Our History

Growing up on Mākaha Beach in the early 60's, 70's and 80's, you understand the meaning of family and how important it is to help one another. Sharing what you have and learning with each other was the way we lived at Mākaha. Listening to the stories told by our kupuna, and deciphering the morals of the stories. Learning about the ever present dangers and risk factors and how to mitigate or eliminate these risk. This style of living is what was instilled in me at a very young age and I see me in these keiki that come to Mākaha today. It's great to hear the youth sharing surfing stories or diving stories with each other. Having a cooler for the kids when they are done surfing or having some snacks is part of the life style! The uncles and aunties here on the west side always try to take care of the keiki and make sure they are alright. We are always on the look out for the safety of our 'ohana. Sharing stories and watching the surf is some of the best ways to educate people on Ocean Safety. My background and experience as a City and County of Honolulu Ocean Safety Rescue Operator/Trainer for 35 years, is where I feel I have the most to share with my community. All though I have recently retired, I'm still very active with Ocean Safety and Ocean Rescue Training, Having trained lifeguards and Ocean Safety personnel all over the world from  Mākaha to Hilo, California to Florida, Japan to France, and preparing for a state training program. There is information that needs to get out into the public.  
I'll try to do my best to keep giving / instilling knowledge to all the keiki and the 'ohana that come to Mākaha Surfing Beach. We want to pass on what we were thought. To always Be ALOHA, Give ALOHA, treat everyone Like You want to be treated. Our own kids had to share us with ALL the beach kids, they still do. 

-- Mel Puʻu