‘Ike nā mea Hawai’i (Experience Hawaiian Culture)
More and more travelers are seeking an experience that provides a deeper connection to the place they are visiting. Hawai’i, with its unique customs, history, language and cuisine, offers a rich cultural experience unlike any other.
The Fairmont Kea Lani was recently voted as having the “Best Hawaiian Cultural Program” on Maui by the readers of Maui News. The detailed program, led by our full-time Cultural Coach, Jonelle Kamai, offers authentic Hawaiian experiences that range from educational classes, to cultural music and celebrations, to local dining experiences. All available within a luxury hotel setting.
If you want to venture off property, many options are also available. Volunteer throughout the island to restore ancient fishponds or plant native species. Or, explore some of Maui’s historical sites, such as Lahaina Town, Pi’ilani Heiau, Iao Valley and Haleakalā Crater.
However you chose to spend your time, be sure to open your mind (and your heart) to the Hawaiian culture. Hawaiians believe that we need to be conscious and grateful of all the things around us; our health, our family, and nature.The incredible culture is based on the fundamental principles of love, support, hospitality and giving without the expectation of receiving.
Top Hawaiian Cultural Experiences
- Bailey House Museum
- Olowalu Petroglyphs Hike
- Noho’ana Farm
- Maui Arts & Cultural Center
- Historical Lahaina Town
- Pi’ilani Heiau in Hana
- Ulalena
- The Baldwin Sugar Museum
- Complimentary activities at The Kea Lani
- The Hawaiian Canoe Experience teaches guests Hawaiian traditions while they learn the basics of paddling, as well as the history of the canoe and its importance to Hawaiian heritage. ** Advanced reservations are required – Book before you arrive!
- Hawaiian Cultural Tour includes information about the many uses of native and non-native plants by the Hawaiian people, as well as Hawai’i’s rich history.
- ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i Session offers guests the chance to guests learn about the history of the Hawaiian language, how to pronounce words they see around the islands, and more.
 | Faves/Tips from Pre-Arrival Manager, Chesha & Cultural Coach, Jonelle - Iao Valley: See traditional homes built by the many immigrants that came to Hawai’i as well as a Hawaiian hale (house), visit the botanical garden, hike through the rainforest of Iao, and swim in the fresh-water Iao Stream. The valley is rich in cultural and spiritual values and is the site of the battle of Kepaniwai in 1790, where Kamehameha I conquered Kalanikūpule (son of Kahekili) for control of Maui Island.
- Maui Snow Factory: Located in Wailuku Town this local-favorite snack and coffee shop serves an island-favorite dessert with a twist! Maui Snow features flavored shaved ice that has the consistency of soft snow. Add condensed milk, li hing mui, or azuki beans for added local flavor.
- Kula Country Farms: Located in beautiful Kula, this farm offers many family activities throughout the year and is a great place to go and buy local produce and products made on Maui, by Maui residents. Family activities include pumpkin patch picking in October, strawberry picking in February, Easter egg hunting in springtime, and holiday celebrations filled with horse rides, crafts, and Santa!
- Baby Beach: This secluded local spot is located right by Mala Wharf in Lahaina and is a great place for the family to relax on floaties, barbecue, and take in the warm Lahaina sun. Protected by a coral reef, the water is calm and flat all day long and offers a chance to look at fish and explore the reefs.
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Hawaiian Word of the Month: Lei
The lei is a symbol of affection, often given to people for greetings, farewells, congratulations, love, friendship or birthdays. Lei can be made from many different materials, such as sea or land shells, feathers, flowers, fabric, paper (including origami and monetary bills), candy, or anything that can be strung together in a series and worn as a wreath or a necklace.
Join us for May Day, May 1:
The celebration of May Day began on May 1, 1928 when poet Don Blading suggested that a holiday be created in honor of the Hawaiian custom of making and wearing lei. On that day, everyone in the community was encouraged to wear lei, and festivities, such as hula, music and lei making, took place in downtown Honolulu. Each year throughout the Hawaiian Islands, and at The Fairmont Kea Lani, we continue to celebrate May Day on the first day of May. Join us in the May Day Festivities:
- Lei Making: 1:30pm – 2:30pm • Paeahu Terrace
- Hula Lessons: 3:00pm – 4:00pm • Paeahu Terrace
- Keiki hula and mele (song) performance: 4:30pm - 5:30pm • Palm Court
- Employee cr afted lei will be displayed in the lobby
Learn More About Cultural Coach, Jonelle Kamai Learn more about: