A marine biologist, Lila Jones founded Mermaid Dream Retreats to further the message of ocean conservation. In the large shallow bay off Wailea’s Makena Landing, she holds private and group mermaid lessons that teach students to embrace their creativity, connect to the ocean, and protect the earth. During the 90-minute classes, guests don shimmery, scaled nylon monofins and swim alongside colorful fish and green sea turtles near Maui’s best reefs. Those who want to practice the basics of mermaid swimming in a safer, more controlled environment can opt for pool lessons, while students seeking something more involved can book the mermaid certification course, which includes mermaid swimming techniques, safe breath holding, underwater modeling, and ocean conservation.
