Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection Unveils Kainalu Mauka To Makai Sports Active Pursuits Program 

THE ISLAND OF HAWAII, HAWAII (August 9, 2019) – Hawaiians have honed their relationship to the sea over many centuries. Daring to ride the biggest waves, sail outrigger canoes across Earth’s largest ocean, and dive into the sea’s salty depths, Hawaiian watermen and waterwomen have shown the rest of the world what is possible. Drawing upon this ancient expertise, Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection presents Kainalu Mauka to Makai Sports.

“Kainalu” is more than just the Hawaiian word for ocean wave; it’s a way of life. Embracing kainalu means learning to ride life’s waves and surf across its fluctuations and tides with strength, grace, and an appetite for fun. “Mauka to Makai” is the Hawaiian philosophy that recognizes the intimate relationship between the mountain (mauka) and the sea (makai). What happens in one environment affects the other; they are inseparable.

Kainalu Mauka to Makai Sports is Mauna Lani’s innovative approach to creating a recreation program unlike any other in Hawai‘i. Guided by world-class athletes, resort guests can learn a new language for adventure and embark on immersive journeys of self-discovery.

Renowned waterman Todd Clark developed the Kainalu program. A world explorer and athlete known for his visionary approach, Clark is an avid paddler, swimmer, surfer, foil boarder, and mountain biker. He ranks among the elite group of paddlers who’ve crossed the perilous Moloka‘i Channel numerous times. He brings this vast experience to the storied Kohala Coast, the historic landscape where King Kamehameha once launched canoes and fished for prized mullet in the waters of Kalāhuipua‘a.

Rooted in Clark’s own performance rituals, the Kainalu program is inspired by an awareness of one’s hā (breath) – the foundation of life and the key to healthy routines. The progression-based activities include both mainstream and alternative options suitable for all fitness levels in an easily accessible environment. Whether it’s a heli-bike tour a night dive with manta rays, each Kainalu activity incorporates beneficial fitness and training elements.

Makai Guests can dip their toes or dive headfirst into Hawai‘i’s dazzling waterscape. Ocean activities include surfing, scuba diving, free diving and performance ocean swimming. Beginning and advanced paddlers can try prone or stand-up paddleboarding or climb into a double-hull canoe for an exciting and educational excursion along the Kohala coast.

Local woodworker Tim Wood carved a gorgeous six-person outrigger canoe, weighing two- hundred-pounds the boat is expressly for Mauna Lani. The resort’s Director of Cultural Affairs

Danny Akaka christened it “Hāla‘i” – a name that means “calm” and refers to the serene, inviting waters fronting the resort.

Mauka The mauka or land experiences range from adrenaline-fueled bike safaris to coastal hiking treks, meditation, and performance breathing training. Through the Kainalu program, resort guests have exclusive access to Waimea’s historic Anna Ranch, a lush 100-acre property and the former training grounds for King Kamehameha’s Kipu‘u pu‘u warriors. Guests can explore hidden valleys and single-track trails via traditional mountain bikes or state-of-the-art electric bikes. On the private bike tour, guests can tackle the mountain, venture out to waterfalls, streams, and ancient Hawaiian cultural sites – all while soaking up the stunning views of nearby summits: Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Hualalai.

Keiki (Children) The Kainalu keiki program offers an array of athletic pursuits designed to empower and engage young minds and bodies with local history, culture and marine biology. These immersive experiences include canoe adventures to tropical reefs, deep-sea snorkeling, junior waterman training, and scenic cycling excursions.

Surf Shack Steps away from the ocean, the Surf Shack is the ideal starting point for the day’s adventures. The Shack’s aesthetic nods to vintage surf culture and the historic surf dens where Hawai‘i’s top athletes hung out before hanging ten. An ideal spot to fuel up or unwind following any thrill-seeking excursion, the Surf Shack features light cuisine and a curated selection of wines and beers on tap. Guests can come here to mingle, share stories, and listen to accounts of legendary Kohala Coast watermen – perhaps even spot a few of the legends themselves.

“Hawai‘i Island is home to a thriving adventure scene and Kainalu is focused on providing guests with a place to activate the body, nourish the mind, and enrich the soul,” said Vice President and General Manager Sanjiv Hulugalle. “Kainalu Mauka to Makai Sports combines the love of the land and sea, matched with transformational experiences that encourage guests to expand their horizons and participate epic experiences.”

Mauna Lani invites travelers to be among the first to experience the reimagined property and discover new incarnation of ancient wisdom and modern luxury. To commemorate the opening, the resort is extending the Mauna Lani Journeys offer, which includes a $1,000 USD resort credit that can be applied to resort experiences, dining, spa and golf.

For reservations or more information, please call 1-800-367-2323 and or visit www.aubergeresorts.com/maunalani. Follow Mauna Lani on Instagram and Facebook.