Hurricane Island Outward Bound School
From Maine to Costa Rica, we spark lifelong growth through outdoor expeditions that inspire self-discovery, compassion, and leadership.
Since 1964, we’ve helped lead the way in outdoor experiential learning along Maine’s coast and islands, and across its mountains and trails. Through sailing, sea kayaking, backpacking, canoeing, and expedition-based challenges shaped by wind, weather, and teamwork, students of all ages discover they are capable of far more than they imagined. That same spirit of discovery now carries students all the way to the rainforests and beaches of Costa Rica.
Our programs span two distinct worlds—from New England’s rugged coastlines and peaks to the rainforests and beaches of Costa Rica—bringing people together and inspiring growth, curiosity, and collaboration.
As part of a network of U.S. and international Outward Bound schools, we’re building a future rooted in compassion, resilience, and lasting connection to the natural world.
Every Outward Bound course is more than an outdoor experience—it’s a journey of growth, connection, and discovery.
The wild landscapes of Maine and Costa Rica are our classroom. From sailing and sea kayaking rugged coastlines to backpacking deep forests, climbing rock faces, surfing and scuba diving tropical waters, and running whitewater by canoe or raft, students learn through adventure—building connection to the outdoors, to others, and to themselves.
From teens taking their first steps into leadership to adults, Veterans, educators, schools, youth groups, and business professionals seeking renewed purpose, Outward Bound offers tailored adventures for all. Our courses meet people where they are—using challenge and the outdoors to inspire confidence, connection, and lifelong learning.
Life asks a lot of us—adaptability, resilience, empathy, and clear communication. Outward Bound teaches these skills through meaningful challenge and real-world experience for teens and adults. Rooted in our core values of Compassion, Courage, Inclusion, Integrity, and Service, our courses help people show up stronger for whatever comes next.
Outward Bound is for everyone! Whether you’re a teen or adult seeking a new adventure, a school or group looking to build confidence and teamwork with your students, or a business leader interested in creating stronger, more resilient teams, we have a program designed for you.
Adventures designed for all ages. Explore courses tailored to your interests, your goals, and the places you’re most inspired to discover.
Bring your students or youth group into the field with us. We design custom programs that inspire confidence, growth, and connection.
Build stronger teams and resilient leaders through immersive, customized experiences that go beyond traditional professional development programs.
Support the next generation of leaders and changemakers as they navigate their next big step with programs that inspire confidence, growth, and connection.
Connect with colleagues, immerse yourself in learning, and gain new skills and inspiration to bring back to your students and classroom.
Sailing in Maine
Youth-Serving Partnerships
Kayaking in The Bahamas
Teambuilding for Professionals
Whitewater Rafting in Costa Rica
Connecting with Nature
Trekking in Costa Rica
Middle School Expeditions
Surfing in Costa Rica
Connecting as Colleagues
Canoeing in Maine
Sleeping and Living on a Sailboat
Rock Climbing in Maine
Higher Ed Partnerships
Sea Kayaking in Maine
High School Expeditions
Backpacking for Adults
Veterans Sailing in Maine
Scuba in Panama
Leadership through Doing
Island Camping in Maine
Giving Back through Service
Group Homestays in Costa Rica
Gap Year and Semester Programs