Pahinui Pavilion at Waimānalo Beach Park reopened for community enjoyment

Additional electric, grass work still pending before reconstruction project is completely finished

Mele, hula, and sentiments of mahalo filled the air at Waimānalo Beach Park today, August 28, 2026, as the Pahinui Pavilion was reopened for community use.

“The Pahinui ʻOhana is deeply grateful to the City and County of Honolulu for restoring the pavilion and honoring the legacy of Gabby “Pops” Pahinui,” said Kathleen Elliot-Pahinui, Gabby’s daughter in-law, on behalf of the family. “We know that this pavilion will be enjoyed by the Waimanālo community for many, many years to come.”

The majority of the structure’s reconstruction project has been completed, though there is still additional electric work and grass maintenance to be tasked before the project is completely finished. That phase of the  project is anticipated to be finished by the end of 2026, with the pavilion accessible from the Makapuʻu-side until that time.

The pavilion reconstruction project began in October 2025, designed to match the size and architectural character of the original structure, which was built in 1960, closed in 2017, and demolished in 2019 due to structural issues.

The rebuilt pavilion is made of precast concrete structural supports, concrete block walls, and an asphalt shingle roof with stainless steel gutters and downspouts. Built-in concrete benches were added to provide seating within the pavilion, which offers a partially enclosed space ideal for everyday use and special community events. The details of the pavilion reconstruction project are included on a website for City building projects at Waimānalo Beach Park and the previous announcement for the beginning of construction in October 2025.

The pavilion is dedicated in honor of the late Gabby “Pops” Pahinui, a renowned musician and ambassador of Hawaiian culture. For years before its closure and demolition, the pavilion served as a cultural nexus for the Waimānalo community and hosted some of the intermittent practices, such as the annual Gabby Pahinui Waimānalo Kanikapila. The City sincerely hopes this revitalized pavilion will once again serve the Waimānalo community and beyond for years to come.

Efforts to renovate the beach park’s comfort station and recreation building are expected to begin in early 2027. Additional information about those projects will be announced at a separate time.  Mahalo for your patience until then.

-PAU-

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