Kailua-Kona and the Big Island, Hawaii
How is safety managed, and where do students stay?
Rustic Pathways prioritizes student safety with a written risk management plan for every program. Students stay in gender-separated rooms in group lodging on the Kona side of the Big Island.
Supervision and safety
- Supervision Median 4.37:1 student-to-staff ratio across 2025 and 2026 Student Travel groups. No program exceeds 7:1.
- 2026 Incident Record No incidents were reported during the 2026 sessions.
- Emergencies Enrolled families receive a 24/7 emergency number for use during programs and travel days.
- Medical Dr. William R. Smith, board-certified emergency physician, supports leaders and families. Teams keep lists of medical facilities for every major program location. On the Kona side, the main hospital is Kona Community Hospital.
- Program Leaders 80+ hours of leader training, Sterling background checks, and CPR and First Aid certification.
Where they stay
Students stay in group lodging on the Kona side of the Big Island, booked for the Rustic Pathways travel group. Rooms are gender-separated, students share bathrooms and communal spaces, and Program Leaders are housed on site and available every night. We confirm lodging details closer to departure.
Who leads it, and who went in 2026?
Trained, background-checked Program Leaders run every session. In 2026, 21 students from 11 different U.S. states, the United Kingdom, and Mexico traveled to Hawaii with Rustic Pathways.
Who runs it
Teryn Williams
Delivery Coordinator
Teryn manages operations in Hawaii and has been with Rustic Pathways since 2022.
2026 Program Leaders
Eva Elfishawy
Raleigh Addington
Tori Clinevell
The 2027 Program Leaders are confirmed closer to departure.
The 2026 group
Rustic Pathways’ 2026 group included 21 students from 11 U.S. states, the United Kingdom, and Mexico. At travel start, 2 were 15, 12 were 16, 6 were 17 and 1 was 18.
In Rustic Pathways’ 2026 post-program surveys (8 parent and student responses), all 8 rated safety 6 out of 6 and all 8 gave 9 or 10 out of 10 for recommending Rustic Pathways.
“One moment that stands out to me was snorkeling near the shore on one of the beaches and seeing coral, rainbow colored fish, and a sea turtle! It was the most magical feeling, seeing the sea turtle out in the wild, so up close. My whole world stopped and felt so relaxed simply observing this creature. This moment matters to me now because it will always be a reminder to enjoy the little things, and immerse yourself into nature’s beauty.”
Abiyana H., Highlands Ranch, CO · takeover on Instagram
Students in their own words
Alumni describe the service days and what Hawaii taught them.
“Whenever we did service work, I honestly found it to be a lot of fun.”
“Getting outside of my normal environment and traveling has made me learn where I can thrive and succeed.”
Student takeovers
After the program, students take over the Rustic Pathways Instagram with their own photos and stories.
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“Hi, I’m Abiyana Holmes! I was a part of Rustic Pathways’ Hawaii program this July, and I am forever grateful for it. From service, to snorkeling, to surfing, sharing countless laughs, stories, and even songs I know we will all cherish each bit of our experiences.
It’s so beautiful how we not only found our people, but connected as a whole group as well.
One moment that stands out to me was snorkeling near the shore on one of the beaches and seeing coral, rainbow colored fish, and a sea turtle! It was the most magical feeling, seeing the sea turtle out in the wild, so up close. My whole world stopped and felt so relaxed simply observing this creature. This moment matters to me now because it will always be a reminder to enjoy the little things, and immerse yourself into nature’s beauty.
Shoutout to Tara, Nicole, Saylee, and Emery for being the kindest, funniest roomies one could ever ask for. Shoutout to the wonderful program leaders, Raleigh, Tori, and Eva for making a great time inevitable, and for Raleigh’s incredible humor and capability to make everyone laugh over and over again. Shoutout to Jeff, for having an intriguing tea time with all of us, sharing meaningful nick names and a psychology analysis for each one of us to truly feel heard and seen.”
Abiyana H., Highlands Ranch, CO
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“Hii! My name is Athifa from California. I recently went on the Hawaii: Surf, Snorkel, and Service trip with Rustic Pathways, and I had the most amazing time! It’s been three weeks and I’m still missing it. Before the trip I felt so nervous about having to meet new people and basically live with strangers for a week! But from the moment we arrived, our leaders made us feel welcomed and at home.
One of the first things they told us is that going on a Rustic trip means you’re learning, just not in a classroom. And that’s exactly what we did. We met so many incredible people who shared their stories and knowledge with us. From learning about the culture and history of Hawaii, to working in a garden, helping at a food bank, learning how to surf, and so much more. It was unforgettable.
