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Caution

Closed

Extreme

High Hazard

No Conditions Available

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Shores

Two ratings are calculated for each beach. Choose the appropriate rating based on your activity.

BEACH & NEARSHORE

This describes the beach, shoreline and surf conditions. This information is important to beach goers, swimmers, snorkelers and surfers.

OFFSHORE

This describes the ocean conditions. This information is important for kayakers and boaters.

BEACH & NEARSHORE

Primarily for beachgoers, surfers and swimmers

Caution

Approach the ocean with caution. Be vigilant of changing conditions especially at beaches known for strong shore breaks (waves breaking on the beach) and on exposed rocks or cliffs near the ocean. Avoid exposed rocks that are wet from surf. Watch for holes and channels in shallow water. Weak swimmers should not venture offshore as the seafloor drops off quickly and tidal currents, winds, and waves are strong on most island shores.

High Hazard

Swimmers are advised to stay out of the ocean. Currents and surge on the beach are quite strong and shore break (waves breaking on the beach) can cause injury. Avoid exposed beaches and rocky shoreline. Remain beyond the reach of the waves as indicated by wet sand or rocks. Be aware of the variable nature of wave groups and lulls.

Extreme

Swimmers are advised to stay out of the ocean. Shoreline activity is extremely hazardous and may lead to injury. Lifeguards will monitor ocean access. Avoid areas of wet sand or rock.

No conditions available

Conditions do not apply to this location. For example, Rabbit Island off Oahu's windward shore, has no nearshore rating.

CLOSED

Beach is closed.

OFFSHORE

Primarily for boaters and kayakers

Caution

Approach the ocean with caution. Be alert for choppy seas, currents, and breaking waves. Users of kayaks and other unpowered craft must be aware of strong wind, wave, and current conditions that can carry you offshore, and are capable of changing unexpectedly.

High Hazard

Conditions are very hazardous. Kayakers and users of other unpowered craft are advised to stay out of the ocean.

Extreme

Offshore conditions are extremely dangerous. Kayakers and users of other unpowered craft are advised to stay out of the ocean.

No conditions available

Conditions do not apply to this location. For example, Lydgate Pond on Kauai's east shore, has no offshore rating.

CLOSED

Beach is closed.

TYPES OF ALERTS

In addition to rating signs, public health and ocean safety professionals may issue alerts for events impacting beachgoers. These range in impact and severity from a surfing contest to a tsunami. These alerts fall under five broad categories. The last category, closure, will result in the rating signs to change to closed.

• Statement
  A statement is issued to advise the community regarding events that are scheduled or can be reasonably predicted to happen that may affect beach or ocean usage.
• Watch
  A watch is issued to allow time for preparation for a beach event.
• Advisory
  An advisory is issued when events are occurring that are not a direct threat to life or property.
• Warning
  Warnings are issued when a beach event is occurring or imminent and action is needed to protect life and property.
• Closure
  Access to this city beach park is being denied for public safety purposes.