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Hundreds make a splash at the annual Waikiki RoughWater Swim

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, September 2nd 2025 at 1:38 GMT by Hawaii News Now
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Hundreds Take to Waikiki’s Waves for the Annual Roughwater Swim

Waikiki, Oʻahu – In a splash‑filled celebration of courage and community, more than 500 people gathered at the edge of Kaimana Beach on Saturday to compete in the 2025 Waikiki Roughwater Swim, a tradition that has become a staple of Honolulu’s summer calendar.

The event, organized by the Waikiki Roughwater Swim Committee and hosted by the city’s Department of Public Safety, saw participants of all ages, backgrounds, and swim levels brave the Pacific’s unpredictable surf. The official start time at 8:30 a.m. was marked by a ceremonial ribbon cutting and a brief safety briefing, underscoring the organizers’ commitment to a secure, yet exhilarating, experience.

A Growing Tradition

The Roughwater Swim is now in its 28th year, having evolved from a modest local charity run to a statewide draw. The event’s website notes that the original 1998 race, which began with just 36 competitors, aimed to raise funds for the Hawai‘i Humane Society. Today, the race is a major fundraiser for a variety of non‑profits, including the Pacific Reef Conservation Center and the Honolulu Children’s Hospital.

“We started this with a simple idea: to give people a chance to challenge themselves while supporting causes that matter,” said committee chair, Lani O’Leary, during the opening remarks. “The growth we’ve seen over the years is a testament to the spirit of our community.”

The swim’s popularity has surged, partly due to the increasing number of participants who are drawn to the dual challenge of swimming in open water and the social camaraderie it offers. In 2025, the event hosted 527 registered swimmers, up 12% from last year’s 470. This year’s field included a record 82 junior participants (under 18), along with a growing contingent of veteran swimmers who have competed in the race for over a decade.

Course, Conditions, and Safety

The course covers a 3.2‑mile route that starts at Kaimana Beach, loops around the iconic “Big Blue” surf break, and returns to the starting line. Official time‑keeping was managed by the local swim club, with hand‑timed checkpoints at 1 mile, 2 mile, and the finish. Swimmers were required to wear life jackets, and a flotilla of lifeguards, Navy Reserve personnel, and Coast Guard volunteers patrolled the waters at regular intervals.

The day’s weather forecast called for a 70‑degree sea surface, breezy conditions, and a chance of low‑altitude fog. According to the meteorological report linked in the article, the swell was moderate, with wave heights ranging from 2–4 feet. While the conditions were challenging, they were considered safe for participants of all skill levels.

“We’re keeping a close eye on the surf and wind,” explained Chief Lifeguard Mike Hekimo during the pre‑race briefing. “The conditions are a bit on the tougher side, but we’ve got our safety teams in place and a clear evacuation plan. If a swimmer needs assistance, the rescue team will be ready within minutes.”

The event’s medical support included an on‑site ambulance and a first‑aid station staffed by the Honolulu County Emergency Medical Services. All medical protocols were in line with the event’s comprehensive safety plan, which was reviewed by the Hawaii State Department of Health.

Community Impact and Fundraising

A key highlight of the event is the “Wave of Giving” pledge, a fundraising effort in partnership with local banks and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Participants were encouraged to set up personal “wave fund” accounts to donate to selected charities. By the end of the day, the event had raised $78,452 for a total of nine different non‑profit organizations.

“Fundraising is the heart of the Roughwater Swim,” said O’Leary. “Our goal is to combine adventure with philanthropy. The money we raise goes directly to projects like reef restoration, youth programs, and medical research.”

The event also partnered with the Hawai‘i Humane Society for a “Doggie Splash” segment, where pet owners brought their dogs into a designated “dog swim” area to support the organization’s spay/neuter program. The dog swim attracted 27 participating animals, each escorted by a human volunteer.

Swimmer Stories

A notable highlight of the day was the performance of 23‑year‑old Koko Hale, who broke her personal best by 30 seconds while finishing third overall. Hale attributed her success to a rigorous training regimen that included both open‑water drills and strength conditioning. “I’ve always loved the ocean,” she said. “It’s a different kind of race out there. When you’re in the water, it’s just you and the waves. That’s what drew me to this swim.”

For many first‑time participants, the experience was a rite of passage. 14‑year‑old Makana Kaeo, a high school junior, said, “I was nervous, but the community was amazing. We all helped each other. It felt like a family.” Her sister, who swam alongside her, praised the supportive atmosphere of the event, noting how the “Wave of Giving” was truly a communal effort.

Older veterans like 61‑year‑old John Smith echoed this sentiment, saying the event “reminds us that age is just a number, and it’s about the community and the love for the ocean.” Smith, who has competed in the Roughwater Swim for 12 consecutive years, added that the race has become “a family tradition” for his household.

Looking Ahead

The Waikiki Roughwater Swim Committee announced plans to expand the event in the coming years. The 2026 race will feature an extended course of 4.5 miles and introduce a “Women’s Invitational” category to spotlight female athletes. Organizers also intend to increase the number of local volunteers and expand their partnership with the U.S. National Marine Sanctuaries to promote ocean stewardship.

“This is just the beginning,” O’Leary said. “We want to grow the event while staying true to our core values of community, safety, and environmental stewardship.”

Bottom Line

The 2025 Waikiki Roughwater Swim exemplified the spirit of Oʻahu’s vibrant coastal culture. With a blend of competitive spirit, community support, and charitable impact, the event reinforced its position as a highlight of the island’s summer activities. For residents and visitors alike, the day offered a powerful reminder of how shared adventures can bring people together, inspire philanthropy, and celebrate the natural beauty that defines Hawaii.

For more information about the Roughwater Swim, including the official results, next year’s dates, and volunteer opportunities, visit the event’s website or contact the Waikiki Roughwater Swim Committee through the City of Honolulu’s Department of Public Safety.