Hawaii: Kona Service and Adventure

Arrive at Kona International Airport (KOA), where you’ll be greeted by your Rustic Pathways Program Leaders. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture.

Flight Details: Rustic Pathways is happy to book your flights as an add-on service, if you would like. 

Overnight: Lodging in Kona-based hostel or hotel

Learn more about food security issues on the Hawaiian Islands. This morning, volunteer at the Kona Food Pantry – sort and pack boxes while discussing local food systems with community members. 

In the afternoon, explore one of Kona’s famous snorkeling spots. Don your gear and discover the island’s vibrant underwater world.

Regroup in the evening to reflect on your day’s contrasting experiences – confronting food insecurity, then embracing Hawaii’s natural abundance. Share insights and begin understanding the interconnected factors impacting these islands.

At the break of dawn, you will begin your ascent up the weathered trails of an ancient cinder cone overlooking the Kona coast. The climb offers sweeping vistas, illuminated by the gentle morning light and cooled by the coastal breeze.

Afterward, we learn more about the heart of Hawaiian culture with a hands-on lei-making workshop guided by a local artisan. Amidst the fragrant blooms, we learn the art of weaving and gain insight into the traditions that have shaped the islands for centuries.

Gathered around a seasoned oral historian, you’ll have the chance to listen intently to tales passed down through generations, grounding ourselves in the essence of Hawaiian life.

As the day winds down,you can take a reflective swim, grateful for the day’s enriching experiences and the deep connection you have experienced with the landscape and it’s peoples.

Overnight: Lodging in Kona-based hostel or hotel

Hop aboard for a cruise down the coast by catamaran. While on the water, you may see turtles’ heads popping up for air, dolphins spinning in the waves, and the Hawaiian state fish humuhumunukunukuapua’a with their bright stripes just below the surface. Enjoy pastries for breakfast and burgers for lunch, then throw on your gear and see what’s waiting to discover at favorite snorkel spots along the island coast. 

In the afternoon, explore downtown Kona for souvenirs and try the famous Hawaiian shave ice. Then, grab your jacket and head up to the Mauna Kea visitor center for the most incredible sunset and stargazing. 

Overnight: Lodging in Kona-based hostel or hotel

Sleep in this morning as you recover from your late night stargazing, and take advantage of the pool at your hotel. In the afternoon, we’ll head to the beach for time to play games on the beach, swim, and snorkel. 

Overnight: Lodging in Kona-based hostel or hotel

Optional add-ons for this day include:

Surf Lesson: Grab your board and hit the waves with your small group surf lesson. Learn how to paddle out, stand up, and catch your first wave. For those who know how to surf already, your surf instructor will give you pointers on how to progress your skill. 

Farm to Table: Visit a private nature preserve just outside of Kona, where both native and imported tropical plants thrive. Explore the gardens, where you’ll be able to pick ripe fruits directly from the tree, and harvest crops for your meal. Students will then split into small groups and learn how to cook a healthful garden-sourced meal. Enjoy the meal you prepared together in tables set up under the sky, as you watch the sun set. 

Travel up the coast to Hawi, a scenic journey taking about 90 minutes. You’ll spend the day at an organic farm, where your guide will show you the diverse crops cultivated on the Big Island. Gain insight into sustainable agriculture practices, food systems, and local educational initiatives.

Roll up your sleeves and get started on the day’s farm work, whether it’s clearing and tilling fields, sowing seeds, weeding, or participating in other tasks to support the farm’s operations.

Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely lunch in Hawi before continuing your exploration. Head to one of the Kohala coast’s most picturesque beaches, where you may be lucky enough to spot dolphins, turtles, or even whales frolicking in the azure waters.

Conclude your final day by returning to the food pantry, where you’ll have the chance to reflect on the impact of your work. Notice how your perspective has shifted after immersing yourself in the local community and gaining insights into food, food access, and farming on the island.

Later in the afternoon, head to the beach for one last opportunity to bask in the warmth of the sun and frolic in the waves. As the day draws to a close, come together for a culminating program celebration. Reflect on your journey and discuss how the experiences of the past days can be applied to your own lives.

Engage in Rustic Ties, a special activity designed to honor the memories and learning moments of your program. It’s a poignant conclusion to your time on the island, marking the end of an enriching adventure filled with growth and discovery.

Pack your bags and bid farewell to this incredible island. Your Program Leaders will escort you to the airport, offering a chance to reflect and say goodbye. As you board the plane, carry with you the memories and lessons learned during your unforgettable adventure.