Students from Kamehameha Schools Maui pose for a group photo at the Kahākūkahi Ocean Academy at the Parley AIR Station. Courtesy photo

A new outdoor ocean education center has launched on Maui, offering free youth programs that combine ocean sports, cultural literacy and environmental stewardship.

The Kahākūkahi Ocean Academy at the Parley AIR Station officially opened its headquarters on Feb. 8 at Honokahua Bay, D.T. Fleming Beach Park, just north of Kapalua Bay. The center is open daily and serves as a community classroom promoting environmental awareness and connection to nature.

Founded by Lahaina native and multi-time world champion waterman Zane Kekoa Schweitzer, the academy aims to uplift youth mental health through ocean immersion and mentorship, particularly following the devastating 2023 wildfires.

“At Kahākūkahi Ocean Academy, we inspire our keiki to experience the ocean and feel the connection between our islands, friends, and ‘ohana across the world,” Schweitzer said in a news release.

KOAPAIR offers youth-focused programming that includes beach cleanups, cultural education, marine science activities and community events. Its environmental curriculum follows Parley for the Oceans’ AIR Strategy — Avoid, Intercept, Redesign — to tackle marine plastic pollution and inspire long-term environmental solutions.

The academy is supported by the Maui Strong Fund of the Hawaiʻi Community Foundation, NVIDIA, Ama Olukai Foundation, Nā Kama Kai and Mana Mentors, with in-kind support from Parley Hawai’i, Maui Land & Pineapple Co., and Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures Society.

The modular campus is powered by solar energy and features shipping container classrooms, a stage, a community garden and restrooms.

The grand opening celebration included a blessing by Uncle Wilmont Kamaunu Kahaiali’i of Lahaina, marine science activities, vegan food and live music from Maui Music Mission and Lahaina Style Band.

Uncle Wilmont Kamaunu Kahaiali’i of Lahaina speaks during a grand opening celebration for the Kahākūkahi Ocean Academy at the Parley AIR Station. Courtesy photo

The name “Kahākūkahi” means “first rising breath,” inspired by humpback whales and symbolizing the academy’s mission to lift Maui’s youth toward a thriving future.

The acronym KOA also stands for koʻa (coral) and koa (bravery), reflecting its vision to empower resilient, ocean-connected leaders.

More information and program registration is available at kahakukahifoundation.com.