Which Maui beaches are closed, under advisory, or safe to swim — updated every 15 minutes with DOH data
After heavy rain, storm runoff turns coastal water brown and carries bacteria from cesspools, agricultural land, and urban areas into the ocean. The DOH issues brown water advisories recommending people stay out of the water. These typically last 48–72 hours after rain stops, longer near stream mouths.
Maui’s geography makes this particularly impactful: the West Maui Mountains receive heavy rainfall, and streams like ʻĪao Stream carry runoff directly past beach areas near Kahului and Wailuku. Check current brown water advisories →
The DOH Clean Water Branch tests bacteria (Enterococcus) at designated Maui beach stations. When levels exceed safe limits, the DOH posts advisories. Beaches near stream mouths and areas with cesspool concentrations are most frequently affected.
Common high-bacteria Maui beaches include Kanaha Beach (near Kahului Airport), Baby Beach Lahaina, and beaches near ʻĪao Stream outlets. See bacteria rankings for all Hawaii beaches →
The National Weather Service issues high surf advisories and warnings for Maui, especially during winter months (November–March) on north-facing shores. Affected beaches include Hoʻokipa, Peahi (Jaws), and north-facing sections of West Maui.
South swells can also bring dangerous conditions to south-facing beaches (Makena, Wailea) during summer months, though less frequently.
Following the August 2023 Lahaina wildfire, wastewater infrastructure in West Maui was severely damaged. Rebuilding is ongoing as of 2026. During heavy rain, temporary wastewater systems are more vulnerable to overflows, which can cause elevated bacteria levels at nearby beaches.
The DOH conducts enhanced monitoring of Lahaina-area beaches. Current status for specific beaches: Kaʻanapali, Kahekili, Napili Bay, Lahaina beaches overview.
Box jellyfish appear on Maui’s south-facing beaches approximately 9–10 days after each full moon. While beaches typically remain open, lifeguards post warning signs. Most commonly affected: Kamaole Beach Parks, Makena Beach, and other south-facing shores.
When beaches reopen after closures, Maui’s best water activities shine. Book ahead for snorkeling, whale watching, and boat tours.
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Free alerts when Maui beaches close or reopen — brown water advisories, bacteria warnings, and all-clear notices.
Disclaimer: Safe to Swim Hawaii aggregates data from the Hawaii Department of Health Clean Water Branch, USGS National Water Information System, EPA BEACON, NWS, and other public sources. This site does not conduct independent water testing. Always check official DOH advisories before swimming. We do not claim any beach is “safe” — we provide data to help you make informed decisions. Beach closures may also be issued by Maui County for reasons not covered by DOH data.
© 2026 Safe to Swim Hawaii. Data updates every 15 minutes.