WAIKĪKĪ, Oʻahu (June 11, 2025) — A public paddle out honoring legendary Hawaiian waterman Clyde Aikau will take place on Thursday, June 26, at 7:45 a.m. in Waikīkī. The ceremony, titled “The Last Ride with Uncle Clyde Aikau,” invites the community to gather and pay tribute to the life and legacy of one of Hawai‘i’s most beloved surfers.
Aikau passed away peacefully at his home in Waimānalo on May 3, 2025, surrounded by family. He was 75. The Aikau family confirmed the news in a statement shortly after his death. He is survived by his wife Eleni, son Ha‘a, sister Myra, and several nieces and nephews.
Clyde Aikau was the younger brother of Eddie Aikau, the legendary lifeguard and big wave surfer for whom the renowned Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational is named. Following Eddie’s tragic disappearance at sea in 1978, Clyde dedicated his life to preserving his brother’s memory and contributions to surfing and Hawaiian culture.
“Clyde followed through with his lifetime commitment to perpetuate Eddie’s legacy and contributions to big wave riding and Hawaiian culture,” the Aikau family said in a public statement.
In 1986, Clyde made history by winning the first-ever Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational at Waimea Bay, a tribute to his late brother. He continued to compete in the event each year it was held, up until 2016—at the age of 66—building his own formidable reputation in the world of big wave surfing.
The upcoming paddle out ceremony is open to everyone. Participants are asked to gather at the hula mound near the Duke Kahanamoku statue on Waikīkī Beach. Organizers encourage attendees to bring loose flowers to honor Clyde during the ceremony.
Clyde Aikau leaves behind a legacy of courage, commitment, and aloha. His impact on surfing and Hawaiian culture will be remembered by generations to come.