The global surfing community is mourning the tragic and untimely loss of Kolby Aipa, a beloved 20-year-old surfer and grandson of legendary Hawaiian surfboard shaper Ben Aipa.
The heartbreaking incident unfolded over the weekend in Huntington Beach, California, where Kolby was reportedly riding an electric bike while being towed by a car full of friends. The joyride ended in a devastating accident that left Kolby critically injured. Despite being placed on life support, his family was forced to make the unbearable decision to let him go.
News of his passing has shaken the surfing world, and tributes have poured in from around the globe. Kolby’s family confirmed the tragic news through a deeply emotional post shared by Aipa Surf Co., the brand founded by his grandfather and now run by his uncles.
“This is the hardest post we will ever make. We are completely heartbroken,” the statement read, followed by heartfelt thanks to all who offered love, prayers, support, food, flowers, and comforting words during their time of unimaginable grief.
Though Kolby was a rising star in the surf scene—sponsored by notable brands like Avva and Dakine, and an active member of the Huntington Beach Boardriders Club—those closest to him say it was his radiant personality, compassion, and warm heart that truly defined him.
“Kolby always had a way with touching the lives of whoever he met,” the tribute continued. “His acts of kindness and caring was his gift of Aloha to friends and strangers alike.”
His family is now calling on others to carry his spirit forward through compassion and community, urging:
“Remember him and tell the world that #iamkolby.”
Tributes have echoed across the surfing world, including a moving Instagram post from the World Surf League, while icons like Mick Fanning shared their condolences, responding with prayer and love emojis on social media.
Kolby came from a storied lineage. His grandfather, Ben Aipa, who passed away in 2021, was a pioneering surfboard shaper and professional surfer. Ben’s revolutionary designs and influence on modern surfing earned him a permanent place in the sport’s history. Kolby, in his own right, had begun carving out a name for himself while proudly carrying forward the Aipa legacy—now one that holds both greatness and deep sorrow.
Kolby’s passing is more than the loss of a promising young surfer—it is the loss of a son, grandson, friend, and beacon of aloha whose light touched everyone around him. As waves continue to crash on beaches around the world, many will now ride them in Kolby’s honor, remembering the way he lived—with heart, soul, and generosity.
Though his time was far too short, Kolby Aipa’s legacy will endure—in every life he touched, in every wave ridden with love, and in every person who chooses kindness in his name.