Can you swim at the beach in Hawaii?

As with any place with so much coast, the range of recreational water activities are endless. Swimming, kayaking, and kiteboarding are all popular activities in Hawaii. Hawaii also has 85% of all the coral reefs in the United States, making it an ideal destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Can you swim in Hawaii beaches?

Early in the year you might see migrating humpback whales offshore, and all year long the water is perfect for swimming, bodyboarding, and snorkeling, though as is true on most Hawaiian beaches, the surf will tend to be higher in the winter months and far gentler in summer.

Is the water warm enough to swim in Hawaii?

Per the National Center for Cold Water Safety, temperatures below 70°F are considered “dangerous” because most people have difficulty controlling their breathing. As a reminder, Hawaii's water temperatures stay several degrees above 70°F and are warm enough for swimming and snorkeling.

When can you not swim in Hawaii?

Avoid swimming at night, dawn and dusk.

Well, that's when sharks tend to be the most aggressive and active. See more shark avoiding tips here. On Oahu, Box jellyfish usually arrive to the near shore approximately 7 to 11 days after the full moon of each month.

Is Hawaii beach water clean?

Unfortunately, the clear blue, tropical waters that surround the islands are not immune to the pollution that comes along with increasing growth and development. Hawaii's beaches and recreational waters are affected by agricultural and urban runoff, and many neighborhoods are still serviced by cesspools.

5 Tips On How To Survive In The Ocean (Hawaii)

Is Hawaii a good place to swim?

Hawaii is globally known for its epic waters: bathwater temps, waves clear as glass, marvelous marine life—and waves that can be downright astonishing. Indeed, the islands are home to some of the biggest surf breaks on Earth, including Maui's Peahi (aka Jaws) and Oahu's Banzai Pipeline.

Is it OK to drink the water in Hawaii?

Yes, it is safe to drink and use tap water on the island of Oahu including in Waikiki. The Board of Water Supply in Hawaii works in conjunction with State and Federal agencies, such as the U.S Environmental Protection Agency and Hawaii State Department of Health, to ensure the water in Hawaii is safe to drink.

Should I worry about sharks in Hawaii?

Incidents of sharks biting people in Hawaiian waters are very rare, occurring on average at a rate of about three or four per year. Fatal shark bites are extremely rare, especially considering the number of people in Hawaii's waters. People who enter the water need to recognize that there are hidden dangers.

Are there crocodiles in Hawaii?

Are there crocodiles in Hawaii? Nope! The main Hawaiian lizards you'll find are cute little geckos, which can be spotted in hotels, homes, businesses, restaurants, etc.

What are the dangers of the ocean in Hawaii?

If you've ever been to the beach then you likely already know about the hazards of the ocean. Rip currents, sharp coral, large waves, surf, and various creatures are just a few. The most notable sea creatures to watch out for on the Big Island are coral, jellyfish (Portuguese Man-of-War), and sea urchins.

Where can you not swim in Hawaii?

Dangerous beaches for swimming in Hawaii:

Hanakapi'iai Beach – Kauai. Sandy Beach – Oahu. Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach – Maui. Makena Beach – Maui.

What month is warmest in Hawaii?

Hawaii's warmest months are not June and July, but August and September. Its coolest months, are not December and January, but February and March, reflecting the seasonal lag in the oceans's temperature.

Where is the safest place to swim in Hawaii?

Ko'Olina is a wonderful child-friendly coastline. Reefs protect the waters from harsh waves and rip currents, making this great and safe for your kids. Swimming, snorkeling, and paddle boarding are not the only activities that are enjoyable on this beach.

Are there sharks in the waters around Hawaii?

Of Hawaii's 40 shark species, about eight of them are somewhat common near the shore. Of these, the whitetip reef shark, the blacktip reef shark, the sandbar shark and the scalloped hammerhead shark are the most common. Though, there are occasional sightings of tiger sharks, as well.

How can we avoid shark attacks in Hawaii?

What is the deadliest beach in Hawaii?

Hanakapi'iai Beach

Located on the secluded Na Pali Coast, Hanakapi'ai Beach has been called the most dangerous beach in Hawaii. It's also one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii! The water often looks fine, but a dangerous rip current has swept several people out to sea.

What predators are in Hawaii?

But Hawaii's land-based wildlife is pretty benign. There are no predators, so the most dangerous creature you could encounter on a hike through Maui's wilderness might be a startled wild pig or a centipede—which can give a painful sting, but it won't kill you. No one has ever been maimed by a centipede.

How close do sharks come to shore in Hawaii?

She has seen them as close to 40 yards from shore (as have I), napping in the coral to as far out as 300 yards. Reef tips are considered docile sharks when it comes to human interaction. Occasionally there are tiger shark sightings. Tiger sharks are considered aggressive to humans.

What month are sharks most active in Hawaii?

According to Hawaiian oral tradition, Hawaii shark attacks were most common during the late summer and fall months; or, as they put it, “when the wiliwili tree blooms.”

Can sharks smell period blood?

Any bodily fluid released into the water is likely detectable by sharks. A shark's sense of smell is powerful – it allows them to find prey from hundreds of yards away. Menstrual blood in the water could be detected by a shark, just like any urine or other bodily fluids.

Can you drink alcohol in Hawaii?

The most important alcohol law in the state of Hawaii is that you must be 21 years of age to consume alcohol in the state. Servers are allowed to serve customers providing they are 18 years of age and that a supervisor who is 21 or older is present.

Do you need a wetsuit to swim in Hawaii?

It may sound silly since Hawaii is synonymous with warm water surfing but it does get chilly sometimes. You won't need to pack your winter 4/3 full suit by any means but a nice 1 or 2mm wetsuit top will help keep your core warm and allow you to surf longer, especially if the trade winds start to pick up.

Why does Hawaii water taste so good?

With a naturally occurring pH of 7.6-8.2, Waiākea lacks any sour or acidic taste that lower pH waters offer. This unique, naturally alkaline pH is what gives Waiākea its very slight "hint of sweet" aftertaste that loyal customers praise it for.

Is the ocean water warm in Hawaii?

As a general rule, Hawaiian waters average 77 degrees in the wintertime to 82 degrees in the summertime. Now, compared to the U.S. West Coast, Hawaiian waters are definitely much warmer (10-20 degrees warmer) than the waters off Southern California.

Are Hawaii beaches safe?

Hawaiʻi Travel Tips: Ocean Safety

Beneath the ocean's beautiful blue surface, conditions can be unpredictable and even dangerous. Ocean safety experts recommend checking in with lifeguards before you enter the water - they'll be happy to tell you about potential hazards like rip currents, hidden rocks and shorebreaks.