Academy Adventures

For those who seek adventure, wonder, and learning.
Sea turtle swims through school of colorful tropical fish
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Our new travel program invites you to explore Earth's most vital ecosystems alongside leading experts in their fields. From dazzling coral reef dives to remote rainforest treks to real scientific research, each itinerary is immersive—and each Adventure is unforgettable.
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Underwater photo of orange and white spotted nudibranch in the Philippines. Photo by Meg Burke

Philippines: Dive into Paradise

WAITLIST ONLY Dec. 9-17, 2024 Join trip leaders Drs. Meg Burke and Terry Gosliner and our partners at Seacology to see the wondrous coral reefs of the Philippines and explore the research, education, and conservation work they've conducted with local communities for a combined 50 years.

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Thousands of monarch butterflies swarm in Michoacan mexico during a migration event

México: Migrating Monarchs

Feb. 10-16, 2025 Witness the wonder of monarch butterfly migration, a phenomenal feat of endurance accomplished by no other butterfly species. An Academy biologist will illuminate the mystery of a practice that is essential for monarch butterflies to survive.

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Dramatic vista in Anza Borrego state park with mountains in background and field of wildflowers in foreground

Anza-Borrego: Desert Photography

Mar. 26-30, 2025 Explore Southern California’s Anza-Borrego Desert State Park on a nature photography tour. From wildlife and landscape to astrophotography, you will grow your skills alongside the Academy’s senior photographer.

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Bear cub climbing a tree in Canada's Great Bear Rainforest

Great Bear: Canada's Rainforest

May 30-June 6, 2025 A trip to the Great Bear Rainforest will astound you with wildflowers, greenery, fair weather, and stunning scenery. Experience grizzlies in sedge meadows, migrating birds, and whales with your host Dr. Scott Sampson, Academy executive director.

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Image of fish in Hawaii

Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority/HTA Heather Goodman

The Natural Wonders of Hawai’i

June 22-28, 2025 Experience the unspoiled landscapes, majestic volcanoes, lush rainforests, and pristine black sand beaches of the Big Island of Hawai’i alongside Dr. Shannon Bennett, the Academy’s chief of science.

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Giant tortoise on the beach on a Galapagos island

The Galápagos: A Journey by Sea

July 24-Aug. 1, 2025 Sail through the Galápagos Islands on the Isabela II. The source of inspiration for Charles Darwin’s groundbreaking theory of evolution, this legendary archipelago is a wildlife reserve providing sanctuary for many unique endemic species.

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View of Poas volcano in Costa Rica

Costa Rica: Family Adventures

Dec. 26, 2025-Jan. 3, 2026 Ring in the new year on a natural history adventure in Costa Rica. From volcano vistas to rainforest ziplines to catamaran cruises, enjoy the remarkable biodiversity and warm hospitality of this Central American jewel.

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Group of guests hold up a banner during a recent Academy Adventures trip to Fiji

Past Academy Adventures

From far-flung hotspots like Fiji and the Maldives to close-to-home gems like San Mateo County's Costanoa resort, see where Academy Adventures has stamped its passport since launching in 2023.

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Contact us

The Academy Adventures team wants to hear from you! Reach us at adventures@calacademy.org or 415-379-5415.