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? 

Dave Anderson

Access to the ocean at Waipi’o is essential to my well being

Dave Anderson
Wennson Marcelino

Waipio Valley is important to me because it’s part of my childhood and it’s also a part of my keiki’s childhood as well. I spent all my life down in Waipio. From the back of Waipio in my godmother’s lo’i, picking ho’io with uncle Roy and aunty Donna, to doing horseback with my cousin Onz, camping on the beach with family and friends, the list goes on and on.

So why is Waipio important you ask?
It’s a way of doing things it’s a lifestyle it’s a place of peace that serves a greater purpose that some will never understand and that’s why we are where we are now.

Wennson Marcelino
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