ACA @ Hawaii + Alaska + SoCAL TEEN TOUR
American Pacific Adventure
Join ACA the Summer-of-a-Lifetime!
Hawaii + Alaska + SoCal Teen Tour
Explore the tropical landscapes of the Hawaiian Islands, the majestic beauty of the last frontier in Alaska and the breathtaking ocean views, beaches and action of San Diego, Malibu, LA and Santa Barbara on this exciting teen tour! Discover a blend of natural beauty, habitats, wildlife and cultures by experiencing what makes Hawaii, Alaska and Southern California some of the most idyllic locations that America has to offer visitors from around-the-world!
Catch the golden sun as it sets over the Pacific Ocean in Hawaii. Enjoy the beauty and majesty of the wildlife and mountains in Alaska and check-out the celeb filled destination of Malibu. Catch a wave on some of the world’s most picturesque beaches, experience an authentic Hawaiian luau and visit a real working dude ranch in Alaska. Sample traditional delicacies. Stop into popular pizzerias, savor local-flavor under the summer stars, crack open a fresh pineapple or coconut or enjoy an ice cream at LA’s Diddy Riese!
Our outgoing and responsible staff members dedicate themselves to creating an inclusive program filled with fun activities and amazing sights. Make new friends, explore new cultures, and soak up the Hawaiian, Alaskan and California sights and sun on ACA’s once-in-a-lifetime summer teen tour!
2023 Dates & Tuition
Transportation is not included in tuition.
This teen tour is for students completing 8th through 10th grades.
Safety
At ACA, we believe safety comes first. That’s why we maintain an eight-to-one student-to-staff ratio – one of the lowest in the industry! This lets us offer unmatched attention and unique personalized programs.
As part of our commitment to student safety, ACA staff members live on every student-occupied floor and accompany students on all activities and excursions. ACA also uses chartered coach and taxi services to get around town, never public transportation. All ACA staff members are always equipped with cellphones.
ACA chosen hotels add additional elements of security, as well. The front desks are staffed 24 hours a day with trained personnel for your comfort and convenience.
Parents will be reassured to know that all cities we visit are friendly cities with all the modern medical and safety resources one would expect of a popular tourist destination.
Travel to Alaska + Hawaii + SoCal*
Students have the option to fly on our ACA-staffed group flight from the New York area to Anchorage on July 5. Our staff meet you at the airport and are with you the entire way starting with check-in. For students outside of the New York area, we are happy to help make arrangements for students connecting to our ACA group flight. For students flying on their own, we will have designated times that you should fly into Anchorage where ACA staff will meet you at baggage claim and escort you to join the group. Please contact the ACA office for additional information.
Students will return home on ACA-staffed group flights from Maui to the New York area on July 21. For students outside of the New York area, we are happy to help make arrangements at suitable times from the New York area. For students flying on their own, we will have designated outbound flight times for you to schedule. ACA staff will help you with check-in and stay at the airport until your flight takes off.
Students attending the SoCal Extension will return home on ACA-staffed group flights from Los Angeles to the New York area on July 26. For students outside of the New York area, we are happy to help make arrangements at suitable times from the New York area. For students flying on their own, we will have designated outbound flight times for you to schedule. ACA staff will help you with check-in and stay at the airport until your flight takes off.
Of course, parents are also welcome to bring students to the programs directly.
*Transportation is not included in tuition.
July 5: Fly to Anchorage, Alaska
Welcome to your summer of adventure as we embark and explore Hawaii and Alaska and SoCal. The tour begins as we jet to Alaska, the land of the midnight sun, where we will begin this magical tour filled with new friends, bonding and memories that will last a lifetime. Alaska will be filled with eye-opening experiences of the last frontier in all its idyllic summer glory. ACA will explore Anchorage, Denali National Park, and Fairbanks while we are in Alaska.
