From the Sugarcane Fields to the Beach

🌈 THE LANGUAGE OF ALOHA: FROM ANCIENT CHANTS TO PIDGIN PRIDE

In Hawaiʻi, language has always been more than words — it’s heartbeat, memory, and identity. From the ancient mele(songs) and oli (chants) that connected Hawaiians to land and spirit, to the everyday grind of modern Pidgin spoken in line at Foodland, the voices of Hawaiʻi tell a story of resilience, connection, and deep-rooted aloha.

🌺 A VOICE FROM THE EARTH: ʻŌLELO HAWAIʻI

ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi — the Hawaiian language — is one of the oldest living Polynesian languages and was once spoken widely across the islands. With only 13 letters, it’s a language rich in kaona (hidden meaning), poetic flow, and deep connection to ancestry and ʻāina.

Before Western contact, Hawaiian literacy was oral. Knowledge was passed through oli (chants) and hula — sacred acts of storytelling. These weren’t just performances. They were genealogies, maps, prayers, and ecological memory. They taught how to live in pono (balance) with the land, each other, and the spirits that surround us.

📚 SUPPRESSION AND SURVIVAL

After the Hawaiian Kingdom was illegally overthrown in 1893, ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi was banned in schools. Entire generations were punished for speaking their native language. By the 1970s, fluent speakers were nearly gone.

But language is mana, and you can’t silence something that lives in the bones of a people

✨ THE RISE OF PIDGIN: REAL TALK, REAL ROOTS

As Hawaiʻi became a plantation melting pot, immigrants from Japan, China, Portugal, the Philippines, and others came together — and a new language was born. Pidgin, or Hawaiʻi Creole English, is not broken English. It’s a full-blown, functional language with its own grammar, rhythm, and heart.

It’s the voice of the grindz line, the lanai stories, and the pau hana laughs.
It’s aunties yelling, “No make li’dat!” and uncles going “Ho! Broke da mout'!”
It’s how we talk. It's who we are.

🗣️ TALK STORY: THE LIVING LANGUAGE OF HAWAIʻI PIDGIN

Walk through any local neighborhood and you’ll hear it — the realness of Pidgin. Born from necessity and shaped by generations, it became the natural language of home for thousands of locals.

🤲 WHY SOME PEOPLE NEVER SPOKE “PROPER” ENGLISH

Here’s the honest truth: a lot of families in Hawaiʻi never spoke English at home. If your grandma spoke Ilocano, or your dad only knew Japanese and Pidgin, then nobody corrected you when you said “no can go” instead of “I can’t go.”

That wasn’t ignorance — that was survival.
And when people say “broken English,” remind them:
It’s not broken — it’s brah-ken 😆 (nah but fo' real — it's adapted).

💬 BETWEEN TWO WORLDS

Maybe you grew up like me: speaking perfect English with your parents, but switching to Pidgin with your cousins. It’s not fake it’s code-switching. It’s about context and respect.

And real talk: my parents don’t speak Pidgin.
If I say, “Ho brah, we go cruise?” they just blink.
It’s not just about language it’s upbringing, generation, and cultural lanes.

📱 PIDGIN IN EVERYDAY LIFE

You’ll hear Pidgin everywhere — in da lunch line, at da bus stop, in comedy shows, and in everyday texts:A: "Ho, you pau work already?"
B: "Yeah, pau. What, you like cruise?"
A: "Shoots, I come pick you up. We go get some grindz."

Translation:
A: “You done with work?”
B: “Yeah. Wanna hang out?”
A: “I’ll come grab you — let’s eat.”

🎭 NOT JUST A JOKE LANGUAGE

Pidgin sometimes gets brushed off like it’s only for laughs — but it holds serious cultural identity. It’s how locals pass on values like humility, respect, ʻohana, and toughness. It’s legit.

Schools, writers, and poets are embracing it too — because it’s not broken.
It’s our voice.

