Who is Pele?
Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire, lightning, wind, and volcanoes, is one of the most celebrated and powerful figures in Hawaiian mythology. She is believed to reside in the Halemaʻumaʻu crater at the summit of Kīlauea on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. However, her presence and stories are woven into the landscapes of all the Hawaiian Islands, including Maui.
The Mythical Origins of Pele
According to legend, Pele was born in Tahiti and journeyed across the Pacific Ocean in a canoe with her family. She sought a home where her fire and volcanic power could thrive. After many travels, Pele finally found her place in Hawaiʻi. It is said she carved out the Hawaiian Islands by using her digging stick, forming volcanoes and reshaping the land as she went. Her turbulent relationship with her sisters and other elemental goddesses is a central theme in the stories that depict her fiery temper and passionate heart.
Pele’s Connection to Maui
On the island of Maui, stories of Pele are also abundant. One of the most famous lava flows associated with Pele is found in La Perouse Bay, located in the southern part of the island within the Ahihi-Kinaʻu Natural Area Reserve. This area features striking black lava fields, remnants of one of Maui’s last volcanic eruptions around 1790. Many Hawaiians believe that this was Pele’s final visit to Maui before she moved to Kīlauea on the Big Island. Out of reverence, visitors are asked not to take lava rocks or sand, as local belief holds that doing so brings bad luck and misfortune — a warning supported by thousands of returned rocks sent back to Hawaiʻi each year.
Learning and Respecting the Culture
While exploring Maui, you may hear locals speak with deep love and respect when mentioning Pele. Many consider her a living force, not just a mythological figure. This reverence is part of a larger cultural value in Hawaiʻi called mālama ʻāina, or caring for and living in harmony with the land. When hiking volcanic trails, marveling at craters, or visiting sacred sites, it is important to understand and respect these traditions. Consider visiting cultural centers or taking guided tours led by local storytellers and historians who can offer rich context to Pele’s stories and their connection to the geography.
Family Visits and Kid-Friendly Exploration
Maui offers plenty of family-friendly ways to explore the legacy of Pele and the island’s volcanic heritage. Visit Haleakalā National Park, home to the island’s largest and dormant volcano. Kids and adults alike can participate in ranger-led programs, hike gentle trails along the crater rim, and learn about volcanic geology firsthand. Sunrise visits to Haleakalā are especially magical and often spoken of as a spiritual experience — many locals believe Pele’s presence can be felt in the first rays of light hitting the earth each morning.
Protecting Maui’s Natural Beauty
With more families embracing eco-conscious travel, it’s essential to care for Maui’s ecosystems, especially its fragile coral reefs and volcanic coastlines. When visiting lava-rock beaches, snorkeling along the coast, or exploring marine preserves like Molokini, remember to wear reef-safe sunscreen that won’t harm marine life. Coco Botanicals offers all-natural, mineral-based sunscreen that’s gentle on your skin and safe for the environment — a great option for families wanting to protect both themselves and the islands they love.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the legend of Pele adds a deeply meaningful layer to your Maui vacation. Whether you’re hiking across ancient lava flows, standing at the edge of a volcanic crater, or simply enjoying a sunset that lights the sky with fire-like tones, knowing the stories behind the land helps connect you and your family to the Hawaiian spirit. May your journey be safe, respectful, and filled with wonder as you walk in the footsteps of the goddess of fire herself.