Hawaiian Teen Survives 12-Hour Ordeal at Sea, Rescued by Off-Duty Lifeguard

Kahiau Kawai was swept away by strong currents during a kayaking practice, leading to a dramatic overnight rescue effort.

Kahiau Kawai, a 17-year-old from Hawaii, was separated from his kayaking team when his kayak capsized off the coast of Honolulu.
Without a life jacket, Kawai spent nearly 12 hours in the Pacific Ocean, battling strong currents and cold temperatures.
A large-scale search operation involving over 50 rescue personnel, boats, and helicopters was launched by the Honolulu Fire Department and the U.S. Coast Guard.
Kawai was ultimately spotted by a Coast Guard airplane, which directed Noland Keaulana, an off-duty lifeguard and family friend, to his location.
After being rescued, Kawai was treated for hypothermia and other injuries but was released from the hospital in stable condition.