Duke Kahanamoku Statue, Honolulu

Duke Paoa Kahinu Mokoe Hulikohola Kahanamoku (August 24, 1890 – January 22, 1968) was a Native Hawaiian athlete known for his contributions to the sports of swimming and surfing. He was born at the end of the Kingdom of Hawaii, witnessing its overthrow, and lived through Hawaii becoming a U.S. state. Kahanamoku achieved significant success in swimming, winning five Olympic medals. In addition to his athletic pursuits, he had a diverse range of interests and roles, including being a member of the Scottish Rite Freemasonry, a Shriner, a law enforcement officer, an actor, a beach volleyball player, and a businessman.

Kahanamoku passed away from a heart attack on January 22, 1968, at the age of 77. His burial at sea was a significant event, with a lengthy motorcade of mourners and a 30-man police escort traveling to Waikiki Beach for the ceremony. Reverend Abraham Akaka, the pastor of Kawaiahao Church, conducted the service, and a group of beach boys sang Hawaiian songs, including "Aloha Oe," while his ashes were scattered into the ocean.

In 1990, the City of Honolulu honored Kahanamoku's memory by erecting a 9-foot bronze statue at the Waikiki Beach burial site. The statue, created by Jan Gordon Fisher, depicts Kahanamoku with outstretched arms, standing in front of his surfboard. It is surrounded by honorary Hawaiian spears and features a dedication plaque and an information marker. Initially, there was some criticism of the statue's orientation, with Kahanamoku's back to the sea, as it was seen as contrary to Hawaiian custom. However, the statue has become highly popular and is regularly adorned with fresh flowers.