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Hawaii | Graduation Trip | Sample Itinerary

Hawaii | Graduation Trip | Sample Itinerary image

Welcome to Hawaii!

Experience Hawaii, a journey that combines natural beauty, adventure, and connection. From the lush valleys of Kauai to the black sand beaches of Kona, this trip offers a mix of exploration and relaxation that celebrates both independence and shared experience. Explore volcanic landscapes, hike through tropical trails, and swim in crystal-clear water surrounded by some of the world’s most stunning scenery. Along the way, enjoy local food, island traditions, and moments that bring you closer to the culture and rhythm of Hawaii. It’s the perfect way to mark this milestone: with adventure, discovery, and memories that last long after the trip ends.

Trip Overview

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Day 1 | Kauai

Day 1 | Kauai  image
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Depart for Hawaii

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Arrive in Kauai

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Rental Car Pick Up & Drive to Hotel

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Check-In to Resort Hotel

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Lunch

Restaurant recommendations will be provided.

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Drive to Kipu Ranch

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Kipu Ranch ATV Expedition Tour

Time3 hours

Ride through lush landscapes and scenic ranch trails on a guided UTV adventure at Kipu Ranch. This off-road tour blends history, nature, and fun as you explore private lands with sweeping views and hidden movie sites.

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Drive to Hotel

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Dinner

Restaurant recommendations will be provided.

Day 2 | Kauai

Day 2 | Kauai image
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Breakfast

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Drive to Kayak Excursion

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Guided Kayak Adventure and Hike to Waterfall

Experience the thrill of kayaking on crystal-clear waters, gliding through serene landscapes and spotting wildlife. After your paddle, enjoy a scenic hike to a breathtaking waterfall. Take in the lush surroundings, listen to nature, and capture stunning photos. The journey ends at the beautiful waterfall, where you can relax or take a swim.

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Lunch at Excursion

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Drive to Canyon Lookout

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Waimea Canyon Lookout and Short Hike

Take in sweeping views of Waimea Canyon, known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. After the lookout, enjoy a short hike through vibrant terrain with unique plant life and panoramic views.

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Drive to Hotel

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Watch the Sunset From the Beach

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Dinner

Restaurant recommendations will be provided.

Day 3 | Kauai

Day 3 | Kauai image
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Breakfast

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Drive to Mountain Tubing Excursion

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Kauai Backcountry Mountain Tubing

Time3 hours
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Drive to Hotel

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Lunch

Restaurant recommendations will be provided.

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Explore Kapaʻa Town or Relax at the Beach

Spend time exploring the heart of Kapa‘a, a laid-back town known for its colorful shops, locally owned cafés, and easygoing charm. You’ll find everything from handmade souvenirs to fresh shave ice and oceanfront views. It’s a great chance to slow down, support local businesses, and enjoy a true slice of Kaua‘i life.

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Watch the Turtles on the Beach

Watch Hawaiian green sea turtles come ashore at sunset to rest overnight, a peaceful moment guided by chaperones at either Kapa‘a or Po‘ipū. Experience the beauty of the evening sky as the turtles settle into the sand, creating a memorable glimpse of island life.

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Dinner

Restaurant recommendations will be provided.

Day 4 | Kauai

Day 4 | Kauai image
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Breakfast

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Drive to Chocolate Farm

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Chocolate Tour at Lydgate Farms

Time3 hours

Discover the journey from bean to bar on a guided chocolate farm tour at Lydgate Farms. Stroll through lush orchards, taste award-winning Hawaiian chocolate, and learn how cacao is grown and crafted right on Kauai.

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Lunch

A reservation will be organized on your behalf for lunch on the way to Hā‘ena State Park.

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Drive to Hā‘ena State Park

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Hike and Explore Hā‘ena State Park

Hike through the breathtaking Kalalau Trail along Kauai’s Nāpali Coast, where rugged cliffs, lush jungle, and ocean views create one of Hawaii’s most iconic adventures. Explore up to Hanakāpīʻai Beach or continue to the waterfall, winding through tropical forests and scenic ridgelines.

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Drive to Hotel

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Explore Kapaʻa Town or Relax at the Beach

Spend time exploring the heart of Kapa‘a, a laid-back town known for its colorful shops, locally owned cafés, and easygoing charm. You’ll find everything from handmade souvenirs to fresh shave ice and oceanfront views. It’s a great chance to slow down, support local businesses, and enjoy a true slice of Kaua‘i life.

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Traditional Luau Dinner

Experience the spirit of aloha with a traditional Hawaiian luau featuring an abundant island feast and an unforgettable cultural performance. Savor local favorites like kalua pig, fresh poke, tropical fruits, and sweet treats while enjoying music, storytelling, and hula dancing.

