Experience some of America's most beautifully unique destinations on this 22-day summer adventure combining wildlife conservation service in Hawaii with exploration of California's vibrant cities and the American Southwest's natural wonders. This program is designed specifically for high school students seeking an authentic travel experience that balances meaningful service work, adventure activities, and cultural immersion.

Your journey begins in Hawaii, where you'll participate in a hands-on sea turtle conservation project focused on protecting endangered hawksbill sea turtles. Working with a local organization on Maui, you'll engage in multiple service activities including snorkeling and reef surveying to collect ocean data, beach cleanups to preserve natural habitats, and direct care work with injured turtle patients at a rehabilitation center. You can earn up to 15 hours of service credit while learning about marine conservation from experts in the field. Beyond the service work, you'll experience the best of island life: surfing lessons on Waikiki's famous shores, hiking through lava tunnels to Diamond Head's summit, snorkeling at Molokini Crater, sea kayaking, visiting Pearl Harbor Memorial, and attending a traditional Hawaiian luau.

The California portion takes you to Los Angeles and San Diego, where you'll explore iconic landmarks and local neighborhoods like a true traveler, not a tourist. In LA, you'll stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame, watch the city lights from Griffith Observatory, bike through Santa Monica, and visit Venice Beach's vibrant culture. In San Diego, you'll kayak through secret La Jolla caves spotting sea lions, take surf lessons on Pacific beaches, explore the world-famous San Diego Zoo, and experience the laid-back SoCal lifestyle. An optional excursion to Disneyland is available for those interested.

Your Southwest adventure includes a Las Vegas stop featuring the High Roller ferris wheel and an interactive dinner show, followed by exploration of Arizona's most spectacular natural wonders. You'll witness the Grand Canyon—one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World—and discover hidden gems like Antelope Canyon's otherworldly slot canyon with its striking orange walls, and Horseshoe Bend's dramatic Colorado River vista.

Throughout the program, you'll stay in centrally located, safe, and personally-selected accommodations that offer character and authenticity rather than impersonal chain hotels. All meals except lunches are included, featuring authentic local cuisine tailored to your dietary needs. The program emphasizes eating like a local—sampling poke bowls and fresh island fruits in Hawaii, Asian-influenced seafood in California, and authentic Mexican cuisine in the Southwest. You'll travel with experienced chaperones and guides in small, intimate group sizes, making lasting friendships while learning to travel authentically and explore all corners of the earth.