This break was named after the Ilima
flower, a hibiscus, which grew
in profusion upon a small islet
which lay just inside of the surfbreak. Apparently quality flowers were
available consistently enough to be considered remarkable, and so the name...
The islet was consumed by the construction of the breakwater for the commercial Harbor at Kawaihae, during which the reef was blown-up by "mock atomic blasts."
The reef is an extensive one, with multiple breaks, both right and left. As size increases, the dominance of the rights become more apparent. The spot takes a direct West, and possibly W/NW swell to break. Many times there is substantial surf South of here, while Kawaihae sits in the "shadow" of the island of Maui.
This spot is the site of the annual Pua- Kailima Longboard Surfing Classic. It's also now the first cultural surf park in the country. A Board of Directors governs the event and oversees maintenance of the park.
- Dave Barclay 808-889-5225 aquacul@ilhawaii.net
- Bob Simms 808-885-3534