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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Travel has always been a significant part of my life, but since starting and selling my own ambulance company, it has become an obsession for over a decade now. Be it diving with sharks at the Great Barrier Reef and watching turtles hatch and rush to the sea, on Heron Island, Australia. Too skydiving over Paris (Lake Perris, CA) that is, and hang gliding over the the majestic beaches of Rio de Janeiro. Or lounging on the beaches of a private villa in Tahiti. I have traveled the world, Europe, Asia, South America, Africa, the USA, Mexico, Canada and Australia. I've visited all continents, except Antarctica, which is on my to do list. I love adventure travel but also seeing different world cultures. The museums of Madrid and Barcelona. The history of Berlin and the splendors of Italy and Greece. Relaxing on exotic beaches or just being a picture taking tourist on Safari in Africa. Travel is my passion and now my job. I love planning travel for others as much as I love traveling mys ...