STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3589

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: S.R. No. 89

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2026

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Water, Land, Culture and the Arts, to which was referred S.R. No. 89 entitled:

"SENATE RESOLUTION ENDORSING WAIKIKI AS A WORLD SURFING RESERVE,"

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose and intent of this measure is to endorse Waikiki as a World Surfing Reserve.

Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the University of Hawaiʻi College of Social Sciences and Sea Grant College Program, Waikīkī Beach Special Improvement District Association, and Save Surf Parking Coalition.

Your Committee finds that Waikiki was, and is, a hub for surfers, Native Hawaiian or foreign, and the area is recognized simultaneously as a world-renowned surf zone, an ecologically rich watershed, and the State's largest tourist destination. Thus, the economic viability of Waikiki intertwines with its environmental health. Unfortunately, Waikiki's surf sites, a main attraction for tourists, are threatened by the various impacts of climate change. Although a local framework has been established for the long-term preservation and support of Waikiki, your Committee believes that designation as a World Surfing Reserve by the Save the Waves Coalition will augment and accelerate local efforts to maintain and grow the area. This measure will promote awareness of and gather momentum behind the preservation of a cultural, economic, and natural landmark of the State.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Water, Land, Culture and the Arts that is attached to this report, your Committee concurs with the intent and purpose of S.R. No. 89 and recommends its adoption.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Water, Land, Culture and the Arts,

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CHRIS LEE, Chair