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The legendary Duke Paoa Kahanamoku statue. Always a welcoming sight when passing by. There are many tourists that take photos with the statue. An iconic monument in scenic Waikīkī. If you are ever in Waikīkī, the Duke's statue is a must visit.
Check out this famous landmark on Waikiki Beach. Duke Paoa Kahanamoku has a statue appropriately near where he surfed. If you're a fan of surfing, then this is certainly something for you. A lot of history about his accomplishments. This is also a popular opportunity for photos. Basically he is the pioneer of modern surfing and is a legend around here. It's one of the must see things when walking along the beach having fun and stuff. The statue itself may not be that impressive but the history of the person certainly is though. After his surfing career was over, he still had plenty to do in his life. These included being the sheriff of Honolulu County, among many things. Even though it's just a statue, there's a lot of meaning about it. It's located on Kalākaua at Ulunui. This is a great reminder of one of the legends of Waikiki.
Olympian, hero, actor, sheriff...is there anything the Duke didn't do? Hawaii is proud of the man who made surfing an international sensation and represented the State of Hawaii with grace. The large bronze statue of Duke Paoa Kahanamoku with his iconic surf board is an exciting site to see when in Waikiki. His arms are held out as if to welcome all who visit this beautiful beach and island. A plaque at the base of the statue tells the many accomplishments of the legend. A second plaque contains a quote by Duke about the meaning of the word Aloha. A third plaque acknowledges the sponsors of the statue. The statue is the work of Jan Gordon Fisher, former art professor at BYU-Hawaii. The statue was completed in 1990 and may be his most famous work. The statue is laden with leis left by admirers.
This statue is by far the most iconic and famous on the island. This statue is always draped in flower leis and is a most see by any tourist visiting the island. Is is probably the most photographed spot in Honolulu. You where find the statue near Waikiki Beach where Kahanamoku was buried out a sea. iIt is next to the Honolulu Police Department and across the street from the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa. Kahanamoku is a well revered native Hawaiian, who was an Olympic gold medalist swimmer and former world record holder. In addition to swimming he was known for surfing and outrigger canoe paddling, putting Hawaii on the map. The life-like bronze statue stands a towering 9 feet, on a 4 foot boulder, and depicts Kahanamoku in front of a surf board with his arms outstretched in a welcoming gesture. It is very realistic and detailed. The statue is flanked by honorary Hawaiian spears on both of its sides. The statue was dedicated in 1990, and is the work of Jan Gordon Fisher. The stone that the statue is perched on has a bronze plaque that chronicles the life of Kahanamoku. When it was first placed, the statue received much criticism from locals for having Kahanamoku's back to the ocean as being disrespectful. It has become a tradition to place leis on the statue and you will always see a bunch on it, no matter when you visit. However, it should be noted that tossing leis onto the statues outstretched arms or around its neck is discouraged due to the acidity of the flowers on the bronze material. Every time, I have been to Honolulu, I have taken a photo with this statue. It is a must for me to see. I know it is not a long visit, but it is still a destination spot and worth a visit. I would recommend making it part of a larger itinerary when you do visit though.
This is a 9-foot bronze statue of the Hawaiian olympic champion & worldwide big daddy of surfing. It sits right on the beach in Waikiki. Duke's statue welcomes you with open arms. During our visit, he was draped with flower leis. Locals & tourists hang them over his arms and lay them at his feet all day long. He died in 1968, but people talk about him like he was surfing here yesterday. The Duke is easy to find, he's interesting & he's another huge part of Hawaiian recent history. Don't miss this great photo opp !! He even has his own address in Waikiki: 2424 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
This statue is centrally located right next to Waikiki Beach. It's hard to miss and you'll often see people lining up to take pictures in front of it. Duke was an Olympic champion and the world's fastest swimmer, winning multiple medals from 1912 to 1932. He is known as the "Father of International Surfing" and saved eight people from a capsized launch in California. He was a movie actor before he became the elected sheriff of Honolulu for 25+ years, so he really did it all. There are always some leis over his arms and body and he is a great representation of everything Hawaii is about.
