Like so many traditions in Hawai’i, The Aloha Shirt is deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture and history. Seeing an Aloha Shirt will make most people feel the irresistible pull toward Hawai’i. Everyone has a dream to someday visit or return to these magical islands. The Aloha Shirt was initially called The Hawaiian Shirt. It was… Read more »
Thank God For Hana! is a bumper sticker often seen on locals’ cars on Maui. For many, it’s their favorite place on the island. Once you go there and really experience it, you will understand why. It is one place where Old Hawai’i shines through. Hana is one of the most isolated communities in the… Read more »
The people who live in Hawai’i tend to live an active lifestyle centered around being outside. As soon as their work is pau*, the outdoors calls. Things like surfing (body, board, wind, kite), SUP (stand-up paddling), paddling (canoe, kayak), snorkeling, swimming, running on the beach, or hiking to a waterfall with a freshwater pool. There… Read more »
If you have been to Maui, you have been to Lāhainā. Lāhainā has been rich, colorful, and vibrant since it was called Lele in ancient times. The town was chosen as the royal capital in 1820 by King Kamehameha the Great. It remained the capital until 1845. It was a very sad day when an… Read more »
When I was growing up, the first three things I remember hearing about Hawai’i were: Maui Wai’ānapanapa Black Sand Beach Lāhainā* I didn’t know at the time that to see these three things meant I only had to go to one island, the island of Maui. That one island would be enough to fulfill my… Read more »
Did you know that Hawai’i has 2 breeds of indigenous butterflies? Over 1000 butterfly species that call Hawai’i home have been recorded through the years. Of all these butterflies, there are two native species and about fifteen alien species which dominate the island chain. An authentic native butterfly, The Kamehameha Butterfly, is the official Hawai’i… Read more »
For countless generations, the sound of the pū* would broadcast the arrival of Ali’i*, the beginning of protocols, the coming of canoes, and the setting or rising of the sun. It was even used to call Ke Akua*! In more modern times, it calls a gathering to attention at the beginning of an event, blesses… Read more »
The Road to Hana has a special allure for people visiting Maui. Most visitors to Maui are tempted to try quite a few world-class activities during their Hawai’i vacation. There are surf lessons, zip-lining, Haleakalā Sunrise, boat trips, and more. Yet, we still consider the Road to Hana a must. Maui’s iconic Road To Hana… Read more »
One day around lunchtime you suddenly have a craving for some Poke (poh-kay). In Hawai’i, you would say: “I am so ono for Poke!” Your friends would immediately understand and probably agree with you. Someone in the group would set off for the neighborhood market and pick up some fresh Poke, perhaps a few Poke… Read more »
Everyone loves a parade! We have heard that saying for ages. When it comes to parades, people on Maui are no different. Especially the residents of Makawao town, where local people have gathered for the last 64 years to participate in a four-day event, the colorful July 4th Paniolo* Parade and Rodeo! The town spends… Read more »
