From loss,
a legacy
The story of Arunay — and the mission his light still guides.
Arunay was our 12-year-old son — full of life, playing on the beach with friends and family on the warm day of January 18, 2021, when a sneaker wave carried him into the sea at Cowell Ranch Beach in Half Moon Bay. Despite all efforts, he was never found. On March 1, 2021, we had to make the heartbreaking decision to end the search.
Athletic, witty, and kind, Arunay excelled at every sport he played — soccer being his favorite. He loved music, movies, and his friends, and he had a sharp and intelligent mind. Losing him to an unseen danger at the beach was a tragedy no parent should ever face.
The Arunay Foundation was created to transform our grief into purpose — raising awareness about the very real dangers of sneaker waves and educating others on beach and ocean safety. It was born out of the desire to turn enormous loss into hope, education, and solutions.
Guided by Arunay's light, our mission is to ensure that a day at the beach always ends with laughter — not loss.
Zero avoidable deaths
on our beaches
We aim to reduce beach accidents and coastal drownings by raising awareness about sneaker waves, rip currents, high surf, and other hazardous beach conditions — and by designing effective measures that save the lives of beachgoers.
Empowering young minds with ocean-safety knowledge to prevent future tragedies.
Bringing life-saving equipment and clear signage to underprepared California beaches.
Delivering timely alerts and updates to keep coastal communities safe and aware.
Help us spread awareness.
Join our mission today and help ensure no family has to endure the heartbreak of preventable loss.