July 5 - 7: Fairbanks, Alaska
In Fairbanks, known as the Golden Heart of Alaska, you will experience the thrill of the gold rush as you search for real gold on our Gold Panning Adventure! It wouldn’t be a trip to the world’s mushing capital, without meeting passionate mushers and cute husky puppies! We will visit a dogsledding base camp and learn about dogsledding and watch the dogs train.
July 7 - 8: Denali, Alaska
Next, ACA will embark on this incredible journey to Denali National Park as we marvel at the majesty and natural beauty that surrounds us at every turn. Denali National Park and Preserve encompasses 6 million acres of Alaska’s interior wilderness and is home to North America’s tallest peak, Mount Denali. With terrain of tundra, spruce forest and glaciers, the park is home to 37 species of mammals including grizzly bears, wolves, moose, caribou and Dall sheep. Marvel at the views of the stunning wilderness and unique wildlife from the comfort of our bus. Pack your sense of adventure for our rafting trip on the most popular whitewater river in Alaska, the Nenana River. Our raft guides will take us through the exciting rapids while enjoying the views of the beautiful landscape.
July 8 - 11: Anchorage, Alaska
Our last days in Alaska will be spent in Anchorage, best known for its glaciers, wildlife and trails and is the state’s cultural soul, as well. Anchorage is home to more artists and musicians than any other place in Alaska. Be awed by supersized glaciers and the hardy wildlife of the tundra on our Glacier Boat Tour through the rugged Alaskan wilderness. Visit the sheer, awesome face of a mighty Alaska glacier. We will stand just 300 yards from Portage Glacier, one of Alaska’s most popular attractions from the Ice Age. Watch for fractures of ice break off the glacier and crash into the water below. Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a sanctuary dedicated to preserving Alaska’s wildlife through conservation, education, and animal care. Be sure to keep your eye out for elk, deer, wolves, bears, bald eagles and many other animals that call Alaska their home. See Alaska from the top on our scenic aerial tram adventure to the top of Mt. Alyeska. Take in the picturesque views of the Seven Hanging Glaciers, Turnagain Arm, and endless peaks of the Chugach Mountain range.
July 11 - 15: Honolulu, Hawaii
Welcome to Island Life! We will fly to the land of Tropical Paradise – Hawaii! Our stay near Waikiki Beach is located on the south shore of Honolulu. The world-famous neighborhood of Waikiki was once a playground for Hawaiian royalty and is famed for its iconic crescent beach backed by palms and high-rise hotels. Along the main strip of Kalakaua Avenue, you’ll find world-class shopping, dining, entertainment, and activities. Hike Diamond Head, a crater formed from the eruptions of the Ko’olau Volcano many years ago, and marvel at the panoramic views of Waikiki and Oahu’s south shore. Catch the waves at Waikiki Beach during our thrilling surf lessons. Tour the Dole Pineapple Plantation, Hawaii’s “Pineapple Experience”, and sample the famous pineapple-flavored Dole Whip! Visit the USS Arizona Memorial Center to learn the historical lessons of Pearl Harbor through the exhibitions and pay tribute to those lives lost at the Remembrance Circle.
July 15 - 18: Big Island, Hawaii
Next up is a short flight to Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. Soak up the sun and the incredible views on the Southern Kohala coast. Swim or snorkel with tropical fish and rare green sea turtles in a salt-water lagoon. We will tour the Big Island by visiting Volcanoes National Park, where we will see one of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kīlauea, and the world’s largest volcano Mauna Loa. Hike through the giant Lava Tubes, marvel at the waterfalls in the rainforest, explore Old Kailua town, the Kings’ Shops and Queen’s Marketplace, and relax on the unique black sand beaches.
