PBS Hawai‘i Presents Keeper of the Bay

Hawai‘i is known for its picturesque beaches and sea life. Every year, more than 400,000 visitors make Kahalu‘u Bay on Hawai‘i Island a part of their travel itinerary. A sanctuary of vibrant coral reefs and marine life, it’s one of the top visitor destinations on the west side of the island, greatly used as a recreation area due to its ease of access.

Yet what makes Kahalu‘u Bay popular has also resulted in damage. Beneath the surface is a delicate ecosystem that is threatened by the influx of human activity. Unfortunately, many visitors are unaware of the coral, how their behavior is damaging and how overuse over time is killing this ecosystem.

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At the forefront of the battle to protect Kahalu‘u Bay is Cindi Punihaole, the director of the Kahalu‘u Bay Education Center and a guardian of her ancestral heritage. Raised on the Kona Coast, Punihaole inherited a legacy of stewardship, learning the ancient practices of fishing and sustainable living passed down through generations. Her journey is captured in Keeper of the Bay, a documentary that chronicles her tireless efforts to safeguard Kahalu‘u Bay from the perils of over-tourism and environmental degradation.

Through indigenous wisdom and scientific knowledge, Punihaole balances cultural preservation and marine conservation. The film captures her dedication to bridging the gap between tradition and modernity, in which she tries to find inventive solutions to mitigate the impact of human destruction on the delicate marine ecosystem.

In addition to following Punihaole, the film also aims to raise awareness of ocean conservation and encourages viewers to understand the role they play in protecting the environment and our islands for years to come. See the documentary on PBS Hawai‘i.

Keeper of the Bay

Thursday, April 18, 8:30 p.m.

Broadcast and streaming online and on YouTube

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Every month, HONOLULU publishes a blog written by the folks at PBS Hawai‘i, the only locally owned, statewide television station in Hawai‘i that receives support mainly through donations. Visit pbshawaii.org to learn more about exceptional, locally produced shows and the most prominent provider of educational and national programming. Explore music and the arts, discover in-depth documentaries and learn what makes Hawai‘i so special. Follow PBS Hawai‘i on all platforms: @pbshawaii