Our Story - Aina Explorer

Our Name: Aina Explorer

In Hawaiian, ‘Āina’ signifies more than just land; it means “that which feeds” – a concept that embodies a deep, familial bond between people and their environment. This ethos of reciprocity, known as Aloha ʻāina, is the bedrock of our company, guiding us to offer authentic experiences with minimal environmental impact.


At Aina Explorer, we also embrace the spirit of exploration, encouraging you to peel away societal layers and discover your true self. Our commitment is to facilitate this personal and external journey, ensuring a safe and fulfilling experience.

Our Chinese Name: 夏游记 (xià yóu-jì)

Our Chinese Name: 夏游记, meaning “Journey to Hawaii/Summer,” inspired by the famous Chinese novel “Journey to the West.”, a episodic adventure where a Tang dynasty Buddhist monk, seeks Buddhist scriptures in India, encountering various challenges along the way.


Sun Wukong, the Monkey King, born from an ancient rock, possesses transformative abilities, a “somersault cloud” for rapid travel, and is kept under the mountain for 500 years until later set free by Tang Sanzang and becomes his disciple.  


Sun Wukong’s playful yet cunning nature adds a lighter touch to their perilous journey. Afterward, he becomes the Victorious Fighting Buddha and ascends to Buddhahood.


In your journey to Hawaii, we act as your protector and problem solver, addressing challenges like planning, researching, rentals, parking, and more.

Our Guide: John

Aloha! I’m John, a proud owner of Aina Explorer LLC. For me, being a tour guide isn’t just a job—it’s a passion. I genuinely enjoy every moment spent sharing the wonders of Hawaii with our visitors.

 

One of my greatest strengths is my ability to understand and empathize with people. I am kind, patient, and caring, treating everyone like friends and family. My goal is always to ensure that our guests have fun and feel the spirit of Hawaii.

 

Safety is a top priority on every tour. Whether we are driving, exploring scenic locations, hiking to waterfalls, or enjoying wildlife, I ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all our guests.

 

I was born in Nashville, Tennessee, but Oahu has been my home since 2007. With a deep knowledge of Hawaiian culture, history, and geology, I bring a rich understanding of the island to every tour. Before starting this adventure, I spent 19 years with Harley Davidson, mostly in the maintenance department, and even lived in China for 2.5 years, immersing myself in the language and culture.

 

Every day, you’ll find me swimming nearly a mile in the ocean, a practice that boosts my mental and physical well-being and sets a positive tone for my day. When the south shore swell is up and the conditions are good, I grab my surfboard and hit the waves.

 

My love for Hawaii and the ocean runs deep. I live by the values of aloha (love and respect), hookipa (hospitality), and pono (righteousness and balance). When you tour with me, you’re not just seeing the sights—you’re experiencing the heart and soul of this incredible island.

 

Join me for an adventure that goes beyond the usual tourist spots. Let’s explore Oahu together safely and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Our Guide: Shi

Aloha and welcome! I’m Shi, born in a small village in China, raised in Shanghai, and now living in Hawaii for over five years.


3 Things That I Love: 

  • Nature: I love camping, hiking, and being close to nature. The diverse landscapes and serene environments in Hawaii offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, making it a perfect place to connect with nature.

  • Stories: I am passionate about sharing and hearing life stories through words, photos, and videos. Every person has a unique journey, and I enjoy capturing these moments and experiences to share with others.

  • Exploration: I thrive on new experiences and adventures. Whether it’s exploring hidden gems, trying out new activities, or meeting new people, I believe every day brings the potential for a new discovery. 

Hawaii is rich in natural beauty and captivating stories. I’m excited to guide you through Oahu’s stunning landscapes, share its history, and create unforgettable memories together!

Our Core Values & Commitment

Your day holds immense significance for us. We genuinely look forward to spending a day and creating beautiful moments together. Your trust in us is our greatest reward, and we are committed to delivering an unforgettable, authentic, and responsible experience that aligns with our core values. Thank you for choosing to embark on this journey with us 🤙

ALOHA AINA

We are dedicated to providing genuine experiences while preserving the beauty of our environment.

PONO

Doing the right thing is our guiding principle in everything we do.

CONNECTIONS

Our mission is to foster meaningful connections with one another, our inner child, the culture, the world, and the present moment.

EXPLORATION

We encourage a spirit of curiosity and bravery, helping you embrace new experiences with safety as our top priority.

JOY & GRATITUDE

We aspire to saturate every moment of your journey with pure joy and to cultivate an enduring sense of gratitude