What to know before you go
Large north swells create powerful shore break and rip currents, multiple drownings in winter months
Calmer but shore break persists, steep sand creates sudden drop-offs that surprise waders
| Lifeguards | Yes |
| Nearest Hospital | North Hawaii Community Hospital (25 mi) |
| Cell Coverage | Good |
| Emergency | Call 911 — Ocean Safety: (808) 723-8170 |
Non-swimmers, elderly, and children should stay in knee-deep water. The steep sandy bottom means you can go from ankle-deep to over your head in two steps.
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 Hapuna Beach and every beach in Hawaiʻi.
Strong shore break especially in winter. Rip currents near center of beach. Sand can be steep creating drop-offs. #1 drowning beach on Big Island historically.
Yes. Nearest hospital: North Hawaii Community Hospital (25 mi). Cell phone coverage: Good.
Winter: Large north swells create powerful shore break and rip currents, multiple drownings in winter months. Summer: Calmer but shore break persists, steep sand creates sudden drop-offs that surprise waders
Non-swimmers, elderly, and children should stay in knee-deep water. The steep sandy bottom means you can go from ankle-deep to over your head in two steps.
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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. 🤙