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Day 5 | Kona

Day 5 | Kona image
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Breakfast

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Flight to Kona

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Pick Up Rental Car & Drive to Hotel

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Check-In to Resort Hotel

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Drive to Heavenly Coffee Farm

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Guided Tour of Heavenly Hawaiian Coffee Farm

Tour a local coffee farm and see firsthand how beans are grown, harvested, and roasted in the Hawaiian sun. Walk through the fields, breathe in the fresh roast, and taste a variety of blends while learning the story behind each cup. A relaxed, sensory experience for anyone who enjoys good coffee and beautiful views.

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Drive to Hotel

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Explore Kailua-Kona town

Kailua-Kona is a lively coastal town on the Big Island known for its oceanfront charm. Along Ali‘i Drive you’ll find a mix of local cafés, seaside restaurants, and small shops, all within easy walking distance. Once a historic fishing village, Kona today blends island history with a relaxed, walkable atmosphere.

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Drive to Mauna Kea

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Mauna Kea Sunset and Stargazing Tour

Travel up Mauna Kea to witness a sunset above the clouds, followed by guided stargazing through high-powered telescopes. View constellations, planets, and galaxies while learning about the mountain’s cultural and scientific significance.

Note:

  • A warm jacket and layers are recommended.

  • A parka and gloves will be provided.

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Dinner at Excursion

A hot lasagna dinner with dessert is included. Extra water is recommend to bring.

Day 6 | Kona

Day 6 | Kona image
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Breakfast

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Drive to Excursion

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Zipline Tour Umauma Experience

Glide across nine ziplines and soar above 9 waterfalls on this high-adrenaline canopy tour. The course includes treetop crossings and suspension bridges with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.

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Lunch

Restaurant recommendations will be provided.

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Explore Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Garden (Optional)

Explore Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Garden, a lush oceanfront valley filled with tropical flowers, towering palms, and winding boardwalks. This garden is known as a “living museum of plants,” offering a peaceful walk through waterfalls, streams, and vibrant blooms with views of the Pacific.

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Enjoy a Moment at Rainbow Falls

Time10 minutes

Pause at Rainbow Falls (Waiānuenue), an easily accessible waterfall just outside Hilo. Known for its misty rainbows on sunny mornings, this stop offers a quick but memorable view of cascading water framed by lush rainforest.

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Explore Kaumana Caves

Time30 minutes

Descend into the opening of a massive lava tube formed by Mauna Loa’s 1881 flow. With chaperones and proper gear, explore the first safe section of the cave, where damp rock walls and natural skylights reveal the raw power of volcanic activity. Bring headlamps, closed-toe shoes, and rain jackets for this adventurous stop.

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Explore the Black Sand Beach at Punalu'u

Visit Punaluʻu, the island’s most famous black sand beach, where jet-black lava sand meets turquoise waves. Keep an eye out for Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on the shoreline, and take time to walk the unique coast formed by ancient eruptions.

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Drive to Hotel

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Dinner

Restaurant recommendations will be provided.

Day 7 | Kona

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Early Breakfast

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Captain Cook Kayak and Snorkel Tour

Duration5 hours

Paddle across the clear waters of Kealakekua Bay and snorkel among vibrant coral and tropical fish. This guided tour includes a fresh lunch and time to take in the scenic shoreline of this protected marine sanctuary, one of Hawai‘i’s most iconic spots for ocean exploration.

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Lunch included in Snorkel Excursion

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Drive to Hotel

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Explore Kailua-Kona Town

Kailua-Kona is a lively coastal town on the Big Island known for its oceanfront charm. Along Ali‘i Drive you’ll find a mix of local cafés, seaside restaurants, and small shops, all within easy walking distance. Once a historic fishing village, Kona today blends island history with a relaxed, walkable atmosphere.

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Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area

Known for its wide stretch of golden sand and clear water, Hapuna Beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and group games. Nearby rental stands offer stand-up paddle boards and surfboards for those who want extra time on the water.

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Drive to Hotel

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Final Farewell Dinner

A restaurant reservation will be reserved on your behalf.

Day 8 | Departure Day

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Breakfast at Hotel

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Explore Kailua-Kona Town

Kailua-Kona is a lively coastal town on the Big Island known for its oceanfront charm. Along Ali‘i Drive you’ll find a mix of local cafés, seaside restaurants, and small shops, all within easy walking distance. Once a historic fishing village, Kona today blends island history with a relaxed, walkable atmosphere.

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Drive to Kona Airport & Return Rental Car

More Information

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Contact

Please email us at info@kairostours.com or call us at 512.596.1642 for more information.

