Prepare yourself for the most amazing experiences offered on two breathtaking islands: Hawaii and Kauai. Say “aloha” to a blue water summer adventure that embraces the sea and all of its activities. Snorkel waters that teem with dolphins, tropical fish, and sea turtles. SCUBA dive the Kona Coast, home of the best diving in all of the Hawaiian islands. Learn to sail in turquoise waters and follow by outrigger canoe the routes of the ancient Polynesian Kahunas. Step off the beaten path by working on a community service project, volunteering with local Hawaiians and learning the wisdom of the elders in a cultural learning exchange. You will come away with far more than the average tourist, and the memories of Hawaii and Kauai that will last a lifetime.
“I would like to thank ARCC and your incredible staff for the adventures you've provided my sons. Each of my sons has returned from their ARCC experience with confidence and a desire to experience more of the world. You accomplished your goal with each of them. Thank you for keeping them safe while letting them explore.”
— Parents of Gregory C.
Sailing Kona’s Coast
From Honolulu, we board a short flight to the Big Island of Hawaii. Kona provides a perfect launching point for our sailing adventure, with its calm clear water, ideal for snorkeling and learning to sail. We will study marine life and learn about sailing techniques on our 45-foot catamaran, and spend our nights camping on the beach under the stars.
SCUBA Diving Certification
Off the coast of Hawaii, we are welcomed to an underwater world of manta rays, turtles, eels, schools of butterfly fish, and a mosaic of other marine creatures. We spend five days becoming PADI SCUBA certified, diving with sea life found only in Hawaii. Students already certified can upgrade to a PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certification. All students wishing to SCUBA dive must pass a thorough diving physical and cannot have used an inhaler or suffered from asthma in the past three years. For those who do not wish to dive, alternative water activities are available.
Zodiac Raft Tour & Outrigger Canoeing
Following a short flight to the island of Kauai, we explore the Na Pali Coast up close by way of a thrilling zodiac raft tour. On this unique adventure we discover enchanting sea caves, waterfalls and secluded beaches. Next, we spend a day paddling an outrigger canoe, truly a symbol of Hawaii. In the wake of the ancient Polynesians, we learn from native Hawaiians how to paddle a conventional-style outrigger canoe in Hanalei Bay.
Hiking on Kauai
As the backdrop to countless films including JurassicPark, the Kauai coast and its 3,000 foot emerald cliffs are the essence of Hawaii. We leave behind the warm waters of the Pacific and hike through lush rainforest along the Na Pali Coast’s Kalalau trail. This trail takes us through breathtaking wilderness with beautiful Hanakapiai Falls as our destination.
Surfing & Hanalei Bay
Nothing soaks in the true spirit of Hawaii like surfing. The next three days under the sun we hone our skills as surfers, learning proper stance and paddling techniques from professional teachers. The beach breaks of Kauai are perfect for beginners, but challenging enough to reward those who are seasoned in the sport. Our Blue Water adventure ends with a final celebration and a flight back to Honolulu.
