Playing it safe at the beach
- A red flag flies at our beach to advise you that no lifeguards are on duty. Always stop by Aqualani Beach & Ocean Recreation for updates on ocean conditions and safety.
- Never turn your back on the ocean.
- Never body surf a wave "straight in". Instead, ride at an angle to the shoreline.
- Study the ocean before you enter it. Note the locations of rocks, breakers, currents and reefs. If in doubt, stay out.
- Enter the ocean gradually and watchfully. Breakers come in "sets" with spells of calm in between. Don't be caught off guard.
- Stay off the reefs. The reef is alive with microorganisms that do not survive our steps. Hazards of reef walking include coral cuts, sea urchin spines and eel bites.
- Duck or dive beneath breaking waves before they reach you. Do not stand in their path. Don't try to swim over them or turn your back to them.
- Never swim against a strong current. Check the shore to see which way the current is carrying you, then swim across the current, not into it.
- Never swim alone at an unfamiliar beach. Swim at supervised beaches or with other people. Ask beach attendants or experienced swimmers about the safety of a place before you enter the water.
- Know your limits. Don't let others dare you into the surf if you aren't sure you can handle yourself in it.
- Always swim with at least one other person so you can keep each other safe
- Enter the water feet first
- Learn rip current safety. If you are caught in a rip current, remain calm and don't fight the current. Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current before swimming to the shore.
- Be mindful of marine animals and always keep a safe distance away from them
- Do not go into the ocean under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Be aware of weather hazards