witnessing some of the ocean’s most peaceful and majestic creatures, coastal manta rays. Take to the ocean for a professional surf lesson with miles of beautiful wave breaks and world-class surfing on the Hawaiian islands. Hike across colorful sand beaches and over stunning volcanic landscapes.
Paddle and Surf
Cultural Connections
Learn about the important culture and history of this region and the many generations that have called it home. Help prepare a dinner using traditional Hawaiian cooking methods. Receive instruction from a local kumu (teacher) in the ancient art of Hula. Experience the hospitality and warmth of Hawaiian culture.
Culture
Community Projects
Learn about the various ecosystems in Hawaii, and participate in two projects that support the local community. Engage in hands-on science-based activities and curriculum on aquaponics (a system using the cycle of plants feeding fish and fish feeding plants) and vermicomposting (composting using worms). Work alongside Rangers in Volcanoes National Park removing invasive species. Gain a total of 20 hours of community service.
Service
Common Questions
Each program has a specific packing list that has been designed to fit the program’s activities, length, and climate.
ARCC has been operating programs in Hawaii for several years, and we have built relationships with a variety of individuals, small communities, and organizations who enjoy hosting ARCC student groups. The specific service projects that each group will work on depending on the needs of the communities at the time the groups are there. Possibilities include mentoring local schoolchildren, trail maintenance, beach clean-ups, assisting in the preservation of tropical plants, and outreach to populations struggling with homelessness.
You will sleep in tents on the beautiful beaches of Hawaii, or in private campgrounds surrounded by the lush greenery of the islands. All campgrounds have restroom facilities with showers and running water for cooking, washing hands, etc. You will sleep in groups of 3-4 in tents supplied by ARCC. Please make sure you check the Hawaii Clothing & Equipment List and remember to bring your own sleeping bag and pad.
Each group will travel together, with their two leaders, in a 15-passenger van. If you would like to bring music for these rides, feel free to bring a music player or CDs. If you bring an iPod or MP3 player, make sure to bring a radio adapter, as most of our vans do not have an MP3 jack.
Although you will not be doing traditional backpacking on this trip, it is important that you bring a backpack as your main piece of luggage. During the program, the group will be navigating through airports, on and off buses, up and down stairways, and taking short walks on unpaved paths to get to campsites. The group will be able to move much more efficiently if everyone is carrying their belongings on their back.
Have questions? Speak to one of our Program Directors, give them a call at (415) 332.5075 , they love talking about their trips!
