Clifford Nae’ole believes that visiting Maui should be a life-changing experience. A leader in organizations such as the Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association and Hawaiian cultural advisor to The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua for the past 16 years, the Maui native is devoted to turning the traditional approach to guest relations on its head.
"Back when I was growing up on Maui, the hospitality industry took the approach that the guest was here to spend money and that they should be left alone—it was strictly an attitude of servitude," he says. "Now we say there should be engagement between the host and the hosted. Hospitality is not just about serving drinks. Local people are encouraged to answer questions about their culture, to share their stories."
Along with advising young people entering the hospitality industry to take a broader view of the host’s role, Nae’ole has designed many cultural tours and team-building programs for groups that take a Native Hawaiian approach to reaching business and personal objectives.
Groups have opportunities to mingle with the local community in activities that may include helping to restore a local temple or visiting a Hawaiian language school. Also among Nae’ole’s specialties is a program incorporating the traditional reverence Hawaiians have for their ancestors.
"We head down to the beach at sunrise and people do a chant with me," he says. "I ask them to focus on their ancestors, to find the energy to continue their legacy. It gives people a whole new outlook on life, and it’s a better way to start the day than a cup of Starbucks."
When Nae’ole wants to refresh his own spirit and "soak up the energy of the island," he heads over to the emerald green pinnacles of Iao Valley State Park.
"It’s a very popular tourist spot, but there’s so much more to it if you know the history, which you can learn by reading the placards," he says. "There are well-marked paths that lead down to the stream. It’s a wonderful place to listen to the silence."
Another place he recommends for a true Maui experience is Baldwin Beach Park, which is located about a mile west of Paia on the island’s north shore.
"This is a beautiful white sandy beach that isn’t on all of the destination maps," he says. "There are fabulous views of Haleakula and Kapalua. It’s also a favorite place for local families and events, so you can get in on the local scene."