July 18 - 21: Maui, Hawaii
Our last stop in Hawaii, but certainly not least, is to the stunning “Valley Isle,” which is the second largest Hawaiian island. The island is beloved for its world-famous beaches, the sacred Iao Valley, stunning views, farm-to-table cuisine and the magnificent sunrise and sunset from Haleakala. Visit Lahaina, a Maui Hotspot, and explore this historic whaling village which boasts top-notch art galleries, shops, eateries, and live entertainment. All aboard our double-deck catamaran to snorkel amongst more than 250 species of colorful tropical fish and giant Sea Turtles off the coast at Coral Gardens, one of Maui’s premier snorkeling destinations. Experience a Traditional Hawaiian Luau at sunset! Settle down under the stars while you listen to live music and watch skilled performances of the hula. During our last night celebration, we will spend our final night together, reliving the great memories of our experience of a lifetime on ACA Hawaii + Alaska Adventure! Fly home with your new friends and unbelievable memories on our ACA chaperoned group flight or carry on to Southern California with some of your trip mates. ACA students traveling to California will fly with our trusted staff to San Diego from Maui.
July 21 - 23: San Diego, CA
Southern California is famous for its warm sandy beaches and bustling city, the perfect ending for your ultimate summer experience! Jet from Maui to San Diego for the SoCal Extension. We all love San Diego’s beaches, world-famous Zoo and Safari Park, picturesque Embarcadero waterfront, tasty Little Italy, stunning La Jolla, historic Old Town, and Balboa Park. Admire more than 800 species and 4,000 animals at San Diego Zoo, the world’s leading zoo. Surrounded by the sea and the steep slopes of Mt. Soledad, La Jolla has a real Mediterranean feel set amongst West Coast splendor. Check out the chic boutiques, art galleries and restaurants, with a mix of turn-of-the-century Spanish architecture and eccentric modern designs. Mission and Pacific Beaches, boasting miles of coastline, offer the best sand and surf on the Pacific. Take a break from the waves and sip a smoothie while checking out the surf shops. Looking for a thrill? See if you can handle the Giant Dipper roller-coaster! Explore Seaport Village with over 70 trendy stores. Right on the coast and overflowing with summertime excitement, Seaport Village makes the perfect shopping destination.
July 23 - 26: Los Angeles, CA
LA, Malibu & Santa Barbara
Dynamic, culturally diverse and breathtakingly beautiful, Los Angeles combines the finest the West Coast has to offer. Hollywood stars, the TV & movie industries, and gorgeous beaches all make LA a world class city. Take a ride on the world’s first solar-powered Ferris wheel, and satisfy your sweet tooth with Pacific Park’s signature Funnel Cake, a boardwalk treat that can’t be missed on any visit to the Santa Monica Pier. Soak up the sun at Venice Beach, LA’s most iconic beach known for its bohemian spirit. Visit Abbot Kinney Boulevard featuring foodie hot spots, stylish boutiques and coffee bars. While in the entertainment capital of the world, a trip to Hollywood is a must! You have some big shoes to fill as you walk among the stars on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame. See how your hands and feet compare to Hollywood elites like Meryl Streep, Brad Pitt, and Robert Downey Jr. in front of Mann Chinese Theater. An LA Icon, Griffith Observatory showcases stunning views of the Hollywood Sign, downtown LA skyline, West LA, the Pacific Ocean, and more! If your sport is shopping, you’ll find the best shopping worldwide at the upscale shops and trendy boutiques of Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade, Melrose Avenue, The Grove, and Beverly Hills’ Rodeo Drive, where you just might rub elbows with Hollywood celebs.
Home of some of the best beaches and surfing spots in the US, Malibu is a hub of celebrities, socialites and casual tourists. Stunning views along the Pacific Coast Highway lead to three miles of pristine beach, Zuma Beach, that has been a favorite for movie producers. Feeling active? Grab a volleyball and try your skill on the same beach the pros have competed on for decades. Check out the Malibu Country Mart, a local celebrity hotspot!
Santa Barbara is best known for its small-town beach vibe, breathtaking sunsets, outdoor activities, trendy shopping and world-class restaurants. Get a Mediterranean experience on the fabled “American Riviera.” This is one of Cali’s favorite shopping areas. Wander the cobblestone walkways of State Street and sunny expanses of open-air plazas and promenades in search of “must-have” fashions. Take a break for a gourmet treat, then get right back in the hunt!
