Spring storms have created dangerous swimming conditions for vacationers in Maui and Oahu—but it’s not due to strong currents.
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According to Hawaii’s Department of Health, popular beaches in Maui and Oahu, including Waikiki, are a no-go for vacationers after brown water runoff caused high bacteria counts. Hawaii’s waters are monitored by the department’s Clean Water Branch (CWB) and its CWB System, which monitors water quality at beaches, ponds, and more.
The CWB System includes a handy map feature that lets you monitor the latest water quality advisories around the state.
Recent storms have caused flooding across Hawaii’s eight islands, along with wind speeds over 100 mph. Oahu and Maui were particularly affected by the inclement weather, which saw multiple wastewater plants overflow. That brown-water runoff has been leeching into waterways, and even the ocean, since. Kauai and the Big Island have also been affected by water quality warnings since the storms touched down.
Here’s what we know about water quality advisories for popular Hawaiian beaches.
Which beaches in Hawaii are affected by water safety advisories?
According to Hawaii’s CWB System, brown water safety advisories were given islandwide for Maui and Oahu on March 17 and March 20, respectively. These island-wide advisories affect all beaches, meaning vacationers and locals shouldn’t go into the water—even if it looks clear.
As of April 1, the CWB System listed high bacteria counts at four beaches in Oahu. These include: Puaena Point, Haleiwa Beach Park, Mokuleia at Kiapoko, and Kawaihapai. Additionally, brown water advisories were given for Kauai beaches, from Lydgate Beach to Wailua Beach, and from Nawiliwili to Kalapaki Beach.
Those who enter the water put themselves at risk of bacterial infection, gastroenteritis, and other unpleasant illnesses. The brown water advisories are active until two to three days after heavy rainfall, which helps flush out any dangerous runoff.
That means that the islands of Oahu and Maui are still affected by brown water safety advisories, meaning no one should swim in the ocean. While the Big Island and Kauai aren’t under brown water advisories, Kauai still has multiple beaches that were flagged as having high bacteria counts (listed above).
If you’re heading to Hawaii soon, make sure to consult the CWB System before trusting the water. Remember: Brown water advisories might still be in place even if the water looks relatively clear.
