What to know before you go
20-30ft surf, strong currents, for experienced surfers only
Calmer with good snorkeling, sea turtles frequent the area
| Lifeguards | Yes |
| Nearest Hospital | Pali Momi Medical Center (18 mi) |
| Cell Coverage | Good |
| Emergency | Call 911 — Ocean Safety: (808) 723-8170 |
Winter: non-surfers should stay on the beach. Year-round: do not leave valuables in your car. Lock everything in the trunk or take it with you.
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 Makaha Beach and every beach in Hawaiʻi.
Large winter surf — famous big wave spot. Strong currents and rip tides. Theft from parked cars is common. Localism can be intense.
Yes. Nearest hospital: Pali Momi Medical Center (18 mi). Cell phone coverage: Good.
Winter: 20-30ft surf, strong currents, for experienced surfers only. Summer: Calmer with good snorkeling, sea turtles frequent the area
Winter: non-surfers should stay on the beach. Year-round: do not leave valuables in your car. Lock everything in the trunk or take it with you.
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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. 🤙