I've been looking forward to seeing this statue since I got this book about Hawaii for my kiddo. I read a bunch of books about Duke and his amazing surfing and even being an Olympian. It's a must and free thing to do when in Waikiki. The statue always has beautiful lei's on his arms.
The Duke is not the 2020 movie or John Wayne as Google way try to steer you towards but it is Duke Paoa Kahanamoku. This 9-foot bronze sculpture is located on Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815. It honors the Hawaiian Olympic champion and father of international surfing. He was a five-time Olympic medalist in swimming, winning medals in 1912, 1920, and 1924 (3 golds and 2 silvers). He was also a law enforcement officer, actor, beach volleyball player, and businessman. Most recently the subject of the movie Waterman. All of that is nice but how did he become the father of international surfing you may ask. Well after he retired from Olympics he went and gave swimming exhibitions around the world in which he incorporated surfing as well. There is also a statue of him on Freshwater Lake, New South Wales, Australia and Huntington Beach, California.
A special bronze statue at Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii... Five time Olympian, Duke Kahanamoku, won three Gold Medals and two Silver Medals for swimming. He is named The Father of Modern Surfing and has many other accolades besides being a hero for saving 8 people (by going back and forth on his surfboard) when their boat sank in Corona Del Mar, California (1925). Duke was an actor in Hollywood (1925-33), a sheriff in Honolulu (1924-60), the Original Ambassador of Aloha, and one of the founders of the Waikiki Beach Boys. They taught surfing and paddling to many tourists and residents. Duke Kahanamoku appropriately said, "In Hawaii, we greet friends, loved ones or strangers with Aloha, which means love. Aloha is the key word to the universal spirit of real hospitality, which makes Hawaii renowned as the world's center of understanding and fellowship. Try meeting or leaving people with Aloha. You'll be surprised by their reaction. I believe it and it is my creed. Aloha to you." The statue was created in 1990 by Jan Gordon Fisher of Westwood, California... 22 years after he passed away from a heart attack. His ashes were scattered in the ocean off of Waikiki Beach. Aloha 'oe to you, Duke... Thank you for being a living example of the Aloha Spirit! Note: his wife's name is Nadine Tip: this year, 2020, Duke Kahanamoku turned 130 years young. There was a revised ceremony on his birthday, August 24. Usually, it's a bigger event with many fresh flower lei draped from his outstretched arms. Next year, let's hope that the ceremony gets back to "normal"!
12/6/2022: Duke's Statue has been photographed by millions of Peeps visiting Oahu DAILY! Now, more establishments are promoting Duke's surfing legacy!
One of the iconic images of Waikiki is the deep bronzed statue of famed surfer, Duke Kahanamoku, always draped in dozens of leis left by tourists and locals. The statute is beautiful any time of the day but looks even more magnificent against a backdrop of a vibrant red, yellow and orange sky during sunset, his arms lifted up, welcoming all. The statue is always surrounded by swarms of tourists snapping pics and selfies. Don't worry, you will get your turn! Although it is challenging to get a pic without others in the photograph. Duke Paoa Kahanamoku was born on August 24, 1890, and grew up swimming and surfing in Waikiki. During his first competition he broke the World Record in the 100-yard freestyle and a legend was born. He went on to win Olympic gold in the 100-meter freestyle and silver in the relay in 1912; two gold medals in 1920; and a silver in 1924 at the age of 32. Duke was the first person to be inducted into both the Surfing Hall of Fame and the Swimming Hall of Fame. Not only did Duke help establish the sport of surfing while spreading the Spirit of Aloha around the world, he went went on to act in Hollywood, served as Hawaii's first Ambassador of Goodwill, and was even elected Sheriff! Duke is a legend revered to this day so it only makes sense that the larger than life, bronze statue of Duke Kahanamoku, the undisputed Father of Surfing, is located in the Heart of Waikiki.
Here I am, sitting in bed, dreaming of all my old vacations and how I can't wait to get back to exploring once the COVID-19 crisis blows over. Then it dawns on me, I've been to Hawaii and hardly reviewed anything during my visit. Welp, the Duke Kahanamoku statue is first on my list and I even have a picture to prove it! This statue stands tall and proud right at the entrance of Waikiki beach and it's definitely hard to miss. It's usually adorned with a plethora of beautiful and vibrantly colored leis and his story is awesome. It's no wonder he's a local hero. If you're visiting the island, be sure to stop by, pay your respects, and snap a selfie with good ol Duke. Did you really visit Oahu if you didn't?
