Water quality status and safety information
📍 Laʻie, Windward Oʻahu — Powerful shorebreak · Experienced swimmers only
Pounders Beach (Laʻie Beach Park) sits on Oʻahuʻs windward coast, a rainier environment than south or west Oʻahu. The nearby Laʻie Stream and windward watershed contribute moderate bacteria risk, especially after rain. The beach is periodically monitored by the DOH.
The beachʻs primary danger is not bacteria but shorebreak. The waves at Pounders hit the steep beach with tremendous downward force. Injuries from being slammed into the sand are common. Only experienced bodysurfers who understand shorebreak dynamics should enter the water here.
Based on: Windward location, moderate rainfall, Laʻie Stream proximity, periodic DOH monitoring
The Department of Health recommends at least 72 hours after heavy rain before swimming. Windward Oʻahu receives frequent rainfall, and stream runoff can quickly elevate bacteria levels at Pounders.
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent passion project — not affiliated with the Hawaii Department of Health. Ratings are estimates based on publicly available data and are not real-time measurements.
Always verify with the Hawaii DOH Clean Water Branch before entering the water.
When in doubt, donʻt go out. 🤙