The City and County of Honolulu has announced that repairs to the Queen’s Surf seawall and promenade walkway will commence on January 21, following extensive damage caused by powerful south shore swells. The $3.75 million project is designed to restore the area, which suffered significant collapse in May 2024. Located east of the Barefoot Beach Café, the seawall and walkway are key parts of the iconic Waikiki beachfront area.

The project, led by Sea Engineering Inc., will repair the seawall and promenade, as well as enhance the safety and durability of the structures. The restoration will include the construction of a new concrete foundation for the seawall, with concrete filling the cavity that developed in the promenade due to the collapse. The new walkway will mirror the design of the old surf rack location, providing a safer and more reliable path for beachgoers. In addition, new walkway light foundations will replace the existing ones, which had started sinking into the damaged cavity.

The project is expected to take approximately six months to complete, with construction taking place Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. (except on holidays). Work hours will be adjusted for tidal conditions to ensure safe and efficient operations.

Access to the area around the construction zone will be restricted during the project. Signs will be posted to alert the public of the construction area, while directing visitors to use the Kalakaua Avenue walkway to access the Barefoot Beach Café and Waikiki War Memorial Natatorium. Pedestrian safety will be a priority throughout the project, and alternate routes will be clearly marked.

"This project represents a critical step in preserving the beauty and safety of Waikiki’s iconic beachfront area," said a spokesperson from the Department of Design and Construction. "We appreciate the public’s patience as we work to restore these vital structures."

Large sandbags will be placed in the water around the seawall to establish a sediment-control zone, minimizing environmental impact during construction. The project team will also ensure that construction noise is managed to minimize disruption for visitors and residents in the area.

For any questions or concerns regarding the project, the Department of Design and Construction encourages the public to reach out at 808-768-8400. The team will provide updates on the progress of the repairs and offer assistance to those impacted by the construction.

"We are committed to ensuring that this important repair work is completed swiftly and safely to restore the Queen’s Surf area to its full potential for the community and future generations," said the department.