This is a special bronze statue at Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii... with a great view of the Waikiki Beach in the back. Must see whenever in Waikiki :)
Background On The Duke: He was known as "The Father of Modern Surfing" and "The Big Kahuna." The Man, The Myth, The Legend! Statue Type: A 9-foot bronze sculpture by artist Jan Gordon Fisher. Statue Significance: Honors his legacy. He won five Olympic medals (three gold, two silver) in swimming between 1912 and 1920. and is Hawaii's official Ambassador of Aloha. He was also a surfing god and actor. He was also the Sheriff of Honolulu, Hawaii from 1935 to 1961. What a PRIMO! Background On Visit: Saw pictures of Kahanamoku online/social media, but really wanted to see him in real life. Visitation Rights: Had to see him twice. The last time there was a nice sunset. Might've pulled some strings with Kahanamoku to make it happen. :) Location: Located at Waikiki Beach near the police station Ambiance/Decor: Neat statue with a lovely backdrop of the beach and palm trees. Visitors would hang lei's on him. Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Statue For Thought: The main attraction besides people watching, swimming, surfing, boogie boarding, tanning, and watching the sunrise/sunset at Waikiki Beach. It is quite fitting to have a tribute to the "Kahuna"! read more
It's located in the center of Waikiki beach, and the most iconic statue honors the father of modern surfing and Olympic gold medalist Duke Kahanamoku. You won't miss it, where you see most tourists pile up and take photos. I would say it's hard to not associate it with Waikiki memories. read more
The legendary Duke Paoa Kahanamoku statue. Always a welcoming sight when passing by. There are many tourists that take photos with the statue. An iconic monument in scenic Waikīkī. If you are ever in Waikīkī, the Duke's statue is a must visit. read more
Check out this famous landmark on Waikiki Beach. Duke Paoa Kahanamoku has a statue appropriately near where he surfed. If you're a fan of surfing, then this is certainly something for you. A lot of history about his accomplishments. This is also a popular opportunity for photos. Basically he is the pioneer of modern surfing and is a legend around here. It's one of the must see things when walking along the beach having fun and stuff. The statue itself may not be that impressive but the history of the person certainly is though. After his surfing career was over, he still had plenty to do in his life. These included being the sheriff of Honolulu County, among many things. Even though it's just a statue, there's a lot of meaning about it. It's located on Kalākaua at Ulunui. This is a great reminder of one of the legends of Waikiki. read more
2 years ago
Olympian, hero, actor, sheriff...is there anything the Duke didn't do? Hawaii is proud of the man who made surfing an international sensation and represented the State of Hawaii with grace. The large bronze statue of Duke Paoa Kahanamoku with his iconic surf board is an exciting site to see when in Waikiki. His arms are held out as if to welcome all who visit this beautiful beach and island. A plaque at the base of the statue tells the many accomplishments of the legend. A second plaque contains a quote by Duke about the meaning of the word Aloha. A third plaque acknowledges the sponsors of the statue. The statue is the work of Jan Gordon Fisher, former art professor at BYU-Hawaii. The statue was completed in 1990 and may be his most famous work. The statue is laden with leis left by admirers. read more
This statue is by far the most iconic and famous on the island. This statue is always draped in flower leis and is a most see by any tourist visiting the island. Is is probably the most photographed spot in Honolulu. You where find the statue near Waikiki Beach where Kahanamoku was buried out a sea. iIt is next to the Honolulu Police Department and across the street from the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa. Kahanamoku is a well revered native Hawaiian, who was an Olympic gold medalist swimmer and former world record holder. In addition to swimming he was known for surfing and outrigger canoe paddling, putting Hawaii on the map. The life-like bronze statue stands a towering 9 feet, on a 4 foot boulder, and depicts Kahanamoku in front of a surf board with his arms outstretched in a welcoming gesture. It is very realistic and detailed. The statue is flanked by honorary Hawaiian spears on both of its sides. The statue was dedicated in 1990, and is the work of Jan Gordon Fisher. The stone that the statue is perched on has a bronze plaque that chronicles the life of Kahanamoku. When it was first placed, the statue received much criticism from locals for having Kahanamoku's back to the ocean as being disrespectful. It has become a tradition to place leis on the statue and you will always see a bunch on it, no matter when you visit. However, it should be noted that tossing leis onto the statues outstretched arms or around its neck is discouraged due to the acidity of the flowers on the bronze material. Every time, I have been to Honolulu, I have taken a photo with this statue. It is a must for me to see. I know it is not a long visit, but it is still a destination spot and worth a visit. I would recommend making it part of a larger itinerary when you do visit though. read more
