The actress proudly embraces her Hawaiian heritage, sharing it through music, film, and cherished moments with her family. Here are her top ways to experience "ohana" in Hawaii.

More than two decades after voicing Nani, Lilo's sister in Disney's *Lilo & Stitch*, Tia Carrere is retracing her cinematic roots by appearing in the live-action adaptation as Mrs. Kekoa, a pragmatic social worker. This new role offers her the perfect opportunity to continue celebrating her Hawaiian culture—a passion she holds dear.

"I was born and raised in Honolulu,” Carrere recounts to the BBC while soaking in the serenity of Napili Bay in Maui. Here, she's collaborating with Daniel Ho for a performance in George Kahumoku Jr.'s Hawaii Masters Tour. "Hawaii shapes everything about me," she says.

Carrere's Hollywood story began when she was just 17, discovered while shopping in a Waikiki supermarket. “Most people move to Hollywood to reinvent themselves,” she muses. “Being from Hawaii has kept me grounded. It’s my grandma’s simple wisdom and the ‘golden rule’—that’s the spirit of Hawaii. I’ll always cherish it.”

Though Carrere has been based in Los Angeles for years, she hasn’t lost touch with the deep-rooted Hawaiian concept of *ohana* (family). "To Hawaiians, family means unwavering support," she explains. She frequently revisits her homeland, believing Hawaii is an unbeatable family vacation spot. "The best experiences here don’t cost much beyond your trip. Once you're here, everything—be it the ocean, beaches, or trails—is at your doorstep. Kids can snorkel, explore nature, or build sandcastles. It’s all intertwined with the beauty of the Earth."

Here are some of Carrere’s favorite ways to enjoy Hawaii with loved ones:

"Maui is wonderful for families," Carrere notes. As a mother to a 19-year-old and aunt to several nieces and nephews, she appreciates the island's family-friendly atmosphere. However, she cautions about some of Maui’s beaches: "When you arrive in Maui, there's signage mentioning its beaches as among the most dangerous for spinal injuries due to strong shore breaks. That’s why I appreciate Napili Bay—it’s like a cozy cove, offering safer waters."

Napili Kai Beach Resort, situated along a tranquil crescent-shaped beach in West Maui, is her go-to spot. With its 1960s charm, the resort provides a nostalgic experience. "It reminds me of my childhood," she says. "It’s simple—no elevators, nothing fancy—but it has everything you need. The charm lies in its simplicity and connection with the bay." The resort features spacious suites and activities catered to families, including free dining and programs for kids.

Website: https://www.napilikai.com/
Address: 5900 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI 96761, United States
Phone: +1 808-669-6271
Instagram: @napili_kai

Hawaii's geologic wonders also captivate Carrere. The islands host 15 volcanoes, six of which are currently active. For families looking for adventure, Carrere suggests a visit to the Unesco-recognized Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. The park's lava tubes—natural formations created by cooling lava—are a highlight for kids. "Walking through these extinct lava tubes, with water dripping from above and ferns growing along the walls, is magical," she shares.

Another favorite is the Volcano House Hotel, perched on the Kīlauea Crater. Its rustic bungalows and cabins allow guests to immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring landscape. "The park features vents releasing steam, and while it can get misty and cold, the experience offers an unmatched science lesson for kids."

Website: https://hawaiivolcanohouse.com/
Address: Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, 1 Crater Rim Drive, Pāhoa, HI 96718, United States
Phone: +1 808-756-9625
Instagram: @hawaiivolcanohouse

Culinary delights are also central to Carrere’s connection to her homeland. "Every time I come back to Hawaii, I revisit all the places I ate at as a child!" Hawaiian food reflects its multicultural population, blending Filipino, Chinese, Japanese, and Portuguese flavors. Carrere cherishes spots like Liliha Bakery for staple meals like hamburger steak with local sides or places serving traditional shaved ice. "Ululani’s shaved ice is the best—it’s delicately soft and naturally flavored."

Website: https://www.lilihabakery.com/
Address: 515 N Kuakini St, Honolulu, HI 96817, United States
Phone: +1 808-531-1651
Instagram: @lilihabakery

Hawaii’s rich history also holds a special place in Carrere’s heart. For families seeking historical insight, the Bishop Museum in Honolulu comes highly recommended. "It’s incredible for kids, with exhibits about Hawaiian culture and navigation using the stars," she notes. Older visitors might appreciate ‘Iolani Palace, a symbol of Hawaii’s royalty before its annexation. "The palace represents a poignant chapter in Hawaiian history, marked by the monarchy’s dissolution."

Bishop Museum Website: https://www.bishopmuseum.org/
Address: 1525 Bernice St, Honolulu, HI 96817, United States
Phone: +1 808-847-3511
Instagram: @bishopmuseum

‘Iolani Palace Website: https://www.iolanipalace.org/
Address: 364 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: +1 808-522-0832
Instagram: @iolanipalacehi

For a breathtaking adventure, Carrere suggests seeing the sunrise over the Hale'mau'mau Crater. "It’s mesmerizing to watch the colors of the volcanic landscape light up at dawn—it’s an unforgettable family memory."

With a lifetime of experiences tied to her homeland’s vibrant culture, history, and natural beauty, Tia Carrere continues to find inspiration in the breathtaking essence of Hawaii.

BBC Travel’s *The SpeciaList* series explores destinations through the eyes of local experts and enthusiasts.

--

If this story resonated with you, consider subscribing to *The Essential List* newsletter, delivering curated features, videos, and news twice a week directly to your inbox. For more travel inspiration, follow BBC Travel on Facebook, X, and Instagram.