Waikīkī Walk Story with Kumu Mālia Helelā

Who knew that Waikīkī was anything more than a tourist mecca?

Answer: Your Walk Story guide, Kumu Mālia Helelā. 

This walking tour reveals truly hidden gems to not only visitors but also to local folks. As you walk along the sidewalks and park areas bordering Waikīkī beach, you visit special historic and cultural spots in plain sight that you might otherwise never recognize on your own.

Did you realize Waikīkī was a favorite spot of the ancient ali’i (Hawaiian nobility) for both recreation and actual recovery? As a kumu hula (traditionally trained hula instructor), lomilomi massage teacher, musician, and Hawaiian cultural advisor, Kumu Mālia shares her deep love and knowledge of this area with us. 

Learn about the special area of healing waters known as Kawehewehe. Discover more about Waikīkī’s rich history as Mālia shares the story of the surrounding fishponds and fresh water springs that were filled in the 1920s. Be enchanted as Kumu sings in Hawaiian, accompanied by her ukulele. 

Connect with the ‘āina (land) as you walk and see the natural environment that still enriches this busy spot. This thoughtful and insightful walk will invite you to seek traces of healing and recovery both in the surrounding land and within yourself.

This Walk Story is a one way journey that begins at the Gandhi statue in front of the zoo. We will walk from Waikiki Walls to Kalia, and then you are free to enjoy a leisurely walk back on your own or jump into a rideshare with Kumu Mālia back to the Honolulu Zoo parking.  Link on Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/CkrYUc3LfiAqN7Zu7 

Highlights

– The walk is led by a marvelous storyteller and genuine kumu hula, Mālia Helelā.
– The activity can be simultaneously translated to Japanese upon request. Additional fees apply. Please, contact info@stillandmovingcenter.com for more info.
– Discover a new perspective of the area through the eyes of a traditional healer and cultural practitioner.
– Re-imagine Waikiki in its original, natural incarnation.
– Learn about aloha ‘aina.
– Walk approximately 2 miles, with frequent stops.

What to Bring

– Suitable shoes for walking
– Water bottle
– Sunscreen

What to Know

– All ages are welcome, but you must be able to be on your feet for two hours and walk up to two miles in potentially inclement weather.