Hawaii

Snorkeling, Surfing & Submarines in Hawaii With Your Grandchild

Program No. 4827RJ

Get your feet wet with your grandchild on a marine adventure through the islands as you surf, snorkel and ride a submarine through the warm, tropical waters of Hawaii.

Wishlist

Start

Enroll with Confidence

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more

Protecting the Environment

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more

Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768

Plan ahead.

What kind of weather can you expect? Take a look!

Age 10 - 14

	ROOMING OPTION PRICING The figures below indicate the rooming options available.
DATES
Jun 15 - Jun 23, 2024 Per Adult 4,999 Per Child 3,799 Select
Jun 15 - Jun 23, 2024	4,999 / Adult 3,799 / Child	4,999 / Adult 3,799 / Child	6,199 / Adult 3,799 / Child	Select Date

Jul 6 - Jul 14, 2024 Per Adult 4,999 Per Child 3,799 Select
Jul 6 - Jul 14, 2024	4,999 / Adult 3,799 / Child	4,999 / Adult 3,799 / Child	6,199 / Adult 3,799 / Child	Select Date

Deposit, Transfer & Cancellation Policy

Program Terms & Conditions

Snorkeling, Surfing & Submarines in Hawaii With Your Grandchild

Program No. 4827RJ Deposit at Enrollment: 250 Final payment due: 77 days before departure date

Transfer & Cancellation Policy

Note: These fees apply to at least one date of this program, but may vary by date.

If you transfer or cancel:

fee will be applied if you do not call Road Scholar Participant Services at least one business day prior to the program start date

Cancel Fee: 100% of trip total

less than 30 days prior to program start date

Transfer Fee: 100% of trip total

Cancel Fee: 100% of trip total

66 to 30 days prior to program start date

Transfer Fee: 50% of trip total

Cancel Fee: 50% of trip total

up to 67 days prior to program start date

Transfer Fee: $0.00

Cancel Fee: $250.00

If you transfer or cancel:	Transfer Fee:	Cancel Fee:
fee will be applied if you do not call road scholar participant services at least one business day prior to the program start date		100% of trip total
less than 30 days prior to program start date	100% of trip total	100% of trip total
66 to 30 days prior to program start date	50% of trip total	50% of trip total
up to 67 days prior to program start date	$0.00	$250.00

COVID-19 Vaccination Policy

We require all Road Scholar participants, including children, to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, and have at least one booster shot, if eligible.

Road Scholar Program Terms and Conditions

How to Enroll in a Program

Call Us or Enroll Online To enroll

Please call us toll free at (877) 426-8056, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET. You may also enroll online at www.roadscholar.org. To reserve space on a program, Road Scholar requires a deposit followed by final payment.

Road Scholar is Not-For-Profit

Road Scholar is a not-for-profit 501 (c)(3) organization that incurs over $5 million annually on credit card fees. Please help us reduce this cost by paying for your program with a check. Please consider our paperless check option when paying on the phone or over the Internet. Our Advisors are happy to explain this payment option to you.

Tax-Deductible Donations

As a not-for-profit organization, we appreciate and rely on charitable donations to help us develop and maintain high-quality educational programs with exceptional value. Donations from U.S. citizens are tax-deductible as provided by law. As Road Scholar is not a registered charity in Canada, donations are not tax deductible for Canadian citizens.

Financial Assistance

Road Scholar offers two kinds of assistance: Scholarships, for those with desire but not the financial means to participate in our U.S.- or Canada-based learning adventures; and Caregiver Grants, designed to provide a unique respite opportunity for unpaid family caregivers to participate in a U.S.- or Canada-based Road Scholar program. Visit www.roadscholar.org/about/financial-assistance/scholarships, email us at scholarships@roadscholar.org, or call us toll free at (877) 426-8056.

General Program Information

Activity Level Ratings

Each Road Scholar program is assigned an Activity Level rating, ranging from Easy Going to Challenging, which are noted on program webpages. Try our Advanced Search tool to find programs that match your activity level. If you have special needs, or need a little extra help in finding the right program for your level of fitness and ambition, please call us and we’ll work to find options for you.

Disabilities and Special Needs

Road Scholar is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to participants with special needs and disabilities. If you have special needs requiring accommodation, please communicate them to Road Scholar at the time of enrollment. We will discuss your request with you and make every effort to accommodate you.

