Hawaii may be part of America, but the fiftieth state has its own culture and rich history that interweaves fact with legend. If you’re planning a trip to Oahu, spend some time reading about the history and culture of Hawaii between booking dolphin excursions and catamaran tours. Learning about the legends and myths of the islands will make the vacation so much more engaging and memorable. 

Hawaiian Legends

Legend says the great demi-god Maui and his wife originally settled on the West Coast of Oahu, in present day Waianae, after traveling to the island from foreign lands. Maui dwelt in Kaneana Cave at Pu‘u O‘Hulu and thrived off the area’s fertile soil and abundant marine life. During this time, Maui contributed to some of Waianae’s most distinctive geographical features, including a hill called Pu‘u Heleakalā. 

Historical Facts

Because of Maui’s influence on the land and sea, the ancient people of Waianae became a prosperous fishing community. But by 1811, traders from Europe and America had entered the scene. They wanted the sandalwood trees that grew in Waianae, so the Hawaiian chiefs made everyone contribute to harvesting them. As a result, their crops were neglected. Contact with the foreigners also exposed the natives to outside diseases, and the local population plummeted.

In the late 1800s, various companies attempted to capitalize on the area’s lush land, and one businessman even built a railroad connecting Waianae to Honolulu. However, when the Waianae Sugar Plantation closed in 1946, all other commercialization efforts in the area ceased. Today, the West Coast of Oahu is one of the few places on the island untouched by modern industry, which has allowed the native wildlife to thrive. 

To learn more about the West Coast of Oahu in an exciting, interactive way, book a breathtaking catamaran tour with EO Waianae Tours. This family-owned and -operated business takes individuals, couples, and small groups on unforgettable catamaran tours to enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and paddle boarding. Check out the website to see what these catamaran tours include, or call (808) 699-5910 to book your adventure today.