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Hawaii College Summer Program | Pacific Discovery logo

Hawaii College Summer Program | Pacific Discovery

by: Pacific Discovery

9.43 (7)Verified

Surf world-class waves, traverse volcanoes, and lend a hand in environmental conservation while traveling on the Big Island & Oahu. The volcanic island chain of Hawaii is a traveler's dream. The Big Island is rich in culture and community, and Oahu has coastal vibes like California and mighty peaks like Colorado. This program is all about diving in to understand local issues while having an epic ...

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Program Highlights

Stargaze on top of the (official) tallest peak in the world, Mauna Kea.

Attend three days of surf lessons in North Shore.

Snorkel the reefs of Kona and keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, manta rays, and turtles.

Hike and drive across lava fields and volcanic craters in Volcanoes National Park.

Learn about conservation and sustainable living from a local non-profit.

Quick Details

Locations
  • Hilo, Hawaii (USA)
Availability
Year(s) Offered2025, 2026Duration:
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • Summer
Age Requirement:Varies
Types & Subjects:
  • Building & Construction Projects
  • Community Development
  • Conservation
  • Eco-Tourism
  • Wildlife
Guidelines:
  • All Nationalities
See all program details

Recognitions

Top Rated Provider 2023 - Gap YearPeople’s Choice Award 2023 FinalistInnovation in Sustainability 2023 FinalistInnovation in Sustainability 2023 WinnerTop Rated Gap Year Provider 2022Innovative New Program – Volunteer Abroad Finalist 2022Innovation in Marketing & Digital Media Finalist 2022Top Rate Organization 2021 - Gap Year

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

8.93

Total Reviews

7

We went to the most beautiful and magical places

by: Catarina Reis MessaProgram: Hawaii College Summer Program | Pacific Discovery
10

I don’t think many people will ever be able to explore Hawaii the way we did. We went to the most beautiful and magical places I have ever seen and lived so much in just four weeks. I can’t recommend this program enough. If you just want to travel around with a group of best friends and explore a new culture and do crazy activities, I promise you won’t regret signing up.

Invigorating travel and connections with Hawaii, it’s people, and my PD Family

by: Maddie Jo Robbins - United StatesProgram: Hawaii College Summer Program | Pacific Discovery
10

My time with Pacific Discovery in Hawai’i was beyond amazing. Having had a hard time with a brain injury holding me back from the paths I thought I would take, I was looking for something that would not only give me a break from my injury, but rejuvenate my soul. My PD experience did just that! Being surrounded by an amazing group of friends that quickly became family, and two incredible instructors, I found the safety I had been looking for to let go, and enjoy new experiences. I was very excit...

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Pacific Discovery responded to this reviewOctober 3, 2022

Hi Maddie, thank you so much for sharing your experience on the Hawaii Summer program with us! We are thrilled to hear how transformative the program was for you and that it helped you with your healing journey physically, mentally, and emotionally. ...

Group of people by the beach

I was very nervous before attending the program. However, everyone I met in the program was very nice and friendly. We did so many things together and gained lifelong friendships and experiences. Camping is one of my favorite parts. I love being out in nature every day and hiking with friends. If you're still debating it, just do it.

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Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Hilo, Hawaii (USA)

Types and Subjects

  • Adventure Types
  • Backpacking
  • Camping
  • Climbing

Availability

Years Offered: 2025, 2026

Gap Year Timing:
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • After College
  • During College

Age Requirement

Age Requirement Varies

Guidelines

  • All Nationalities

Program Cost Includes

  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • All Program Activity Costs
  • Group Meals
  • Tuition & Fees

Accommodation Options

  • Group living

Qualifications & Experience

  • University Freshman (1st Year)
  • University Sophomore (2nd Year)
  • University Junior (3rd Year)
  • University Senior (4th Year)

Application Procedures

  • Phone/Video Interview
  • Online Application

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