🏷️ PIDGIN WORD ORIGINS BY CULTURE

🏷️ Pidgin Words by Origin:

• Portuguese:

• Pakege (package) → from "pacote"

• Malasada (sweet doughnut) 🍩

• Tita (tough girl, like a “sistah” with attitude)

• Japanese:

• Bento (lunch box) 🍱

• Shishi (pee)

• Kau kau (eat/food – from “kao,” eat)

• Filipino/Ilocano/Tagalog:

• Balikbayan box (care package sent home)

• Sarap (delicious, sometimes used like “ono”)

• Apo (grandchild – sometimes used in local homes)

• Chinese:

• Chop suey (mixed up, or leftovers)

• Pake (Chinese person, often used to mean stingy — kinda old school)

• Mo li dat (don't do that / no can — from Cantonese inflection)

• Hawaiian:

• Keiki (child)

• ʻOhana (family)

• Aloha (love, hello, goodbye — but really a whole worldview)

🌊 KEEPIN’ IT ALIVE

Like ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, Pidgin continues to evolve. The next generation blends it with tech lingo, emojis, and even a resurgence of Hawaiian words.

Whether you grew up speaking it or you're just starting to learn — Pidgin is how you feel Hawaiʻi. Not just the land… but the people.

💡 ʻŌLELO TIP OF THE DAY

E mālama i ka ʻāina, e mālama ka ʻāina iā ʻoe.
Take care of the land, and the land will take care of you.

🐢 Why Maui’s Oceans Are So Clean — And The Challenges They Face

🌺 By Local Maui Tours

🌊 The Pacific Advantage: Nature’s Ocean Cleaner

Maui’s surrounded by the giant, deep, and powerful Pacific Ocean — and that’s a big reason our waters stay so crystal clear. 🌐 Ocean currents do the heavy lifting, constantly flushing out pollutants and refreshing our coastline with clean seawater. It’s like a natural rinse cycle for the island! 🌀

Plus, Maui sits in just the right latitude 🌞 for coral reefs to grow and thrive — keeping the ocean colorful and full of life.

🚫 Runoff Pollution: The Not-So-Pretty Side of Rain

After heavy rain, Maui’s rivers and streams dump “brown water” into the sea. And it’s not just mud. This murky mix can contain:

• 🐷 Pig waste

• 🐄 Cow runoff

• 💩 Sewage overflow

• 🧪 Fertilizers from farms and golf courses

• 🗑️ Trash and dead animals

This runoff lowers water quality near the shore and can threaten fragile marine life — especially our coral reefs. 🌱

🧹 Trash on the Windward Beaches & Microplastic Intruders

In the wintertime, you might notice more trash piling up on windward beaches (like the north shore). Why? 🌬️ Ocean currents bring debris — including microplastics — from faraway continents. It’s a reminder that pollution doesn’t just start on Maui.

But good news: Local volunteers, nonprofits, and beach lovers are out there every day keeping it clean. 🙌

🌊 King Tides & Coastal Erosion: Too Close for Comfort

In some places, especially near Lahaina, erosion is getting real. 🏖️ King tides (super high tides) + big surf = ocean waves reaching up to the roads and hotels. It’s dramatic — and damaging.

Past fixes like seawalls ended up making it worse, causing:

• 🏚️ Permanent beach loss

• 🪨 Coral die-off

• 🌊 Increased wave energy backwash

As Lahaina rebuilds, there’s a focus on smarter coastal planning that works with nature — not against it. 🌿

🐠 Coral Reefs: The Island’s Underwater Filters

Maui’s coral reefs aren’t just pretty — they’re powerful. 🧼

Healthy reefs:

• Trap sediment

• Absorb nutrients

• Protect marine creatures

• Help maintain water clarity

They’re basically Maui’s natural filtration system — and we need them healthy to keep the ocean clear. 💪

🗑️ Maui's Trash & Waste Management: A Local Win

Maui actually does a solid job keeping waste out of the water:

• 🚛 Regular trash pickup for most neighborhoods

• 🧼 Parks and beaches cleaned often

• ♻️ Recycling and landfill systems that help reduce ocean dumping

Island pride + aloha ‘āina = a community that cares for the land and sea. 🌈

🏄‍♂️ Ocean Fun: Clear Water, Colorful Fish & Warm Temps

Let’s not forget the good stuff — Maui’s ocean is dreamy. 💦

• 🐟 Dive on a clear day and see tropical fish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral

• 🏖️ Chill on soft beaches (Maui has more sand than any other Hawaiian island!)

• 🏄‍♀️ Surf, paddle, swim — year-round, the water is warm and welcoming

We’ve even got black sand, red sand, and a coastline in Kihei that’s perfect for relaxing. 🧘‍♀️

🌍 Final Thoughts: Protecting the Ocean, Together

Maui’s oceans look magical — and they really are. But keeping them clean takes work. From powerful Pacific currents to coral reef filters and dedicated cleanup crews, there’s a whole system at play. 🌺

Still, challenges like runoff, erosion, and global trash aren’t going away. That’s why we all need to stay aware, stay active, and support conservation.

