As Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa celebrates its 45th anniversary, the iconic oceanfront resort is entering a new era rooted in sustainability, cultural connection, and regenerative hospitality.
Long known for its sweeping ocean views and rich cultural programming, the resort is now deepening its commitment to mālama ʻāina (care for the land) through a series of impactful new initiatives led by its dedicated Landscape Manager, Jason “JD” Dennis. From transitioning to natural pest management to expanding on-site food production, the resort is restoring balance to its ecosystem while offering guests meaningful opportunities to learn, explore, and connect.
? A Shift to Regenerative Landscaping – Over the past year, the resort’s landscaping team has implemented a shift toward regenerative landscaping, including natural pest control methods and the use of BioComplete™ Soil Amendments—earning a Gold Certification for Reef Friendly Landscaping from the Maui Nui Resource Council. By producing their own compost and liquid inoculants, the team restores vital microbes in the soil, enhances nutrient cycling, and reduces runoff, which protects Maui’s coral reefs from harmful pollutants. These practices reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides while fostering healthy, vibrant landscapes.
The resort has also installed a pollinator garden featuring native Hawaiian plants and thoughtfully integrated canoe plants into the grounds to support biodiversity. The gardens cultivate ingredients such as lemongrass, rosemary, onions, and chilis on-site, which are used in resort dishes and team member meals. Together, these initiatives reflect Hyatt Regency Maui’s ongoing commitment to sustainable land stewardship and reef conservation.
? The Palace Genki Toss – This interactive, purpose-driven guest activity allows visitors to support local marine ecosystems by creating and tossing Genki Balls—natural “mud balls” made from clay, minerals, and beneficial microbes—into the ocean. The genki balls help purify the water, promote coral reef health, and reduce harmful algae. Guests also have the chance to look through microscopes to get a closer look at the microbes. Led by the resort’s Landscape Manager, the genki toss is available by request for groups starting at $300 for up to 50 guests.
? Hawaiian Plant Tour – Held every Wednesday morning, this guided tour brings guests through the resort’s thoughtfully cultivated landscape, exploring native plants once brought to the islands by Polynesian voyagers. Along the way, guests learn about the traditional ahupuaʻa land system, the cultural relevance of each plant, and the resort’s ongoing efforts to care for the land through sustainable planting, harvesting, and pesticide-free practices.
As a LEED EBOM Gold-certified property, Hyatt Regency Maui is redefining what sustainable hospitality can look like, offering travelers deeper opportunities to connect with Hawaiʻi’s natural and cultural heritage while helping preserve it for generations to come.
