Water quality status and bacteria risk rating for Pokai Bay
📍 Leeward Oʻahu, near Makaha
Waianae Beach at Pokai Bay has a moderate bacteria risk due to stream runoff from the Waianae Valley. The protected bay shape provides calm swimming conditions but also means water does not flush as quickly as open coastline beaches. Bacteria levels can spike after rain events when freshwater streams carry sediment and contaminants into the bay.
During dry weather, water quality is generally acceptable. Pokai Bay is popular with local families for its calm, protected waters. The Leeward Coast receives less rainfall than other parts of Oʻahu, which helps keep dry-weather bacteria levels lower. However, when it does rain, the runoff effect is significant.
Based on: DOH beach monitoring, stream runoff inputs, semi-enclosed bay flushing, Leeward Coast rainfall patterns
The Department of Health recommends staying out of the ocean for at least 72 hours after heavy rain. Pokai Bay receives stream runoff from the Waianae Valley, and the semi-enclosed bay means bacteria can linger longer than at open coastline beaches. Always check the water visually before entering.
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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 or any government agency. 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. “No DOH Alerts” means no advisory is currently posted — it does not mean the water was tested and found safe. DOH only monitors a fraction of Hawaii’s beaches, and some areas have no regular testing at all.
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.
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