Development
In October 2020, it was announced that HBO Max had two new drama series in development, including a junior lifeguard drama series from John Wells and Animal Kingdom writer Matt Kester titled Ke Nui Road. It was to be produced by John Wells Productions, Warner Bros. Television. HBO Max ordered a pilot in June 2021. but passed on the project.
On April 28, 2023, it was announced that Fox had given a series order for the lifeguard drama, retitled Rescue: HI-Surf. Kester was expected to executive produce alongside Wells and Erin Jontow. Production companies involved with the series are John Wells Productions, Fox Entertainment and Warner Bros. Television. Kester was to write the pilot episode, and Wells was set to direct the first two episodes. However, production on the series was delayed indefinitely due to the 2023 Hollywood labor disputes. Production officially began after the strikes ended. On April 12, 2024, Fox extended its episode order to 19. Daniele Nathanson was also added as an executive producer.
On May 7, 2025, Fox canceled the series after one season.
