Maika`i Waipi`o (Beautiful Waipi`o) - Princess Miriam Likelike

Maika`i Waipi`o
Alo lua i nâ pali
E pô`ai a puni ana
A hapa na`e makai

Hui:
Ma`ema`e ka pua
I ka holo a`e a ka wai
Ua `ena`ena i ka lâ
Môhala i nâ pali

Hoihoi ka pi`ina
`O Koa`ekea
Pi`i nô a ho`omaha
I ka Holokûaîwa

Beautiful Waipi`o
With cliffs facing each other
Surrounded by cliffs
With an opening toward the sea

Chorus:
Beautiful are the blossoms
Rain-washed
Sun warmed and
Blooming on the cliff

Delightful the ascent
To Koa`ekea
An ascent that takes one to rest
At Holokûaîwa
Source: "Aloha Collection of Hawaiian Songs" Oliver Ditson Co. Copyright 1899 Charles Hopkins, 1923, 42 Charles E. King - This mele was dedicated to Queen Emma whose beauty reminded Princess Likelike of Waipi`o and was the inspiration for the song. In keeping with Hawaiian tradition, the song belonged to the Queen rather than the composer. Koa`ekea and Holokûaîwa are cliffs in Waipi`o Valley. Translated by Mary Pukui