We Offer 100% Transparent Accounting

Unlike other travel companies, Kairos Tours provides complete financial transparency.

Clients receive a detailed line item breakdown of expenses, including all available receipts. We account for every dollar spent. Kairos Tours never marks up an expense or charges a ‘percentage of spend’ fee – keeping all interests aligned.

We don't ask for your budget, we create you budget with you.

Our Trips are 100% Fully Customizable

All of our trips are fully customizable - this sample itinerary is simply a starting point to give you a sense of what is possible! We are happy to tailor every detail to fit your group’s unique needs, interests, and preferences.

Our Approach to Group Travel

Traveling with a group doesn’t have to feel slow or stressful. On our grad trips, you’ll explore in small groups that keep things easy and flexible - so you can move at your own pace and make the most of every stop. No following a big crowd or waiting around. Instead, you’ll have the freedom to focus on what actually interests you, whether that’s finding the best local coffee spot, exploring a museum, or just soaking in the views.

Each trip is designed to help you feel confident exploring new places while knowing everything is handled behind the scenes - from logistics to safety. You’ll have experienced trip leaders there to support you, but this is your adventure. It’s about independence, connection, and discovering what travel means to you.

FAQs

Is there a minimum number of guests required for this trip?

  • There’s no minimum number of participants required, but please note that the fewer people in the group, the higher the price per person. Larger groups help keep individual costs lower by sharing fixed expenses like transportation and guides.

What information will be provided before the trip?

  • Each traveler will receive a complete, dynamic itinerary that includes travel logistics, hotel details, tours, entrance information, meeting points, and more - everything you need to feel fully prepared.

Will there be a group meeting before departure?

  • Yes! We’ll schedule a pre-trip meeting (either in person or via Google Meet) to go over final details, answer questions, and ensure everyone is ready and excited.

Does Kairos Tours provide a Tour Director?

  • A Tour Director can be arranged to accompany your group upon request. Please note this may affect the overall cost of the trip.

Will the itinerary change from what’s currently listed?

  • Kairos Tours will make every reasonable effort to provide this trip in accordance with the descriptions provided. Although it is unlikely that we will have to make any changes to your reservation or cancel confirmed reservations, we reserve the right to do so should it become necessary or advisable, in our sole discretion. We’ll always prioritize the best possible experience for your group!

Are trip prices guaranteed?

  • All pricing is based on current estimates and subject to change due to factors like group size, travel dates, currency exchange rates, and seasonal variations.

Are meals included in the trip price?

  • Lunches and dinners are typically not included in the trip price, allowing for flexibility and the opportunity to explore local dining options. Personal incidentals, such as snacks, souvenirs, and optional activities, are also the responsibility of each traveler.

What if there are unexpected delays or issues?

  • Kairos Tours is not responsible for costs or disruptions resulting from circumstances beyond our control, such as flight delays, changes or cancellations, injuries, weather, war, natural disasters, strikes, social discourse, pandemics, etc., and/or other unforeseeable matters.

About David Mebane and Kairos Tours

My name is David Mebane and I am a lifelong traveler that experienced my first international trip as a 2nd grader, and I haven’t stopped since. I founded Fat Tire Tours in Paris, France in 1999 and love showing people around the City of Light. That passion has grown to include other incredible destinations around the globe, and is the genesis for Kairos Tours. I don't know every destination on the globe, but I do know several well, and I love to take people with me to create experiences and memories that last a lifetime. 

I live in Austin, Texas with my wife Kelly and our son Weston and daughter Caroline. However, we spend as much time as we can elsewhere since there is nothing better than an adventure with family and friends.

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1. Kauai

Kauai, Hawaii, USA

2. Hanalei Bay

Hanalei Bay, Hawaii, USA

3. Kapaʻa

Kapaʻa, HI 96746, USA

4. Kailua-Kona

Kailua-Kona, HI, USA

5. Waimea Canyon State Park

Waimea, HI 96796, USA

6. Kealakekua Bay

Kealakekua Bay, Hawaii 96704, USA

7. Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park

Kauai County, HI, USA

8. Heavenly Hawaiian Kona Coffee Farm Tours

78-1136 Bishop Rd, Holualoa, HI 96725, USA

9. Mauna Kea

Mauna Kea, Hawaii 96720, USA

10. The Umauma Experience

31-313 Old Mamalahoa Hwy, Hakalau, HI 96710, USA

11. Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls, Hilo, HI 96720, USA

12. Punaluʻu Beach

Punaluʻu Beach, Hawaii, USA

13. Kailua-Kona

Kailua-Kona, HI, USA

14. Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area

Old Puako Rd, Waimea, HI 96743, USA