Photograph of a Hawaiian beach scene. A sea turtle is lying on the light sand in the foreground, facing towards the ocean. Tall palm trees, leaning slightly, are visible along the upper portion of the image. The ocean is a light blue, meeting a horizon with scattered white clouds in a blue sky. Dark, jagged rocks line the shoreline between the sand and the water. Text at the bottom reads "Island of Hawaii Visitors Bureau (IHVB) / Kirk Lee Aeder."

Plein Air in Kona, HI
January 21-28, 2026
Deposit:

$500.00 – $1,000.00

Paint Paradise: A Plein Air Adventure in Kona, Hawaii. Let the breathtaking landscapes of Hawaii’s Big Island ignite your artistic vision. Join Eric Wiegardt for an immersive workshop where you’ll capture the essence of Kona – from its dramatic volcanic cliffs to its serene, sun-kissed beaches. Experience the magic of painting azure waters reflecting golden sunsets, and lush tropical gardens bursting with color. Beyond the canvas, explore the rich cultural tapestry of Kona, with group dinners and authentic island experiences. This is more than a workshop; it’s a journey of artistic discovery. Limited spots are available for this unique opportunity to paint your Hawaiian masterpiece, January 21-28, 2026.

Scroll down for more details or download the brochure pdf here

Please click here to view our Cancellation Policy.

Deposit: $500 per person

January 21-28, 2026

Online Registration Form (This will load automatically after deposit use this link only if you’ve already paid)

Printable Registration Form

Scroll below or click here for additional information

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Description

Photograph showing a bird's-eye view of the Hawaiian coastline. A tall, green cliff covered in dense vegetation descends to a small, dark sand beach with white waves. The beach borders a large, smooth blue ocean that fades into a light, cloudy sky at the horizon. Foreground includes green foliage with a prominent yellow-green plant.

KONA, HAWAII
WATERCOLOR PLEIN AIR WORKSHOP
January 21-28, 2026

An Artist’s Dream on Hawaii’s Big Island. Kona, bathed in sunlight, offers a unique blend of ancient Hawaiian history and stunning natural beauty. Imagine painting dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush tropical gardens, and sunsets that paint the azure waters in gold. When you’re not capturing these scenes on canvas, Kona invites you to explore its rich culture. Visit coffee plantations, snorkel in crystal-clear bays, and connect with the heart of Hawaii. This is more than a workshop; it’s a transformative artistic journey into the soul of Hawaii’s coastal splendor.

What’s included?
* Welcome Reception
* Seven nights of lodging
* Daily breakfast
* Four days of Plein Air Workshop instruction
* Two group dinners
* Staff assistance throughout workshop
* Free time to explore!
Photograph of a dense tropical rainforest. A large, ancient tree with thick, gnarled branches dominates the center, surrounded by tall, slender palm trees with long, drooping leaves. A narrow path winds through the forest floor, which is covered in fallen leaves and dappled sunlight. The overall scene is lush and green, creating a sense of depth and tranquility.
A glimpse into Hawaii’s lush rainforest, where ancient trees stand tall amidst a sea of vibrant greenery. Experience the tranquility of nature on a winding path through this tropical paradise.

Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel

Located on the historic grounds where King Kamehameha once resided, this oceanfront hotel combines Hawaiian cultural heritage with modern comfort. All workshop participants will enjoy partial ocean views from their rooms, while the property offers amenities including a private beach area, swimming pool overlooking Kailua Bay, on-site dining options, and cultural displays celebrating Hawaiian history. Perfectly situated in the heart of Kona, guests can easily access water activities, historic sites, and the vibrant atmosphere of Alii Drive.

Available Room Packages
Prices are Per Person

Each room includes either two Queen beds or one King bed.

Painter Single Room
  • Single Painter (2) Queens – $5,770
 Photograph of a hotel beachfront scene. A multi-story, light-colored hotel building is visible in the background, behind a sandy beach. The beach is bordered by clear, turquoise water in the foreground, with gentle waves. Palm trees line the perimeter of the beach and hotel grounds. The sky is blue with scattered white clouds.
Painter Shared Room Options
  • Shared Painter (2) Queens- $4,230
  • Shared Painter King – $4,230
Companion Non-Painter
Room Options
    • Shared Companion (2) Queens- $3,580
    • Shared Companion King – $3,580
 Photograph of a hotel room interior. Two beds with white linens are centrally located in the room. A large flat-screen television is on the left, placed on a wooden dresser. A sliding glass door leads to a balcony with an outdoor view. The wall behind the beds features a mural with blue and white abstract wave patterns. Two bedside tables with lamps flank the beds.

