A Lifetime of Service to Hawaiʻi
Ikaika Marzo is a dedicated Native Hawaiian leader from Kalapana on Hawaiʻi Island. His lifelong commitment to his community is rooted in aloha, kuleana, and mālama ʻāina.
During the 2018 Kīlauea eruption, Ikaika stepped forward to help his community when people needed it most. He helped establish Puʻuhonua O Puna, a grassroots community hub that provided hot meals, essential supplies, reliable information, and a place of refuge for families displaced by the disaster. As a result, his compassion, humility, and ability to unite people earned widespread respect across Hawaiʻi.
Strengthening Hawaiʻi's Food Sovereignty
Today, Ikaika continues that same mission of service by strengthening Hawaiʻi’s food security and food sovereignty.
As a local rancher managing hundreds of acres of pastureland on Hawaiʻi Island, he is expanding sustainable cattle ranching throughout East Hawaiʻi. His work creates more opportunities for locally raised beef while reducing the islands’ dependence on imported food. In addition, his efforts support local agriculture and help build a stronger, more resilient future for Hawaiʻi.
From Ranch to Restaurant
That vision comes to life at Marzo’s Country Sports Bar & Grill in Pāhoa.
The restaurant proudly serves beef raised on Ikaika’s ranchland, allowing guests to experience the flavor and quality of locally grown Hawaiʻi beef. Every burger, steak, and local favorite reflects the care that goes into responsible ranching and stewardship of the land.
Beyond the food, Marzo’s has become a true gathering place for the Puna community. Friendly staff, many of whom are members of Ikaika’s ʻohana, welcome every guest with genuine aloha. Meanwhile, regular live music and community events create an atmosphere where neighbors, families, and visitors feel at home.
Sharing Hawaiian Culture
Beyond ranching and hospitality, Ikaika remains passionate about sharing Hawaii’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
Through Kalapana Cultural Tours, he introduces visitors to the stories of Pele, the living landscape of Kalapana, and the deep cultural connections that make this place so special. Rather than simply showing visitors the sights, he encourages them to understand and respect the history, traditions, and people of Hawaiʻi.
A Steward for Community
Whether he is supporting local families, advocating for cultural preservation, strengthening Hawaii’s agricultural future, or welcoming guests to his restaurant, Ikaika leads with generosity, humility, and aloha.
Support Local Hawaii proudly recognizes Ikaika Marzo as a true steward of Hawaiʻi. His work cares for both the people and the ʻāina while inspiring others to care for the communities they call home.
Help Us Keep Hawaiʻi Local
Support Local Hawaii is a stewardship organization dedicated to celebrating the businesses, creators, nonprofits, and community leaders who make our islands extraordinary.
Every listing we share is made possible by those who carry a kuleana to uplift Hawai‘i. Together, we are connecting Culture, Community, and Ecosystems for the well-being of all.
Whether you explore another listing, share a local business, volunteer, or support our mission, you’re helping preserve what makes Hawaiʻi special.
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