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Team Papakolea Jiu-Jitsu. Honolulu. Relson Gracie direct 6th degree black-belt 29 years of experience. Kids and Adults. Seminars/tournaments with local Gracie/BJJ academies/teachers
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Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at Team Papakolea Jiu-Jitsu Academy. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.
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I’m brand new to jiu-jitsu and only back home for a month, but from day one, Team Papakolea welcomed me like family. The coaches took the time to help me build a solid foundation and encouraged me to stay consistent, even knowing I’m only here for a short time. The vibe is super chill, no egos, just good people who love the art and help each other grow. Being able to start my BJJ journey back home with this kind of support means a lot. Super thankful to be part of this crew. If you’re thinking about starting, I highly recommend this place. mahalos 🤙🏽
My 12-year-old son has had the opportunity to train with Team Papakolea Jiu Jitsu the past 3 years, and I can't say enough about the positive experience he has had. As a Hawaiian-owned and operated studio, the spirit of 'ohana shines through in every class, creating an environment that is not only welcoming but also incredibly supportive.
The coaches are knowledgeable, patient, and truly passionate about teaching Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. They take the time to ensure that each student understands the techniques, emphasizing the importance of respect, discipline, and teamwork.
My son has not only gained valuable self-defense skills but has also developed confidence, perseverance, and a sense of responsibility.
Mahalo to Kaleo and the entire team for their dedication and for creating such a wonderful space for our keiki!
I joined TPJJ in January 2017 and it’s been an amazing and life changing 8 years. Professor Kaleo and his coaching staff welcomed me with open arms, treated me like family, and has taught me jiu jitsu and life lessons for on and off the mats.
Professor Kaleo teaches nearly every class himself and is more than willing to pass on his vast jiu jitsu knowledge to his students while still promoting an ego free environment. He’s an amazing coach who wants you to excel as a jiu jitsu practitioner while also making an effort to get to know you not only as his student but also as a friend.
Adult classes are twice daily (AM and PM) Monday through Thursday, open mats after every class and on Friday mornings, and another class Saturday afternoons. Kids classes are every afternoon Monday through Thursday, and another class Saturday mornings. Most classes are held at the main Kakaako location, and the Tues/Thursday PM classes are held at Papakolea Community Park. Gi classes are on Mon/Tues/Saturday and no-gi classes are on Wednes/Thursdays.
Every class will challenge you physically and mentally with drills and self defense and “sport” jiu jitsu techniques. You don’t need any previous experience to join, and we’ll welcome you like family.
Kaleo and jiu jitsu has positively impacted my life. I recommend everyone to join the TPJJ family
We have been training at Team Papakolea Jiujitsu for a few years now. Professor Kaleo and Tiffanie have worked for many years to create a family environment and culture that welcomes any background or experience level, for kids and adults. Everyone we have met that is a part of the school adapts the same values and makes you feel comfortable and a sense of belonging. We truly appreciate their dedication to teaching all levels of jiujitsu and always being available to help you improve. We are grateful for their attention to detail and attentiveness to each individual.
We love being able to train as a family!
We LOVE Team Papakōlea Jiu-Jitsu! The easy learning, supportive family environment, and the fact that the team and their kids live and breathe Jiu-Jitsu make it so special. We will always be loyal members of Team Papakōlea!
Kaleo and his Ohana is the best. His dedication to martial arts and his teachings is amazing. I love Team Papakolea and this is the best school in Hawaii.
TPJJ is a truly outstanding BJJ academy that embodies everything a martial artist could hope for in a training environment. As a 27-year black belt in judo with international competition experience, I’ve trained in many settings, and after a year at TPJJ, I can confidently say it stands out. From day one, I was welcomed into a warm, ego-free atmosphere where the focus is on technical excellence, growth, and community.
Professor Kaleo is a phenomenal instructor whose depth of knowledge and passion for teaching are evident in every class. His dedication to sound BJJ fundamentals and his mission to uplift the community create an environment where students of all levels can thrive. Beyond the mats, his genuine compassion for his students fosters a true family vibe. Over the past year, I’ve built strong relationships here, and I’m grateful to be part of a team that values both skill development and camaraderie. TPJJ is the real deal for anyone looking to train in a positive, high-level setting where all levels are truly welcomed.
Coach Kaleo and the TPJJ Ohana is such a solid group of amazing people that push each other on and off the mats. Cant compare when it comes to the atmosphere at Team Papakolea Jiu Jitsu Academy
Team Papakolea is a special place. The culture is Aloha. From children to adults Kaloe Auwae the owner/ professor is able to teach the art of jiujitsu flawlessly and comfortably to people with or without prior experience. I highly recommend this jiujitsu academy to anyone interested in learning jiujitsu or finding a new home in jiujitsu!
