Ocean water quality and nearby beach guide for Kailua-Kona
📍 75-5852 Aliʻi Dr, Kailua-Kona, Big Island
The ocean water along Kailua-Kona's waterfront where the Royal Kona sits has very good water quality. The Kona Coast has an extremely dry climate with minimal stormwater runoff, and the deep, clear open-ocean water flushes the coastline continuously. Bacteria counts in this area are among the lowest on the Big Island.
Note: The Royal Kona does not have a sandy beach. The property has a salt-water pool and lava rock ocean access. For sandy beach swimming, the nearest options are Magic Sands Beach (Laʻaloa) and Kahaluʻu Beach Park, both a short drive south.
Based on: DOH Kona monitoring, dry leeward climate, deep open-ocean exposure
The Kona side of the Big Island is Hawaii's driest area, but heavy rain does occasionally occur. After any significant rainfall, wait at least 72 hours before ocean entry.
Best snorkeling near Kona. Protected cove with sea turtles, reef fish, and calm conditions. Very low bacteria risk.
View water quality →Small white-sand beach that "disappears" in winter swell. Best in summer for calm conditions. Popular local spot.
View water quality →Stunning white-sand beach in a lava bay. Crystal clear water. Worth the drive for a perfect beach day.
View water quality →Top-rated experiences near this beach. Check water quality above, then plan your trip.
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Free Big Island water quality alerts — brown water advisories and bacteria warnings.
The 72-hour rule is the standard guideline from the Hawaii Department of Health: avoid swimming for at least 72 hours after heavy rain stops, especially near stream mouths, canal outlets, and areas with brown or discolored water. This applies to all beaches across all islands.
Bacteria from urban runoff, agricultural land, and aging cesspool systems enters the ocean through streams and storm drains. Hawaii has approximately 88,000 cesspools — more than any other state — many of which leak untreated sewage into groundwater that eventually reaches the coast. Beaches near known cesspool contamination areas carry higher risk, particularly after rainfall.
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent passion project — not affiliated with the Hawaii Department of Health. Ratings are not real-time measurements.
Always verify with the Hawaii Department of Health 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. 🤙