HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA — The global surfing community is reeling from the tragic loss of Kolby Aipa, a rising 20-year-old surfer and proud grandson of legendary surfboard shaper Ben Aipa, who died following a devastating e-bike accident in Huntington Beach on Saturday, August 2, 2025.
According to initial reports, Kolby was riding an electric bike near Pacific Coast Highway, reportedly being towed by a friend in a vehicle after attending the premiere of Snapt 5, a well-known surf film. Tragically, he lost control and was struck by the very car towing him. The impact left him with life-threatening injuries.
Emergency responders arrived swiftly and transported Kolby to UCI Medical Center in Orange, where he was placed under intensive care. Despite the best efforts of medical personnel and a massive wave of prayers from the surf world and beyond, Kolby succumbed to his injuries on August 4. His sudden passing has left a deep wound in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
A Life Anchored in Surfing Legacy
Kolby Aipa was born into surf royalty. He was the grandson of Ben Aipa, the legendary Hawaiian surfboard shaper who revolutionized board design with the creation of the iconic “sting” in the 1970s—a breakthrough that changed how boards performed in the water. Ben’s boards carried the souls of Hawaiian surf culture, and his influence stretched far beyond the islands.
Kolby carried that legacy with immense pride and passion. Raised with the waves beneath his feet, he joined the Huntington Surf & Sport (HSS) Surf Team, where he competed in numerous youth surf events, quickly establishing himself as a dedicated, talented athlete with immense potential.
But beyond the sport, Kolby was known for his genuine spirit, infectious smile, and unwavering love for his family, his heritage, and the ocean. His parents, Duke and Val Aipa, recently relocated from Hawaii back to Huntington Beach to support Kolby’s competitive surfing journey and be closer to the HSS surf scene. Together, they were deeply embedded in both the Hawaiian and Southern California surf communities.
In a heartfelt message posted shortly after the accident, the Aipa family wrote:
“Please everyone pray for our son Kolby. He was in an accident and is fighting for his life. We need all your prayers.”
Sadly, two days later, they confirmed Kolby’s passing, thanking the public for the overwhelming support and requesting space to grieve their unimaginable loss.
Surf Community Shattered by Sudden Loss
Kolby’s untimely death has sent a shockwave across the surf world. From pro surfers and shapers to fans, brands, and local shops—tributes have poured in from around the globe.
Huntington Surf & Sport, Kolby’s team and local surf community hub, released a moving tribute on social media:
“Kolby Aipa was a beloved son, brother, and friend whose presence touched so many lives. We are heartbroken beyond words. His love for the ocean, his family, and the surf community was unmatched. We’ll miss you, Kolby.”
Surf professionals and peers have described Kolby as “a beautiful soul,” “a bright future in surfing,” and “a young man who carried generations of spirit in his heart.” Dozens of emotional posts have circulated online with photos and memories, reflecting the powerful connections Kolby built through his love of the sport and his easy, approachable energy.
Community Rallying to Support the Aipa Family
In response to the tragedy, the Pai family, owners of Huntington Surf & Sport, launched a GoFundMe campaign to help support the Aipa family through this difficult time. Titled “Honoring Kolby Aipa’s Legacy,” the fundraiser seeks to assist with funeral expenses, medical costs, and memorial events.
Within just days, the campaign has already raised over $40,000, with heartfelt messages of love and solidarity coming from all corners of the surf world.
GoFundMe page:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-kolby-aipas-legacy
The community is also planning a public paddle-out ceremony—a traditional surfer tribute where fellow surfers honor the departed by gathering in the water, forming a circle, and offering prayers, flowers, and memories under the open sky. Details are expected to be shared by the family soon.
A Legacy That Transcends Waves
While Kolby Aipa’s life was heartbreakingly short, the impact he made is undeniable. He was more than a surfer—he was a bridge between generations, a living tribute to Hawaiian surf culture, and a young man filled with promise and purpose.
His name now joins a sacred list of surf legends whose spirits live on through every wave, every board shaped, and every life touched by the ocean.
One of Kolby’s close friends shared:
“Kolby was the kind of person who made you feel like you’d known him forever. He lived with passion, rode with soul, and loved with everything he had. He’s surfing the skies now.”
As the surf world mourns, many are finding comfort in the belief that Kolby’s energy will forever echo in the waves he loved. His journey, though cut short, will continue to inspire young surfers to ride with heart, honor their roots, and live with aloha.
Rest in peace, Kolby Aipa.
Your wave will never end.
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