What to know before you go
South swells create massive shore break, frequent injuries and rescues
Still has powerful shore break, but slightly smaller. Heat exposure is a major concern — no shade.
| Lifeguards | Yes |
| Nearest Hospital | Maui Memorial Medical Center (16 mi) |
| Cell Coverage | Moderate |
| Emergency | Call 911 — Ocean Safety: (808) 723-8170 |
Children, elderly, and anyone unfamiliar with shore break. This beach has one of the highest rescue rates on Maui. The backwash alone can knock adults off their feet.
After heavy rain, bacteria and pollutants from runoff contaminate coastal waters. Wait at least 72 hours after heavy rain and until the water clears before entering. This applies to Big Beach (Makena) and every beach in Hawaiʻi.
Extremely powerful shore break — spine injuries. Strong backwash pulls swimmers out. No shade. Beach can be closed during high surf.
Yes. Nearest hospital: Maui Memorial Medical Center (16 mi). Cell phone coverage: Moderate.
Winter: South swells create massive shore break, frequent injuries and rescues. Summer: Still has powerful shore break, but slightly smaller. Heat exposure is a major concern — no shade.
Children, elderly, and anyone unfamiliar with shore break. This beach has one of the highest rescue rates on Maui. The backwash alone can knock adults off their feet.
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent passion project — it is not affiliated with the Hawaii Department of Health, any entity mentioned on this page, or any government agency or hotel brand. Water quality ratings on this site are estimates based on publicly available testing data and geographic analysis. They are not real-time measurements and may not reflect current conditions.
Always verify current water quality conditions with the Hawaii Department of Health Clean Water Branch before entering the water. This site is for informational purposes only and should not be the sole basis for any swimming decisions.
When in doubt, donʻt go out. 🤙