Aku Aku Maoi

Tiki Culture/Polynesian Pop

For Tiki Culture enthusiasts this is a pilgrimage you’ll want to consider.

One of the original two giant Maoi statues that graced the entrance to the Stardust Hotel & Casino’s Aku Aku Polynesian-themed restaurant back in the 1960s and 70s was relocated to Sunset Park in Henderson, just a few miles south of The Strip.

Built by Tiki pioneer and original beachcomber Eli Hedley – who was also instrumental in decorating much of Disneyland’s Adventureland among other island-themed spots including hotels, restaurants and private homes – the large Maoi can now be found on a small “island” in the middle of Sunset Park’s man-made lake. The ducks really seem to dig it.

Check out Critiki.com  for vintage images of the Maoi at Aku Aku…

…and even if Polynesian Pop isn’t your thing, Sunset Park can be a really nice respite from  The Strip.