The Surfrider Foundation has played a pivotal role in safeguarding one of Hawaii’s most revered surf spots, Honolua Bay, from commercial development.
Honolua Bay, located in a stunning corner of west Maui, has long been regarded as one of the world’s premier surf locations. Known for its powerful, right-hand reef break, the bay has attracted surfers for generations, maintaining its reputation as a coastal jewel. Yet, preserving this treasured site has not been without its challenges.
In 2007, Maui Land and Pineapple Company, the landowner of the area, proposed a development that included a golf course and 40 luxury homes on Lipoa Point, a culturally significant region that overlooks the bay and is part of a marine reserve. The proposal sparked opposition from a broad coalition of groups, including Surfrider Foundation’s Maui Chapter, local Native Hawaiian organizations, and marine conservation advocates.
Surfrider’s involvement, alongside the Save Honolua Coalition, was instrumental in mounting a robust defense of the area. After years of lobbying and public advocacy, the efforts culminated in a legislative victory in May 2013. Hawaii’s state lawmakers passed House Bill 1424, which authorized the purchase of 280 acres surrounding Lipoa Point and established it as a conservation easement, thus ensuring that the land would be protected from development.
Following this success, the coalition continued its work to create a sustainable vision for the area. Over the next 14 months, they developed a comprehensive plan for a state park, which would provide both environmental protection and public access. The environmental impact statement for the park has been completed, and construction is set to begin soon. The local surfing community, which has been closely involved in the planning process, has expressed a desire to preserve the access road to Honolua Bay, while addressing some drainage issues to improve access.
This victory represents the culmination of years of tireless activism and cooperation between surfers, environmentalists, and Native Hawaiian groups. As part of its ongoing mission, Surfrider Foundation continues to fight for the preservation of surf spots and coastlines worldwide, ensuring that future generations will have the same opportunities to experience and protect the oceans and waves they cherish.
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