What to know before you go
North swells create strong currents and shore break at the north end, cliff jumping at Black Rock becomes more dangerous
Generally calm with good snorkeling at Black Rock, warm water, occasional south swells
| Lifeguards | Yes |
| Nearest Hospital | Maui Health (Lahaina urgent care 3 mi) |
| Cell Coverage | Excellent |
| Emergency | Call 911 — Ocean Safety: (808) 723-8170 |
Swimmers at Black Rock should stay close to the rock face. The current north of Black Rock pulls swimmers out. After the 2023 fire, monitor runoff advisories.
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 Kaʻanapali Beach and every beach in Hawaiʻi.
Strong currents at Black Rock (Puʻu Kekaʻa). Shore break at north end. Post-Lahaina fire runoff concerns. Honokowai Stream bacteria after rain.
Yes. Nearest hospital: Maui Health (Lahaina urgent care 3 mi). Cell phone coverage: Excellent.
Winter: North swells create strong currents and shore break at the north end, cliff jumping at Black Rock becomes more dangerous. Summer: Generally calm with good snorkeling at Black Rock, warm water, occasional south swells
Swimmers at Black Rock should stay close to the rock face. The current north of Black Rock pulls swimmers out. After the 2023 fire, monitor runoff advisories.
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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. 🤙