What to know before you go
Rough seas, surge onto rocky shore, dangerous
Slightly calmer but currents persist, come to see turtles and black sand, not to swim
| Lifeguards | No |
| Nearest Hospital | Kaʻu Hospital (25 mi) |
| Cell Coverage | Moderate |
| Emergency | Call 911 — Ocean Safety: (808) 723-8170 |
This is a look-donʻt-swim beach. Stay at least 10 feet from sea turtles (federal and state law). The black sand gets extremely hot — wear shoes.
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 Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach and every beach in Hawaiʻi.
Strong currents — not a swimming beach. Rocky shoreline. Protected sea turtles — $50K fine for touching. Rough entry/exit.
No. Nearest hospital: Kaʻu Hospital (25 mi). Cell phone coverage: Moderate.
Winter: Rough seas, surge onto rocky shore, dangerous. Summer: Slightly calmer but currents persist, come to see turtles and black sand, not to swim
This is a look-donʻt-swim beach. Stay at least 10 feet from sea turtles (federal and state law). The black sand gets extremely hot — wear shoes.
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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. 🤙