Service Learning

Our Service Learning programs bring participants together to work as a team to serve worthy projects. Road Scholar and sponsoring service institutions are not-for-profit organizations and are tax-exempt under Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The program price may qualify as a tax-deductible gift. However, since individual circumstances vary, we suggest participants contact their tax advisors.

Included Emergency Assistance and Medical Evacuation Insurance

Road Scholar’s continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified in our Road Scholar Assurance Plan. Whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our programs overseas, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under the Road Scholar Assurance Plan. This plan is purchased by Road Scholar on behalf of every participant. The plan provides 24-hour assistance in the event of an emergency during your program and insurance for emergency medical evacuation. This plan includes insurance benefits underwritten by Arch Insurance Company and emergency assistance services provided by LiveTravel Assist. To learn more about this plan, including its terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions, and to view and download a certificate of insurance, please visit: www.roadscholar.org/about/included-insurance/

Travel Health

In addition to maintaining necessary vaccinations, including seasonal influenza vaccination, Road Scholar recommends all participants consult with their physician, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Department of State regarding their health condition and any recommendations specific to the destinations they will visit or transit well before departure. While Road Scholar does its best to provide pertinent information regarding international health requirements and travel health precautions for travel abroad, please remember we are not health experts and can only share with you the recommendations made by the CDC and the US Department of State. It It is therefore your responsibility to consult with your physician and/or contact the CDC for health information specific to your travel destination. Your physician will be able to assess your overall health and fitness, provide information and guidance on health risks you may encounter while traveling, medication you may need to take, and other precautions for the prevention of injury and illness during your program.

Here is guidance from the Centers for Disease Control on how to avoid contracting and spreading an illness.

Only travel if you are healthy. Stay home if you are sick, displaying any symptoms of potential sickness.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

For those looking for additional resources on this topic, we recommend trusted sources such as your physician, the US Department of State, CDC, and WHO.

U.S. Department of State: www.travel.state.gov
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): www.cdc.gov/travel
World Health Organization (WHO): www.who.int/

Your health and safety are of the utmost importance to us. To learn more about Road Scholar’s commitment to our participants’ well-being and the steps you can take to keep yourself healthy when traveling, please visit www.roadscholar.org/practical-information/general-health-safety/

Please also be sure to review our Travel Updates webpage for the latest travel information, steps we are taking to keep your program experience as safe as possible, as well as helpful information about how to prepare for your upcoming program and what to expect once you're there. www.roadscholar.org/practical-information/travel-updates/

Domestic Travel Arrangements

Programs in the United States and Canada require independent arrivals and departures unless otherwise stated, meaning that you must make your own travel arrangements to and from the program site. If you are flying to your program, you will be responsible for getting yourself from the airport to the starting location of your program and returning to the airport at the end. Please keep in mind that many airlines assess penalties if you need to change or cancel your ticket— up to 100 percent of the ticket price in certain cases — for which you will be responsible. Please also be aware that Road Scholar may occasionally have to alter a program in a way that affects flight schedules, and you will be responsible for changing your flight arrangements and paying applicable fees. For the greatest protection, we recommend waiting until 60 days prior to your program in the United States or Canada to purchase airfare.

International Travel Arrangements

Road Scholar Can Help Arrange Your International Airfare

Almost all of our international programs can be purchased with airfare arranged by Road Scholar. We have negotiated special international rates with major airlines. A list of departure cities can be found by visiting our website or calling to speak with one of our experienced Advisors. As an added benefit, guaranteed airport transfers on the program’s published start and end date are included with your international air travel when arranged through Road Scholar. If your preferred airport is not listed, or you would like to travel on a different day, travel in premium or business class, specify the airline or routing, or travel independently before or after our program, we are happy to customize and create a personalized air travel itinerary to meet your needs. Select the “Custom Flight Arrangements” option and then the airport you want, or discuss your flight preferences with one of our expert air Travel Advisors.

