Nickname: Bruddah Cliff

Based now: Hilo, Island of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi

Stance: Regular

Sponsors: Vissla wetsuits and apparel. Reef footwear. Hydroflask water bottles. Channel Islands Surfboards. Parley for the Oceans.

Where were you born and raised?

Hawaiʻi

What do you like about where you live now?

Nobody cares what you do. People are more concerned with how you do it.

When and how did you start surfing?

I started surfing with my Dad by riding on his back while he bodysurfed.

Where is your go-to surf spot?

Honoliʻi

Please tell us about the surfboard you usually ride. Brand, shaper, dimensions, fin setup, etc.

I love riding my alaiʻa board shaped by my good friend Brandan Ahuna. It is 5ʻ6" x 21" x 3/8”.

Where are your favorite surf spots that you've been to?

My favorite surf spots are always where the people have been the kindest. That includes places Northern/Central California, Morocco, Tahiti, and of course all across the Hawaiian Islands.

Where are the surf spots you want to visit in the future that you've never been to?

Anywhere with good vibes.

Which do you like more, Air or Tube?

Tube

Which do you like more, Noseride or Maneuver?

Trimming

Which one video would you highlight in this playlist and why?

Open Rhythms will hopefully show that the real stars of surf film are the waves and surfers are just the supporting actor.

Who are the surfers that inspire you?

Rell Sunn, Montgomery "Buttons" Kaluhiokalani, Larry Bertlemann, Dane Kealoha, Mike Ho, Anona Napoleon

What are the surf films/videos that inspire you?

Many Classic Moments, Sprout, The September Sessions, Secret Machine, Frame lines

What are the films/movies that inspire you? (other than surf films)

Rashomon, Exit Through the Gift Shop, Do the Right Thing

Other than surfing, what are you passionate about?

Science

Who are your favorite bands and musicians?

Steel Pulse, Bob and the Wailers, George Helm, Gabby Pahinui, Hendrix, Clapton

Tracks you love?

Spotify Playlist: This Is Cliff Kapono

1. "City Of Refuge" by Eddie Suzuki
2. "For What It's Worth" by Buffalo Springfield
3. "Castles Made of Sand" by Jimi Hendrix
4. "Can you Get to That" by Funkadelic
5. "Anemone" by The Brian Jonestown Massacre
6. "Wolf Like Me ft. Shovels & Rope" by Lera LynnShovels & Rope
7. "Currency" by The Black Angels
8. "Sabali - Mike Snow Remix" by Amadou & Mariam, Mike Snow
9. "Hawaiian Eyes" by Jon & RandyJon OsorioRandy Borden
10. "Royal Hawaiian Hotel" by Gabby Pahinui