Maui Through a Local’s Eye: Kama Hagar

My name is Kama Hagar and I am so excited to say that I am the Editor-in-Chief of Maui Makai Magazine.

Since I was a little girl growing up part-time in the jungle of Huelo, I’ve felt deeply inspired by all things Maui. The vibrant colors of nature, the luscious smell of flowers and ocean, the taste of the fresh juicy fruits, the sounds of zebra doves cooing and palms rustling, the warmth of the hearts of the people — there’s nowhere like it.

In fact, it has guided my every move: from the creation of my eco-luxury skincare line, Mukama Botanica (infused with Hawaiian botanicals), to my studies with Hawaiian healers and elders to influence my career as a holistic wellness coach, and finally… this labor of love.

It is not an exaggeration to say that Maui has sculpted me into nearly everything I am.

Now for some other things that inspire me (many of which have to do with Maui!):

Tomfoolery

Maybe it’s because I was born on April Fool’s Day that pranking people, setting up camp games for my friends on the weekends, and generally being playful as much as possible is of possibly the highest value to me. We all could use a little more tomfoolery because look, we’re not gonna be here forever and laughter is truly the best part of living (IMO).

Ube cold brew lattes from Kihei Caffe

I think Ube is a creation from the hands of God. Its nutty, creamy, vanilla-y flavor just satiates something deep within me. I’m not a huge a caffeine girl since I’m already a bit wired as it is, but when I do indulge… it’s all about this purple potion from Kihei Caffe. It’s what dreams are made of.

Keawakapu Beach

I know, it’s a basic Maui girl fave, but it’s undeniably breathtaking. The soft golden sand, warm water and sprinkles of black lava rock scream quintessential paradise to me. Not to mention, I’ve been going to this little place on earth since I was a baby.

Making home a place within

Growing up in a semi-nomadic fashion, I found myself always looking for home. For most of my life, Maui felt like that. Though it still is and does feel like home, I’ve focused my last few years on really making home a place within. Now wherever I go, I feel that sense of comfort and safety because I bring it with me. It has been the most liberating work I’ve ever done.

Snuggles with my boyfriend

I am such a romantic it’s kind of pathetic. But hey, our motto is “you can simp if the other person is simping too - aka simp for each other.” We started our love story long distance and as a quality-time-physical-touch girl, I take no snuggles for granted.

Ho’omana Spa Maui

I completed my Hawaiian Healing training here in 2018 with Kumu Jeana Iwalani Naluai. Now I go as a patron when I have the time and leave feeling nourished and transformed on every single level. There is no healing experience like a Lomi Lomi massage at Ho’omana — just go.

Disco balls

I just love them. They add sparkle and celebration to everything and to me, life is meant to be celebrated.