Ocean Safety
At Hawaii Beaches
Hawaii beaches will lure you to it's shores. Watch the sunset, take a walk on the sand and hang out for a day at the park. But, I have a word of caution for you, "Looks can be deceiving!"
Imagine, it's a beautiful day. The ocean seems so crystal clear and calm, beckoning you to come in and enjoy a cool refreshing dip on a hot blistering day. You are so tempted and lured that you dismiss the warning sign posted in the middle of the beach that says "Caution strong currents". You walk closer the the edge of the water and say "just a little water on my toes will be good enough". I'd say, "beware".
Most locals know that the ocean is a powerful place. Hawaiians believe it to have "mana" or power. Scientists call it tides and currents. A seasoned surfer, fisherman and swimmer will watch the tides and currents before entering the ocean's domain, for the ocean's power can be life threatening.
Far too often lives are lost by the calm, under estimated strength of the ocean. For locals, they will dare each other to go into the ocean which then becomes a life or death situation.
On Molokai alone we have lost many men and children to the depths of the sea. Just a week ago a 38 year old man was swept out to sea while he was out fishing off the reefs, a day later his body was found. He was dead.
News of near death drownings and deaths fill our news headlines. So, don't act "tarran-tarran" or show-off. Heed the warning signs. Watch out for big waves that crash onto shorelines it can sweep you out to sea in an instant.
Safe Spots, Where To Go
Hawaii beaches have no real safe spot to swim if you are not a swimmer. Any ocean current may pull you out to sea. One thing we've been told growing up was, never fight the current. Let it pull you and it will bring you right back in. Ride a wave in. Fighting the current to get back to shore will only fatigue you and you may loose the fight drowning.
There are some safe spots depending on the time of year. The south shores are always safer to swim, bays and coves. Again, if you are not a swimmer it is never too safe. Always take someone with you, at least someone who can swim.
Not So Safe Spots
Sandy Beach, a very dangerous place to swim. The shore breaks are dangerous enough to break your neck. Many people and surfers are injured or killed there because the wave will take a person and break right onto the beach pounding the swimmer or surfer onto the shore's sand. Not a good situation.
The northshores (including Waimea Bay) of all north facing shores of the islands are very dangerous during the Winter months. I think that begins around September to February or March. Waves can hit up to 30ft faces. Sooo huge you shouldn't be sitting or standing near the shore when the waves are big.
I remember one year the coast guard searching for two people who happened to be watching the waves break onto shore. They got too close to the ocean that the waves just swallowed them up. Their bodies were never found.
What To Bring to the Beach
There is always safety in numbers when going to Hawaii beaches. Don’t look like an obvious tourist. Try to blend in. When going to the beach locals wear surf shorts, not too bright, and "slippahs"(slipper, flip-flops).
A "pareo" (a wrap around) or towel is great. Never have anything valuable in your trunk. Take off any car rental signs that shout out, steal me, “I’m a tourist” and say "I like to leave valuables in my car".
The only thing you really need when going to the beach is a small cooler with drinks, sunscreen, a towel and asmall pocket camera. Never bring a purse get a small pouch instead when you go to the beach. Just leave it in the safe at your hotel. Don't forget to wear sunscreen or you are going to burn. If my skin burns your skin will definitely burn also. A great after the beach lotion is one with aloe vera ingredient. It will cool and sooth your skin.
Oh and if you'd like to avoid the hottest times of the day swim before 10am and after 3pm. That is the law of the the sun. Early mornings on a weekday at the Ala Moana Beach Park is a beautiful and safe place to swim and get your exercise.
All of these tips will help to keep you safer when you go to any of the Hawaii beaches on each island. Each island is different. Watch for currents, talk to locals, or ask the lifeguard on duty. Keep yourself safe when entering Hawaii beaches.
Click on the link below to view more photos of Hawaii beaches. Remember that I will be adding many more photos and information throughout the coming months as my website comes together.
More Photos of Hawaii Beaches
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