Leleo Kinimaka

Hawaiian craftsman Leleo Kinimaka grew up on Kaua‘i, with a childhood rich in Hawaiian tradition and storytelling. He proudly proclaims he grew up a beach boy on Kalapaki Bay offering surf lessons, canoe rides, snorkel tours, and weaving coconut hats on for visitors.

After Leleo’s parents met on Waikīkī Beach, his father became close with the legendary Duke Kahanamoku who taught him the importance of “living aloha.”

Leleo left Kaua‘i after Hurricane Iniki in 1992. to become a woodworker in California. He thrived on learning the artistry of manipulating wood to look different based on how you cut it. He fine-tuned his skills doing cabinetry which gave him hands-on learning experience.

In 1997 Leleo opened his own shop on the Big Island and was subcontracted to create paddles, ukuleles and surfboards. “I love making surfboards with traditional Hawaiian symbols.” Today, Leleo is making beautiful surfboards for Martin & MacArthur.