From rainforests to coral reefs, adventure awaits on the Big Island
Surfing, snorkeling, sailing, zip lining, and hiking up volcanoes—the most epic outdoor activities you can do on our Hawai’i summer program! We will explore from the top of the Big Island’s parched volcanoes down to its verdant rainforests. We’ll swim with manta rays, exotic fish, and sea turtles, and we’ll learn how to help protect Hawaii’s fragile reef ecosystems. We will work with locals and give back to their communities with various service projects aimed at learning about the region’s ecology and connecting with community members. We’ll hike to thundering waterfalls and get up close and personal with wild dolphins!
Length
16 DAYS
Download the Sample Itinerary
Curious what a Bold Earth Hawai’i trip looks like? Download a sample itinerary to get a feel for the types of activities, destinations, and experiences your adventure may include. Every trip is a little different — that’s part of the magic — but this will give you a great sense of what’s in store!
What You'll
experience
Everything You Need for Adventure
Preparing for your child’s adventure is an exciting journey! We’ve compiled all the essential information you need to ensure a smooth experience. From paperwork to packing tips, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Included
- All meals and camping accommodations (17 nights)
- Professional instruction for all activities
- Technical gear and equipment
- Transportation during the trip
- Experienced Bold Earth trip leaders
- Entry fees to all parks and attractions
What to Bring
- Personal clothing and toiletries
- Sleeping bag and personal camping gear
- Travel to/from Hawai’i (flights not included)
Accommodations
All campgrounds feature running water and bathroom facilities. Bold Earth provides comfortable 4-person tents.
Trip Preparation
Getting ready for your adventure is part of the excitement! Join a Bold Earth summer director in the spring for a webinar about preparing for our domestic trips. Your Trip Leader will call you two days prior to departure to help you feel confident and prepared for your Bold Earth experience.
You’ll receive a comprehensive preparation information that includes:
- Detailed packing lists specific to Hawai’i’s varied climates
- Physical preparation recommendations to get the most out of your adventure
- Travel information and arrival/departure logistics
- What to expect on your first day and throughout the trip
- Tips for going tech-free and making the most of your unplugged experience
Our goal is to make sure you feel excited and ready to dive into 18 days of epic Hawai’i adventure with your new Bold Earth crew!
...What Past Adventurers Say
“I love that the kids can disconnect from technology and build relationships with each other. I love that the kids plan meals and cook together. [My daughter] said she has 4 new best friends and they are planning on a reunion in October already! All the adventures were so much fun. The counselors are highly qualified and wonderful role models. This camp is top notch! Worth every penny!”
What Past Adventurers Say
“My son’s experience during the Ultimate Hawaii Adventure was incredible. Even though we didn’t get to talk until mid trip, I knew he was having an amazing trip from looking at the photos that were posted and reading the blogs. He was so happy, big smiles, and just being silly.”
FAQS
Find answers to your questions about our adventure programs and get ready for an amazing experience!
What's the physical fitness requirement?
Bold Earth is designed as an active camp for teenagers. You don’t have to be an elite athlete to participate, but we do recommend regular aerobic exercise for at least a month before your trip to get the most out of your Bold Earth experience. Walking, jogging, swimming, or riding a bike are all great ways to prepare for your summer adventure!
What gear do I need to bring?
All technical equipment is provided. You’ll find a complete packing list specific to this adventure in your enrollment materials.
What about weather and seasons?
The weather in Hawaii is spectacular, but we still need to be prepared for afternoon showers and some chilly nights in the valleys. Good rain gear is very important in Hawaii. The Big Island can have varying day and nighttime temperatures ranging from 65°F to 90°F.
What are the arrival and departure windows for this trip?
For all Hawaii trips, students will fly into and out of Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) in Keahole, Hawaii. They will need to arrive at KOA between 1 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. the first day of their trip, and depart KOA between 1 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. the last day of their trip.
Our trip leaders will be awaiting each of our students’ arrivals in the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport. As per airline regulations, we greet every student who flies as an unaccompanied minor at the gate. For all other, non-UM students, please follow your group off the plane down to baggage claim, where one or both of our trip leaders will be waiting. Students will call home as soon as they meet with our group and gather their baggage.
Please do not book flights until your child has been officially accepted and enrolled on their Dolomites trip and you’ve received the detailed travel guidelines.
Explore More Adventures
Looking for longer or gap programs? Check out our sister program, ARCC Programs
time to be bold
Your Hawai'i Adventure Awaits
We’re excited to welcome you into the Bold Earth community! Questions about Hawai’i? Call us at +1 828-435-3971 or email info@boldearth.com. You can also join one of our Info Sessions to learn more about what makes our adventures special.
Ready to apply? Complete our enrollment form to secure your spot on this incredible Hawai’i adventure.
