Fairmont Kea Lani on Maui Unveils Cultural Transformation

A multi-year renovation project brought updates to the resort’s suites and villas, a new bar and restaurant and a Hawaiian cultural center.

After years of intentional planning and renovation, the Fairmont Kea Lani on Maui completed its stunning cultural redesign this January. The project updated more than just the resort’s luxurious one-bedroom suites and two-story villas; it also introduced a reimagined lobby with a new bar and restaurant as well as an immersive Hawaiian cultural center.

The new bar, Pilina, at the Fairmont Kea Lani on Maui. // Photo courtesy of Trevor Clark of CLARKBOURNE Creative

The hotel opened a new bar called Pilina (above), which elevates the typical lobby lounge experience into a culinary journey with locally and sustainably sourced fare. (Pilina in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi means relationship or connection.) Hale Kukuna serves as the centerpiece of the hotel’s transformation, inviting guests to engage with the rich traditions of the islands.

Inside Hale Kukuna at the Fairmont Kea Lani. // Photo courtesy of Trevor Clark of CLARKBOURNE Creative

This ambitious endeavor began with heartfelt consultations with Native Hawaiian kūpuna (elders) connected to Palauea, the ahupuaʻa (a piece of land that stretches from the mountains to the ocean) on which the resort was built. These conversations ensured that every detail honors the true spirit of the land.

At the heart of Hale Kukuna is Kamahiwa Kawaʻa, manager of Hawaiian culture at Fairmont Kea Lani, whose passion for preserving and showcasing local heritage is evident in his thoughtful curation of both cultural displays and activities.

View Native Hawaiian artifacts at Hale Kukuna. // Photo courtesy of Trevor Clark of CLARKBOURNE Creative

The open-air center is home to a collection of museum-quality artifacts that embody the history of Hawaii, from pre-contact relics to contemporary artisanal pieces.

Upon entering the exhibition, guests are greeted by kapa (traditional barkcloth) clothing, which bridges the gap between the past and present of Native Hawaiian fashion. These pieces are handcrafted by master makers from Kula, and every item in the collection is made in Hawaiʻi.

Historical pieces include a compilation of items that would have been found in the area prior to the hotel, which served as a ceremonial center for ancient Hawaiians, mostly in relation to fishing. This is demonstrated by a display of makau (fish hooks), baskets and traps.

Other showcases include weapons and warfare artifacts, kāhili (feather staffs) and lei (garland) worn by aliʻi (chiefs), lauhala (hala tree leaves) hats, hula (traditional dance) and musical instruments, drums for temple worship and a statue of Queen Liliʻuokalani to honor her legacy of steadfast sovereignty.

Feather lei on display at Hale Kukuna. // Photo courtesy of Trevor Clark of CLARKBOURNE Creative

The public is invited to participate in weekly and monthly programming hosted in the cultural center, fostering a relationship with the island and its people. Classes include hula, ukulele (small four-stringed guitar), Hawaiian language and lei making.

Monthly programming aims to integrate the community through events like the recent “Behind the Curtain: A Journey Through Hula,” which featured three Maui-based hālau (hula schools) that gave attendees a glimpse of what it takes to perform in the iconic Merrie Monarch hula competition.

Every day from 8 am to 4 pm, an educator is present to lead classes and answer guests’ questions. Each has been trained by a recognized kumu (teacher), ensuring they carry knowledge of the Hawaiian language, hula and lei making as well as Hawaiian protocols and culture. Self tours are also available.

Learn how to make lei at Hale Kukuna. // Photo courtesy of Trevor Clark of CLARKBOURNE Creative

Located across the lobby from Hale Kukuna is Pilina, an ʻāina-driven culinary extension of the cultural center. Here, guests dine on a selection of sushi, raw dishes and a tableside hot rock experience. Additionally, the beverage program features exclusive libations crafted using 90% local ingredients, which can be enjoyed in the dining room or at the largest ocean-facing bar on Maui.

Even the signature cocktails at Pilina are locally sourced. // Photo courtesy of Trevor Clark of CLARKBOURNE Creative

Fairmont Kea Lani’s transformation shows a seamless integration of luxury with tradition, creating a respite where guests and locals alike can celebrate and help preserve the island’s history and community. As visitors enjoy the new amenities, they become part of a larger narrative that honors the past while looking toward the future.

 4100 Wailea Alanui Drive, Wailea, Maui, (808) 875-4100, fairmont.com/kea-lani-maui

Lead photo courtesy of Trevor Clark of CLARKBOURNE Creative