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? 

Micah Olival

It’s everything for me. Lived in valley 10+ yrs it’s where my two sons where born. Family farming taro /rare fruits for over 35 yrs. Family-owned/operated horseback ride in valley since1983. Church/play/gathering/surf/hunting/fishing. The ocean-front gathering place for a community of solid individuals cultivating joy, health, and appreciation of the natural cycles observed.

Micah Olival
John Fero

Waipi’o is the place where I learned to swim, to surf, to dive and fish. I’m 36 now and it’s where I have been teaching my 3 children to swim, to surf, to fish and to dive …. Itʻs been a vital role in allowing me to continue to perpetuate the Hawaiian culture. Waipi’o to my family and I is like our church.

John Fero
Jay Coughlin

Waipio is the heart of the Big Island. I’ve driven and walked the road many times. The dangers are being exaggerated. The closure was a major but correctable mistake. All residents of the island should be able to visit. Tourist traffic can be restricted to appropriate tour vehicles. Meanwhile, a long-overdue plan to improve the road can be developed.

Jay Coughlin