*Please note the itinerary listed below is the intended itinerary for this trip. No two trips are exactly the same. All itineraries are subject to change to ensure the best possible program experience. Weather, group dynamics, new opportunities, and the unpredictability of travel all shape the final trip itinerary - and it's all part of the adventure!

ARRIVAL (DAY 1)

After meeting at the airport in Kona, transfer to accommodations and spend the evening getting to know each other and our new home.

BIG ISlaND BEES (DAY 2)

Today, we rise with the sun for a morning swim through Kona’s crystal blue waters. Swimming in the gentle pacific waves, we keep our eyes peeled for spinner dolphins, green turtles, and manta rays. We enjoy lunch on the beach and then head over to Big Island Bees to learn about the importance of pollinators and beekeeping on the Island.

SURF AND BEACH DAY! (DAY 3)

On day 3, we challenge ourselves to an introductory surf class in Kona before heading North to Hapuna Beach, one of the island’s most famous beaches, for an afternoon of snorkeling and hiking along the enchanting coastline.

AKAKA STATE FALLS AND RAINBOW FALLS (DAYS 4-5)

Relocating to the east side of the Big Island, we hike through the lush tropical rainforest, passing wild ferns, orchids, and bamboo stalks, before arriving at the impressive 400 ft Akaka waterfall. We also visit Rainbow Falls, a waterfall that cascades over a lava cave and is rumoured to be home to the ancient Hawaiian goddess of the moon.

community service (DAYS 6-7)

Work with a local organization to support animal welfare for rescue animals. Take part in their efforts to care for dogs and cats, and support their community outreach efforts.

EXPLORE HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK (DAY 8)

We spend our next day adventuring alongside volcanic craters, scalded deserts, rainforests, live lava, and petroglyphs in Volcanoes National Park.

SNORKELING (DAY 9)

Now on the western side of the island, snorkel in the beautiful waters of Kealakekua Bay. Immerse yourself in the marine life of Hawaii!

COFFEE TOUR, GREEN SAND BEACH, AND HULA LESSONS (DAYS 10-11)

Making the most of our time in Ka’u, we learn the ropes of coffee farming on a local farm, hike to the world-renowned Papakōlea Green Sand Beach, and learn the cultural significance and traditional Hula dance moves from a Kumu Hula. 

COMMUNITY SERVICE AND LUAU CELEBRATION (DAYS 11-12)

We get our hands dirty and join forces with a local environmental organization for several days of volunteering and learning. Support environmental conservation through removal of invasive species, citizen science data collection, and other projects. In the evening, we celebrate our journey and experience a traditional Hawaiian Luau.

PUNALU’U BLACK SANDS BEACH (DAY 13)

Our last full day in Hawaii sees us to the most famous black sand beach in Hawaii, Punalu’u. Here, we complete a short hike and keep our eyes peeled for the hawksbill and green turtles sunning on the beach. We learn from our local guide about the environmental history and cultural significance of turtles and soak up the sun while we can.

HOMEWARD BOUND (DAY 14)

Say goodbye to new friends before embarking on the journey back home.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Check out #bigislandrlt and follow @therlt on Instagram for a behind-the-scenes look at photos from past participants and leaders.