When pro surfer and scientist Dr. Cliff Kapono partnered with iconic surf brand REEF for their latest collaboration, he saw an opportunity to do more than create a product—he wanted to fund real, impactful science. Cliff has chosen to forgo personal royalties from the collaboration, instead directing all earnings to support peer-reviewed ocean research through his nonprofit, the MEGA Lab. Launching during REEF WEEK (June 1–8), this initiative marks the first time a surf brand has invested directly in original scientific research—an inspiring example of what authentic brand partnerships can look like. By combining surf culture with environmental stewardship, Cliff and REEF are redefining what it means to protect the ocean we love.
We interviewed Dr. Cliff to ask about his journey, the REEF partnership, and the ways he’s using surf culture to drive real change in ocean conservation.
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You’ve taken a unique path as both a professional surfer and a scientist—how did those two worlds come together for you?
Coming from Hawaii, we are raised in the ocean. In my family, being a surfer was second only to outrigger canoe paddling. It was rare not to visit the ocean every day. Science was a part of these daily visits as well. I remember from a young age my Dad making me and my sisters grab different seaweeds from the beach and learn about them before we went swimming. For me, I don’t think those worlds ever were separate.
Growing up in Hawai‘i, what kind of relationship did you build with the ocean, and how has that shaped your mission today?
Hawaii is one of the most isolated, if not the most isolated, archipelagos in the world. The ocean is so important to both our lifestyle and identity. I feel that I am more from the ocean than I am from land. The land is just where we sleep, but our entire existence is motivated by the waves.
You’ve described surfing as more than just a sport—it’s a way to connect with the natural world. When did you realize it could also become a tool for conservation and education?
I believe that for many, surfing isn’t just about competition. It allows us to be a part of something bigger. The thrill and challenge of riding waves keep us wanting to come back to the shore pretty much for our entire lives. Science has a role in helping us understand not just more about our natural world, but also more about ourselves, very similar to surfing. These are just two sides of the same coin to gain knowledge. It didn’t take too long in primary school to see that.
Tell us about your collaboration with REEF—what made you want to redirect your earnings toward funding peer-reviewed ocean research?
I looked up to a lot of pros who, when they got their models, it was such a big deal. It seemed like these professionals really made it once a company gave them a signature product. But after that, it kind of went flat for me. With science funding being so scarce nowadays, especially to fund projects that study surf breaks, I figured it would be cool to take an opportunity like having a signature product at a brand aligned with my values like REEF to be a way for people to join in on the party and contribute to a real cause.
This is the first time a surf brand has invested directly in original scientific research. Why do you think this moment matters for the surf industry and beyond?
This should be the standard. Science research is so critical to informing better decisions about our resources. So much R&D goes into designing products, but how much is done into designing protection, especially for the places that we depend on to sell surf stuff. Funding science research isn’t going to save the world by itself, but it can help us surfers and the industries that keep us surfing understand more about the places we love.
How will the funds from the REEF partnership support the work you’re doing at the MEGA Lab? Are there any upcoming projects you’re especially excited about?
REEF and I are very excited to be using funds from this partnership to map 1 million reefs by 2030. We want to activate at least 10,000 surfers, artists, and creatives around the world by the end of 2026 to help us map. It is not that hard. It’s as simple as jumping in the water at your favorite beach or reef and making an observation with either a video, photo, or comment. We are calling this initiative map2adapt, and people can contribute and follow along on our website, map2adapt.com.
You’ve achieved a lot across different fields—what keeps you inspired to keep pushing forward?
It may seem so haha, but really I don’t think I’m doing a lot. It doesn’t really seem like work. I love exploring ocean ecosystems on my surfboard and love sharing my quest for understanding more about these systems. I’m just inspired to live a life that is surrounded by the ocean. I want to keep living a life that, even in my dreams, I’m still on the reef.
For young surfers or students who care about the ocean, what’s one small action they can take to start making a real impact?
I would say, find a piece of ocean that you have a connection with and really protect that relationship. It may be a small patch of reef, a wave, or even a piece of shoreline. Whatever it is, keep visiting it. Learn more about how it changes over time, and do your best to learn the history of who came before you in those places. The rest will work itself out.
Thanks again for the incredible work you’re doing. Is there anything you’d like to leave our readers with—a message, reflection, or hope for the future of our oceans?
Just immense gratitude to everyone who has helped me on this journey and although we have a lot of work to do, I really believe the best is yet to come.