Arranging Your Own International Airfare

If you choose to make your own international air travel arrangements, you will be responsible for getting yourself from the airport to the starting location of your program and returning to the airport at the end. Please keep in mind that many airlines assess penalties if you need to change or cancel your ticket— up to 100 percent of the ticket price in certain cases — for which you will be responsible. Please also be aware that Road Scholar may occasionally have to alter a program in a way that affects flight schedules, and you will be responsible for changing your flight arrangements and paying applicable fees. For the greatest protection, we recommend waiting until 90 days prior to your International program to purchase airfare,

Road Scholar Optional Trip Protection with “Cancel for Any Reason” Coverage

The optional Road Scholar Trip Protection Plan helps protect your investment if you must cancel or interrupt your program for specified, covered reasons, such as illness or injury to you, your traveling companion or an immediate family member of you or your traveling companion. Plus, if you need to cancel your program for any reason not covered by insurance, you will receive a credit good for future travel with Road Scholar for the full amount of the Road Scholar cancellation fee. The plan also provides benefits if you are delayed getting to or returning home from your program and protects your investment should you have an emergency during your program that causes you to miss program days or return home earlier than expected. Your airfare, whether purchased through Road Scholar or independently, is covered at no additional cost — an exceptional benefit and value offered exclusively to Road Scholar participants. You will receive information about this optional travel insurance plan when you enroll in a program. To learn more about this plan, including its terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions, and to view and download a certificate of insurance, please visit: www.roadscholar.org/about/protection-plan.

Additional Program Information

Our goal is to make sure our participants have the most enjoyable and rewarding program experience possible. Whether you are considering one of Road Scholar’s many educational adventures or are currently enrolled in a program, we highly recommend you review the additional program information available in the Practical Information section on our website. The section includes a wide range of topics and information -- everything from how to choose the perfect program to traveling solo to insurance. Please visit www.roadscholar.org/practical-information, or call us if you have specific questions. After you enroll in a program, please be sure to carefully read all pre-program communications and your Program preparatory materials, as they provide important information about how to prepare for your upcoming program and what to expect once you're there.

Program Policies

Deposit, Transfer and Cancellation Policy

Road Scholar requires deposits for all its programs, and charges fees if you transfer or cancel your enrollment. Deposits and fees vary between programs. Please refer to the Deposit, Transfer & Cancellation Policy on program webpages for specific deposit amounts, and transfer and cancellation fee schedules.

About Program Details and Itineraries

We make every effort to operate our programs as advertised. The information on our website is updated regularly, and reflects the most up to date information. We are committed to providing participants with final program details no later than three weeks before the start of land programs within the United States, four weeks for programs International and Afloat programs. and one week for online programs. However, itineraries or other aspects of a program may change due to situations beyond the control. If this happens we will do our best to notify you of the change prior to arriving on your program. We ask you to pack a little extra patience and flexibility, just in case there are last-minute changes to your program.

If Road Scholar Cancels or Interrupts a Program

Road Scholar reserves the right to cancel programs prior to departure, terminate a program early, and to take action as needed on an individual or group basis when, in Road Scholar’s opinion, the health, safety or well-being of participants requires such action. Additionally, due to low enrollment or other unforeseen circumstances, Road Scholar must occasionally cancel or change the dates of a program. When that occurs we will notify you as far in advance as possible and will assist you in transferring your enrollment to another program or refunding your full Road Scholar program payment. If you have made transportation arrangements, such as an airline ticket purchase, Road Scholar will give you a credit good for future travel with Road Scholar to help cover the cost of transferring your travel arrangements for use on a replacement program. The maximum value of the credit will be $300 and documentation of your paid fees is required before issuance of the credit.

Accuracy of Information

While every effort is made to provide accurate information on our website and in our catalogs, Road Scholar is not responsible for typographical errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may relate to program descriptions, pricing, and availability. Road Scholar reserves the right to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may appear in our publications, and to change or update information at any time without prior notice. If you discover an error on our website or catalog, please let us know.

Program Pricing

As a not-for-profit organization, we are dedicated to providing exceptional educational opportunities at a remarkable value. We do everything in our power to ensure that the published program price is the price you pay. On occasion, costs we can’t anticipate and that are beyond our control arise and may be passed along to you. If this occurs, we will let you know as soon as possible.

