RELEASE NUMBER 57 | 26
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HONOLULU – The 3rd Annual First Responders & Military Honolua Classic surf contest presented by OUTRIGGER Kā’anapali Beach Resort will return to Honolua Bay during a holding window of November 15 – December 31, 2026. Co-hosted by OUTRIGGER Kā’anapali Beach Resort and Kahākūkahi Ocean Academy, the invitation-only surf event honors Maui’s first responders, educators and military community during the bay’s peak winter surf season.
This year’s event will be held over two consecutive days. The exact contest dates will be announced 72 hours in advance, based on wave conditions.
The Honolua Classic was founded by Lahaina-born world champion waterman Zane Schweitzer and U.S. Coast Guard Officer Dylan McCall, who took part in response operations during the August 8, 2023 wildfires. Since its 2024 debut, the Honolua Classic has grown from a first responder and military event into a broader tribute to those who protect, teach and serve the island community. The contest features divisions for Maui Firefighters, Maui Police Officers, Ocean Safety specialists, the Coast Guard, EMS/medics, military personnel, teachers and new for this year, an emergency room care team joins the lineup.
“The First Responder & Military Honolua Classic presented by OUTRIGGER is our way of giving back to those who selflessly protect our island and ‘ohana,” said Zane Schweitzer, co-founder of Kahākūkahi Ocean Academy. “Each year, we’re grateful to recognize more of the people who serve and uplift our community.”
All proceeds benefit the free youth programs of Kahākūkahi Ocean Academy, which combine surf instruction with mental health support, environmental stewardship and cultural connection.
OUTRIGGER Kā’anapali Beach Resort continues as presenting sponsor, reflecting OUTRIGGER’s commitment to protecting the ocean and uplifting ocean-centered communities.
“Our first responders, educators and military members give so much of themselves to care for Maui and our ‘ohana,” said Edwin Torres, General Manager of OUTRIGGER Kā’anapali Beach Resort. “We’re honored to help create a day where they can feel supported and appreciated, connect with one another and find joy in the ocean. This is our way of giving back.”
3rd Annual Honolua Classic Event Details
Holding window: November 15 – December 31, 2026 (two consecutive days, announced 72 hours in advance)
Location: Honolua Bay, Maui
Beneficiary: Proceeds from the event support ongoing educational efforts at Kahākūkahi Ocean Academy
Participation: Invitation-only; the public is invited to watch and cheer on competitors
Merchandise and More Info: Third Annual Honolua Classic
For event updates, volunteer opportunities and ways to contribute, visit the Kahākūkahi Foundation website, follow @frm_honolua_classic on Instagram or call (808) 205-0918. To reserve oceanfront accommodation for the competition period, shop the 2026 Cyber Sale – offering up to 45 percent off stays using promo code CYBER26 at outrigger.com.
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