At Kūhiō Beach in Honolulu, this bronze sculpture shows young surfer Makua sharing a moment with Kila, a Hawaiian monk seal. The figures come from Fred Van Dyke’s children’s book, “Makua Lives on the Beach,” about a boy’s friendship with a seal. Stop to see the details up close and take a photo, then continue along the shoreline or spend time at nearby Waikiki Wall. The sculpture’s story also offers a gentle introduction to Hawaiian values of love and respect.
The story behind the sculpture
Sculptor Holly Young created Makua and Kila from Fred Van Dyke’s children’s book “Makua Lives on the Beach.” In the story, a boy befriends a Hawaiian monk seal who becomes his surfing companion. The sculpture brings the two characters together in a moment of friendship.
A beachside artwork
The bronze sculpture stands at Kūhiō Beach, in a popular public beach area of Honolulu. A fountain is part of the artwork, though maintenance can affect how clearly it is visible. Nearby Waikiki Wall makes it easy to add a shoreline stop to your visit.
FAQ
Where is the Makua and Kila sculpture?
It is at Kūhiō Beach in Honolulu, on Oʻahu.
What does the sculpture depict?
It shows Makua, a young surfer, with Kila, a Hawaiian monk seal. They are characters from Fred Van Dyke’s children’s book “Makua Lives on the Beach.”
Is the sculpture accessible at any time?
The site is listed as open 24 hours a day, every day.