This is a 9-foot bronze statue of the Hawaiian olympic champion & worldwide big daddy of surfing. It sits right on the beach in Waikiki. Duke's statue welcomes you with open arms. During our visit, he was draped with flower leis. Locals & tourists hang them over his arms and lay them at his feet all day long. He died in 1968, but people talk about him like he was surfing here yesterday. The Duke is easy to find, he's interesting & he's another huge part of Hawaiian recent history. Don't miss this great photo opp !! He even has his own address in Waikiki: 2424 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 read more
This statue is centrally located right next to Waikiki Beach. It's hard to miss and you'll often see people lining up to take pictures in front of it. Duke was an Olympic champion and the world's fastest swimmer, winning multiple medals from 1912 to 1932. He is known as the "Father of International Surfing" and saved eight people from a capsized launch in California. He was a movie actor before he became the elected sheriff of Honolulu for 25+ years, so he really did it all. There are always some leis over his arms and body and he is a great representation of everything Hawaii is about. read more
I've been looking forward to seeing this statue since I got this book about Hawaii for my kiddo. I read a bunch of books about Duke and his amazing surfing and even being an Olympian. It's a must and free thing to do when in Waikiki. The statue always has beautiful lei's on his arms. read more
The Duke is not the 2020 movie or John Wayne as Google way try to steer you towards but it is Duke Paoa Kahanamoku. This 9-foot bronze sculpture is located on Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815. It honors the Hawaiian Olympic champion and father of international surfing. He was a five-time Olympic medalist in swimming, winning medals in 1912, 1920, and 1924 (3 golds and 2 silvers). He was also a law enforcement officer, actor, beach volleyball player, and businessman. Most recently the subject of the movie Waterman. All of that is nice but how did he become the father of international surfing you may ask. Well after he retired from Olympics he went and gave swimming exhibitions around the world in which he incorporated surfing as well. There is also a statue of him on Freshwater Lake, New South Wales, Australia and Huntington Beach, California. read more
A special bronze statue at Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii... Five time Olympian, Duke Kahanamoku, won three Gold Medals and two Silver Medals for swimming. He is named The Father of Modern Surfing and has many other accolades besides being a hero for saving 8 people (by going back and forth on his surfboard) when their boat sank in Corona Del Mar, California (1925). Duke was an actor in Hollywood (1925-33), a sheriff in Honolulu (1924-60), the Original Ambassador of Aloha, and one of the founders of the Waikiki Beach Boys. They taught surfing and paddling to many tourists and residents. Duke Kahanamoku appropriately said, "In Hawaii, we greet friends, loved ones or strangers with Aloha, which means love. Aloha is the key word to the universal spirit of real hospitality, which makes Hawaii renowned as the world's center of understanding and fellowship. Try meeting or leaving people with Aloha. You'll be surprised by their reaction. I believe it and it is my creed. Aloha to you." The statue was created in 1990 by Jan Gordon Fisher of Westwood, California... 22 years after he passed away from a heart attack. His ashes were scattered in the ocean off of Waikiki Beach. Aloha 'oe to you, Duke... Thank you for being a living example of the Aloha Spirit! Note: his wife's name is Nadine Tip: this year, 2020, Duke Kahanamoku turned 130 years young. There was a revised ceremony on his birthday, August 24. Usually, it's a bigger event with many fresh flower lei draped from his outstretched arms. Next year, let's hope that the ceremony gets back to "normal"! read more
4 years ago