I've been a student here at Team Papakolea Jiu jitsu since 2018, I first met kaleo at my Barbershop in kakaako, he came showed love and offered a free class for us barbers "if" we were Interested. That has been probably the greatest impulse move I've ever made, I still train there today and I've even started bringing my 2 daughters here as well. It is VERY family Oriented and the knowledge you get from a 2nd generation Gracie instructor is 2nd to none. Everyone I meet through this school I've became such close friends with, and it's a type of comradery that brings back memories from my years as an athlete. So if you're looking to challenge yourself, fail often but with grace in knowing you'll be better for it, come and give this school a shot.
Team Papakolea Jiu-Jitsu is an amazing place for all ages and degrees of Jiu-Jitsu practitioners to be able to learn, train, and develope not only fierce martial art skills but A sharp disciplined yet fierce mindset and understanding of what it means to be a martial artist as well
My daughter joined TPJJA 5 months ago and all I can say is “wow”! My daughter was bullied in elementary and intermediate school and shut down and became an introvert , depressed and withdrawn. I needed to find an activity or something that would build up her confidence, get her healthy, physically and mentally strong. I was recommended to try out TPJJ and from the first try out session, my daughter knew and I knew whole heartedly that joining the TPJJ family was the way to go and the right thing to step into. Coach Kaleo is an AMAZING coach who truly cares for each of his students. The students know it and it shows. I’m not talking just about their performance on the mat but in each of the students. They are all compassionate, respectful, welcoming and want to help eachother out. Coach doesn’t need to ask the advanced long time students to help their peers out when they need help, the kids on their own, without making any judgement, take initiative to guide, support and help out a newbie. It’s very special to me to watch and see this in action, when another child can help uplift and motivate your child to be better just by showing they care and don’t pass judgement in any way. My daughter has more confidence now than she’s ever had and we owe it to Coach Kaleo’s TPJJ family! Mahalo Coach Kaleo & Tiffanie!
I started my jiu-jitsu journey with team papakolea with absolutely zero knowledge of jiu jitsu and honestly didn’t quite know what I was getting myself into.
Yes it’s physically and mentally challenging.
But it’s the family like environment that just makes you want to keep pushing forward!
I’m very grateful for professor Kaleo and tiff
for making us feel like family!
Oh and btw.. Team papakolea jiu jitsu has awesome kids/youth classes!
This school is great. They are strong on the fundamentals that made jiu-jitsu the main skill set needed for MMA success! Kaleo has been doing jiu-Jits’s since before the UFC and he is one of Hawaii’s original black-belts. He is a great teacher with a strong commitment to detail and a devotion to his students. He is an excellent representative of Grand Master Relson Gracie, and I am honored that I have been able to learn from him.
Professor Kaleo has taught our daughter life lessons from Jiu-Jitsu. It gave her confidence and strength. A very encouraging teacher with tons of patience, this is what makes him very unique. The Jiu-Jitsu family here is very welcoming and helpful in many ways!
TPJJ is more than just a place to learn jiujitsu; it’s a welcoming community where students of all ages can grow and thrive. Professor Kaleo and his family have built something truly special, creating a culture that feels like home from the moment you step through the doors.
The way TPJJ teaches jiujitsu empowers kids to flourish, helping them build confidence they may not have had before. It’s incredible to see how the lessons learned here not only strengthen their skills on the mat but also carry over into other sports, hobbies, and everyday life.
As a member myself, it has been a great place to learn the art, get in shape, stay in shape, and create good friendships! It’s been 6 years with TPJJ, and our family loves it!
Welcomed with open arms from the moment we walked in the door even though we didn’t know anyone there. We just went cuz it was the closest place according to Yelp. Super lucky to have found this amazing gem by accident.
Kaleo treats everyone like family from day one. You’ll never feel unsafe or unappreciated. Highly recommend.
Kaleo and the Fam are incredible. So welcoming and friendly and straight to the point when it comes to Jiu-jitsu. I fell in love with training jiu-jitsu here. Everyone in class where cool and not what i expected from a contact sport. They really are there to help and not hurt each other. I’ve had injuries holding me back and most previous to Jiu-Jitsu but I get there when I can with my ever changing work load and now I have a daughter in Kaleos class and it’s so cool to see how good and fast learning these kids are. Best on the island for Jiu-Jitsu!! Join today 🤙
My son has been attending this academy for around 5 years. Kaleo has created an amazing place to learn and be apart of the jiu jitsu world. We really love the outdoor classes and the family atmosphere.
Papakōlea Jiu-Jitsu in Kakaʻako is a true gem for families seeking to build their child’s confidence, resilience, and character. From the moment we stepped in, it was clear this is more than just a gym—it’s a community rooted in growth and respect. The beginner-friendly environment made it easy for my child to feel comfortable, even as a novice. At the same time, the emphasis on fostering a competitive mindset and a growth mentality ensures kids are constantly improving, both on and off the mat. The structured approach not only develops physical skills but also cultivates emotional resilience and self-discipline, which are invaluable life lessons.