Terms and Conditions

Program Selection
We want every participant to have a safe, enjoyable and rewarding program experience. The travel and activities of Road Scholar programs require participants to be in good general health and capable of performing all program activities as described by the program description and its corresponding Activity Level. As a group travel experience, participants must be capable of caring for themselves during the program and agree not to impede the progress of the program or interfere with the enjoyment of other participants. Participants are required to disclose known medical and physical conditions that may interfere with their safety and well being or the safety and well being of others during this program. Road Scholar may limit or terminate the participation in the program at the participant’s expense and without refund any participants who fail to disclose all medical information or do not honestly assess their physical capabilities in advance. With this information in mind, carefully consider the travel and program demands as described on the Road Scholar website, and consult with your physician about your travel plans. If after enrolling you have second thoughts about the program you chose, please call us and we will be happy to assist you in finding a program better suited to your abilities.

Responsibility

Road Scholar’s responsibility is limited. Road Scholar organizes, promotes, and sells educational programs consisting of certain travel services, including land, air, and water transportation, excursions, and cruise/barge/hotel accommodations that Road Scholar purchases or reserves from various suppliers (collectively, “Suppliers”). Road Scholar neither owns nor operates any of these Suppliers; they are independent contractors and are not Road Scholar’s agents. Therefore, Road Scholar is not responsible for any negligent or willful act or failure to act of any Supplier or any other third party. You agree that you will look to such Suppliers, and not to Road Scholar or its agents, for any accident, injury, property damage, or personal loss you may suffer. Without limitation, Road Scholar is not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage to person or property, death, delay, or inconvenience in connection with the provision of, or failure to provide, any goods or services occasioned by or resulting from — but not limited to — acts of God or force majeure, acts of war or civil unrest, insurrection or revolt, strikes or other labor activities, criminal or terrorist activities of any kind, mechanical or other failure of airplanes or other means of transportation, or the failure of any transportation mechanism to arrive or depart on time, or for any other cause beyond the direct control of Road Scholar.

Safety & Risks

Certain risks — from natural disasters to accidents, outbreaks of illness, crime, insect-borne and other infectious diseases, environmental risks to health, terrorism and other unforeseen events — are inherent in travel. While such occurrences are beyond our control, we make substantial efforts to be prepared for such possibilities. Participants are encouraged to review the safety and travel information provided by the U.S. Department of State and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to learn about current security issues, travel advisories and warnings, recent embassy notices, country-specific health information, health risks you may encounter while traveling, precautions for the prevention of illness, disease and general health issues during your program and other helpful destination-specific information. By enrolling in a program, you agree to assume responsibility for your own health, safety, and welfare, and acknowledge that Road Scholar cannot guarantee your safety or health at any time.

Admission & Participation Policy

The granting or denial of admission to a program is within the sole discretion of Road Scholar. Road Scholar reserves the right to revoke admission or terminate or limit participation at any time if Road Scholar reasonably determines a participant’s condition, behavior or actions are inappropriate or disruptive, or adversely affect the participant’s health or safety, or the health, safety or enjoyment of other participants. Road Scholar reserves the right to take action as needed on an individual or group basis when, in Road Scholar’s sole opinion, the health, safety or well-being of participants requires such action.

Photography and Video

Road Scholar reserves the right to take photographs, videos or audio/visual recordings during the operation of any program or part thereof and to use them, whether taken by a representative of Road Scholar or by other participants, for promotional purposes. By enrolling in a Road Scholar program, participants agree to allow their images or recordings to be used for such purposes. Participants who prefer that their images or recordings not be used are asked to identify themselves to program staff and the photographer at the commencement of their program. For Road Scholar online programs, all audio or video recordings, content and materials are the property of Road Scholar. Participants are prohibited from taking screen captures, or making, copying or distributing all or part of any audio or video recordings of online programs.

Online Program Terms

If you enroll in one of Road Scholar’s online programs, you are responsible for the integrity of the device on which you will attend this online program, as well as your own high-speed internet connection. Road Scholar is not responsible for outages or interruptions in internet service. Road Scholar cannot and will not provide recordings, content or materials, or provide reimbursement of any kind, for missed portion(s) of your online program, regardless of the reason.

Seller of Travel Information

Road Scholar’s state of Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 602244658. CST #2068427-40. Florida Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST35594.

Modifications to Terms and Conditions

Road Scholar reserves the right at any time to update, change, modify, or revise these Terms and Conditions at any time. Any changes will become effective upon posting the changes, modifications or revisions to the Terms and Conditions. Accordingly, participants should review Road Scholar’s Terms and Conditions regularly prior to travel in order to ensure they are aware of any changes.

