A highlight and long-standing tradition of the outdoor educational journey at Punahou is a series of camps that are integral to the student experience at each middle school level. Created by the Outdoor Education Department, the camps encompass on and off-campus activities that blend personal growth, team-building, community service and outdoor skills.
As part of a 60-year tradition, sixth graders spend time on the west side’s Camp Pālehua, formerly known as Camp Timberline. The experience includes learning in a natural setting steeped in history and culture, away from technology. Students engage with the land through exploration of sacred ancient Hawaiian sites, such as the Pā and Mauna Kapu, building a connection with this special part of the Island.
The seventh grade program comprises three day camps, focused on service learning and cooperation. For one, students spend a day removing invasive seaweed in Maunalua Bay in collaboration with Malama Maunalua.
Eighth graders take part in a three-day, two-night adventure at Camp Mokulē’ia, located on the North Shore. The camp experience includes outdoor skills, hiking, a high ropes course, team-building challenges and activities, all designed to help students grow individually and strengthen bonds among classmates.
