Aloha Tower is Lit in Maui Pink

Aloha Tower lit in Maui’s official color of Pink.

From Hawaii DOT, “In the spirit of the Governor’s order to lower the state flag to half mast, Aloha Tower will be lit in Maui’s official color throughout the month of August in mourning for those lost from the Maui wildfires.”

Aloha Tower: A Symbol of Welcome and History

Aloha Tower is an iconic symbol of Hawai‘i. Built in September of 1926, it was the tallest building in the islands for four decades, and its clock was one of the largest in the United States. The tower stood as a welcoming beacon for visitors since travel to O‘ahu was done entirely by sea. Hawaiian Olympian and waterman Duke Kahanamoku set his first swimming world record here at Pier 7 and the wharf was also known for “Boat Days,” a lively celebration to welcome the arrival of visiting ships.

After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Coast Guardsmen were ordered to take up defensive positions around Aloha Tower and protect it from being occupied. The Tower was painted in camouflage to disappear at night. In 1947, the camouflage paint was removed and the Tower was returned to civilian control.

Today, Aloha Tower is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Honolulu Harbor and the surrounding area from the observation deck. The Tower also houses a marketplace with a variety of shops and restaurants.

Aloha Tower is also located just a short walk from Chinatown, a historic neighborhood that is home to a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. Visitors can enjoy dim sum, explore the Chinese Historical Society of Hawaii Museum, or simply wander through the streets and take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant community.

Here are some additional interesting facts about Aloha Tower:

• The Tower is 184 feet tall and has 10 floors.
• The clock on the Tower is 14 feet in diameter and weighs 7 tons.
• The Tower’s observation deck can accommodate up to 250 people.
• Aloha Tower was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976.

Aloha Tower is a beloved landmark that has played an important role in Hawai‘i’s history. It is a symbol of welcome and a reminder of the island’s rich maritime heritage.

Info Sources: https://www.gohawaii.com/fr/islands/oahu/regions/honolulu/aloha-tower

Should I travel to Maui now?

The decision of whether to visit Maui is a personal one that each guest must make.  We encourage guests with current Maui travel plans, particularly reservations after October 1 to the unaffected areas (including Kahului, Wailuku, Kīhei, Wailea, Mākena, Pāʻia, and Hāna) to consider maintaining their reservations.

For guests with Maui travel plans to Kaanapali, Napili and Kapalua please check with your hotel or host for the latest re-opening information. This is especially important for existing reservations after October 17.  The town of Lahaina and immediate vicinity will remain closed to non-residents.  All guests should be especially mindful and respectful while visiting Maui as the community continues through this extremely difficult time. Please read the entire Post about visiting Maui for more information and to get the latest information.

While West Maui and Lahaina are currently closed the rest of Maui is OPEN and needs the support of visitors to survive.