Announcement
Duke Kahanamoku OceanFest 2025 in Waikīkī — Dive into Ocean Sports & Aloha
Aug
Aloha in Action: Duke Kahanamoku OceanFest 2025
Honoring the Father of Modern Surfing
Every August, Waikīkī comes alive with the Duke Kahanamoku OceanFest, a week-long celebration honoring Hawaii’s most legendary waterman. Duke Kahanamoku — five-time Olympic medalist, Hollywood actor, sheriff of Honolulu, and the global ambassador of surfing — continues to inspire generations through this event that blends ocean sports, cultural traditions, and community spirit.
This year’s OceanFest runs from August 15–24, 2025, along the golden beaches of Waikīkī. Hosted by the Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation, the festival raises funds for scholarships, water safety programs, and youth sports in Duke’s honor.
Opening Ceremony Highlights
The festivities began with a lei-draping ceremony at Duke’s statue on Waikīkī Beach, accompanied by traditional Hawaiian music and hula. A highlight of this year’s opening was the unveiling of a specialty Duke Kahanamoku license plate, designed by local artist Kamea Hadar. Proceeds from sales will fund statewide drowning prevention and swimming programs — a fitting tribute to Duke’s lifelong commitment to water safety.
Read more via Hawaii News Now and Maui Now.
What’s Going On & When
OceanFest is more than a surf contest — it’s a multi-sport festival that honors Duke’s diverse legacy. Events include:
Surfing & Longboard Classics – Traditional longboarding competitions and the prestigious Legends Surf Invitational.
Duke’s Waikīkī Ocean Mile Swim – An open-water challenge for swimmers of all levels (event details).
Outrigger Canoe Races – Paying homage to Hawaii’s voyaging tradition (Outrigger Canoe Club).
SUP & Paddleboard Races – Showcasing the evolution of modern ocean sports.
Surfboard Water Polo – A quirky nod to Duke’s own playful Waikīkī beach days (AARP Hawaii).
Beach Volleyball & Foilboarding – Blending classic and cutting-edge ocean sports.
Quirky & Cultural Highlights
Not everything at OceanFest is traditional competition — some events highlight Hawaii’s fun-loving spirit:
SurFUR Competition (Aug. 21) – Hawaii’s only dog surfing contest, celebrating its 10th year (Go Hawaii).
Keiki Kokua Surf Jam – Groms hit the waves in a family-friendly surf gathering.
Adaptive Surfing Invitational – Championing inclusivity and accessibility in the surf (Duke Foundation).
Wounded Warrior Canoe Regatta – Honoring veterans through teamwork on the ocean.
Full schedule available at Surf News Network.
Why It Matters
Duke’s Legacy Lives On
Born in 1890, Duke Kahanamoku grew up surfing Waikīkī’s rolling waves before bringing the sport to the world. From introducing surfing to California and Australia to winning Olympic medals in swimming, Duke bridged cultures with his message of Aloha. OceanFest embodies his values by blending athleticism, cultural pride, and community aloha.
(Learn more about Duke’s story here).
Community Impact
Beyond the competition, OceanFest generates real impact. Proceeds support scholarships, water safety initiatives, and youth athletic programs. The specialty license plate unveiled this year is expected to make a big difference in drowning prevention — crucial in Hawaii, where ocean safety is a constant priority.
How to Join the Celebration
If you’re in Honolulu, you can watch events live along Waikīkī Beach. For those following online, the Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation shares updates, and local media coverage provides highlights.
OceanFest is more than a festival — it’s a reminder of why Hawaii remains the heart of surfing. Whether you’re a competitive swimmer, casual beachgoer, or lifelong surfer, Duke’s spirit of aloha welcomes you to the waves.
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