MĀLAMA I KE KAI ‘O WAIPI‘O

Community. Connection. Stewardship.

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Our mission is to ensure ocean access for Hawaii Island residents to perpetuate traditional forms of wave riding, fishing, gathering, and other shoreline activities that sustain a thriving Waipi‘o Valley.

Days since Emergency Proclamation. 

  • SIGN THE PETITION
    On Feb. 25, 2022 Waipi’o Valley access was cut off to the community under Mayor Mitch Roth’s Emergency Proclamation. Access was allowed for some while denied to others. Sign the petition to show support for community access.
  • STAY UPDATED
    Visit our News page where you can join our mailing list, link to press articles, and stay informed about community events.
  • LINK TO SURVEY
    If you are a Hawai‘i resident,  have a strong history of connection to Waipi‘o,  and are concerned about being denied access, please link above to submit a testimonial. Itʻs important that the mayor understand the diversity in our community.

TESTIMONIALS

Why is Waipi’o important to you? 

Gina Agustin

This place is so unique in beauty and spirit it makes sense why locals and visitors want to enjoy the valley. This is where my husband grew up and where I want our kids to grow up as well. It’s a place you can always find a family member or friend. It’s where families gather and leave feeling reconnected to the island. It’s a truly beautiful place that will be terribly missed if access is restricted for local residents.

Gina Agustin
Jason Freitas

Growing up in Honokaa, surfing from a young age in Waipi’o till the present day, it’s a way of life for me. The watermen I am today is absolutely tied to the countless hours I’ve spent in the water in Waipi’o.
It has sculpted me and my career as a water safety officer (lifeguard) on this island, which I’ve worked for 17 years!! My 2 kids who also have been surfing Waipi’o for 3-4 years are now no longer able to do so. This healthy, positive, spiritual sport of surfing is now no longer available to them in their back yard, now we’re needing to drive an hour plus to surf.

Jason Freitas
William Showalter

Itʻs a place of sanctuary, surfing, hiking, fishing. We’ve lived in Kohala for 20 years and frequent Waipio at least once a month. We have so many beautiful memories of this sacred place. Our community needs Waipio. It is one of the few direct ocean access points with a sandy beach that local families can go to. It needs to be opened to island residents.

William Showalter