For Immediate Release

 “CLIFF DIVE CEREMONY AT PU’U KEKA’A, BLACK ROCK”
“A Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa Tradition Since 1963”

KA’ANAPALI, HI – In Hawaiian tradition, it is the place where natural forces come together - Pu`u Keka`a, “hill creating strength through enlightenment”.  As day transitions to night, the Sheraton Maui Resort retells the story of King Kahekili in its nightly Cliff Dive Ceremony. This 40 year old tradition has drawn visitors from all over the world.

Hawaiians believed that Pu`u Keka`a was one of three “`uhane lele”, a place where souls of the dead leaped from earth into their ancestral spirit land. It is believed that only a person with great spiritual strength can enter that world and return.  That person was King Kahekili. 
King Kahekili ruled Maui and O`ahu for 45 years to 1794.  Nicknamed “The Thunderer”, King Kahekili lived in Ka`anapali for most of his ruling years. One of his many legendary athletic feats was performed through the ancient Hawaiian sport of “Lele Kawa,” leaping feet first from heights as high as 300 to 400 feet and plunging into the ocean or fresh water pools below. King Kahekili proved his bravery by jumping from Pu’u Keka’a. Returning to shore unscathed, Kahekili - “King of the Spirit Leap” gained much respect and admiration by his people and his warriors.

On January 23, 1963 the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa opened its doors to the public.  In honor of Hawaiian royalty that once called Ka`anapali home, the nightly tradition of torch lighting and cliff diving began.  Shortly before sunset each evening, a young warrior dressed in the traditional “malo” (loincloth) sets torches aflame shedding light upon the lush lawns of the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa.  The story of King Kahekili and Pu`u Keka`a is told at the Lagoon Bar as the warrior journeys across the white sands of Ka`anapali Beach, lighting the torches set on the crest of the Black Rock.  He traces an ancient path to the tip of Pu’u Keka’a where he offers his torch and flower lei, lifting it to the sky in all four directions. He completes his journey with a dive off Black Rock as the sun sets on the Ka`anapali skyline.

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