Water quality status and conditions guide
📍 Hilton Hawaiian Village, Waikiki — Protected lagoon, lifeguarded
Duke Kahanamoku Beach generally has good water quality. The protected breakwater creates calm conditions ideal for swimming. The Ala Wai Canal about a mile east can release elevated bacteria after heavy rain, which may drift westward. The DOH tests this stretch of Waikiki regularly.
Stay out of the ocean for at least 72 hours after heavy rain. The Ala Wai Canal collects runoff from most of Honolulu and releases it into the ocean near Waikiki. After heavy rain, elevated bacteria can be detected across all Waikiki beaches including Duke Kahanamoku.
Named for the legendary Oʻahu-born Olympic swimmer and father of modern surfing, Duke Kahanamoku Beach sits at the western end of the Waikiki strip in front of the Hilton Hawaiian Village — Waikikiʻs largest resort.
A stone breakwater creates a partially enclosed lagoon that is one of Waikikiʻs calmest and shallowest swimming areas — ideal for families, beginner swimmers, and anyone who wants a low-key beach day without the bustle of central Waikiki.
The Hilton Hawaiian Village holds its famous Friday night fireworks shows over the beach, drawing crowds from across Waikiki. The beach has full amenities including restrooms, showers, chair rentals, and multiple food and drink options.
Free alerts when water quality changes — brown water advisories and bacteria warnings.
Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent passion project — not affiliated with the Hawaii DOH. Ratings are estimates, not real-time measurements.
Always verify with the Hawaii DOH Clean Water Branch before entering the water.
When in doubt, don't go out. 🤙