Community
Events
Join the Mission
At the Marine Institute, we believe the community is the true force behind our conservation success. By uniting science with local engagement, we transform high-level research into shared missions that everyone can be part of. Whether you are a local resident with specialized skills or a visitor looking to make a meaningful impact during your stay, there is a place for you in our 'ohana.
.jpg)
Hana Pūko'a
Our reef restoration efforts are supported by our Hana Pūko'a events, a name that signifies the power of collective action in protecting our Mother Reef. This initiative provides meaningful, hands-on opportunities for community members to get involved with coral restoration, and expand their knowledge on what it takes to protect our reefs.
Honu Hero Beach Cleanup
For those looking for a flexible, one-time way to give back, the Honu Hero program is the perfect entry point to marine conservation. Designed to be accessible for visitors and groups who wish to dedicate a few hours to protecting Maui's marine life, Honu Heroes act as frontline defenders for our sea turtles —removing the pollutants that lead to life-threatening entanglements and ingestion directly from our shorelines.
In 2025 alone, our Honu Heroes collected 20,735 pieces of debris, removing 40,500 kilograms of pollution from Maui's coastline. Every piece collected is one less hazard facing our nearshore waters and the species that define the Hawaiian Archipelago.
How to Participate
Getting started is simple. Complete our online form with at least 24 hours' notice and pick up your specialized cleanup kit at The Marine Institute. Kits are available seven days a week between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm. Once your cleanup is complete, return the kit along with the collected debris and your completed data sheet so we can log your contribution to our conservation database.
*As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we suggest a $20 donation per kit to help fund kit maintenance and our wider restoration efforts.
Your Honu Hero Kit includes:
-
5-gallon collection bucket
-
Official debris data collection sheet
-
Clipboard and pencils
-
Protective gloves
Become a Honu Hero Property
We invite Maui hotels and resorts to join our mission by hosting Honu Hero stations on-site. Properties can collect Hero Packs of 10 kits from the Marine Institute to distribute directly to guests, allowing your team to manage equipment reuse and responsibly dispose of collected debris—providing a seamless stewardship experience for your visitors. All data collection sheets are returned to the Marine Institute to ensure your property's total impact is officially documented in our annual conservation records.
*Hero Packs are available at a suggested donation of $500 for 10 kits or may be included with Stays for the Sea Initiative participation.
Corporate Cleanups
Looking to make a meaningful impact as a group? We offer tailored Honu Hero experiences for corporate teams, giving your organization a hands-on way to invest in Maui's marine environment. Learn more about how your company can get involved on our Corporate Stewardship page.
Events Calendar
Our events calendar connects the community and visitors with Maui's marine heritage through education, hands-on programming, and professional training opportunities. From community restoration events like Hana Pūko'a and monthly outreach programming to Sip & Learns, facility tours, and fundraising events, there is something for every level of involvement. Explore upcoming events below and find the experience that's right for you.
Event Title
Event Time
Event Date
Change the event description to include your own content. Adjust the settings to customize the style.