Defining Identity
When your name includes twelve syllables and nearly as many letters as the alphabet, you often have some explaining to do.
Breadfruit
As it turns out, one breadfruit can feed a family, and one variety a people. Packed in coconut-husk fiber and dry leaves, ‘ulu accompanied the Polynesian voyagers in their canoes bound for Hawai‘i.
The “Flowers” of Niʻihau
From tiny shells that wash ashore on this forbidden island come priceless treasures.
Olelo Hawaii
A revolution is happening in Island schools, as Hawaiian-immersion students find the keys to unlock their culture.
Taro for Sale and I’m Buying!
Purchase rare varieties of taro while supporting Maui Nui Botanical Gardens.
Island Royalty
Kumu hula and lei maker, Gordean Bailey has spent a lifetime sharing the culture of aloha.
The Heartbeat of Hula
In contrast to modern hula (which is typically accompanied by Western-derived stringed instruments, such as the slack-key guitar or ‘ukulele), ancient hula is purely percussive.
Pa‘u Riders
Hawaiian pa'u riders carry on an exuberant tradition, bedecking both horse and rider with flowers and fine fabrics.
Healing Across Generations
Following the ancient practices of our ancestors has restored a missing piece—healing across generations.
What is a Hawaiian Education?
We ask three maoli (native) educators to consider what it means to be an educated Hawaiian in the twenty-first century—and why it matters.
An Ancient Fishpond Resurfaces
Lānaʻi Waiaʻōpae fishpond once helped feed the island's people. Today it's feeding a hunger for culture.
Into the House of the Sun
A millennium before Haleakala became a national park, Hawaiians traversed its moonscape crater. On the park’s centennial, we reprise that journey.
Our Kūpuna Islands
Kūpuna (ancestor) islands form the core of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument.
The Fisherman’s Net
From ancient times, Hawaiians have used this handwoven tool to gather an ocean harvest. For one Maui fisherman, it still holds a way of life and a sense of identity.
Aligned with the Ancestors
Lomilomi has the potential to "heal a person's path backwards and forwards," says Jeana Naluai, owner of Ho'omana Spa.
Sustaining Culture in Hāna
Hāna’s families teach acclaimed chefs about living off the land—and remind themselves what it means to be Hawaiian.
An Appetite for Culture + VIDEO
How Maui farmers are cultivating ancient wisdom to feed a population—and a hunger for culture.
Celebration of the Arts
Every Easter weekend, the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, goes all out with its Celebration of the Arts: a celebration of all things Hawaiian.
The Thousand-year-old Gift
Hawaiian culture evolved over millennia, then almost disappeared after Western contact. Maui's cultural advisors are committed to bringing it back.
Kapa: More to Learn
See all eleven kapa Pua Van Dorpe created to honor ancient Maui chiefs, and read their stories.
Li Hing Mui: Hawaii’s Favorite Snack
Li hing mui is a favorite Hawaii snack. Lehia shares her top 10 ways to eat this salty sweet treat.
Kumu
Though he didn't set out to become an expert on Hawaiian culture, Keli'i Tau'a may be the most revered teacher of hula and chant you never heard of.
