ROOM KEY
Aloha Awakened
Aloha Awakened
Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, turns culture into connection.
At Maui’s Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, Hawaiian heritage isn’t just observed—it’s lived. It’s an invitation to show up fully, to learn with curiosity, and to leave with stories and memories unique to the island. Each experience, whether shared with family or woven into a personal retreat, resonates with aloha—demonstrating how the deepest luxury is a connection to land, to heritage, and to one another. From sunrise chants on the beach to hula, nature and art tours to lunar-anchored wellness rituals, the resort’s immersive experiences are soulful journeys into Hawaiʻi’s heritage.
Where sunrise becomes intention.
The “E Ala E” oceanfront experience invites guests to start the day with intention on Wailea Beach. As the sun rises, a traditional chant sets the tone—encouraging presence, grounding, and a sense of connection to the land, sea, and self.
An immersive cultural calendar.
The resort’s cultural calendar bursts with hands-on activities that celebrate Hawaiʻi’s rich traditions. Learn the graceful storytelling steps of hula, melodies from the ʻukulele, and the craftsmanship behind authentic keepsakes like kukui nut bracelets and lauhala weaves—all traditions that celebrate generations of cultural connection. Guests can also take lessons in the Hawaiian language and partake in games like ‘Ulu Maika.
Meet a local ambassador.
For a deeper perspective, join the resort’s Hawaiian Cultural Ambassador for a guided Cultural Tour of the property. These complimentary excursions reveal how history, medicine, language, flora, and traditional practices are harmonized throughout the resort’s landscapes, gardens, and local art. What’s more, the resort’s Art Tour, led by the on-site curator, reveals one of the largest collections in the U.S., connecting global masterpieces with a strong sense of place.
As day transitions into evening, the Grand Lūʻau awaits.
Set against an indelible ocean backdrop, this weekly celebration stages music, dance, and mythic storytelling alongside a feast of traditional dishes like poi, kālua pig, poke, and haupia. Unique performances honor this special place—ushering in a fusion of culture, community, and joy.
Wellness experiences honor the land.
Rooted in Hawaiian cosmology, the Grand Wailea’s wellness collection at Kilolani Spa provides another layer of immersive connection. Inspired by the ancient Hawaiian stargazers for whom the moon was a teacher, guests enjoy experiences shaped by celestial rhythms and native healing traditions. Daily wellness classes invite mindful movement, while weekly sound healing with crystal bowls and gongs offers restorative calm. Monthly full moon ceremonies—from cacao blessings in the Seaside Chapel to guided meditations—honor natural cycles of renewal. Cap off the experiences with an intuitive tarot and astrology reading, gaining personal insights from the wisdom of the islands.
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I have always been a Geography and Map Fanatic. I own a very large and well-utilized National Geographic Atlas in which I have recorded many notes and personal trips and routed out my journeys by ships, planes, trains, and cycling. I refer to it frequently in putting together my clients' trips and itineraries, as well as my own.
Going back to the time when I was a little girl, I have either lived just a few yards from the ocean or relatively close to it. I liked watching ships and wanted to know what life was like on the other side of the ocean. I was fascinated that my Grandmother came to the US on a ship as a teenage girl together with her sister from Ireland. Before my grandparents met in the US, my Grandfather from Ireland worked as a cowboy and copper miner in Montana at the turn of the 20th Century. They had many National Geographic issues at their home which I loved looking at. These impressions, plus taking my first cruise, all eventually led me to the cruise and travel ...