Kauai Lungs: Is Paradise Mold Crashing Surfers?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 4, 2026

The salt air hangs heavy, thick with the scent of plumeria and something else… something less idyllic. It’s a musty, earthy smell that clings to your wetsuit, your board, and maybe, just maybe, to your lungs. You’re in paradise, shredding waves at Poipu or Hanalei Bay, but a silent threat lurks beneath the surface of Kauai’s beauty: mold.

Kauai’s lush environment, while breathtaking, is a breeding ground for mold. The constant humidity, frequent rainfall, and dense vegetation create the perfect conditions for these microscopic fungi to thrive, both indoors and out. For surfers, who are constantly exposed to moisture and often store damp gear in enclosed spaces, the risk is significantly elevated. This isn’t just about a funky smell; it’s about your health, specifically a condition some locals grimly refer to as “Kauai Lungs.”

“Kauai Lungs” isn’t a formally recognized medical term, but it encapsulates the respiratory issues that can arise from prolonged mold exposure on the island. Symptoms can range from mild coughing and wheezing to more severe conditions like chronic bronchitis and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. The insidious nature of mold means that symptoms can develop gradually, making it difficult to pinpoint the cause.

So, how do you protect yourself while still enjoying the Garden Isle’s epic surf? It starts with awareness and proactive measures.

First, understand the enemy. The most common types of mold found in Kauai homes and potentially affecting surf gear include Aspergillus, Penicillium, Cladosporium, and Stachybotrys (black mold). Aspergillus and Penicillium are particularly prevalent in humid environments and can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory problems. Cladosporium is often found on plants and can easily be tracked indoors. While Stachybotrys is less common, its presence is a serious concern due to its potent mycotoxins.

Prevention is paramount. This means diligently drying your surf gear after each session. Don’t just toss your wetsuit in the back of your car or leave your board bag damp. Invest in a good wetsuit hanger and a well-ventilated drying rack. Rinse your gear thoroughly with fresh water to remove salt and organic matter, which can feed mold growth. Consider using a wetsuit cleaner with antifungal properties.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning your wetsuit to minimize mold risk:

1. Rinse: Immediately after surfing, rinse your wetsuit inside and out with fresh water. Pay special attention to seams and areas where sand and debris accumulate.
2. Wash: Fill a tub or large container with cool water and add a wetsuit cleaner specifically designed to kill mold and bacteria (e.g., Sink the Stink, or a mild enzymatic cleaner). Follow the product instructions.
3. Soak: Submerge your wetsuit in the solution and gently agitate it for a few minutes. Let it soak for the recommended time (usually 15-30 minutes).
4. Rinse Again: Thoroughly rinse the wetsuit with fresh water until all traces of the cleaner are gone.
5. Dry: Hang the wetsuit inside out on a wide wetsuit hanger in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. Avoid using a clothes dryer, as the heat can damage the neoprene.
6. Inspect: Once dry, inspect the wetsuit for any signs of mold growth (discoloration, musty odor). If you find mold, repeat the cleaning process or consider using a mold-specific treatment.

Your home is another critical area to address. Kauai’s climate makes mold growth almost inevitable, so regular cleaning and ventilation are essential. Use dehumidifiers, especially in areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms and laundry rooms. Ensure proper ventilation in your surf gear storage area. Regularly inspect for leaks and address them promptly.

If you suspect mold growth in your home, don’t ignore it. Small areas (less than 10 square feet) can often be cleaned yourself using a solution of bleach and water (always wear appropriate protective gear, including gloves, a mask, and eye protection). For larger infestations, it’s best to consult a professional mold remediation company. Look for companies with experience in Kauai’s specific climate and mold types.

But what if you’re already experiencing symptoms? Don’t self-diagnose. Consult a healthcare professional familiar with environmental illnesses. On Kauai, consider seeking out doctors who specialize in allergies, pulmonology, or environmental medicine. The Kauai Medical Clinic and Wilcox Memorial Hospital are good starting points for finding qualified physicians. Be sure to mention your surfing activities and potential mold exposure.

Here’s a crucial point: standard allergy tests may not always detect mold sensitivities. Ask your doctor about specific mold allergy testing or, if symptoms are severe, consider consulting an environmental health specialist who can conduct more comprehensive assessments.

One common pitfall is assuming that all mold is the same. Different types of mold produce different mycotoxins, and individuals react differently to them. What might cause mild irritation in one person could trigger a severe reaction in another. This is why a personalized approach to diagnosis and treatment is essential.

Another challenge is the “it won’t happen to me” mentality. Many surfers dismiss the risk of mold exposure, attributing their symptoms to other factors like allergies or a cold. This can delay diagnosis and treatment, leading to more severe health problems.

Let’s consider a hypothetical scenario: A surfer named Kai, living in Kapaa, Kauai, starts experiencing persistent coughing and fatigue. He initially attributes it to surfing in colder waters during the winter months. However, the symptoms persist even after the water warms up. He finally consults a doctor who, after hearing about Kai’s surfing habits and living environment, suspects mold exposure. Testing confirms the presence of mold sensitivities. Kai then takes steps to remediate the mold in his home and cleans his surf gear meticulously. His symptoms gradually improve.

This scenario highlights the importance of awareness, early detection, and proactive measures. Don’t let “Kauai Lungs” sideline you from enjoying the waves. By understanding the risks, taking preventative measures, and seeking professional help when needed, you can protect your health and continue to experience the magic of surfing in Kauai. Remember, a healthy surfer is a happy surfer. And a happy surfer catches more waves.