The waves and currents off the coast of Oahu are very powerful. It’s important to exercise caution when swimming and follow all posted signs. Please refer to the following safety tips regarding recreational activities in Hawaii before heading to the beach with your family.
2. Choose to swim at beaches that are protected by lifeguards. Look for available rescue stations when selecting a beach for your family.
3. Follow all beach warnings, weather advisories and closures.
4. Check with a lifeguard if in any doubt.
5. Watch the water for several minutes before diving in, and take note of any larger wave sets.
6. Visit the Hawaii Beach Safety website from the Hawaii Lifeguard Association here for frequent updates on Hawaii surf conditions and warnings for all islands.
7. Understand rip currents and how to deal with them if caught in one (swim parallel to shore).
8. Avoid jellyfish stings.
The Hawaiian ecosystem includes some organisms that can be hazardous to humans, including sharks and several types of jellyfish. Don’t hesitate to ask a lifeguard for medical assistance if you’re bitten, stung or otherwise injured at the beach; allergic reactions and/or severe bleeding can be life threatening if left untreated.
Shark attacks are rare but do occasionally occur. Exercise common sense: Avoid swimming offshore during dusk, dawn and overnight hours, when sharks are most active. While most shark species will leave you alone — and Great Whites are rarely sighted in Hawaii — tiger sharks can be aggressive.
Several times per year, jellyfish (particularly the venomous Portuguese man-of-war and box jellyfish) infest southern and eastern waters of most Hawaiian Islands. Always heed ocean safety signs that caution against swimming when jellyfish have been sighted.
The sun is intense here in the tropics. Without proper protection, it’s incredibly easy to get a second-degree burn after spending just an hour in the sun, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. (The sun is directly overhead for most of the day in Hawaii.)
Follow these guidelines, and you’ll be less likely to get scorched:
• Use at least SPF 15 sunscreen (preferably 30, especially on children), and make sure it’s waterproof. Consider applying a complete sunblock, such as zinc, to a child’s nose, under the eyes, on the back of the neck, and on the tops of the ears.
• Don’t be fooled by a cloudy day. The reflective glare from the sand and water can still result in a burn.
• Hydration is key. Drink plenty of water every day. Hawaii’s high humidity will make you sweat, increasing your risk of dehydration. Always carry a water bottle with you to the beach. Do not make the mistake of foregoing water for soda, coffee or tea. The caffeine in these beverages will dehydrate you even more.