Kids Love These Mermaid Programs at Hawaii Hotels

Jul 30, 2017

With their seashell tops and sleek tails, mermaids hold a special place in the hearts of the young and young at heart. Lately, the finned beauties have been beguiling families at two Hawaii hotels, whose splashy mermaid programs are bringing aquatic fantasies to life.

At Sheraton Waikiki, the magic begins as a mermaid poses for photos with her fans. She joins them in the pool for games, such as diving for rings and jumping through hoops, and then enchants them with stories. Offered three times weekly through the end of August, the mermaid meet-and-greet is free for guests of Sheraton Waikiki and sister property, The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort. The program will return next summer to the resort’s Helumoa Playground, home of two freshwater pools and a 70-foot-long waterslide.

Meanwhile, Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui is casting a similar spell with Mermaid University, which is designed for guests ages 5 to 12. Kids learn how to swim in their tails, hear mermaid myths, snap pictures with their alluring new friend and receive souvenir gifts including goggles, a mono fin, a tattoo, a video and a diploma. Mermaid University takes place year-round, with an expanded schedule during the summer. Each class has a 10-person maximum, so advance reservations are a must for this captivating encounter, priced from $120 to $190 per guest. It’s a charming way for mermaid wannabes to get their kicks.