12/6/2022: Duke's Statue has been photographed by millions of Peeps visiting Oahu DAILY! Now, more establishments are promoting Duke's surfing legacy! read more
One of the iconic images of Waikiki is the deep bronzed statue of famed surfer, Duke Kahanamoku, always draped in dozens of leis left by tourists and locals. The statute is beautiful any time of the day but looks even more magnificent against a backdrop of a vibrant red, yellow and orange sky during sunset, his arms lifted up, welcoming all. The statue is always surrounded by swarms of tourists snapping pics and selfies. Don't worry, you will get your turn! Although it is challenging to get a pic without others in the photograph. Duke Paoa Kahanamoku was born on August 24, 1890, and grew up swimming and surfing in Waikiki. During his first competition he broke the World Record in the 100-yard freestyle and a legend was born. He went on to win Olympic gold in the 100-meter freestyle and silver in the relay in 1912; two gold medals in 1920; and a silver in 1924 at the age of 32. Duke was the first person to be inducted into both the Surfing Hall of Fame and the Swimming Hall of Fame. Not only did Duke help establish the sport of surfing while spreading the Spirit of Aloha around the world, he went went on to act in Hollywood, served as Hawaii's first Ambassador of Goodwill, and was even elected Sheriff! Duke is a legend revered to this day so it only makes sense that the larger than life, bronze statue of Duke Kahanamoku, the undisputed Father of Surfing, is located in the Heart of Waikiki. read more
Here I am, sitting in bed, dreaming of all my old vacations and how I can't wait to get back to exploring once the COVID-19 crisis blows over. Then it dawns on me, I've been to Hawaii and hardly reviewed anything during my visit. Welp, the Duke Kahanamoku statue is first on my list and I even have a picture to prove it! This statue stands tall and proud right at the entrance of Waikiki beach and it's definitely hard to miss. It's usually adorned with a plethora of beautiful and vibrantly colored leis and his story is awesome. It's no wonder he's a local hero. If you're visiting the island, be sure to stop by, pay your respects, and snap a selfie with good ol Duke. Did you really visit Oahu if you didn't? read more
An impressive statue downtown Waikiki that almost certainly has surfers in the water behind it. Downtown can be very busy with al the beach goers, shoppers and diners, but take a second to capture a picture with this iconic statue right in the heart of Honolulu and Waikiki Beach! https://www.gohawaii.com/islands/oahu/regions/honolulu/duke-kahanamoku-statue The Father of Modern Surfing What: Iconic Waikiki statue of "The father of modern surfing" Where: On Kuhio Beach in Waikiki On Kuhio Beach, a bronze statue of Duke Kahanamoku welcomes you to Waikiki with open arms. Duke was a true Hawaiian hero and one of the world's greatest watermen, a master of swimming, surfing and outrigger canoe paddling. Duke Paoa Kahanamoku was born on August 24, 1890. He grew up swimming and surfing in Waikiki near the current Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort. Discovered as a swimming sensation, Duke's legend began when he broke the world record in the 100-yard freestyle during his very first competition. The prodigious Duke went on to win Olympic gold in the 100-meter freestyle and silver in the relay in 1912. He also won two gold medals in 1920 and won a silver medal at age 34 in the 1924 Olympics. He was instrumental in helping to spread the sport of surfing and the spirit of aloha around the world--which eventually earned him the nickname "the father of modern surfing." Duke was one of the pioneers of the Waikiki Beach Boys, watermen who earned their livings teaching visitors how to surf and canoe at Waikiki Beach; if you look, you can still find real Waikiki Beach Boys showing visitors a great time in the Waikiki surf today. The amiable Duke also acted in Hollywood, served as Hawaii's first ambassador of goodwill, was eventually elected sheriff and was the first person to be inducted into both the Surfing Hall of Fame and the Swimming Hall of Fame. To see authentic photos and memorabilia of Duke and the Waikiki Beach Boys grab a bite at Duke's Canoe Club in the Outrigger Waikiki overlooking Waikiki Beach read more
8 years ago
As a landmark, you know it's special when there are a bunch of leis on it. I don't know who the Duke was (though reading through other people's reviews, I can see why this is a spot to visit for folks) but he's located at a very picturesque spot on Waikiki Beach. So great for a photo op as well as a great spot during sunrise and sunset. We basically walked past it as we were taking our after dinner stroll, quickly took a photo of it, and continued on. Very easy to get to especially if you're staying at a hotel down in Waikiki. But for me, I don't think I would have spent time to really find this statue unless I really knew and cared about the Duke. It was good to see it. Just nothing special to me. read more
