HI HCR106

Hawaii Legislature endorses Waikiki's recognition as a World Surfing Reserve through the Save the Waves Coalition program, which identifies and preserves outstanding surf zones worldwide.

Waikiki is recognized as the birthplace of surfing, where Native Hawaiian surfers like Duke Kahanamoku introduced the sport globally, with wave-riding and surfboard-crafting serving as cultural artforms preserving Hawaiian heritage.

The area hosts more than a dozen popular surf breaks, annual surf competitions, and serves as Hawaii's largest tourist destination, contributing millions of dollars to state GDP.

Waikiki's surf sites face threats from climate change impacts including coral bleaching and pollution from flooding, while supporting protected species such as Green Sea Turtles and endangered Hawaiian Monk Seals.

Certified copies of the resolution will be transmitted to the Board of Land and Natural Resources Chairperson, Honolulu Mayor, and the Waikiki Beach Special Improvement District Association Board.