High School Programs in the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii is the largest island in the chain, followed by Maui, Oahu, and Kauai. As the product of volcanic activity, this region is alive with movement and new growth, mostly near the “big island,” which is located over a volcanic hotspot. Each of the eight islands offers its own Hawaiian experience, ranging from opportunities to visit historical landmarks, learn about native traditions, sample local cuisine, and attend cultural activities.

Hawaii. With over 185,000 people, the “big island” is home to Mauna Kea, five volcanoes, and world-famous black and white sand beaches. Many high school programs in Hawaii, especially in the summer, will spend at least some time on the island of Hawaii. The largest cities on the island are Hilo and Kailua-Kona. There are a number of high school program opportunities in Hawaii, and as one of the more heavily traveled tourist destinations, the islands offers tons of recreational activities to create incredible program experiences.

Maui. A stunning combination of coastline, rainforest, and mountains, Maui is the next best place to look for high school programs in Hawaii. Since the surrounding reef network has been damaged by pollution and human traffic due to tourism, Maui is an especially opportune place for high school students interested in conservation, sustainability, and the marine sciences. Marine life around the island of Maui is diverse and abundant; for example, endangered humpback whales are known to visit the area surrounding the island frequently.

Oahu. Home to Honolulu, the state capital, this welcoming island offers multiple high school program options. Some popular destinations for student travel in Oahu include Pearl Harbor, the North Shore, and Waikiki. Students interested in studying or working in tourism and hospitality will find plenty of opportunities for learning in Oahu, as well as exposure to a variety of activities and businesses.

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Latest Program Reviews

Most amazing two weeks!

November 25, 2024by: Maggie Patricio - United StatesProgram: TFT: Hawaii Sea Trurtle Service and Adventure

9

The trip started off with a few delays in flights, but our counselors and group just took the opportunity to bond even closer! When we made it to Waikiki we started the trip off with a nice, relaxing walk around the area and some great food. The next few days were filled with surfing, beach time, Pearl Harbor, and bonding. Then, we left for Maui. In Maui we stayed at an amazing hotel, about a 5 minute walk from the beach. Our service leaders were so kind, and we got to help clean up beaches, learn about wildlife in the area, go snorkeling with turtles and fish, learn about coral reefs, and even visit an aquarium with a sea turtle rehabilitation area. The food on this trip was amazing, we got to try hawaiian poke, acai bowls, shave ice, and more. Plus, the people and counselors that made up our group made it even better. From working together on our service trips to hanging out at the hotel pool after dinner, our group was so tightly knit, even with how different we all are. Going on this trip brought me so amazing friends from all around the globe. The counselors on this trip were amazing as well. Even though they are older than all of us teens on the trip, they felt like friends throughout the two weeks. They hung out with us by the pool and beach, and took pictures with us by the sunsets. Overall, this trip was absolutely amazing and I loved my experience so much!

Life-changing!!

October 24, 2019by: Ayla Zor - United StatesProgram: TFT: Hawaii Sea Trurtle Service and Adventure

10

I was so lucky to be able to experience a TFT trip. I went to Hawaii on the sea turtle service and adventure. On my trip I met many new friends and created bonds with them which I will forever have. I had amazing role models as my counselors and I felt extremely comfortable with them. This trip all together was really the opportunity of a lifetime. I was able to begin my passion for traveling through this wonderful program. I learned many lessons that I will carry with me for my whole life. This experience was truly life-changing and booking this trip was the greatest decision I ever made. can honestly say that I had the best summer of my life in the year of 2019 and that is all thanks to TFT.

Most amazing two weeks!

November 25, 2024by: Maggie Patricio - United StatesProgram: TFT: Hawaii Sea Trurtle Service and Adventure

9

The trip started off with a few delays in flights, but our counselors and group just took the opportunity to bond even closer! When we made it to Waikiki we started the trip off with a nice, relaxing walk around the area and some great food. The next few days were filled with surfing, beach time, Pearl Harbor, and bonding. Then, we left for Maui. In Maui we stayed at an amazing hotel, about a 5 minute walk from the beach. Our service leaders were so kind, and we got to help clean up beaches, learn about wildlife in the area, go snorkeling with turtles and fish, learn about coral reefs, and even visit an aquarium with a sea turtle rehabilitation area. The food on this trip was amazing, we got to try hawaiian poke, acai bowls, shave ice, and more. Plus, the people and counselors that made up our group made it even better. From working together on our service trips to hanging out at the hotel pool after dinner, our group was so tightly knit, even with how different we all are. Going on this trip brought me so amazing friends from all around the globe. The counselors on this trip were amazing as well. Even though they are older than all of us teens on the trip, they felt like friends throughout the two weeks. They hung out with us by the pool and beach, and took pictures with us by the sunsets. Overall, this trip was absolutely amazing and I loved my experience so much!

Life-changing!!

October 24, 2019by: Ayla Zor - United StatesProgram: TFT: Hawaii Sea Trurtle Service and Adventure

10

I was so lucky to be able to experience a TFT trip. I went to Hawaii on the sea turtle service and adventure. On my trip I met many new friends and created bonds with them which I will forever have. I had amazing role models as my counselors and I felt extremely comfortable with them. This trip all together was really the opportunity of a lifetime. I was able to begin my passion for traveling through this wonderful program. I learned many lessons that I will carry with me for my whole life. This experience was truly life-changing and booking this trip was the greatest decision I ever made. can honestly say that I had the best summer of my life in the year of 2019 and that is all thanks to TFT.