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Culture and Heritage at Mauna Lani Stories of the past meet the people of the present

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Nestled within the piko (spiritual center) of Hawaii’s five great mountains, the land area known as Kalāhuipua‘a carries a legacy that spans centuries. Here, Kamehameha the Great mastered the art of aquaculture in the fabled fishponds and former landowner Francis H. I’i Brown entertained beach boys and professional golfers at the Eva Parker Woods Cottage. Step inside our House of Knowledge, Hale ‘I’ike, to learn the stories of Mauna Lani’s iconic history through our Living Culture team, the keepers of ancestral knowledge.

Go Home with a Story

Hawaiian Culture at Hale ‘I’ike
Live Music at Twilight
Art and Lei Making
Petroglyph Experiences
Walking Tours
Dec 1, 2024 - Apr 30, 2025
Welcoming Whale Season
Hale Ho’aloha Lū’au
All Experiences

Our History 

Kalāhuipua‘a, A Tropical Eden

A sacred place shrouded by rich vegetation and primordial lava fields, Kalāhuipua‘a sits at the heart of Mauna Lani. Home to six fishponds that span roughly 15 acres, this land area once restored Hawaiian royalty, who often fished for mullet and milkfish in the ponds. For centuries, Kalāhuipua‘a has been characterized by natural beauty and a distinct spirit, which is preserved by Mauna Lani’s Living Culture team. Wander amongst Kalāhuipua‘a’s palm-fringed paths and crystalline waters during a Historic Walking Tour or on the way to Twilight, a monthly tradition that celebrates the stories of this tropical oasis.

Our History 

Kalāhuipua‘a, A Tropical Eden

A sacred place shrouded by rich vegetation and primordial lava fields, Kalāhuipua‘a sits at the heart of Mauna Lani. Home to six fishponds that span roughly 15 acres, this land area once restored Hawaiian royalty, who often fished for mullet and milkfish in the ponds. For centuries, Kalāhuipua‘a has been characterized by natural beauty and a distinct spirit, which is preserved by Mauna Lani’s Living Culture team. Wander amongst Kalāhuipua‘a’s palm-fringed paths and crystalline waters during a Historic Walking Tour or on the way to Twilight, a monthly tradition that celebrates the stories of this tropical oasis.

Ambassador of Aloha

Danny Akaka, affectionately referred to as “Uncle” Danny, is our cultural ambassador and resident historian. When he’s not strumming the ‘ukulele at the Eva Parker Woods Cottage or recounting his favorite stories of Kalāhuipua‘a, you’ll likely find him in the lobby at our House of Knowledge, Hale ‘I’ike.

Experiences at Mauna Lani