May Lei Day Today

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The very first Lei Day was held May 1, 1927.  This now annual event is celebrated across the islands with music, food, and festivals taking place.  Each island has a different type of lei that is worn for the celebration.  Maui celebrates with the lokelani Lei.  A light pink sweetly scented flower.

Here on Maui, the celebration will continue through Friday with a concert by Brothers Cazimero at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center.  This is a May Lei Day annual tradition.  Concert time is 7:30 pm.

Have fun today celebrating the true Aloha spirit of the lei!

Tips On Visiting Haleakala, Maui

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Haleakala is one of Maui’s most sought after activities for those visiting and residing on the island.  The volcano sits 10,023 feet above sea level.  Many people visiting choose to watch the sunrise early in the morning.  If your an early riser, wear warm layers and bring breakfast.  Food is not sold in the park so make sure to stock up if your planning to stay past sunrise.  Weather conditions are rather chilly, make sure to bring pants, shoes and layers!

There is plenty to do for the explorer.  With lush trails throughout the park, people enjoy hiking as well as horseback riding. Some hiking expeditions can last for three days and include camping.  The park contains many endangered wildlife.  You may delight in seeing the Nene, or Hawaiian goose, Hawaii’s state bird, or a flowering silversword blossom that take 50 years to bloom.

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There really is something available for everyone at Haleakala National Park.  A true Maui treasure thats enjoyed by travelers and locals alike.  Activities and resources for your trip to Haleakala can be found here.

Summer Camps

Summer is rapidly approaching!  It’s a great time to explore classes for Keiki on Maui.  One great option for the theatre lover is Maui Academy of Performing Arts. MAPA has camps offered in Dance for ages 3-10.  These camps are geared toward teamwork and having fun!  Space is limited, and registration has begun as of April 7.

MAPA also offers Musical Theatre Camp with auditions for different productions. All the information for camps and registration can be found on the MAPA site here.

Pacific Whale Foundation offers summer sessions of Ocean Camp.  Camps are available from May to July with a different theme each week.  Rainforest’s of the Sea, Spineless Wonders, and Mighty Mollusks just to name a few.  Camp hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 am-4:00 pm.  Information for Ocean Camp is viewable here via the Pacific Whale Foundation website.

Another great summer activity that is not only fun for kids but very educational is via the Maui Ocean Center.  The Maui Ocean Center has daily/weekly activities available throughout the year.  You can find more information from their website here.

We hope everyone has a safe and happy summer!  Mahalo!

Iao Valley State Park

 

Iao Needle Iao Valley State Park Maui Hawaii

If your looking for beauty along with nature, visiting Iao Valley State Park may be the perfect fit for you.  Covered in rainforest, the park is considered Maui’s second wettest location.  The 6.2-acre park has trails and great photo opportunities.  Be sure to read the signs throughout the trail that give the history of what has taken place at that location.

For the more adventurous, you may want to bring your swimsuit.  The Iao Stream located in the park houses small rapids and pools that are fun to swim and play in.  Be advised swimming in the stream during heavy rains can be dangerous and is not recommended.

The park is open daily from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm.  Parking is free for Hawaii residents, and $5.00 for standard vehicles.  For more information including photos and videos visit their website here.

Maui Ocean Center

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Since it’s opening in 1998, Maui Ocean Center has drawn visitors from around the globe interested in viewing the most unique collection of Hawaii’s marine life.  All marine life is collected from around the Hawaiian Islands.  Maui Ocean Center attracts over 400,00 visitors each year making it one of the biggest tourism activities.

Although an average tour takes 1 ½ to 2 hours, many people find themselves staying longer and enjoying one of the two restaurants, shopping in the Ocean Center Store, or simply enjoying the view and the surroundings.  Ocean front dining is available in the Seascape Maalaea Restaurant.

Not only is Maui Ocean Center available for private and guided tours, you can plan your special event there as well.  Holiday parties, birthdays and even weddings are all available.  Feeling adventurous? How about a shark dive!  Available all year, this 2-2 ½ hour event is on many peoples “must do” list.

Maui Ocean Center is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and til 6:00 pm in July and August.  Tickets range from daily, weekly, and annual passes.  You can visit the Maui Ocean Center website for more information on attractions and activities.