My favorite part? Definitely getting to know everyone and sharing memorable moments. I’ll never forget whenever we would huddle up whether we’re cold or waiting in line for shaved ice 🍧😋
From standing by an erupting volcano (such a cool experience by the way) to the last huddle of tears at the airport. So crazy to think how just a few days before we didn’t even know each other.
If you’re thinking about going on this trip my only question is: why haven’t you booked your tickets yet? I wouldn’t have wanted to experience this trip any other way. Thank you Rustic!”
Athifa M., California
Before you enroll: what parents ask
Most asked
What is the student-to-staff ratio?
Rustic Pathways maintains a median of one staff member per 4.37 students (4.37:1), with no program exceeding 7 students per staff member (7:1).
New Program Leaders go through a four-month selection process, and every Program Leader holds current CPR and First Aid certification.
How can I stay in touch with my child?
- After the final scheduled activity of the day, students have their phones, subject to quiet-hours, lights-out rules, and connectivity.
- Routine help: call +1 440-975-9691, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET.
- Emergencies: use the 24/7 number in your pre-departure materials.
Families get expected timing, time-zone guidance, and contact details before departure. If a student has an urgent, medical, or significant personal need during activities, a Program Leader helps them contact home.
Do students come alone or with friends?
Most students join on their own, and some join with friends or siblings. Roommate requests are accepted during enrollment for students coming together. Program Leaders run icebreakers on day one, and friendships form quickly.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations within 24 hours of enrollment receive a refund of all amounts paid to Rustic Pathways.
Cancellations before midnight ET on March 31, 2027, receive a full refund of the program tuition. The enrollment fee and any airfare already booked become non-refundable.
For cancellations after March 31, 2027, see the enrollment terms.
If your family experiences a serious, documented emergency, contact us. We review these situations on a case-by-case basis.
Flights
How do flights work?
Students fly into and out of Kona International Airport (KOA). There is no chaperoned group flight available for this program. Rustic Pathways provides arrival and departure time windows, and Program Leaders meet students at the airport. Flights are not included in tuition.
Students traveling on passports not issued by the United States are responsible for confirming any visa or entry requirements that apply to them.
Flying independently? See the arrival and departure dates below.
Who books each flight?
Whichever option you choose, Rustic Pathways staff meet every student at Kona airport on the arrival date and see them off on the departure date.
There is no chaperoned group flight on this program.
Option 1: independent flights with support
Cost: Flight Support Fee, plus airfare.
- You choose the flights and Rustic Pathways books them, into and out of Kona (KOA).
- Students fly on their own, and you get 24/7 travel support if plans change.
Option 2: book your own flights
Cost: No Rustic Pathways fee, just airfare.
- Your family books and manages the flights, into and out of Kona (KOA).
- Students fly on their own. Changes and rebooking are between your family and the airline.
Arrival and departure windows
Students land within the arrival window and leave within the departure window, about four hours each. Your Personal Travel Advisor shares the exact times before you book. Flights outside the windows carry an additional fee.
What are the arrival and departure dates for students flying independently?
Dates on this page are the days students arrive in and leave Kona.
| Session dates | Arrive Kona (KOA) | Leave Kona (KOA) |
|---|---|---|
| Jul 6 – Jul 13, 2027 | Tue, Jul 6 | Tue, Jul 13 |
| Jul 13 – Jul 20, 2027 | Tue, Jul 13 | Tue, Jul 20 |
When your student flies independently, book flights that arrive and leave on these dates. Flight times can change, so contact your Personal Travel Advisor before you book.
Before you book
- Fly into Kona (KOA). Staff meet students there. Double-check the airport code before you pay.
- Stay within the arrival and departure dates and times. Your Personal Travel Advisor shares the exact windows. Flights outside them carry an additional fee.
Where does the program start and end?
At Kona International Airport (KOA). Students stay on the Kona side of the Big Island for all seven nights.
Do students need a visa for Hawaii?
No. U.S. students do not need a visa for Hawaii as it is a domestic trip. Students from other countries might need a visa, so check your own country’s visa requirements for the U.S.
Safety & wellbeing
How is my child supervised during the program?
Rustic Pathways Program Leaders supervise students from the moment staff meet them at Kona airport until they depart for their flight home.
- A median student-to-staff ratio of 1 staff member for every 4.37 students, never exceeding 7:1.
- Program Leaders are housed on site and available overnight.
- Two-Deep Leadership: No staff member is ever alone one-on-one with a student.
- Each student has a personal check-in with a Program Leader within 24 hours of arrival.
- Families receive a Safe Arrival email within 12 hours of arrival in Hawaii.
- Every student has the same “In For the Night” curfew.
Are rooms gender-separated?
Yes. Rooms are gender-separated, and students share bathrooms and communal spaces at the group’s lodging.
How are medical needs handled?
Personal Travel Advisors review all medical forms and plan with families to manage medication, allergies, and dietary requirements on the program.
Program Leaders are first-aid and CPR certified, and teams keep lists of medical facilities for every major program location.
Will my child have any unsupervised time?
Students do not have unsupervised time in public areas. Free time is structured, with Program Leaders always nearby.
Ocean activities are supervised by qualified instructors and Program Leaders at all times.
At night, students stay in their rooms with their roommates. Program Leaders are housed on site and conduct nightly room checks.
What is the phone and smart device policy?
Rustic Pathways follows Trip Before Scroll: staff store phones and connected devices securely during daytime programming and hand them back after the final scheduled activity.
Students keep them overnight, subject to quiet-hours and lights-out rules. Travel-day, medical, and accessibility exceptions apply. U.S. students have regular cellular reception, but there is no Wi-Fi on this program.
Does Rustic Pathways support neurodiverse students?
Rustic Pathways welcomes all students and works with families to provide appropriate support. Learn about Rustic Pathways’ inclusion policy.
Cost & enrollment
What is the enrollment fee?
The enrollment fee is a one-time fee, separate from tuition, covering enrollment, pre-departure advising, and trip planning. It begins at $100 and increases closer to the departure date.
The enrollment fee is refundable for cancellations within 24 hours.
Does Rustic Pathways offer payment plans?
Yes. Rustic Pathways offers a 4-Pay payment plan that splits program tuition into four payments over six weeks. This plan is only available for enrollments more than 90 days before departure and only for U.S. bank accounts.
Need-based financial aid and merit scholarships are also available. Explore scholarships and financial aid.
What insurance do we need?
Medical insurance is required for every participant. Travel insurance is strongly recommended, not required.
Neither is included in program tuition. Rustic Pathways recommends Arch RoamRight: get a quote.
How much spending money does my child need?
$150 to $200 per week is recommended for shopping, snacks, or souvenirs. Meals, scheduled activities, and gratuities are included in program tuition. Hawaii uses U.S. dollars, so no currency exchange is needed.
The group
What is the group size and age range?
Each session is limited to 25 students, ages 14 to 18. In 2026, students were ages 15 to 18.
Can non-U.S. students join this program?
Yes. Non-U.S. students can join this program. International students fly to Kona International Airport (KOA) to arrive within the designated arrival window for their session. After enrollment, the team helps families plan flights that match the arrival and departure windows.
Rustic Pathways staff meet them at the airport and ensure safe departure within the designated window at the end of the program.
International students must confirm any U.S. entry and visa requirements based on their citizenship.
Day to day
What is the accommodation like?
Students stay in group lodging on the Kona side of the Big Island, booked for the Rustic Pathways travel group. Lodging details are confirmed closer to departure.
Students sleep in gender-separated rooms and share bathrooms and communal spaces. Program Leaders are housed on site and available overnight.
What service do students do?
About 12 hours of service: hands-on gardening and environmental work with the Akahiao Nature Institute, and a Kona Food Bank service day.
What does a typical day look like?
Surf lessons, a catamaran snorkel, a Mauna Kea stargazing excursion, garden and farm work, lei making, a farm-to-table dinner students help prepare, and Kona coast beach time. Mornings and afternoons are for activities, with evening group reflections.
How physically demanding is the program?
Active. Expect surfing, hiking, garden work, and ocean swimming in warm weather.
Can dietary needs and allergies be accommodated on program?
Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and other diets, plus common food allergies can be accommodated. Dietary needs and allergy information are collected after enrollment and shared with meal providers and project partners in advance.
Why the Big Island?
The Kona coast offers world-class snorkeling with warm, clear water and abundant marine life, great surf breaks for beginners, and a deeply rooted culture of land stewardship and food sovereignty.
Can the itinerary change?
Yes. The itinerary may change due to weather, safety concerns, transportation issues, or site availability. Program Leaders may adjust activities and schedules to keep students safe and ensure a positive program experience.
Ready, or one question first?
$3,495 at checkout ($3,395 Program Tuition + $100 enrollment fee), about $437 a day with lodging and all meals. Full refund within 24 hours.
What happens after you enroll
- You have 24 hours to change your mind for a full refund, including the enrollment fee.
- Fill in the traveler details form. That opens your MyRustic family portal, with your payment schedule, forms to complete, the full itinerary and the packing list.
- Before departure, MyRustic adds the flight itineraries and the Wheels Up packet: arrival instructions, contacts and the program emergency number.
- During the program, you get daily photo updates. After it, Rustic Pathways calls every family.
Rather talk first? Call Scott Ingram at +1 (440) 975-9691, schedule a call, or ask an advisor.
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