Water quality status, safety warnings, and bacteria risk
📍 Puna District — Route 137, Big Island
Kehena is a remote black sand beach on the Big Island’s Puna coast. The elevated rating reflects data uncertainty more than confirmed contamination — this beach is rarely monitored by the DOH. There are no nearby sewage sources, but the remote location means problems could go undetected.
The bigger risks at Kehena are physical: strong currents, powerful shore surge, no lifeguards, and difficult emergency access. The beach was significantly altered by the 2018 Kilauea eruption lava flows that destroyed much of the lower Puna coast.
Based on: Limited DOH monitoring data, remote location, volcanic coastal environment
The Department of Health recommends staying out of the ocean for at least 72 hours after heavy rain. At Kehena, the isolation means advisories may not be posted even if water quality is poor. Use visual judgment — if the water is murky, don't go in.
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent passion project — not affiliated with the Hawaii Department of Health or any government agency. Water quality ratings 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 conditions with the Hawaii Department of Health Clean Water Branch before entering the water.
When in doubt, don't go out. 🤙