Historical North Shore vs South Shore comparison; current DOH notices below take priority.
Historical risk estimates below cannot clear an active DOH advisory. Check current notices above and posted beach signs before entering the water.
Beach: Hanalei Bay, Hideaways, Keʻe, Tunnels
Princeville hotels are near Hanalei Bay, which has been EPA-impaired since 2004 due to Hanalei River bacteria. The North Shore receives extreme rainfall, causing frequent brown water events. On dry days, beaches can be stunning. Water quality is highly variable.
Beach: Poʻipū Beach, Brennecke, Lawai
Poʻipū's drier south shore has a lower historical risk estimate than Hanalei Bay. This estimate does not describe current swimming conditions; check the named DOH notices above for Poʻipū, Waiʻohai and nearby resort beaches.
Poʻipū's drier south shore has historically had lower estimated bacteria risk than Hanalei Bay, which has an impaired-water history. That comparison cannot establish today's swimming conditions. Current DOH notices above take priority at each named beach, including Poʻipū-area and Hanalei-area locations. Check posted signs and recent rain before making a beach choice.
Water quality risk ratings are based on publicly available data from the Hawaii Department of Health Clean Water Branch, EPA impaired waters database, USGS stream monitoring data, and geographic analysis of pollution sources (streams, cesspools, storm drains). Ratings are estimates and may change with conditions.
Kauaʻi tours to compare when planning either hotel. Confirm each departure point before booking.
Tours listed via Viator and GetYourGuide. Safe to Swim Hawaii may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you.
Free grouped email updates when Hawaii DOH issues or cancels advisories for your chosen island.
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent project not affiliated with any hotel, resort, or the Hawaii DOH. Water quality ratings are estimates based on publicly available data — not real-time measurements.
Always verify conditions with the Hawaii DOH Clean Water Branch before swimming.
This site does not recommend or advise anyone to swim at any beach. We share government data and geographic analysis so you can make your own informed decisions. By using this site you accept full responsibility for your own safety. See our Terms of Use for full details.
When in doubt, don't go out. 🤙