Hula Classes in Santa Barbara, California

About Hula

Hula is the traditional dance of Hawaii and one of the most iconic, culturally significant, and deeply meaningful dance traditions in the Pacific world. Practiced for centuries as the primary means of preserving and transmitting Hawaiian history, mythology, genealogy, spiritual beliefs, and the beauty of the natural world, Hula communicates through an intricate system of hand gestures, body movements, and facial expressions that form a visual language capable of telling complete stories. Two primary forms exist — Hula Kahiko, the ancient style performed to chant (oli) and traditional percussion instruments including the ipu gourd drum, and Hula Auana, the modern style that emerged in the 19th century and is performed to melodic Hawaiian music. Learning Hula is inseparable from learning about Hawaiian culture, language, and values. Hula is taught at traditional Halau Hula led by Kumu Hula (master teachers) and at contemporary dance studios across the United States and worldwide. Find Hula dance classes near you and begin this meaningful journey.