Artist: Kai‘ili Kaulukukui
The stately green sea turtle (honu) often appears in Hawaiian mo‘olelo (stories) and is looked upon by some families as their ‘aumākua or ancestral guardian spirit.
Lana Lane and POW! WOW! Hawai’i artist Kai‘ili Kaulukukui pay tribute to this majestic sea creature in “Hilo Honu” on Auahi Street. Kaulukukui’s careful attention to every realistic detail—from the patterned shell and large spotted flippers to the doe-shaped eyes and powerful jawline—brings this gentle honu to life.
The green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) is the most common sea turtle found in Hawaiian waters. It is classified as threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act and is protected by federal and state laws. Sea level rise and beach erosion threaten the turtles’ nesting habitat along coastlines. Let’s all do our part to care for the environment and protect these amazing creatures.