The Windward Weavers: Discovering Lauhala Art Near Kailua's Shores

As you stroll near Kailua's shore, the trade winds rustle through the coastal trees. Among the plants that thrive in moist coastal places across the Hawaiian Islands is hala (Pandanus tectorius), whose long leaves, often two to six feet in length, provide the raw material for the traditional art of lauhala weaving. Lau means leaf, and lauhala is simply the leaf of the hala.

For generations, Hawaiians have woven lauhala into the things a household needed: floor mats, pillows, sails, fans, hats and more. Early Hawaiians used the hala tree in many parts of daily life, from canoes and clothing to games and houses. The craft has been handed down from teacher to student, each generation adding its own touch to the traditional patterns. Today, master weavers across the islands continue to keep this craft alive, their skilled hands turning dried, softened leaf strips into tight, beautiful weaves.

You will not always catch a weaver at work on a Kailua street, but lauhala pieces do turn up at craft fairs, galleries and shops around Oʻahu. Each well-made piece carries hours of patient work, from gathering and cleaning the leaves to stripping and weaving them.

But lauhala weaving is more than just a craft. It is a connection to the land and to the people who have lived here for generations, and a reminder of the cultural heritage that makes the windward side so special. It also depends on healthy trees: on Maui, an introduced scale insect has damaged hala and spoiled leaves that weavers rely on, and weavers have joined efforts to protect the trees. As you explore the windward coast, take a moment to appreciate both the hala and the weavers who keep this tradition alive.

Where to Find Authentic Lauhala Art

The Kailua Farmers' Market runs on Thursdays from 4 to 7 p.m. at Kailua Town Center. It focuses on Hawaiʻi-grown products, so treat it as a place to meet local makers and ask questions rather than a guaranteed lauhala stop.
Look for craft fairs and cultural events around Oʻahu, where weavers sometimes sell their work or give demonstrations.
Browse shops and boutiques in Kailua town, and ask who made a piece and where. Real lauhala is woven by hand from hala leaves, and a good seller will happily tell you the weaver's story.

Tips for Visiting the Windward Coast

Be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Take a moment to appreciate the hala trees and the weaving that their leaves make possible.
Support local artisans by buying authentic, hand-woven pieces and learning about the traditional craft.

Conclusion

The windward coast is a place of beauty and tradition, where the art of lauhala weaving lives on. By learning about this craft and supporting the people who practice it, you can experience the cultural heritage of the islands and take a small piece of it home with you. So come and discover the windward weavers, and let their art weave a little aloha around you.