Who We Are
Punaluu ʻOhana is a community-based nonprofit organization serving Punaluʻu and the greater Kaʻū region of Hawaiʻi Island.
Formed by residents, neighbors, and local stakeholders, our purpose is simple: to care for this place with respect, responsibility, and long-term stewardship.
Punaluʻu is not only a beach.
It is a home to families.
It is a gathering place for community.
It is a shoreline of cultural and ecological significance.
We exist to mālama this special place for present and future generations.
Our Mission
To support community-based stewardship, promote public safety, preserve cultural history, and protect the natural shoreline environment of Punaluʻu and Kaʻū.
Why This Work Matters
For more than 50 years, essential infrastructure serving Punaluʻu — including drinking water, wastewater systems, roads, and fire access — has aged without major upgrades.
These systems serve:
• Local residents
• The public beach park
• Hundreds of thousands of annual visitors
• Surrounding wildlife and coastal ecosystems
Without thoughtful coordination and long-term planning, both community safety and environmental health may be at risk.
Punaluu ʻOhana works to support transparent communication, responsible solutions, and collaborative stewardship.
Our Focus Areas
1. Community Stewardship
Encouraging volunteer participation, mālama ʻāina practices, and responsible visitor behavior.
2. Cultural Preservation
Respecting the history, stories, and traditions of Kaʻū and Punaluʻu.
3. Environmental Protection
Supporting shoreline care, wildlife awareness, and habitat preservation.
4. Public Safety & Infrastructure Awareness
Sharing information and supporting responsible, community-informed solutions.
What We Are Not
Punaluu ʻOhana does not exist to promote private development.
We are not a commercial entity.
We are not a tourism business.
We are a community-rooted nonprofit focused on public well-being and long-term stewardship.
Our Values
• Mālama ʻĀina – Care for the land
• Kuleana – Shared responsibility
• Laulima – Working together
• Transparency – Open communication
• Respect – For culture, community, and nature
Join Us
We welcome residents, neighbors, and supporters who wish to kōkua.
Whether through volunteering, participating in community dialogue, or sharing manaʻo, all are invited to be part of caring for Punaluʻu together.
With aloha,
Punaluu ʻOhana
