Park Hours 9 AM - 5 PM
Through the ongoing initiative, mālama kekahi i kekahi (to take care of ourselves and each other), we have introduced Ocean Aloha as an island-based marine conservation program in support of further educating our malihini (visitors) and kamaʻāina (residents) on the importance of caring for our natural resources for future generations.
Through our host Hawaiian culture, we will celebrate the cultural and spiritual traditions from the moana (ocean) and the ʻāina (land) that feeds them. Through their commitment to kuleana (responsibility), learn how we all can mālama (care for) natural resources through simple and mindful sustainable practices.
The program is designed for guests of all ages, and the entire family can partake in edu-tainment, including outdoor presentations, demonstrations, and interactive learning from our island-grown cultural practitioners. Through storytelling, they will share their personal experiences and wisdom that have been handed down through generations.
“The Ocean Aloha initiative reminds each one of us that we must embrace and care for our natural resources, whether above or below the ocean surface."
Help save marine animals and ensure a healthy ocean for our future generations.
Cultural practitioner presentations and storytelling vary daily and may include iʻa (fish) net weaving, traditional Hawaiian mea hana (tools), niu (coconut) weaving, wood kālai (carving), lei making, hula, and more. Available daily 10 am to 2 pm.
Our two ongoing Hawaiian cultural exhibits offer the opportunity to submerge yourself in history, culture, and unique traditions that support the way of island life today. Visit our Hawaiians and the Sea exhibit to delve deep into the culture and traditions of the first Hawaiians and their profound relationship and commitment to preserving natural resources. Make sure to carve out time to explore our Kahoʻolawe exhibit to learn the history of this island and the healing that is now taking place.
Kahoʻolawe: A Story of History and Healing was created in collaboration with the Kahoʻolawe Island Reserve Commission (KIRC) and is supplemented by their previously exhibited content from the Smithsonian and Bishop Museum. Designed to show the power of change, the exhibit follows the timeline of Kahoʻolawe’s development from the first settlement to current, purposeful restoration projects. Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
Hale ʻIke*, located at the center of the park, will be dedicated to keiki (children), kindergarten through 5th grade. Keiki can pop in any time of day and watch a myriad of marine conservation entertainment via a giant monitor. Shows include the ever-popular Octonauts ® and sustainable tips by our featured 8-year-old Maui Keiki Ambassadors, Imani and Liam. In addition, Hawaiian Cultural Advisor, Dane Maxwell, presents the Ocean Education Classroom featuring Hawaiian words, keiki hula, marine-themed at-home crafts, stories, and more. Parents must accompany their keiki at all times, and space is based on availability. Ongoing daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
*House of Knowledge, a place of mana (spiritual energy of power and strength), moʻolelo (stories, myths, legends, and history), resources, and culture
Maui Ocean Center’s Marine Naturalists are highly educated about our ocean’s ecosystems and inhabitants, especially the endemic marine life of Hawai’i. Our passionate team loves to share their vast knowledge and personal ocean experiences while providing tips on how you can support marine conservation. Be sure to catch them in-park to ask your burning questions and download all (6) of their virtual presentations in-park via QR code. Available daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Insider tip – they might have a fossilized shark tooth or other cool mementos to remember your visit. Just ask!
How do you Ocean Aloha?
Immerse Yourself in our SEA-News featuring Hawaiʻi’s marine life, inspirational conservation, and glimpses behind-the-scenes.
