If you’re planning to take a trip to Hawaii in the near future, you should spend some time familiarizing yourself with indigenous Hawaiian culture, history and customs. This will not only make your trip more enjoyable, it will also ensure that you’re respecting age-old traditions throughout the duration of your stay in the islands.
There are a number of things that you can do during your visit to Hawaii that can give you a better taste of local life. For instance, taking a trip on a fishing charter can give you a truly unique peek into the world of Hawaiian fishing. There are few things quite as exciting as journeying out to open water, and seeing the wonders of the Hawaiian seas in all their resplendent glory.
Pele is one of the most significant spirits in the Hawaiian canon. Also called “She Who Shapes the Sacred Land,” Pele is a creative goddess that both destroys and builds the Hawaiian Islands, putting the archipelago through a continuous test of fire.
Lives in Kilauea
According to local legend, Pele makes the Halemaumau crater, at the center of Kilauea volcano, her home. Recently prominent in the news for its ongoing May 2018 eruption, Kilauea is actually one of the most active volcanos in the world, and is the most active volcano in the western hemisphere. Depending on conditions, you may or may not be able to gaze down into Pele’s home in the Halemaumau crater, located in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Pele hasn’t always lived in Kilauea, however. Legend states that she originally hails from Tahiti, where she was exiled by her father for her fierce temper. Pele’s oldest brother is Kamohoalii, the king of the sharks.
Ancient and revered
For centuries, Pele has been one of the primary centers of Hawaiian spirituality. Many tales and legends outlining her storied temper, her ferocious beauty and her wrathful creativity inform Hawaiian culture to this day. Sometimes, Pele appears to humans as a beautiful young traveler with a white dog. On other occasions, she may manifest as an old woman dressed in white. Claims of Pele sightings, particularly in and around Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, continue to this day.
Because of the strong spiritual role that volcanoes play in Pele’s mythology, it’s important to honor local customs regarding Pele’s home. Berries, rocks and soil found on the Hawaiian Islands all belong to Pele. Thus, taking them as souvenirs is disrespectful and a serious cultural faux pas.
If you’re hoping to learn more about the engaging myths and stories that comprise Hawaiian culture, you should strongly consider taking a fishing charter with Sea Wife Charters. Our local guides boast a wide range of knowledge relating to Hawaii’s distinctive culture, its rich natural environment and the stunning oceanic bounty of this truly unique volcanic region. We offer private and share charters that fit a wide range of needs and budgets. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong resident, taking a trip with Sea Wife Charters is sure to be a fun and exciting experience.