 

FAQs About The Workshop
What´s the closest airport?

Kona International Airport (KOA)

How do we get to the hotel upon arrival?

The Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel is approximately 8.5 miles from the Kona International Airport (KOA). The drive typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Reserve a taxi through the hotel or pick one up at the airport.

What should I bring?

You will need to bring your own brushes, pencils, paper, palette, paints, portable easel and stool. For the complete list, click here.

Also, watch the Plein Air packing video on YouTube. It is quite entertaining. We filmed this in Venice and we think the church bells got stuck on.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RK1zNvRkeNc

Is there a lot of walking?

We will be doing some walking. You will be carrying your own equipment. Please pack only what you can carry.

We highly recommend that you purchase travel insurance to cover the cost of your trip and workshop.

 

What to Expect & Additional Questions

How do I sign up for the class?

You can pay a deposit directly on our website or call the gallery for assistance.  Once you register for this class & pay the deposit amount, please go back to the main ‘Workshops’ page and complete the registration form for this trip.

There are two options:

  • You can click ‘online registration’ in which you can fill out the form right there on your computer and submit it directly to us.
  • You can click on the ‘printable registration form’ in which you have the following options:
    1. Complete the online registration form on your computer & print it, or
    2. You can download the printable registration form & hand write the info, then you mail the form to:

Wiegardt Studio Gallery
PO BOX 1114
Ocean Park, WA 98640

We will need the completed form in order to send you an invoice for the balance owing on the trip.

 

What materials do I need?

Once you register for this class, please click on this link to view a materials list so you can ensure you have everything you need before the class begins.

Plein Air Materials List

Where can I get the materials I need?

All materials recommended by Eric can be purchased at the gallery or on our website.  If you need a specific item not listed on the website (for example, a large sheet of arches rough watercolor paper), please email gallery@ericwiegardt.com to make those arrangements; we will accommodate your requests to the best of our ability.

When should I plan to Arrive?

January 21st; there will be a reception at 6pm local time.

What is scheduled for the day after arrival?

Painting!

When does the workshop instruction actually begin?

January 22nd

Are there days on the trip when there are not planned activities?

January 24th will be free with a Group dinner at 6pm and January 25th will also be a free day.

What day does instruction end?

January 27th.

When should I book a return flight?

January 28th.

What is the full workshop schedule?
1/21: Arrive Reception at 6pm
1/22: Instruction
1/23: Instruction
1/24: Day Off and Group Dinner at 6pm
1/25: Day Off
1/26: Instruction
1/27: Instruction and Group Dinner
1/28: Leave
How do I get from the hotel back to airport?

Taxi can be arranged at the hotel.

What food is included?

Daily breakfast, welcome reception and two group dinners are included.

Does the hotel have a restaurant or are there any within walking distance?

Hotel has two restaurants and many more within easy walking distance.

What type of Power Outlets are available?

US Outlets are available

What currency is used?

US Dollars

Any special items I should bring?

Recommended; Sunscreen and sunhat. Dress is casual with the option of dress as desired.

What is the contact information for the hotel?

Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/koacy-courtyard-king-kamehamehas-kona-beach-hotel/overview
Address: 75-5660 Palani Road, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, USA, 96740
Phone: +1 808-329-2911
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/konabeachresort/

Cancellations & Refunds

For cancellations prior to August 1, 2025, all money will be refunded minus the $50 non-refundable fee.
For cancellations between August 1, 2025 to October 1, 2025, all money will be refunded minus the $500 administration fee.
*The administration fee is non-refundable and non-transferable*
After October 1, 2025, cancellations must be in writing; no money will be returned to the applicant unless that individual’s space can be resold.
If the space is resold, all monies will be refunded minus the $500 administration fee.
No refund will be given to an applicant who does not participate or complete the workshop or field activities.

Eric Wiegardt reserves the right to cancel for any reason.

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Additional information

Deposit

Painter $500 Deposit, Painter & Companion $1000 Deposit
Room Choice

Single (2) Queens Room, Shared (2) Queens Room, Shared King

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