© 2023 Elderhostel. All rights reserved. The Road Scholar service marks, logos, website address and other marks are owned by Elderhostel, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to inspiring adults to learn, discover and travel.

Optional Trip Protection Plan

Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768

9 days

8 nights

18 meals

8B 3L 7D

Check-in, Registration, Welcome Dinner, Introductions

Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

Orientation, Surfing & Wave Riding, Free Time

Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

Submarine Adventure, Local Paina

Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

Surfing & Wave Riding, Fly to Hilo, Big Island

Hilo, Big Island of Hawaii

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Transfer to Kona

Kona, Big Island of Hawaii

Marine Environment, Tidepools & Snorkeling, Free Time, Luau

Kona, Big Island of Hawaii

Kona Coast Snorkel & Sail

Kona, Big Island of Hawaii

Kealekekua Bay Snorkel, Farewell Dinner

Kona, Big Island of Hawaii

Program Concludes

Kona, Big Island of Hawaii

View Full Itinerary

At a Glance

Ride the Hawaiian waves with your grandchild, and dive beneath them to explore life under the sea! This marine adventure with your grandkid will bring you face to fin with a rainbow of tropical fish as you snorkel through coral reefs. Discover sunken ships, sea turtles and maybe even a shark aboard a passenger submarine. Learn about Polynesian culture during “paina” dinner party and surf culture during lessons in Waikiki on this aquatic island expedition.

Activity Level

Outdoor: Spirited

Walking two miles over uneven varied terrain, stairs. Climbing in and out of water on beaches, flat rock surfaces and a boat. Get on/off bus several times a day. Elevations up to 4,100 feet.

Best of all, you’ll…

Explore the world beneath the warm Hawaiian waters in a real submarine, and swim with sea turtles on a snorkeling adventure.
Learn to surf with your grandchild, and ride the waves in an outrigger canoe.
Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home of the active Kilauea volcano!

General Notes

Program is for grandchildren ages 10-14. Snorkeling equipment included, however, personal snorkeling gear encouraged for best fit. For a comparable family adventure for all generations, check out "Hawaiian Water Adventure: A Family Marine Exploration" (#20992). Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available.

Suggested Reading List (27 books)

Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop

You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.

Search for a Title

Nation Within, The History of the American Occupation of Hawai'i

by Tom Coffman

Coffman follows the rising tensions between the U.S. and the once-independent Hawaii through the late 19th century, documenting how the native population resisted annexation.

From a Native Daughter, Colonialism and Sovereignty in Hawaii

by Haunani-Kay Trask

Trask, a descendant of the Pi'ilani line of Maui and the Kahakumakaliua line of Kauai, explores issues of racism and imperialism in Hawaii, documenting the work of native Hawaiian student organizations and the native Hawaiian self-governing organization Ka Lahuni Hawaii.

Hawaii's Story by Hawaii's Queen

by Liliuokalani

A poignant plea for sovereignty. Queen Liliuokalani, deposed by the United States in 1893, tells the story of her islands.

Captive Paradise, A History of Hawaii

by James L. Haley

A fascinating history of America’s youngest (and, arguably, most unique) state. Historian and biographer James Haley charts Hawaii’s epic journey from kingdom to statehood with authority.

Hawaii

by James Michener

A romantic, fictional overview of the islands' history, people and culture from prehistoric times to statehood in 1959.

The Island Edge of America, A Political History of Hawaii

by Tom Coffman

Journalist Tom Coffman brings Hawaii's story into the twentieth century through this reinterpretation of major events leading up to and following statehood in 1959.

Eyewitness Guide Hawaii

by Eyewitness Guides

An on-the-ground guide to the Hawaiian Islands -- handsome, comprehensive and superb.

Dismembering Lahui, A History of the Hawaiian Nation to 1887

by Jon Kamakawiwoole Osorio

Osorio charts the effects of Western law on the national identity of Native Hawaiians in this political history of the Kingdom of Hawaii from the onset of constitutional government in 1840 to the Bayonet Constitution of 1887.

