One of the staple landmarks of any vacation in Hawaii is a visit to the famous famous Duke Paoa Kahinu Mokoe Hulikohola Kahanamoku statue that welcomes visitors to the beaches and waters of Waikiki.  Generally considered as the person who made modern surfing a world-renown sport, Duke Kahanamoku was also an Olympic champion in swimming.  More importantly, he resparked interest in surfing for the youth of Hawaii.  His enthusiasm for the sport was eventually perpetuated like shockwaves throughout the world.

The wonderful man passed away in 1968, leaving behind an unbelievable legacy that has been remembered and memorialized in surfing hotspots throughout the Pacific.  A mentor to many and an inspiration to many more, Duke Kahanamoku has been forever memorialized in his statue that beckons to tourists and all visitors to Waikiki.  The statues’ outstretched arms welcome people to the beach and often times are covered and draped with lei and other floral gifts.  Kahanamoku’s smiling face is pleasant and reminiscent of the man who changed Hawaii forever.  For all people on vacation in Waikiki and on Oahu, a visit to Waikiki Beach and the historic Kahanamoku’s statue is an absolute must.