• 30%!

    Pre-Pay & Save! When you book 3+ nights

    View offer

Kelis Kaleopa’a

Kelis Malia lei Kaleopaʻa, is a Native Hawaiian professional surfer from the south shore of Oʻahu. Born and raised in the beautiful waters of Waikīkī.

Kelis has participated in countless surf competitions world-wide. One of her most memorable being the Dukes Fest Pro-am division, her first professional contest at the age of 12, surfing against her hometown hero’s at the breaks in Waikīkī and taking her first win. Her physical and mental preparation for events has evolved over the years. Lately she is focused on body needs, spending time with loved ones, and doing the things that bring happiness, which keeps her at her best once the competition starts. For her, the favorite part of competitions has always been pushing herself, stepping outside of her comfort zone, and of course getting to surf.

Surfing around the world, one of the Kelis’s most favorite spots to surf is Australia; noting ‘the waves and vibes are always great’ there. When traveling, her supporter and best friend has always been her mom, who she is always grateful to have by her side.

Outside of surfing, Kelis’s favorite hobby has been focusing on health and wellness. Moving and taking care of her body naturally and holistically, and spending time with the Āina. Her favorite point of reconnection is spending time in the loʻi. Keeping up with such an athlete in Waikīkī, you can find Kelis surfing, eating, doing Pilates and yoga, or just hanging out on the beach with her family and friends. And occasionally resetting herself with a vacation at the Twin Fin too!

Her goals for 2025: Live. Be happy, healthy, and present in the moment


 

What is your Ambassador Role?

I feel like my role as a Twin Fin ambassador is to portray my home, Waikīkī, in its true family based beauty, the Twin Fin Waikīkī has given back to our community in so many ways and I am so thankful for the platform they have given me. They are the best ʻohana and I am so stoked to be a part of it.⁣

Beyond the Break: Q & A With Kelis