We are well into 2026! The past 5 months at Makanalani started off slow and steady, and have been slowly ramping up as we pass through Spring Break and graduation seasons, moving toward Summer! Join us as we share what's been going on at Makanalani in 2026 so far!
- Spring Break, Rainy Days, and Fun Memories -
Going into the month of March we had an excited month scheduled! Unfortunately, due to inclement weather and unforeseen cancellations, we had to scrap some of our plans and restructure. Through it all, we were still blessed to be able to host two amazing camps during the week of Spring Break with Kauai Baptist Church Youth, and Ohana Christian Fellowship Youth! The days may have been rainy, but these students made the most of it by embracing times between crazy weather to get outside or opening up quieter times of bonding indoors and playing games with friends!
- Slip and Slide for the Rain and Shine -
Rainy weather doesn’t affect the slip and slide, in fact it makes it even better! No matter the weather, the Makanalani Slip and Slide has gotten used just as much as ever. Hosting a multitude of our visiting groups and ensuring a fun and memorable experience for all the kids involved!
- Games Galore -
The Game Field is an outdoor hub for the Makanalani property! It’s gotten plenty of use this year with highlights from ultimate frisbee, pickleball tournaments, volleyball, and so many pushes on the swings! Activity through fun and games, and relaxation through breaks and snack times. We love how much this area compliments the visits for guests so well!
- Donkey Visits -
The Mini Donkeys have been well! Getting more than enough attention by our guests and staff bringing in extra treats which always perk their ears up! From the littles with Aloha School, to the teens with HI HOPES, it’s always fun to get all ages out in nature to spend time with animals!
- 2 New Locations for JoJo's Shave Ice -
We’re excited to announce 2 new location for JoJo’s Shave Ice have opened up!
Come visit our newest locations: In Old Koloa Town right off of Koloa Rd, and in the Kukuiula Shopping Center in Poipu! Stop by any day between 11am – 9pm for a delicious treat to cool off your day! Each purchase from JoJo’s Shave Ice contributes directly into supporting the mission of Makanalani Kids. Thank you so much for your support!
- Night Hikes -
When the rain has subsided, we had the chance to take a couple of groups onto our Night Hike! We had a great time with Waolani Judd Nazarene School, HI HOPES Epic Ohana, Aloha School, and Kahili Adventist School taking them around the property after dark, along winding trails and visits to the animals we made some great memories! Huge thank you to Hawaii Leadership Residency for helping us run these activities!
- Welcome Back Beautifully Flawed! -
In April this year we got the chance to welcome back once again The Beautifully Flawed Foundation in hosting their alumni retreat! This week was an incredible time of blessings and restoration for these girls, giving them opportunities to relax and join in with a community who truly understand each other!
- The 7th Annual Captivating Core Retreat -
We were honored to recently host the 7th Annual Captivating Core Women’s Retreat on Kauai! It’s been such a blessing these last 7 years being able to host this retreat and witness the fruit of just how God is moving in our community. Each year is such a delight, and we look forward to continuing hosting them in the future!
- A Reschedule for Kahili Adventist School -
In early March there was some rough weather across the island which resulted in several cancellations for the early part of the month. While understandable, it was a bummer to miss out on those visits. However, there was a silver lining! Kahili Adventist School had the flexibility to reschedule for later in the school year in May! Being a consistent group over the years, we were so happy to have the flexibility to get these students rescheduled! On a week with much better weather, these students had a wonderful time of fun and community!
- Hawaii Leadership Residency -
Spring 2026
Another session of HLR has come and gone! This Spring we welcomed in 16 young adults to come participate in the program. Coming in from all over the mainland and all under the same united goal of growth through discipleship, service, and community.
HLR is always a huge blessing to the Kids House, and this spring was no different! Within March residents got the chance to serve at the kids house with our different kids groups. Getting experience in working with kids, leading activities, and getting insight into how different schools, churches, and organizations operate in their investment into kids!
Through the sun and the storms, another amazing session of HLR has passed. Looking forward we will soon be starting our Summer 2026 session. Another crew is on their way and we are excited for all that is in store for this next season!