Sand to Sea, Marine Life of Hawaii

by Ed Robinson (Photographer), Ann Fielding, Stephanie Feeney

Young readers will dive right into this lively, illustrated introduction to the animal and plant life they'll find on the beaches, tide pools and reefs of Hawaii. Geared to both kids and adults, this is a nice introduction for the whole family.

Hawaii, Islands Under the Influence

by Noel J. Kent

A history of economic development in the islands from sandalwood and whaling to sugar, tourism and Japanese investment in the 1980s.

Voyage to the Volcano

by Judith Bauer Stamper

From the popular Magic School Bus series. Ms. Frizzle takes her class to Hawaii, for an explosive tour of a live volcano.

Hawaii Wildlife

by James Kavanagh

A fold-up, laminated card featuring color drawings and short descriptions of commonly encountered birds, mammals and other critters of Hawaii.

Aloha Betrayed

by Noenoe K. Silva

Silva draws on newspapers, books, letters and contemporary accounts in Hawaiian for this eye-opening account of popular resistance to the annexation of Hawaii by the United States.

Stowaway

by Karen Hesse

For this novel, renowned children's author Karen Hesse imagines the voyages of Captain Cook (including landings in Australia and New Zealand), from the point of view of a young stowaway named Nicholas. Ages 9-14.

Hawaii, Travellers' Wildlife Guides

by Les Beletsky

This all-around field guide features color illustrations of commonly encountered birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and fish with notes on Hawaii's geology and popular parks and reserves.

Hawaiian Legends of the Guardian Spirits

by Caren Loebel-Fried

Ancient legends are brought to life in 60 beautiful block prints, many vibrantly colored, and narrated in a lively "read-aloud" style, just as storytellers of old may have told them hundreds of years ago.

Pearl Harbor Ghosts, The Legacy of December 7, 1941

by Thurston Clarke

A well-researched and evocative look at the bombing of Pearl Harbor by a veteran travel writer. Clarke compares and contrasts the social life and culture of Hawaii on the day of the bombing and sixty years later, enumerating the changes wrought by WWII.

Volcanoes, Fire From the Earth

by Maurice Krafft

By the great French volcanologist (who died on the job on Mount Unzen in Japan in 1992), this pocket guide features hundreds of full-color paintings and traces the study of volcanoes from early myth and legend to modern science.

The Food of Paradise, Exploring Hawaii's Culinary Heritage

by Rachel Laudan

Laudan takes readers on a thoughtful, wide-ranging tour of Hawaii's farms and gardens, fish auctions and vegetable markets, fairs and carnivals, mom-and-pop stores and lunch wagons to uncover the delightful complexities and incongruities in Hawaii's culinary history. With 150 recipes.

Into The Volcano

by Donna O'Meara

O'Meara's lively, illustrated eyewitness accounts of adventures in volcanology include Arenal in Costa Rica, Kilauea in Hawaii and Stromboli off the coast of Italy. Geared for grades 5 to 8, this is a great introduction to volcanoes for the whole family.

Mark Twain's Letters from Hawaii

by Mark Twain

These observant and often wildly hilarious letters from an 1866 trip display Twain's famous wit.

Under the Blood Red Sun

by Graham Salisbury

This novel set on Oahu immediately before, during and after the Japanese assault on Pearl Harbor features as its protagonist a 13-year-old Japanese-American boy. The book is a sensitive treatment of a grave collision of cul-tures, geared for kids ages 9 to 12.

Paradise Remade, The Politics of Culture and History in Hawaii

by Elizabeth Bentzel Buck

By focusing on the experience of the indigenous people of Hawaii rather than on that of their colonizers, Buck considers the transformation of Hawaiian culture over the past 200 years.

Plague And Fire, Battling Black Death And the 1900 Burning of Honolulu's Chinatown

by James C. Mohr

Mohr relates the gripping tale of the bubonic plague that reached Hawaii's shores just as the islands were about to become a U.S. territory through the eyes of the people caught up in the vast conflagration that engulfed Honolulu's Chinatown.

Born in Paradise

by Armine von Tempski

The autobiographical tale of childhood on a Maui ranch in the early part of this century. A classic account of old Hawaii, warm-spirited and evocative.

Hawaiian Islands Map

by Nelles

A map of all the individual Hawaiian Islands, including maps of O'ahu, Kaua'i, Maui, Moloka'i and Lana'i at 1:150,000 and of Hawai'i at 1:330,000. Includes an inset map of Waikiki.

