What to know before you go
Large south swells make swimming impossible, cliff descent more dangerous when wet
Calmer water but still has currents, heat exposure on the hike is the primary danger
| Lifeguards | No |
| Nearest Hospital | Kaʻu Hospital (30 mi) |
| Cell Coverage | Poor |
| Emergency | Call 911 — Ocean Safety: (808) 723-8170 |
Anyone without hiking experience, sufficient water (bring 2+ liters per person), and sun protection. The cliff descent has caused injuries. Children should not attempt the hike.
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 Green Sand Beach and every beach in Hawaiʻi.
2.5 mile hike across exposed lava field — no shade. Strong currents and shore break. No lifeguards or facilities. Steep, crumbly cliff descent to beach — dangerous.
No. Nearest hospital: Kaʻu Hospital (30 mi). Cell phone coverage: Poor.
Winter: Large south swells make swimming impossible, cliff descent more dangerous when wet. Summer: Calmer water but still has currents, heat exposure on the hike is the primary danger
Anyone without hiking experience, sufficient water (bring 2+ liters per person), and sun protection. The cliff descent has caused injuries. Children should not attempt the hike.
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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. 🤙