Coach Kaleo is exceptional, combining insightful guidance with genuine care for each child’s overall well-being. He goes beyond teaching techniques, focusing on holistic development to help kids grow into well-rounded individuals, not just athletes. His passion for jiu-jitsu and his dedication to seeing children thrive in every aspect of life are unmatched. If you’re looking for a place that inspires, empowers, and supports your child’s journey, Papakōlea Jiu-Jitsu is the perfect choice.
My son began training with TPJJ Kakaako with Professor Kaleo in 2023. Since there are two locations in town, you have options to choose from based on your families schedules which is really convenient. Professor Kaleo (OG Gracie Black Belt) teaches all classes, kids & adults! A great teacher for any age. Professor Kaleo is deeply rooted within the community and dedicates a lot of his time to his craft. Positive atmosphere, outstanding communication, and effective training for anyone interested. Two locations: Kakaako & Papakolea. To see if its a good fit for you come visit and check it out!
We began searching for self-defense training for our son destined to attend public-school. Fortunately, we stumbled upon this Jiu-Jitsu Academy and messaged them among some others. Professor Kaleo responded promptly, and answered all of our questions gave it a try. We are so glad we did. We were truly welcomed as family, and our son looks forward to every session. Kaleo has a gift for teaching the thing he loves. Highly recommended.
I sent my son here to learn Jiu Jitsu several months ago. My son is not the type of kid who is eager to win or enjoys fighting, at least at this age, but I insist he should go on his Jiu Jitsu journey because I believe Jiu Jitsu is beneficial to help a young child to establish self-confidence, discipline, grit and respect. Luckily, Team Papakolea is just the right place for a child to learn all these in their Jiu Jitsu experience. Professor Kaleo posses all the qualities a Kong Fu master should have. He cares for students' safety and teaches them to take training seriously. All the children and parents are kind and supportive, which I believe is part of Team Papakolea's culture. I'm glad to be one of them.
I started my 6 year old son in the beginners class this month. Coach Kaleo and Coach Tomas have been excellent on teaching foundational skills of the sport. Safety is emphasized throughout the class. Step by step instructions are given throughout the entire class. The kids are always smiling and respectful to each other. Super family friendly environment. Coach Kaleo and his wife have built a wonderful organization. Super thankful to have found TPJJ.
Been training here for about 6 months and will say, this has to be the best all around positive environment to grow in. From Professor Kaleo, the other instructors, and fellow students, an infectious and positive culture is promoted within every class. Also, added bonus the frequency of classes, I am an active duty military member, working days and nights, sometimes 12hr shifts, due to the frequency of classes I am always able to get my training in, regardless of outside situations. Would recommend Team Papakolea to any one looks to step out of their comfort zone and grow with others that have the same mindset
When my son turned 5, i wanted to help get him ready for kindergarten. He had never been in a classroom environment and I wanted him to start learning how to listen and pay attention to an instructor. I also wanted him to learn how to protect himself from any future bullies he may encounter in life.
I messaged a few jiu jitsu academies to inquire about classes for my son. Coach Kaleo from TPJJ was the only one to call me back. And I’m glad he did! When my son first started, he would just run around the mats, as he was easily distracted. Honestly, it was a little embarrassing…lol. Coach Kaleo, and his wife, Coach Tiffanie, are the best! They were patient, kind, calm, supportive and steadfast toward all of the kids in the academy. They were very welcoming to newcomers. I’ve been taking my son to TPJJ for the last 4 1/2 years.
Also, after the first few months of taking my son to classes at TPJJ, I decided to give it a try myself. I was 44 years old at the time, and not in the best of health. I had no background in any type of athletics. It was a little intimidating but I knew I had to make some changes to get healthier.
I’m glad I started my jiu jitsu journey. I’m 48 years old now, and I’ve lost about 100 lbs. I highly recommend Team Papakolea!!!
Been having my kids attend TPJJ for almost 10 years and it has been super beneficial for the both of them. Prior to enrolling my kids were both on the shy and quiet side and were victims of bullying. After attending classes, I noticed a boost in their confidence which, in turn, helped them stand up to their bullies.
TPJJ also has a feeling of family which definitely helps with team morale. A lot of the parents engage with each other and each others’ keiki.
Coach Kaleo always shares his reasoning for doing what he does and definitely shows his care for the safety and wellbeing of his students.
Happy to be a part of the TPJJ team!!
My kids and I have been training under professor Kaleo for about a year. With the kids’ classes, Kaleo emphasizes respect, hard work, and discipline. He’s not the type of instructor who is afraid to call a kid out for goofing around in his class, and expects the kids to take training jiu jitsu seriously.