Hawaiian Mythology

by Martha Warren Beckwith

A classic study of Hawaiian ethnography and folklore.

Start Enrolling

Print All

Map details are not available for this location.

View Map

Expand All

9 days

8 nights

18 meals

8 B 3 L 7 D

DAY

Check-in, Registration, Welcome Dinner, Introductions

Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

Waikiki Resort Hotel

Activity note: Hotel check-in available from 3:00 p.m.

Afternoon: Program Registration: 3:00 p.m. After you check in and have your room assignment, join us at the Road Scholar table in the lobby to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Welcome Dinner. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived.

Dinner: Welcome Dinner

Evening: Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

DAY

Orientation, Surfing & Wave Riding, Free Time

Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

B,L,D

Waikiki Resort Hotel

Activity note: Walking up to 2 miles on pavement, sandy beach and uneven terrain. Surfing lessons and canoe-wave riding for approximately 3 hours. Previous knee, back, neck, shoulder injuries may impact your ability to join surf lessons.

Breakfast: At hotel

Morning: Orientation. The Group Leader will greet everyone and review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. We will review COVID-19 protocols and will adhere to applicable requirements and guidelines throughout the program. We will learn from a series of local experts who will give lectures and lead field trips. Meals will primarily be served at hotels and local restaurants with some picnic lunches and some meals on your own to explore local fare and venues of your choice. Travel and transfers will be via bus, motorcoach, and/or van depending on local conditions and schedules at the time of the program. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/current conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Next, we’ll put on our bathing suits and go on a short walk to the beach for instructions from Waikiki’s highly trained surf instructors. We’ll practice popular local beach activities including surfing and outrigger canoe wave-riding.

Lunch: At a local restaurant

Afternoon: At leisure to explore Waikiki or relax at the beach.

Dinner: At a local restaurant

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

Submarine Adventure, Local Paina

Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

B,D

Waikiki Resort Hotel

Activity note: Getting on/off a bus; driving about 70 miles, approximately 2 hours including stops. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day; some uneven terrain, dirt trails, pavement.

Breakfast: At hotel

Morning: We’ll depart by bus to explore the underwater ocean world off Waikiki in a passenger submarine. We’ll dive up to 100 feet and see the marine environment including tropical fish, sea turtles, sharks, reefs, sunken ships, and other underwater artifacts seen. As the marine animals are in their free flowing natural habitat, what we’ll see is different each day. We’ll return back to the hotel, where you will have free time until we depart for our afternoon activity.

Lunch: This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Afternoon: Mid-afternoon, we will travel on bus to a taro farm for a cultural experience and dinner with a local Hawaiian group. We will "talk story" and learn about the aina (land) through the eyes of a Hawaiian.

Dinner: You are invited to traditional island-style paina (gathering) hosted by a local Hawaiian group for dinner.

Evening: We will continue our cultural exchange after dinner and ride back to hotel mid-evening. Prepare for check-out and flight transfer tomorrow.

DAY

Surfing & Wave Riding, Fly to Hilo, Big Island

Hilo, Big Island of Hawaii

B,D

Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel

Activity note: Walking up to 2 miles on pavement, sandy beach and uneven terrain. Previous knee, back, neck, shoulder injuries may impact your ability to join surf lessons. The flight from HNL to ITO is approximately (1) hour. Getting on and off busses; driving approximately 20 miles for airport transfers, approximately 1 hour depending upon traffic.

Breakfast: At hotel

Morning: We will walk to Waikiki Beach for more surfing instruction with our local experts. After the field trip, we’ll return to the hotel and get ready for our flight to Hilo.

Lunch: Lunch will be on your own. Location will vary according to flight schedules.

Afternoon: We will board a bus and ride to Honolulu International Airport, then board our flight to Hilo on Hawaii Island. After arriving in Hilo, we will collect our luggage and take a motorcoach to the hotel.

Dinner: At a local restaurant

Evening: At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer tomorrow.

DAY

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Transfer to Kona

Kona, Big Island of Hawaii

B,L,D

Courtyard by Marriott's King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel

Activity note: Getting on/off busses; driving about 130 miles throughout the day, approximately 3.5 hours total aboard bus depending upon local traffic. Hiking up to 2 miles throughout the day on uneven terrain with 400 feet of elevation gain. Elevation at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is 4,100 feet.