So next time you swim in Maui’s waters, give a little thanks. And maybe… a little action too. 💙

Want to explore Maui’s oceans for yourself?
🌐 Book a tour with Local Maui Tours

Maui’s Economy: Current Reality and Future Possibilities

The Duke statue in Waikiki Beach.

Every graduation season, I start to hear the same kinds of questions from people visiting Maui:
“What’s it like growing up here?”
“Do you ever get island fever?”
“And what do people even do for work?”

It’s funny — so many people romanticize life on Maui, and honestly, we do too. We look back on the “good old days” when the island moved a little slower, the sugar cane fields waved in the wind, and your neighbors were like extended family. And yeah, there's truth to that. But life here has never been just easy or beautiful — it's been about work, community, and change.

A Quick Look Back: Whales, Sugar Cane, and Skill

Before tourism took over, Maui’s economy ran on a very different engine. In the 1800s, whaling ships would dock in Lahaina — trading, resupplying, and sometimes even influencing local politics. That brought livestock, global goods, and the first big wave of outside commerce.

Then came sugar. By the early 1900s, sugar plantations were booming, and with them came waves of immigrants — from Japan, China, Portugal, the Philippines, and elsewhere — all working the fields and building communities. Neighborhoods like Skill Village in Paia were built for skilled plantation workers. That industry carried Maui for generations.

And now? Sugar is gone. The last mill shut down in 2016. But those skills — the work ethic, the trades, the pride — still run deep.

So… What Jobs Are There Now?

If you're graduating high school on Maui in 2025, here’s the real deal: there are jobs — good ones — but it helps to know where to look and what to expect.

🏝️ Tourism (Still the Big One)

Tourism brings in the most money by far. Visitors spend billions each year on hotels, food, tours, and activities. That means jobs in:

• Hospitality (front desk, concierge, housekeeping)

• Food service (servers, cooks, bartenders)

• Activities (snorkel tours, surf lessons, zipline guides)

• Retail (shops, galleries, boutiques)

A lot of these jobs don’t require college degrees and can pay pretty well with tips or commissions. Some locals work in tourism for a few years while figuring out their long-term plan.

🛠️ Trades & Construction

Electricians, carpenters, plumbers, HVAC techs, solar installers — these are always in demand, especially with Maui’s housing market and the massive effort to rebuild Lahaina stronger, safer, and more community-minded than ever.

💻 Remote & Tech Work

More and more people are working from home here — in tech, design, marketing, writing, customer service, and beyond. Some grow up here and land remote jobs after college, while others figure it out through online courses and self-training.

🚑 Healthcare, Public Services Public Safety Workers or First Responders

We always need nurses, EMTs, social workers, teachers, and police officers. These jobs are rooted in service, and if you want to give back to your community, this is a strong path. Fire and lifeguard services also fall under this category, and they're more essential than ever on our island.

And with climate change making our fire seasons more intense, firefighter and emergency response roles are more critical than ever. These are respected careers with long-term opportunities and real impact.

🌺 Farming, Arts, and Local Businesses

Agriculture still lives on — think local farms, florists, and specialty growers. The arts are strong too — hula, music, painting, tattooing, woodworking — all part of what makes Maui vibrant. Some people start their own thing, from plate lunch spots to surfboard shaping.

🏠 Real Estate: A Major Economic Force

Real estate is a huge part of Maui’s economy. From home sales to construction jobs rebuilding communities, it brings new money in and supports many local careers. Property taxes from short-term rentals alone fund a large part of Maui’s county budget. But with many buyers coming from out of state, it also raises important questions about housing affordability and keeping the island accessible to locals.

Graduation is here now let’s find careers.

“Do You Ever Want to Leave?”

Yeah. A lot of us do. And then some of us come back.

Many students go to the mainland for college or trade school — to learn architecture, engineering, medicine, culinary arts, computer science, or something creative. And when they return, they bring new skills and perspectives with them.

Some don’t come back, and that’s okay too. But those who do often say they feel something deep in their bones — like they were meant to give back to Maui in some way.

The Future? We’re Building It

Tourism might still be the foundation of Maui’s economy, but it doesn’t have to be the ceiling. We’re seeing more local entrepreneurship, more cultural education, more investment in renewable energy and high-speed internet. We’re rebuilding Lahaina with love and intention — not just to restore what was lost, but to create something more pono, more grounded in aloha and local values.

