What to know before you go
Large north swells make this beach extremely dangerous with powerful currents
Excellent snorkeling when calm, but conditions can change quickly
| Lifeguards | No |
| Nearest Hospital | Wilcox Medical Center (40 mi) |
| Cell Coverage | Poor |
| Emergency | Call 911 — Ocean Safety: (808) 723-8170 |
In winter, do not enter the water. In summer, stay in the protected inner reef area. The reservation system limits crowds but also means limited help if something goes wrong.
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 Kēʻe Beach and every beach in Hawaiʻi.
Strong currents when surf is up. Requires Haʻena State Park reservation and shuttle. Reef can cause cuts. Remote location.
No. Nearest hospital: Wilcox Medical Center (40 mi). Cell phone coverage: Poor.
Winter: Large north swells make this beach extremely dangerous with powerful currents. Summer: Excellent snorkeling when calm, but conditions can change quickly
In winter, do not enter the water. In summer, stay in the protected inner reef area. The reservation system limits crowds but also means limited help if something goes wrong.
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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. 🤙