Hiram B.K. Anahu: The Legendary Waikiki Beach Boy, Musician, and WWII Veteran

Hiram B.K. Anahu: The Legendary Waikiki Beach Boy, Musician, and WWII Veteran

Hiram Brandon Kekuhinaonalani Anahu, better known as Hiram B.K. Anahu, was one of the original Waikiki Beach Boys, a talented surfer and paddler, a songwriter, and a proud U.S. Army veteran. Born in the late 1800s, he helped shape the cultural and surfing legacy of Hawaii during the early 20th century.

A Legacy Rooted in Hawaiian Surf Culture

Born on June 11, 1896 in Kilauea, Kaua‘i, Hiram was raised in a time when Hawaiian traditions were being challenged by colonial influences — but also when local legends were beginning to shine on a global stage. Like Duke Kahanamoku and others, Hiram became one of the few trusted cultural ambassadors to visitors from around the world.

He was among the early “Waikiki Beach Boys,” a group of skilled Hawaiian watermen who taught surfing, canoeing, and the meaning of aloha to royalty, tourists, and celebrities.

Teaching Surfing to the World

Throughout the 1920s and 30s, Hiram worked professionally as a surf instructor and coach, teaching both locals and visitors how to ride the waves of Waikiki. He wasn’t just a beach boy — he was a mentor, a protector of Hawaiian traditions, and a humble teacher who shared the joy of wave-riding with all who were willing to learn.

A descendant recently wrote:

“He was my grandmother’s mother’s brother. We are proud to see his story resurface and hope more people remember what he stood for.”

A Musician with Aloha in His Soul

In addition to his ocean skills, Hiram was a musician and songwriter. In 1925, he published a piece of sheet music titled “Surf Waikiki Beachboy,” capturing the joy of Waikiki’s surf scene in both melody and message. His deep voice and ukulele playing made him a popular figure in early Hawaiian music circles.

On recordings like “On the Beach at Waikiki,” he brought the rhythm of the islands to life — helping define the sound of aloha.

Honoring His Military Service

Hiram also served in the U.S. Army during World War II, continuing the Hawaiian tradition of warriors protecting their people. He registered for military service in 1918 and later enlisted again during WWII. He passed away on February 25, 1949, at the age of 52, at Tripler General Hospital in Honolulu.

At the time of his death, he was described as an “internationally known friend and surfing instructor of royalty and screen celebrities.” He left behind a powerful legacy — one that blends ocean, culture, music, and service.

Remembering Hiram Today

Thanks to the efforts of his descendants and a growing interest in the true history of Hawaiian surfing, Hiram B.K. Anahu’s story is once again being told.

He is remembered as:

• One of the original Waikiki Beach Boys

• A gifted surfer and paddler

• A teacher of aloha

• A proud Hawaiian musician

• A U.S. Army veteran

• And most of all, a respected elder of the kama‘āina spirit

Submit a Surf Legend from Your ‘Ohana

Do you have a relative like Hiram who helped shape the history of Hawaiian surfing? We’d love to hear their story.

Reach out to us through our Nominate a Surf Legend form or message us on Instagram or TikTok @hisurfhistory — help us keep these stories alive for future generations.