And here's where the next generation — maybe you — really comes in:

🌱 Building Local, Not Corporate

The long-term health of Maui depends on local hands shaping its future. We don’t need more massive corporations changing the landscape — we need small businesses that reflect the heart of the community. We need farmers, creatives, builders, educators, and tech innovators — people who understand the rhythm of island life and care about preserving it.

🌺 Land as Legacy, Not Just Real Estate

One of the most important conversations happening on Maui is about land. Who owns it, who stewards it, and how it's used. As climate changes, as prices rise, and as new challenges come our way, it's critical that landholders — both local families and newer owners — work with the community to create a future that is sustainable, equitable, and pono.

Imagine partnerships that allow for affordable housing, food security, and locally-led development — not just resorts or luxury homes. Imagine an island where success is measured not just in dollars, but in health, culture, and connection.

If you're graduating this year, or thinking about how you want to give back to this island — know this: Maui needs you.Not just to fill jobs, but to reimagine what’s possible.

We come from a history of resilience. From whalers and sugar fields to solar panels and startups — we adapt. We build. We return home.

So whether you stay, leave, or circle back later — carry Maui with you. Because you are Maui’s next economy. And the future? It’s already in motion.

Discovering Maui's Hidden Gems: A Guide to Makena State Beach

A stunning sunrise with no one in sight.

*Discovering Makena State Beach: A Paradise on Maui's South Shore*

Makena State Beach “Oneloa Beach”, affectionately known as Big Beach, is a gem on Maui's south shore. With its picturesque white sand and crystal-clear waters, it's a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the island. In this post, we'll dive into the best-kept secrets of Makena State Beach, sharing insider tips on how to experience it like a local.

*Understanding the Beach*

Makena State Beach is a stunning stretch of sand, perfect for sunbathing and taking in the breathtaking views. However, the beach is also known for its powerful waves, particularly during the summer months.

- *Warning: Big Waves in Summer*: Makena State Beach earns its nickname "Big Beach" and also "Breakneck Beach" due to the massive waves that crash onto the shore during the summer months. Visitors should exercise caution when swimming or entering the water, as the waves can be strong and unpredictable.

*Insider Tips*

- *Arrive early or late*: Beat the crowds by visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

- *Parking and reservations*: Be aware that parking requires a fee, and reservations might be necessary during peak season.

- *Respect the ocean*: Be mindful of the powerful waves and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.

*Beach Essentials*

- *Sun protection is key*: Maui's sun can be extreme, so always look for shade to protect your skin.

- *Drink responsibly*: Enjoying a cold beer or drink at the beach is part of the island experience, just be discreet and respectful of others.

- *No BBQs allowed*: Unfortunately, BBQing is not permitted at Makena State Beach.

*Best Kept Secrets*

- *Pa'ako Beach (Secret Cove) aka Wedding Beach*: Nestled within Makena State Park, just a short walk from Big Beach, this secluded and picturesque spot offers soft sand, calm waters, and a peaceful escape from the crowds. It's a favorite for those seeking a more relaxed and sheltered vibe. The beach also serves as a stunning backdrop for intimate weddings, with sunset photos that are nothing short of magical.

- *Little Beach* “Puu Olai Beach”: Tucked away just beyond the lava outcropping from Big Beach, Little Beach (Puu Olai Beach) is known for its secluded vibe and free-spirited atmosphere. It's one of the few places in Hawaii where clothing-optional sunbathing is a long-standing tradition, attracting both locals and visitors looking to relax in a more uninhibited setting.

*Tips for a Perfect Day*

- *Pack essentials*: Bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, beach gear, and refreshments to make the most of your day.

- *Respect the environment*: Take care of the beach and its surroundings, and practice sustainable tourism.

Makena State Beach is a true paradise on Maui's south shore. With its stunning natural beauty and powerful waves, it's a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the island. By following these insider tips and secrets, you'll experience the best of Makena State Beach while staying safe and aware of its unique conditions.

Taro 101: A Guide to Hawaii's Ancient Staple Crop

*The Magic of Taro: Why This Ancient Plant Matters*

If you're visiting Hawaii for the first time, you might have heard of taro, but maybe you're not sure what it's all about. Taro is more than just a plant – it's a symbol of Hawaiian culture, a key to understanding the island's history, and a delicious addition to many local dishes.