The Duke statue on Kalakaua is iconic: Much more so vs the one in DTHB on the mainland. Its located at the front of Kuhio Beach on Kalākaua Ave, across from the Hyatt Regency. I make it a point to stop by and pay homage to this Hawaiian legend. Duke was an accomplished Olympian, actor, and the father of modern surfing. An excerpt from his creed is also the tag on my profile: "Try meeting or leaving people with Aloha. You'll be surprised by their reaction". His statue is adorned with leis daily, and is a popular spot for tourist pics. Do yourself a favor and stop by and take a pic with the Duke. However, do yourself a bigger favor and google him, and read about his amazing accomplishments read more
3 years ago
Kuhio Beach is always packed with beach-goers from local to tourists. Since it was located in downtown Waikiki expect a big crowd especially on weekend. ~ Tourist or local, anyone wants to take photo of this particular statue, no other than Duke Kahanamoku itself. He's not just popular, people in Hawaii respect him a lot & we all know why. Without him maybe surfing won't be popular as today. Even when you are riding a trolley bus or with your own car you'll pass this statue with lots of leis in his hands/arms offered from people who came by to stop and take photo. ~ The first time I had a photo in this statue is just surreal. I'm not a surfer fanatic but reading the history about Duke I appreciate him more as a man and a father of surfing. Upon seeing his statue, you'll feel the presence of being welcomed with open-arms here in Waikiki. And every time I'm in here, I didn't escape taking a snap of it. ~ Mahalo & HAPPY JUANDERING fellow yelpers! juanderbandit.world read more
5 years ago
Nice view and this is my landmark to meet with friends What a beautiful sunset in paradise! "Romantic" "Dream" are my words for Hawaii. How would you describe Hawaii in few words? read more
5 years ago
An Olympian A world-record setter A gold medalist A silver medalist An ambassador An actor A gentlemen A lifeguard A sheriff A champion A surfer A legend A Hawai'ian legend To say the Duke was an accomplished man is quite an understatement. He is the father of the modern day surfing and single-handedly popularized the sport on a global level. Without the Duke, there would be no Miki Dora, Kelly Slater, Doc Paskowitz, Laird Hamilton, Nick Gabaldon, Sean Collins and Eddie Aikau. It's quite fitting that this magnificent bronze statue was built near Waikiki Beach where he grew up just a few yards down the road and surfed the same waves just like his ancestors have done for generations and generations. And just like his father before him who was a policeman, he also became sheriff, where his statue is right next to the police station. An iconic figure that had a heart of gold, a warrior spirit, a healing soul with a smile so wide it stretched from Diamond Head to Waimea Bay. Duke Paoa Kahinu Mokoe Hulikohola Kahanamoku is a proud native son of Hawai'i that we all look at with great admiration. He forever surfs the channels of Waikiki Bay just as his ancestors before him. read more
"I am Hawaii I am forever I will always Be kind to you May gentle rain Wash your cares far out to sea Come you dreamers And dream with me I am Hawaii I am the flowers Whispering waters Enchanting hours Come you lovers Come to forever I am Hawaii I bring you love" - "I am Hawaii", 1966, Lyrics: Mack David Standing at tall at 9' high with outstretched arms of Aloha, this cast bronze statue of the "Father of International Surfing" symbolizes Hawai'i. This statue was built in 1990, 22 years after Duke Kahanamoku's death. Our State of Hawai'i honors the Duke Kahanamoku name with other landmarks and celebrates his birthday (August 24) annually with a beautiful lei draping ceremony. 