Top 15 Boarding Schools In Hawaii And Fees (2025)

Hawaii, with its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and emphasis on holistic education, is home to some of the most prestigious boarding schools in the United States. Families from across the world consider Hawaii as an ideal location for secondary education because of its serene environment, multicultural diversity, and rigorous academic standards.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 15 boarding schools in Hawaii and their fees, providing you with insights into what makes each school special, their tuition costs, and why they are excellent choices for families seeking quality education.

Top 15 Boarding Schools In Hawaii And Fees

1. Punahou School – Honolulu, HI

Punahou School is one of the most recognized private schools in the U.S., famous for being the alma mater of former President Barack Obama. While Punahou traditionally operates as a day school, it offers selective boarding opportunities for international students. Established in 1841, it remains one of Hawaii’s largest independent schools, serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade.

The school emphasizes a balance between academics, athletics, and the arts. Punahou offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum, advanced placement (AP) courses, and strong extracurricular programs. Students benefit from modern facilities, including science labs, an innovation center, arts complexes, and top-notch athletic infrastructure.

Boarding students experience a multicultural environment, as Punahou attracts learners from across Asia, the Pacific Islands, and North America. The community encourages leadership, service, and cultural exchange, which prepares students for global opportunities.

Fees: Boarding tuition ranges from $35,000 to $45,000 per year, depending on grade level and boarding arrangements.

2. Iolani School – Honolulu, HI

Iolani School, founded in 1863, is a prestigious coeducational college-preparatory institution with a strong reputation for academic rigor and student leadership. Known for its exceptional STEM, arts, and athletics programs, Iolani fosters a nurturing environment where students are encouraged to pursue excellence.

The school provides opportunities in robotics, performing arts, and athletics while emphasizing service learning and character development. Boarding students benefit from Hawaii’s diverse culture and enjoy an immersive learning environment that blends academics with extracurricular enrichment.

Iolani also offers an outstanding guidance program to support college admissions. Many graduates secure placements in Ivy League universities and other top-ranked institutions worldwide.

Fees: Boarding tuition typically ranges between $38,000 and $48,000 per year, covering accommodation, meals, and academic programs.

3. Kamehameha Schools – Kapalama Campus, Honolulu, HI

Kamehameha Schools, founded by Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, serves students of Native Hawaiian ancestry. The Kapalama campus in Honolulu is its largest and offers selective boarding programs.

The school is known for its commitment to preserving Hawaiian culture while providing a high-quality college-preparatory education. Students engage in cultural studies, Hawaiian language, and heritage-based programs alongside modern academic offerings.

Boarding students experience a strong sense of community, with structured activities that promote leadership, cultural identity, and academic growth. Kamehameha Schools also places a strong emphasis on athletics and performing arts.

Fees: Tuition and boarding costs are subsidized for eligible Native Hawaiian students. The average boarding program fee is $15,000 to $20,000 per year, making it one of the most affordable options in Hawaii.

4. Hawaii Preparatory Academy (HPA) – Kamuela, HI

HPA, located on the Big Island in Waimea, is one of Hawaii’s most well-regarded boarding schools. Founded in 1949, the academy is known for its focus on environmental sustainability, innovative learning, and academic excellence.

The campus offers a unique learning environment, with access to beaches, forests, and observatories. HPA emphasizes experiential education, offering programs in marine biology, environmental studies, and astronomy. It also features a state-of-the-art energy lab where students work on real-world sustainability projects.

Boarding students come from around the world, creating a global learning community. HPA’s athletics programs, equestrian facilities, and strong college counseling services add to its reputation as a top-tier boarding school.

Fees: Boarding tuition is approximately $57,000 per year, which includes room, board, and tuition.

5. Mid-Pacific Institute – Honolulu, HI

Mid-Pacific Institute combines tradition with innovation. Established in 1908, it has developed a reputation for its focus on creative arts, technology, and global education. Boarding is available for high school students, particularly international learners.

The school’s programs emphasize critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity. Students can pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, making it an attractive choice for globally minded families. Mid-Pacific also has a strong emphasis on digital learning and fine arts, including dance, music, and theater.

Boarding students enjoy a supportive community that balances academic rigor with opportunities for cultural enrichment. Many go on to pursue degrees at top universities in the U.S. and abroad.

Fees: Boarding tuition typically ranges between $35,000 and $45,000 per year, depending on grade level.

6. Seabury Hall – Makawao, Maui

Seabury Hall, located on the island of Maui, is an independent college-preparatory school known for its personalized approach to education. Founded in 1964, it emphasizes academic excellence, service, and creativity.

The school’s boarding program is relatively small, ensuring close relationships between faculty and students. With small class sizes, Seabury Hall offers individualized attention, encouraging students to explore subjects deeply. It also has strong arts and athletics programs, including drama, music, and outdoor activities.

Students benefit from Maui’s natural setting, with outdoor learning experiences that enhance leadership and teamwork. Seabury Hall graduates are well-prepared for competitive universities.

Fees: Boarding tuition is about $36,000 to $42,000 per year.

