My earliest memories are rooted in the black sands of Waipio. Over 40 years now, & my youth was spent in the healing waters of the valley. Feeding wild horses, chasing prawns, bathing in waterfalls, hiking to Waimanu, and surfing in the steel-blue waters; Waipio has always been a constructive outlet for me, and now for my Keiki as well. It is a sacred and treasured place for me and my Ohana, and it is our mission always to leave it in better condition than when we arrive from beach cleanups, and tourist etiquette education, to rides up and for residents, we always strive to do our part.

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.

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.