2015 marks the 125th birthday celebration. Duke Paoa Kahanamoku whose many achievements in the sports world and at home in Hawai'i is iconic. He grew up in the Waikiki area where he developed his swimming and surfing skills. In his youth, he preferred using surf boards made from solid koa wood boards which were fashioned after the ancient Hawaiian "olo". These boards weighed over 100 pounds and were the length of 16'. His many achievements include: - Olympic Gold and Silver Medalist in 1912, 1920 and 1924. - Popularized surfing in Australia during an exhibition at Freshwater Beach, 1914. He fashioned a surfboard out of pine wood bought from a local hardware store! - While living and working as a lifeguard in Southern California, he and two other fellow surfers made a heroic water rescue using their surfboards which caused the U.S. Lifeguards to begin using surfboards during water rescues. - A member of the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame. - First to be inducted into BOTH the Swimming Hall of Fame and Surfing Hall of Fame. Out of the water, he and his wife traveled the world promoting surfing and swimming. He appeared in several movie films and television programs. Duke Kahanamoku stood imposingly tall, in the day, at 6'1" which made his athletic body perfect for serving as a local sheriff. My parents, who were avid swimmers, often regaled us with stories about Duke Kahanamoku and the famed "Beach Boys" of Waikiki. According to my parents, the Duke had an easy going personality and a smile that could draw you in. They said that he had an "infectious" Joie de Vivre about him. The man and his contributions to water sport and the world of surfing are stuff that made him a legend and the Ambassador of Aloha. #500 read more
11 years ago
While walking at Waikiki Beach, you can't help but notice the Duke Kahanamoku Statue. What I learned about Duke: -He is a Hawaiian-American competition swimmer. -He was also known as an actor, lawman, early beach volleyball player and businessman credited with spreading the sport of surfing. -A five-time Olympic medalist in swimming. -There is a chain of restaurants named after him in California and Hawaii called Duke's. -Many honor him by placing leis on his statue. -He is a member of the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame. -He served as sheriff of Honolulu, Hawaii from 1932 to 1961. Very cool, indeed. read more
An iconic piece of Waikiki Beach! Whenever you visit Waikiki, you have to snap a pic with the Duke! It's right in the heart of the action near Waikiki Beach, so the people watching is outstanding! I'm a complete dork, I had my pic taken here during the day, at night when the torches are lit, with a friend, solo, etc..like I said...it's iconic! 5 stars. read more
Not much to add that has not already been said. In the middle of Waikiki Beach, this bronze statue is of the famous Duke Kahanamoku who was an Olympic swimmer and popularized modern surfing. This is a great photo op and with its convenient location is worth the stop. His outstretched arms are constantly being decorated with leis by visitors. Feel free to do the same. read more
18 years ago
I called my friend from Waikiki Beach, told him to go to this website, and he saw me live in Hawaii! This is probably one of the coolest things ever invented! Absolutely ingenious! Per the website, the camera is located in front of the famous Duke Kahanamoku Statue. My friend got hooked and went to this website during random times to check out all the Japanese chicks since he's infatuated with them. You can see all the tourists in front of this camera live 24 hours a day! Beware: Looking at this camera at home during the MN winters will make you wish you did not live in this state. You will want to move there since it's beautiful and warm there year round. read more
14 years ago
What up Duke? I was impressed to see some homage paid to this famous surfer who paved the way for so many many more. I think you would be proud to see the statue overlooking the beach and Kalakaua Avenue. I think you would be honored with the many lei's left around your arms and neck. Pretty awesome. read more
11 years ago
A must-do! Of course you could say it's "just" a statue. But then again you're in Honolulu/Waikiki and this is the granddaddy of all surfers! So, even if you are only remotely interested in Hawaii's history or surfing, then this should be on your to-do list. It's a nice photo-op, and there are always tourists around to give you a hand, in case you want a real picture with you and the statue (because a selfie just won't do). It's just right at the beach, close to the police station and it's easy to spot. read more
11 years ago
Definitely the landmark on Waikiki beach! Always tourists taking picture there. People will hang lei on his arms. Every few days, city will come and clean up the statue. read more
The Duke statue is one of iconic photo spots in Waikiki. It is located in the heart of Waikiki across the street from the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa. Visitors click to the statue to take pictures with the Duke. read more
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Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Statue - publicart - Updated September 2026
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