Breakfast: At hotel

Morning: We will check out of the hotel, board a bus, and set out with a local expert on a field trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. From the National Park Service: “Hawaii Volcanoes National Park displays the results of at least 70 million years of volcanism, migration, and evolution in the Hawaiian Island-Emperor Seamount chain — processes that would thrust a bare land from the sea and clothed it with complex and unique ecosystems and a distinct human culture.” We will go on a 1.2-mile walk over various surfaces, some of which are uneven in the National Park through the native volcanic environment and may take a moderate hike with uneven ground and a slippery slope with handrail. We will also make stop at different points of interest, determined by the evolving conditions of this fascinating geologically active area.

Lunch: At a local restaurant

Afternoon: After lunch, we'll board the bus for our journey to the opposite side of the island. Arrive at the hotel in the late afternoon and check in.

Dinner: At a local restaurant

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

Marine Environment, Tidepools & Snorkeling, Free Time, Luau

Kona, Big Island of Hawaii

B,D

Courtyard by Marriott's King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel

Activity note: Getting on/off busses; driving about 10 miles throughout the day, approximately 45 minutes depending upon local traffic. Walking approximately 1.5 miles throughout the day on paved, sand or uneven terrain. Swimming and snorkeling in the ocean.

Breakfast: At hotel

Morning: We will start our day with a class at the hotel led by a local marine expert who will tell us about the marine environment of Kona and the Big Island of Hawaii. We’ll then depart for a beach where we’ll explore tidepools and go snorkeling. Hawaiian sea turtles are spotted frequently and might be up close with snorkelers. Do not touch the turtles as they are protected and violators may be fined! As the marine animals are in their free flowing natural habitat, what we’ll see is different each day. We’ll ride back to the hotel late morning.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: Free time. Take this opportunity to see and do what interests you most in the Kailua-Kona area. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Dinner: We'll enjoy a traditional Hawaiian luau where the Puaa Kalua (roast pig) is taken out of the in-ground Imu (oven) — the centerpiece of an elaborate, multi-course buffet of traditional island fare.

Evening: Enjoy live music as we dine, culminating in a performance of music, song, and dance conjuring myths and stories from throughout Polynesia.

DAY

Kona Coast Snorkel & Sail

Kona, Big Island of Hawaii

B,L

Courtyard by Marriott's King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel

Activity note: Getting on/off busses; driving about 50 miles throughout the day, approximately 1.5 hours depending upon local traffic. Walking approximately 1.5 miles throughout the day on pavement. Swimming and snorkeling from a boat. Getting in/out of ocean using stairs on catamaran.

Breakfast: At hotel

Morning: We will board a catamaran to snorkel along the Kona Coast. From the onboard naturalist, we will learn about the marine life then jump in the water and experience the adventure of seeing for ourselves!

Lunch: Served onboard the snorkel vessel

Afternoon: Our catamaran will return to shore in the early afternoon and we will return to the hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is free to relax or continue exploring Kailua-Kona.

Dinner: On your own to enjoy local fare.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

Kealekekua Bay Snorkel, Farewell Dinner

Kona, Big Island of Hawaii

B,D

Courtyard by Marriott's King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel

Activity note: Getting on/off busses; driving about 50 miles throughout the day, approximately 1.5 hours depending upon local traffic. Walking approximately 1.5 miles throughout the day on pavement. Swimming and snorkeling from a zodiac boat using a ladder to get in/out of the water. Zodiac boat ride may be bouncy based on ocean conditions.

Breakfast: At hotel

Morning: After walking to the pier, we will board a zodiac boat and head down the coast to Kealakekua Bay, a marine preserve. This is also where the first extensive contact between Hawaiians and Westerners occurred with the arrival of Captain James Cook in 1779. With its natural wind protection and remote location, Kealakekua Bay is an ideal snorkeling location for opportunities to see a variety of coral fish. Our vessel will then take us back to shore.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: We will return to the hotel with some time to freshen up and relax before dinner.

Dinner: At a local restaurant. Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.

Evening: At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.

DAY

Program Concludes

Kona, Big Island of Hawaii

Activity note: Hotel check-out by 11:00 am.

Breakfast: At hotel.

Morning: If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!