*Taro and the Land*

Taro is a wetland crop that thrives in Hawaii's lush environment. When grown sustainably, taro helps maintain the health of the land by:

- *Preserving waterways*: Taro patches, or lo'i, help filter rainwater and prevent sediment from entering streams and oceans.

- *Supporting biodiversity*: Taro farms provide habitats for native birds, fish, and other wildlife.

- *Maintaining soil health*: Taro's roots help hold soil in place, preventing erosion and landslides.

*Cultural Significance*

Taro has been a staple crop in Hawaiian agriculture for centuries. It's not just a food source – it's a connection to the land, the community, and the ancestors. In Hawaiian mythology, taro is said to have originated from the first-born son of Wakea, the sky father, and Papa, the earth mother.

*Delicious Dishes*

Taro is a versatile ingredient that adds flavor and texture to many Hawaiian dishes. Some popular examples include:

- *Poi*: A traditional dish made from fermented taro root, often served alongside other local specialties.

- *Laulau*: Steamed pork or fish wrapped in taro leaves, creating a tender and flavorful package.

- *Taro chips*: Crispy fried snacks made from taro root, perfect for munching on the go.

*Why Taro Matters*

Taro is more than just a plant – it's a symbol of Hawaiian resilience, community, and connection to the land. By supporting sustainable taro farming and trying taro-based dishes, you're helping to preserve a vital part of Hawaiian culture.

*Takeaways for Visitors*

- *Try taro-based dishes*: Sample poi, laulau, or taro chips to experience the unique flavors of Hawaiian cuisine.

- *Visit a taro farm*: Learn about sustainable farming practices and the importance of taro in Hawaiian culture.

- *Support local farmers*: By buying locally grown taro and other products, you're helping to preserve Hawaii's agricultural heritage.

By understanding and appreciating taro, you'll gain a deeper connection to the land, the culture, and the community. Whether you're a foodie, a nature lover, or simply curious about Hawaiian culture, taro is definitely worth exploring.

Grateful for Maui, rated the #1 island in the world by TripAdvisor!

Maui has been rated the #1 island in the world by TripAdvisors' 2016 Travelers' Choice Awards and we couldn't agree more! 

Maui, the second largest island in the state of Hawaii, is an exceptionally special place overflowing with endless natural beauty.  

It is the home of two major volcanoes, deep lush valleys, a plethora of flowing waterfalls, tranquil freshwater pools, tropical ridges, breathtaking views, and world renowned beaches of black, white, and red sand.

The welcoming climate, a perfect balance of tropical trade-wind breezes, sunshine, various unique microclimates, and warm ocean waters, makes Maui an unparalleled place for sightseeing and tropical adventures.  

We're so grateful for Maui, and offer tours of the famous road to Hana, West Maui, tropical waterfalls, natural pools, tropical jungle trails, remarkable landmarks, local fruit stands and food carts, pristine beaches, and much more!

We are Local Maui Tours, & these are some of the things that make us unique & proud of what we do!

Local Maui Tours is a private Maui Tour Company specializing in custom, islandwide tours through the unique perspective of a Maui local. Tours include exploring the famous road to Hana, Maui's beaches, West Maui, waterfalls, natural swimming pools, East Maui jungle hikes, & unforgettable sightseeing!

Your tour guide, Kellen Ferguson, is the founder and owner of Local Maui Tours. He's a lifelong Maui resident who was born and raised in upcountry Maui. The many years he's spent living on, exploring and learning about Maui puts him in an elite and unique class of tour guides.

Kellen's extensive knowledge of Maui's most exquisite, hidden gems is invaluable to tourists from all walks of life. He has a plethora of information regarding Maui's best hikes, food, flora & fauna, weather conditions, geography, beaches, ocean currents, Hawaiian history, and much more. 

When not tending to his family's land, spending time with friends and family, or enjoying ocean sports, Kellen can usually be found exploring Maui.

He enjoys gardening, leading hiking/driving tours to the unknown gems of Maui, and giving private surf and kite-board lessons. He's CPR and First Aid certified, to ensure that his students and clients are in good hands.

As an avid adventurer and surfer, Kellen has traveled the world exploring and looking for waves and adventures, yet always comes back to the place he loves most, Maui.

Our tours are uniquely designed to take visitors to the places that other tour companies don’t. We pride ourselves on sharing some of Maui’s most incredible locations to ensure that our guests' experiences of Maui are unforgettable and from the unique point of view of a Maui local. 

Book your private Maui tour via the below links or call us at (808)-446-2611 to make a reservation!