Fragrant, tropical flowers sewn into lei, hula and the sounds of music echoing through public spaces can only mean one thing: It’s Lei Day on Maui.  

Every year on the first day of May, the state celebrates the giving of the flower lei and the history of the Hawaiian people. Better known as May Day across the U.S., a famous song captures the essence of the Hawai’i’s version of the holiday best, “May Day is Lei Day in Hawaii, garlands of flowers everywhere, all of the colors in the rainbow, maidens with blossoms in their hair.” 

From lei making workshops to concerts, here are a few ways you can celebrate the holiday on Maui:

Lei Day Heritage Festival

May 01, 2019

10:00am - 4:00pm

PHOTO: Forest And Kim Starr

Head to the Maui

For many people, Earth Day is just a 24-hour period, a time to remember and celebrate the one thing that gives us life: the earth.

At this Kipahulu retreat, you are truly helping to protect the ‘aina all year round. Situated on more than 3 acres, this gem is offered for $2.249 million and allows its residents to live off the land, harnessing the energy of the natural elements, in one of Maui’s most untouched regions. The two-bedroom, plantation-style home is completely off-grid and zoned conservation and agriculture, nestled on a section of the pristine Maui coastline.

“The portion of the land that runs along the coastline is protected, limiting any development on that part of the property,” explained Island Sotheby's International

For yogis and yoginis across the globe, Maui is a favorite retreat destination that exudes spiritual energy and provides the perfect backdrop for transformative experiences. Sunrise and sunset yoga are always popular, as are practices amidst the island’s most beautiful scenery. But another type of practice is beginning to shake up Maui’s yoga scene: goat yoga.

On a picturesque farm on the slopes of Haleakala, you can roll out your yoga mat and lift into downward dog whilst surrounded by furry, four-legged creatures. Maui Goat Yoga offers yoga classes that boast the company of free-roaming miniature goats, a combination that has exploded in popularity in recent years.

Photographer: Armin Kübelbeck, CC-BY-SA, Wikimedia Commons

Goat yoga was

Island Sotheby’s International Realty agent Courtney Brown R(S) has yet again facilitated the sale of a unit in one of West Maui’s newest and most luxurious communities — the Montage Residences Kapalua Bay.

Nestled in the heart of the Kapalua Resort, Brown represented the buyers of a $4.95 million unit — a three-bedroom residence directly fronting the azure Pacific Ocean. Situated on the ground floor, the new owners of the nearly 3,000-square-foot condominium will be able to stroll from their home to beautiful walking trails leading to the silky, white sands of the famed Kapalua Bay and through the Kapalua Resort.

This expansive unit boasts three and a half bathrooms, in addition to a den. One of the most desirable features is the spacious,

Carefully conceived by a professional interior designer, this modern Kula estate nestled on the slopes of Haleakala exudes both vintage charm and a contemporary spirit, evoking the best of Upcountry living.

Located Kula Kai, one of Upcountry’s most sought-after neighborhoods, this two-bedroom, two-bath masterpiece and cottage are a must see. Offered for $1.399 million, the 1,527-square-foot home has been extensively remodeled with a contemporary Hawaiiana design and high-end finishes. Upon entering the home, it becomes clear that the owner has meticulously perfected the space, to a degree only accomplished by someone with an eye for attention to detail like no other.

“The main home is a mid-century modern one level home designed for

Megan Bouhey, R(S) isn’t just your average real estate professional - the Island Sotheby’s International Realty agent is now a Brazilian jiu jitsu champion.

Last month, Bouhey participated in the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation’s Pan-American Championship, often referred to as the "Pan Ams.” Held this year in Irvine, California, the championship is the largest Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournament held in North America.

“This was actually my first competition,” said Bouhey. “I kind of just went for it and decided to enter the toughest tournament for my first.”

Bouhey didn’t just participate - she ended up placing second, earning a silver medal. That’s a remarkable accomplishment, considering that Bouhey only started jiu jitsu in

Photo: Public Domain

For the Hawaiian people, taro — called kalo in the islands — is more than just a plant. The sacred plant is instead considered an ancestor of their people, known as the elder brother of man. When the first voyagers arrived on the islands’ shores nearly 1,500 years ago, taro was one of the few plants they brought with them.

The plant is still considered sacred today. On Maui, it’s celebrated each year at the East Maui Taro Festival, an event held in Hana for its 27th time this year. From 9 a.m to 5 p.m. this Saturday at the Hana ballpark, you can sample and purchase fresh poi made by East Maui taro farmers, as well as other taro products such as kulolo.

Locals and visitors of all ages can try their hand at poi pounding,

Island Sotheby’s International Realty is proud to announce that Jane Ford R(B) has become one of the latest agents to join the prestigious firm’s growing team of real estate professionals.

Jane moved to Maui from Grand Cayman last year, where she was a broker with the Sotheby’s brand while representing clients seeking luxury vacation properties and second homes. She has more than 25 years of experience in real estate both abroad and in the United States, including previously owning her own brokerage on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Jane provides her clients with the breadth and depth of knowledge necessary to navigate the intricacies of real estate transactions.

Whether she’s representing a first-time home buyer or an investor searching