During our last night celebration, we will spend our final night together, reliving the great memories of our experience of a lifetime on ACA Hawaii + Alaska + SoCal Adventure! Fly home with your new friends and unbelievable memories on our ACA chaperoned group flight from LA to the New York area. For students outside of the New York area, ACA staff will help you with check-in and stay at the airport until your flight takes off.
Program Specifics
Program start: Fly to Anchorage, Alaska
Students have the option to fly on our ACA-staffed group flight from the New York area to Anchorage on July 5. Our staff meet you at the airport and are with you the entire way starting with check-in. For students outside of the New York area, we are happy to help make arrangements for students connecting to our ACA group flight. For students flying on their own, we will have designated times that you should fly into Anchorage where ACA staff will meet you at baggage claim and escort you to join the group. Please contact the ACA office for additional information.
Return Flight Home from Maui, Hawaii (On the 17 Day Program)
Students will return home on ACA-staffed group flights from Maui to the New York area on July 21. For students outside of the New York area, we are happy to help make arrangements at suitable times from the New York area. For students flying on their own, we will have designated outbound flight times for you to schedule. ACA staff will help you with check-in and stay at the airport until your flight takes off.
Return Flight Home from Los Angeles, CA (On the 17 Day Program + SoCal Extension)
Students attending the SoCal Extension will return home on ACA-staffed group flights from Los Angeles to the New York area on July 26. For students outside of the New York area, we are happy to help make arrangements at suitable times from the New York area. For students flying on their own, we will have designated outbound flight times for you to schedule. ACA staff will help you with check-in and stay at the airport until your flight takes off.
Meals
We understand how important eating well while away from home is. Each morning, you’ll enjoy breakfasts in our amazing hotels in the classic continental style, with plenty of fresh juices, eggs, cereal, pastries, yogurt, and fresh fruit. It’s perfect fuel for a fun-filled day. For dinners, you’ll enjoy our exclusive Dining-on-the-Town-Plan, which lets you choose from a variety of ACA-selected restaurants – and it’s included in your tuition! You’ll always find a great restaurant that suits your taste!
With many options each day, we are able to accommodate most special dietary requests along with choosy eaters. We welcome discussing your individual requirements with you prior to program departure.
Roommates & Accommodations
You will stay in the finest hotels in the safest locations. Our hotels are carefully selected based on safety, security, location, amenities and comfort. Each student will have their own bed. All students fill out a detailed roommate questionnaire. Roommates are matched based on age and common interests. Of course, if you are traveling with a friend, you are able to room with each other.
Laundry
Each week, you will have the option to drop off your laundry at a local laundromat and pick it up clean and folded.
What's Included
Your program tuition is all inclusive of lodging, breakfast and dinner daily, activities as listed, and airport transfers as outlined. Not included is lunches, snacks, personal spending money for souvenirs, laundry and transportation to and from the program.
Frequently Asked Questions
This tour accepts students completing 8th through 10th grades.
This tour is coed and typically has around 40 participants.
We allow students to bring their cell phones. We have a cell phone policy so that cell phone use doesn’t interfere with the program and experience.
On land you’ll ride in a chartered deluxe, air-conditioned motor coach with a professional driver. For flights from Alaska to Hawaii, within Hawaii, and from Hawaii to San Diego, we fly on regularly scheduled commercial flights included in the trip tuition.
ACA students are always within minutes of world-class medical services should an emergency occur. In the case of any accident or illness, ACA staff members accompany students to appropriate medical facilities and immediately notify parents or guardians. For non-emergencies when a doctor’s visit is required, parents will be notified and you will be chaperoned by a same-sex staff member. Parents will speak directly with the medical provider. Staff collect all prescription medication and will administer it to the students as prescribed.
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