On Kuhio Beach in Waikiki, there’s a bronze statue of Duke Kahanamoku.
Duke Paoa Kahanamoku at Kuhio Beach.
Who is Duke Kahanamoku? Well, according to the plaque located under his statue, he is the “Father of International Surfing”.
Duke Kahanamoku – “Father of International Surfing”.
Duke Paoa Kahanamoku
August 24, 1890 – January 22, 1968
Raised in Wakiki, Duke was a full blooded Hawaiian, who symbolized Hawai’i to millions of people. He developed into an Olympic champion and the world’s fastest swimmer. Between 1912 and 1932 he won three gold medals, two silver and a bronze in four Olympics. He is known as the:
“Father of International Surfing.”
Duke introduced surfing to the Eastern seaboard of America, Europe and Australia. He became a hero when he saved eight lives from a capsized launch at Corona del Mar, California in 1925 using his surfboard. A movie actor from 1925 – 1933 he was elected Sheriff of Honolulu for thirteen consecutive terms from 1934 – 1960. He has been recognized as Hawai’i’s Ambassador of Aloha since 1912.
He has honored his name, he has honored his race, he has honored his state, he has honored us all.
Kuhio Beach is also a good place to learn surfing as (according to my sibling) this part of the beach has a sandy seabed; whereas further down the beach, the seabed is covered with sharp rocks so you’re supposed to tread water without stepping onto the bottom of the sea if you’re in the water.
Across the street from the Duke Kahanamoku statue is the International Market Place.
International Market Place
It’s a pretty good place to shop for cheap / reasonably priced souvenirs (especially keychains, shot glasses…etc) as well as clothes, shoes, jewelry and other interesting items.
There’s also a food court located within the market where lots of good food can be found.
More on the food in another post: [link here]
Bonus:
Duke Kahanamoku at night with tiki torches for ambiance.
