In 1969, against a backdrop of historic milestones like Nixon’s presidency, Armstrong’s moonwalk, and Woodstock, young surfer Mike Sciarra arrived on the East Coast from Oahu with a vision to create a surf brand rooted in positivity, quality, and affordability for all ages. Inspired by legends like Mike Tabeling and fueled by a shared love for the ocean, he learned shaping on the North Shore before founding Kona Surf & Skate Company in Wildwood, NJ, in 1973, quickly becoming a cornerstone of the local surf scene with hand-shaped boards, skateboards, and a vibrant community. Reborn a decade ago under Chris Sciarra’s leadership, the brand now produces high-performance, durable surfboards tailored for East Coast waves using advanced CNC technology, with meticulous craftsmanship and premium materials. Chris’s detailed oversight and collaboration with finish shapers ensure every board reflects Kona’s commitment to durability, performance, and craftsmanship, solidifying its reputation as a top-tier surf brand rooted in tradition, innovation, and community spirit.