The locals' pocket beach in Kūʻau, BWTF-tested by Surfrider Maui
Tavares Beach is the locals' pocket beach in Kūʻau, between Pāʻia town and Hoʻokipa — quieter than the surf-tourism beaches on either side. The latest Surfrider BWTF sample (2026-04-15) measured 10 MPN/100mL — within the 130 BAV threshold. The Hawaii DOH does not routinely test this beach.
Tavares opens to the open ocean with no stream-mouth input directly on the beach. North trade winds drive consistent water exchange across the surface. The Spreckelsville/Kūʻau stretch sits in a moderate-rainfall zone — wetter than Wailea or Kīhei, drier than Hāna.
BWTF readings here have been stable around 10 MPN/100mL — well under the 130 BAV. Open-ocean exposure means the beach flushes effectively after most rain events.
After major rain, the residential drainages above (Tavares Avenue, Hāna Highway storm drains) can carry minor runoff. Standard 72-hour rule applies.
The Hawaii Department of Health does NOT routinely test Tavares Beach. The community-tested readings on this page come from the Surfrider Foundation Blue Water Task Force, a volunteer-led monitoring program run by the Surfrider Maui chapter.
BWTF samples Tavares Beach monthly using the IDEXX Enterolert method (MPN/100mL), and compares results against the same 130 Beach Action Value DOH uses statewide. See our overview of citizen water-quality testing in Hawaiʻi for the methodology and how BWTF data fits with DOH coverage.
Sandy entry from the central beach. North-facing exposure means the beach receives the open swell — winter brings shorebreak and currents. Summer mornings are calmest. Best for swimming in flat conditions only.
Summer mornings (May–Sept) bring the calmest and clearest water. Winter is for surfers — it's not a swimming spot when the north shore is breaking. Locals walk dogs and surf here; it's quieter than Pāʻia Bay and Hoʻokipa.
Off Hāna Highway in Kūʻau, between Mama's Fish House and Hoʻokipa. Public access via the path off Tavares Avenue. Very limited roadside parking. No facilities — closest restrooms at H.A. Baldwin Beach or Hoʻokipa.
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent passion project — not affiliated with the Hawaii Department of Health, the Surfrider Foundation, or any government agency. Bacteria readings on this page come from the Surfrider Blue Water Task Force, a volunteer-led monitoring program. Readings are point-in-time samples; conditions change with weather, runoff, and wave patterns. They are not real-time measurements and may not reflect current conditions.
Always verify current water quality conditions with the Hawaii DOH Clean Water Branch and BWTF directly before entering the water.
This site does not recommend or advise anyone to swim at any beach. We share publicly available 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.
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