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? 

Edward Johnston

Waipi’o represents my link to my life’s work– the preservation of Hawaiian ‘Awa. In the early 1980’s my life long friend (who owned a home in the Valley) and I would visit the old Hawaiian community member. Harrison Kanekoa. He shared stories of the historic ‘awa patches in the valley and invited us to get a few nodes. This is largely why we have so many rare Hawaiian ‘awa cultivars available today. I started a 501(c)3 and the rest is history.

Edward Johnston
Zetta Freitas

Aloha, my name is Zetta Freitas and I am 12 years old. I have been going to Waipio since I was very little. Waipio is important to me because it is the place that I go with my family and friends to surf and enjoy the ocean. Waipio is a place that is free and natural. When I am there I feel relaxed. My dad taught me how to surf in Waipio and it is where I have gotten lots of my confidence out in the water. I also got my first barrel there and I will always remember that moment and it is very special to me. I miss going surfing down in the valley and hope that it will open up soon.

Zetta Freitas
Joseph Shackelford

Born and raised in Hamakua, Waipi’o valley is more than just a surf spot, it is a sacred place where I can connect with the ocean & nature, and is essential to my mental and emotional health. I go there to surf, pray, and find peace of mind. To lose access will be a great loss to my soul and heart.

Joseph Shackelford