Article: Koa Wood is Legendary in Hawaii

Mike Neal, with his Koa Boards, built in Hawaii.

from Surf Art & Wood Surfboards.

by Michael Tam

Koa Wood is legendary in Hawaii. Not only is this amazing wood native to Hawaii but it is known for the deep rich colors and varied grain pattern. Koa has honored heritage in Hawaii and is highly revered and sacred.

Koa in battle. The word “koa” means “warrior” in Hawaiian. The warriors of King Kamehameha the Great, created canoes and weapons from a wood plentiful on the Big Island of Hawaii. This wood became synonymous with the warriors themselves, and it became known as koa.