7. Le Jardin Academy – Kailua, HI

Le Jardin Academy, situated in beautiful Kailua on Oahu, is a private IB World School that offers day and limited boarding programs. The academy emphasizes international-mindedness, cultural diversity, and academic excellence.

Students can pursue the full International Baccalaureate curriculum from elementary through high school. Boarding students benefit from Hawaii’s multicultural community and enjoy a well-rounded education that combines academics, arts, and athletics.

Le Jardin is particularly strong in language programs, encouraging fluency in multiple languages to prepare students for global opportunities.

Fees: Boarding tuition ranges from $37,000 to $45,000 per year.

8. Island Pacific Academy – Kapolei, HI

Island Pacific Academy is a relatively young but growing independent school known for innovation and progressive learning. Founded in 2004, it emphasizes student-centered education, character development, and creativity.

The school offers strong STEM, arts, and leadership programs. Boarding options are available for upper school students, particularly international enrollees. With a diverse student body, Island Pacific fosters cultural exchange and global citizenship.

Fees: Boarding tuition is approximately $34,000 to $40,000 per year.

9. Sacred Hearts Academy – Honolulu, HI

Sacred Hearts Academy, founded in 1909, is one of Hawaii’s oldest all-girls schools. While primarily a day school, it offers selective boarding options for international students.

The school emphasizes leadership, academic excellence, and community service. With strong STEM programs, performing arts, and athletics, Sacred Hearts prepares students for success in higher education and beyond. Its all-girls environment fosters confidence and empowerment, creating a nurturing setting for academic and personal growth.

Fees: Boarding tuition is around $32,000 to $38,000 per year.

10. Hanalani Schools – Mililani, HI

Hanalani Schools, a Christian-based private institution, is known for its strong academics and values-driven approach. Founded in 1952, it offers both day and boarding programs for high school students.

The school emphasizes character development, faith-based learning, and college preparation. Boarding students participate in extracurricular activities ranging from athletics to service projects, fostering leadership and teamwork.

Fees: Boarding tuition ranges from $30,000 to $36,000 per year.

11. Asia Pacific International School (APIS) – Hauula, HI

APIS is a global-focused school with campuses in both Hawaii and Seoul, South Korea. Located on Oahu’s North Shore, the Hawaii campus provides a unique setting for international learning.

The school offers boarding for grades 6–12, with a strong emphasis on project-based learning and global citizenship. Students benefit from advanced academics, arts, and athletics, alongside opportunities to engage with APIS’s sister campus in Korea.

Fees: Boarding tuition is about $42,000 to $50,000 per year.

12. Damien Memorial School – Honolulu, HI

Damien Memorial School is a Catholic coeducational institution serving grades 6–12. Known for its rigorous academics and spiritual foundation, the school offers boarding for high school students, including international learners.

The school emphasizes service, leadership, and community. With a wide range of extracurriculars in athletics and performing arts, Damien Memorial ensures a well-rounded educational experience.

Fees: Boarding tuition is around $32,000 to $39,000 per year.

13. Parker School – Kamuela, HI

Parker School, located on the Big Island, is a small, independent school known for its intimate learning environment. Boarding is limited, offering students a close-knit community and personalized education.

The school focuses on critical thinking, leadership, and creativity. With small class sizes, Parker provides individualized academic support. Students also benefit from outdoor activities, arts, and athletics.

Fees: Boarding tuition is approximately $28,000 to $34,000 per year.

14. Hawaii Baptist Academy – Honolulu, HI

Founded in 1949, Hawaii Baptist Academy is a Christian-based school offering strong academics, arts, and athletics. It provides a supportive boarding environment for high school students.

The school integrates faith-based values with rigorous college-preparatory programs. Boarding students enjoy a caring community and opportunities for service, leadership, and cultural exchange.

Fees: Boarding tuition ranges from $31,000 to $37,000 per year.

15. St. Andrew’s Schools – Honolulu, HI

St. Andrew’s Schools, founded in 1867, is one of Hawaii’s oldest independent institutions. It is best known for The Priory, its all-girls division, and The Prep, its boys’ elementary program.

Boarding is available for international students, particularly in high school. The school emphasizes leadership, arts, and academics while also nurturing Hawaiian cultural traditions. Students enjoy small class sizes, personalized instruction, and a vibrant community.

Fees: Boarding tuition is about $33,000 to $40,000 per year.

Why Choose Boarding Schools in Hawaii?

Global Exposure: Hawaii attracts international students, creating a multicultural environment.
Unique Setting: With access to beaches, forests, and cultural landmarks, Hawaii offers outdoor learning opportunities unlike any other U.S. state.
Academic Rigor: Hawaii’s top boarding schools prepare students for Ivy League and global universities.
Cultural Enrichment: Students gain insights into Hawaiian culture and values while engaging in a diverse community.

Conclusion

Hawaii offers some of the most unique and enriching boarding school experiences in the United States. From globally recognized institutions like Punahou and Iolani to culturally rich schools like Kamehameha Schools and Seabury Hall, families have a wide range of options to choose from.

When selecting the right school, parents should consider factors such as fees, academic focus, cultural environment, and extracurricular opportunities. Regardless of the choice, boarding schools in Hawaii provide not just education, but life experiences that shape students into global leaders