RELEASE NUMBER 12 | 26
HONOLULU – Brian Keaulana, a world-renowned waterman, actor, producer and stunt coordinator for dozens of major motion pictures, will be presented with the Waikīkī Film Awards (WFA) Hawaiʻi Lifetime Achievement Award in a special celebration at Hawaiian Aroma Caffè inside the OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Beachcomber Hotel on May 16, 2026, from 6 – 10 p.m.
Born and raised in Mākaha, Oʻahu, Keaulana is one of the most influential watermen of all-time. Widely recognized for revolutionizing ocean safety practices, including the use of jet ski rescue techniques, he has provided critical support to major film and television productions including Jurassic World, 50 First Dates, Waterworld, Point Break and Hawaii Five-0.
His lifelong commitment to the stewardship of Hawaiian culture and community has made him a revered figure across Hawaiʻi and beyond. Keaulana is also the co-founder of the International Cultural Arts Network (ICAN) – a non-profit with a mission to elevate, educate and empower diversity with a focus on Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders (NHPI) in Hawaiʻi’s TV and Film Industry.
Presented in partnership with the Hawaii Film Alliance, the evening will honor Keaulana’s global achievements and contributions in Hawai‘i’s film industry. Guests can expect an elevated island experience featuring food, cocktails and live music, culminating with a special performance by award-winning Hawaiʻi reggae band Natural Vibrations, who will close out the night from 9–10 p.m.
The event welcomes Hawaiʻi’s watermen and waterwomen, film industry leaders and the local community to salute a legend, talk story and celebrate together in the open-air setting of Hawaiian Aroma Caffè and OUTRIGGER’s modern pool deck. The venue itself is meaningful as Brian’s daughter, Haʻa Keaulana, has long been part of the Beachcomber Originals – an inspiring group of local artists and influencers who helped curate the style and design of the OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Beachcomber Hotel to create a one-of-a-kind stay that immerses guests in sights, sounds and tastes that are uniquely Hawaiʻi.
“This event is a powerful tribute to a living legend whose impact spans ocean safety, film and community,” said Ceci Hamao, OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel General Manager. “We are proud to host this celebration at the Beachcomber – where culture, creativity and connection come to life.”
The Waikīkī Film Awards presentation underscores OUTRIGGER’s ongoing commitment to celebrating local culture, honoring community leaders and creating meaningful experiences rooted in place. Learn more at outrigger.com.
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