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

See more ocean safety tips