What to know before you go
Large swells create powerful shore break, beach can be closed
Calmer conditions, turquoise water, but shore break still present
| Lifeguards | No |
| Nearest Hospital | Kona Community Hospital (18 mi) |
| Cell Coverage | Moderate |
| Emergency | Call 911 — Ocean Safety: (808) 723-8170 |
Non-swimmers should stay in shallow water. The walk from the parking lot is exposed with no shade — bring water and sun protection.
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 Kua Bay (Maniniʻowali) and every beach in Hawaiʻi.
Strong shore break. Limited hours (gate closes at sunset). Hot parking lot walk. Strong currents during high surf.
No. Nearest hospital: Kona Community Hospital (18 mi). Cell phone coverage: Moderate.
Winter: Large swells create powerful shore break, beach can be closed. Summer: Calmer conditions, turquoise water, but shore break still present
Non-swimmers should stay in shallow water. The walk from the parking lot is exposed with no shade — bring water and sun protection.
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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. 🤙