What to know before you go
Massive north swells create extremely dangerous conditions, the bay becomes a wall of whitewater
Calm, warm, excellent for swimming and SUP in the protected inner bay
| Lifeguards | Yes |
| Nearest Hospital | Wilcox Medical Center (30 mi) |
| Cell Coverage | Moderate |
| Emergency | Call 911 — Ocean Safety: (808) 723-8170 |
In winter: everyone except expert surfers. Year-round: avoid swimming near the river mouth (Hanalei River) as bacteria levels consistently exceed safe standards.
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 Hanalei Bay and every beach in Hawaiʻi.
Large winter surf (10-20ft). River mouth bacteria — impaired since 2004. Strong currents during surf. Not all sections have lifeguards.
Yes. Nearest hospital: Wilcox Medical Center (30 mi). Cell phone coverage: Moderate.
Winter: Massive north swells create extremely dangerous conditions, the bay becomes a wall of whitewater. Summer: Calm, warm, excellent for swimming and SUP in the protected inner bay
In winter: everyone except expert surfers. Year-round: avoid swimming near the river mouth (Hanalei River) as bacteria levels consistently exceed safe standards.
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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. 🤙