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? 

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
U’ilani Macabio

Waipiʻo is important to my family because it is part of what makes us…itʻs who we are. The ocean is our livelihood, and Waipi’o is one of the nearest access to the ocean for my family. It allows us to live the lifestyle that we need to survive in the modern world. Waipi’o provides sustenance for our mind, body, and soul. Waipi’o is the ever carried story that most share and that we continue to live.

U’ilani Macabio
Chelsea Croy

As a gathering place for my ohana and friends. Waipi’o is also one of the most consistent surf breaks on the island. To some this may seem trivial or like a luxury, but for many including my husband surfing is a deep seated passion that not only keeps him healthy and happy but serves as a way to stay connected to our ‘aina and to a greater purpose. Without surfing he loses a part of himself. And as new parents to 9 month old twins we need daddy to be nourished and Waipi’o provides this for him.

Chelsea Croy