K ULEANA and Mālama

Mālama I Ke Kai

Mālama i ke kai (care for the ocean) is a Hawaiian tradition you should practice while visiting Kaua‘i. This means making sure not to upset the delicate natural balance of our ecosystems. When in the ocean, we ask that you not touch the coral or the plants and animals surrounding it. In fact, keep a respectful distance from all sea creatures for their safety and yours. A great way to learn more about the ocean surrounding Kaua‘i is by visiting the Kaua‘i Ocean Discovery Center located at Kukui Grove Shopping Center in Līhu‘e.

Mālama I Ka ‘Āina

Mālama i ka ‘āina (care for the land) is as important today as ever. Help us protect our natural resources by staying on trails when hiking and by not disturbing any plants or historical features. We suggest considering guided tours, which are sensitive to the environment and provide you the opportunity for a deeper learning experience with a local expert. Please help prevent the spread of Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death (ROD) by using the boot cleaning stations before and after a hike located at trailheads and avoid stepping on roots or breaking branches. The ‘ōhi‘a are the backbone of Hawai‘i’s native forests and are a critical source of fresh water, shelter and food. ‘Ōhi‘a are native to Hawai‘i. You can learn more by visiting cms.ctahr.hawaii.edu/rod

Please recycle or properly dispose of your ‘ōpala (trash) to avoid littering. Single-use plastic bags with handles are not provided in Kaua‘i stores. Fortunately, reusable grocery bags are offered at most stores to purchase. Numerous recycle bins and redemption centers are located throughout the islands.

We invite you to join the effort to mālama Kaua‘i — a mindset and a call to action to protect our beloved home.

Mālama Kauaʻi’s wildlife

You'll find plenty of ways to help care for Kaua‘i's animals, including monk seals, honu (Hawaiian green sea turtle) and even shelter dogs. The Kaua‘i Humane Society’s Field Trips for Shelter Dogs program gives dogs a chance to be out of the kennel for a day while allowing visitors to get their doggie fix. Other volunteer opportunities are also available, however, guests must attend an hour-long orientation before working with or fostering animals. The training is on the second Saturday and the fourth Sunday of every month.

If you would like to help protect Hawaiian monk seals and their habitats, learn more about conservation and recovery efforts by visiting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). fisheries.noaa.gov/species/hawaiian-monk-seal