In Waikiki with Kelis Kaleopaʻa:
The Ocean Dancer of Waikiki
Through collaboration, cultural nuance, and a commitment to localism, our Aloha Edit Collection and Campaign highlights the profound bond between our Hawaiian cousins and their homeland. We’re thrilled to feature four icons, each embodying “Aloha ʻāina,” the Hawaiian term for a deep love for the land. Today, we present Kelis Kaleopa’a, a native Hawaiian surfer from the south shore of Oahu, epitomizing grace and beauty in the water.
Raised amidst the iconic waves of Waikiki, Kelis grew up with the ocean as her playground. Her surfing legacy runs deep, with her parents, grandmother, and cousins all being avid surfers. Naturally, when she was old enough to swim, Kelis took to the sea, honing her skills on the beaches of Waikiki.
Kelis is one of Hawaiʻi’s top worldwide surfing competitors. Since perfecting her craft from a young age, she has achieved remarkable milestones. In 2022, she became the women’s champion of the Vans US Open of Surfing in the longboarding division. In 2023, she won the Huntington Beach Longboard Classic, and today, she is ranked as the #2 female longboard surfer in the world. Despite her global success, the cornerstones of her foundation were set here in Oʻahu, where she moves across the waves like an angel dancing on water, representing the new generation of women promoting Hawaiian culture globally.
Aloha ʻāina is an integral part of Kelis Kaleopa’a’s life. Surfing under the Hawaiian flag is one way she expresses this deep love for the land to the world. She exemplifies traditional Hawaiian values, showing reciprocal kindness and carrying the essence of what makes Hawaiians unique. This commitment to her culture is evident in every aspect of her life, especially in her surfing.
Her deep connection to the sea and her heritage shines through her achievements, paying homage to her ancestors who have called Waikiki home for generations. Kelis’s passion for surfing and her cultural roots inspire others to embrace the ocean’s beauty and the spirit of aloha. Through her fascinating practice of Hawaiʻi—surfing—Kelis continues to share and celebrate her heritage, embodying the true essence of Aloha ʻāina.
Our Interview with Kelis Kaleopa’a: Discover Her Favorite Spots on Oahu
1. What are your favorite places to eat in Hawaii? Any hidden gems or must-try dishes?
Of course I love Hawaiian/ local food but my favorite restaurants and places to eat are Kim Chee 2 BBQ and duk kee which is a Chinese restaurant. I’ve been going there with my family since I was a baby.
2. As a local surfer, where are the best spots to catch waves in Hawaii? Any tips for beginners?
We are blessed to have waves all over the island, the south shore has the most consistent and most inviting waves I would say. The biggest tip I have for beginners would be have fun, take your time and respect the ocean and its people. 🙂
3. Where do you like to hang out and relax in Hawaii? Any favorite beaches, parks, or local spots?
I’m either at the beach or at home haha, I grew up in Waikīkī and I spend majority.. if not all my time at the beach hanging with friends & family even when the waves are flat.
4. What do you love about Eimeo? How does it reflect the spirit of Hawaii and your personal style?
Hawaii and Tahiti have a very special relationship that runs beyond our time. We all share many similarities in our day to day life, especially our languages and cultures. We are all part of the moananuiākea. I also love Eimeo because they embody mana wahine energy. They bring so much beauty, grace and elegancy through their work.. and the ladies behind the work are even more beautiful.
5. From the Eimeo collection, which dress / outfit is your favorite and why? How would you style it?
I own more pareus than bikinis, so it goes to say, I love Eimeo’s pareu. It’s so versatile and gorgeous. I would style it just as a beach dress for a night out outfit.
6. Can you share a memorable local experience or tradition in Hawaii that visitors might not know about but should definitely experience?
I really enjoy going to bishop museum. I feel it’s so important to understand the land/ home you are visiting. Hawaii has such a special culture and I think visitors would love to learn more about Hawaii beyond the “tourist attractions”
Join us in celebrating Kelis Kaleopa’a and the Aloha Edit Collection, a tribute to the enduring love for the land and the rich cultural heritage that defines Hawaiʻi.