Professor Kaleo is highly dedicated to teaching the art of jiu jitsu. Although he has a beautiful family with young kids, he sacrifices a lot of his time to teach. You’ll often find him at the studio until 9-10pm after open mats on weeknights going over details with his students after teaching classes all day.
Finally, the culture at TPJJ is excellent. Everyone I’ve met for the adults’ classes have been welcoming and respectful. You can tell this is something that is expected at this academy.
TPJJ is a special community that I’m proud to be a part of. I highly recommend anyone to give this place a try if you’re considering training jiu jitsu.
I’ve been a student with Team Papakolea since 2016 . Learning Jiu Jitsu is one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life . I first came in with zero jiu jitsu experience and was a little nervous and anxious because I didn’t know what to expect but everybody was very friendly and welcoming . Professor Kaleo has over 25 years of Jiu Jitsu experience and is a master of his craft. Training Jiu Jitsu with Kaleo has improved all aspects of my life physically, mentally ,and spiritually. I’ve made a lot of friends over the years and the team truly feels like a ohana. Kaleo teaches all ages and you don’t have to be an athlete to start . If you’re someone who wants to get healthier,build confidence, strength,discipline and make some friends come and pay us a visit !
I started training under the tutelage of Professor Kaleo Auwae four years ago, who recently received his sixth degree black belt promotion from Grandmaster Relson Gracie.
Kaleo, his family, other Relson Gracie black belts, and our teammates have been extremely welcoming to new and old alike, and will continue to be since I nervously stepped foot inside of the main academy for the first time several years ago. Our Professors leadership has cultivated it.
My only regret is that I have not started sooner in life, for the culture, knowledge, mental fortitude, and hard lessons forged through grit has enabled me to become a better version of myself and has been invaluable towards my life.
Professor Kaleo Auwae provides an environment for all to feel welcome and learn at their own pace. I always look forward to making classes as often as I can. Our ohana is blessed to be a part of this amazing academy.
I came to train here while on holidays with the family. It's a fantastic place. The Coach was very welcoming and kind, facility was very good and lots of mat space. The atmosphere in class was very welcoming and safe. Mahalo.
This gym is incredibly welcoming. Our first visit felt like we we're meeting old friends. Coach Koleo is a very talented instructor with many years of experience. His students are all very talented and roll in a very technical and controlled manner. The gym seems to be at the center of a very positive and welcoming community - a great credit to professor Kolea and his students!
Also, James says he is always up for working some wrestling! We miss you guys already! Mahalo!
I had a great experience doing a drop in class at Team Papakulea. The academy has a positive atmosphere and culture. Coach Kaleo has detailed instructions. He explains why he teaches certain moves and techniques. I will definitely come back when I visit Hawaii again!
I was referred to Team Papakolea by good friends n coworkers. I was looking to improve my fitness! Looking for something fun to do while getting my workout done! I was so impressed by how Professor Kaleo Auwave knowledge and skill on the art of jiu-jitsu. Not only that! They welcome me and immediately made me feel comfortable. Every class session, you get to learn new things with the help of your team mates! Don't look no further! If your interested in martial arts, jiu-jitsu or mma this is place to go or even if you just looking to improve yourself physically and mentally! 🤙
I'm glad I joined this academy n I'm blessed that they excepted me n I'm humbled being part of the ohana after 5yrs.
I dropped in on vacation a few days ago. It was a great experience. The owner, and owners family were wonderful! The students were welcoming! The gym was clean and the space was decent! Mahalo!🤙
If you’re reading this and thinking of starting jiu jitsu with this academy then you’ve made the right choice. I’ve been thinking of adding BJJ to my life for a long time now and only two weeks ago I gave this place a shot. Let me tell you this was by far one of the best decisions I’ve made in years!
From the convenience of location, the cleanliness and the true ohana spirit when training are a few things that make this spot a 5 Star rating.
Classes are available for kids and adults, perfect for everyone in the family. Doesn’t matter if you’re looking to learn self-defense, get in shape, or just adding a good regiment to your active life style, this is the place to be!
Big mahalos to Team Papakulea!!
Had an awesome experience trying BJJ for the first time at TPJJ. Kaleo was very welcoming and helpful. He exemplifies the aloha spirit! Sun was a great instructor. He was very patient and took the time to explain the moves and how they would work in real-life situations. Definitely recommend if you want to try BJJ without feeling intimidated!
It is hard for me to really encapsulate how this school has helped me in my life. However, I must say that this practice and its people have changed my life. I am much more fit and aware of my body because of the functional exercises I have learned. I have also developed a real confidence and ability in addressing aggressive individuals with an effective plan to keep me safe. With these, I have fostered discipline, fortitude in difficult situations and a genuine camaraderie with my teammates. I treat my training as a spiritual practice. I feel once you see how it affects your life there is no going back to what you were doing before.
