Service Adventures

Sea Kayak Na Pali coastline

We begin our journey into the heart of Hawaii through an exploration of the Wailua River and Hanalei Bay (home of Puff the Magic Dragon!). Traveling in sea kayaks affords us the opportunity to explore and experience the verdant cliffs, sheltered beaches, sea caves, and secret waterfalls of the world's most spectacular shoreline. Kauai is called the Garden Island by many -- keep watch for the tropical flowers spilling forth from the valleys! We will practice our paddle strokes in the Wailua River as it winds into the heart of the Kauai jungle before testing our skills in the open water of the Pacific. In the evening, we'll camp on beaches along the way, watch the sun dip below the water, and savor this adventure in paradise.

Hiking -- Kauai

Trade in your water shoes for hiking boots and dive deeply into the valleys you admired from the coastline. The north shores of Kauai will astound you with its sculptured cliffs and arches and cascading waterfalls. During two hiking sections, you will explore lands discovered by the ancient Polynesians and camp on beaches rarely traveled by visitors. Cool off in freshwater pools after a day of hiking in the sun and learn about the "Spirit of Aloha" from Hawaiians you meet along the way. Climb atop a ridge for a breathtaking view of the coastline you just paddled and then sleep under a warm, star-filled sky.

Surfing – Poipu Beach in Kauai

Return to the water after your first backpacking section to ride the waves along the coastline in Poipu. Professional surfing instructors will guide you through the art of surfing from paddling out from shore to learning proper balance on your board and finally to catching that perfect wave. Instructors will be with you at all times to improve your skills in the summer's south swell. Enjoy dinners on the beach and say farewell to Kauai as you pack your bags for your next adventure on the Big Island.

Snorkeling -- The Big Island

Hop aboard a 36-foot catamaran to sail to pristine reefs for three full days of watching curious sea turtles and spinner dolphins through your snorkel mask. Interested students can learn the fundamentals of sailing while traveling to the reefs. After applying a heavy dose of sunscreen, dip into the Pacific Ocean for your first glimpse of Hawaiian marine life. In the cerulean blue waters around the Big Island, you'll have an opportunity to learn more about the diverse ecosystem that exists below the waters and watch in awe as its life swims by.

Backpacking in Waimanu -- The Big Island

Journey inland from the water's edge to explore the rainforests of the largest island of the archipelago -- the island of Hawaii, or The Big Island. As an experienced backpacker, navigate with ease through the dense forests under the rainforest canopy and re-discover the pleasures of simple travel that a backpacking trip affords. Immerse yourself in the ancient culture of Hawaii through its ruins and climb high above the valleys for breathtaking views of active volcanoes such as Mauna Loa or Mauna Kea. End your backpacking journey with a visit to Volcanoes National Park and watch the lava flows of Kilauea spill into the ocean. At the end of your adventure, spend the afternoon cleaning gear and exchanging addresses with friends who have become family. Under the fiery sunset on the beach, don a sarong if you have one for a traditional Hawaiian feast on your last evening together. Aloha!