This is an older update. Read the latest Kauai update →Kauai update · 2026-05-24

Kauai Update: Earthquake Aftermath, High Surf, and Bacterial Advisory

Kauai faces post-earthquake conditions, high surf, and a bacterial advisory at Moloaʻa Beach. Ocean activities are discouraged-opt for indoor spots or scenic dry-land walks.

Kauai Update: Earthquake Aftermath, High Surf, and Bacterial Advisory beach conditions image

Kauai is recovering from a **6.0 magnitude earthquake** that struck yesterday, with aftershocks possible. Ocean conditions remain **hazardous** due to **high surf (9.1ft at Hanalei Bay, 7.7ft at Poipu Beach Park)** and a **bacterial advisory at Moloaʻa Beach**-avoid water contact there. **Hanalei Bay's surf is unusually large for May**, and **Poipu's shorebreak is strong**. Stick to **indoor activities, scenic walks, or protected dry-land areas** like Lydgate Pond or Salt Pond Beach Park. Facilities at Poipu and Lydgate remain open for limited use. **Check for structural damage** before entering buildings, and **report hazards to local authorities**.

Recommended Beaches

Neighborhood: Poipu

Poipu Beach Park

Kauai · Best window: midday

high confidence
  • Lifeguards on duty and facilities (restrooms, picnic areas) open for dry-land use
  • Sheltered tombolo area ideal for scenic walks or wildlife viewing (monk seals, turtles from shore)
  • Moderate winds (13 mph) make it more comfortable than North Shore spots
  • **Safety note**: Avoid water entry due to strong shorebreak and high surf (7.7ft)
View beach page →

Lydgate Pond

Kauai · Best window: morning

medium confidence
  • Protected pond area-safe for dry-land exploration or short walks (avoid water entry)
  • Calm conditions ideal for picnics or photography
  • Facilities may be open for convenience
  • **Safety note**: Earthquake aftershocks possible-check for structural damage
View beach page →

Salt Pond Beach Park

Kauai · Best window: afternoon

medium confidence
  • Sheltered cove with calmer conditions-good for dry-land activities like beachcombing
  • Less crowded than Poipu, with facilities open for dry use
  • Scenic views and potential wildlife sightings from shore
  • **Safety note**: Avoid water entry due to bacterial advisory at nearby Moloaʻa Beach
View beach page →

Lydgate Beach

Kauai · Best window: morning

low confidence
  • Protected by a rock wall-calmer than open beaches, but still avoid water entry
  • Good for dry-land walks or photography
  • **Safety note**: Earthquake aftershocks possible-check for hazards
View beach page →

Who Is This Update For?

🏄 Beginners

**Avoid all water activities** due to high surf, strong currents, and bacterial advisory. Stick to **indoor spots** (museums, cafes) or dry-land areas like Poipu Beach Park for scenic walks. **Hanalei Bay's surf (9.1ft) is dangerously elevated for May**-do not enter the water. **Check for earthquake damage** before entering buildings, and **report hazards to local authorities**. Pack **sturdy shoes and rain gear** for dry-land exploration.

👨‍👩‍👧 Families

**Poipu Beach Park and Lydgate Pond are your safest options** for dry-land activities. Keep kids supervised and away from the water due to strong surf and bacterial advisory. Wildlife sightings (monk seals, turtles) are common-observe from **10+ feet** and follow posted guidelines. **Avoid Hanalei Bay** due to high surf and poor visibility. **Check for earthquake aftershocks** and structural damage before outdoor activities.

🌊 Experienced

**Hanalei Bay's surf (9.1ft) is elevated**, but **strong currents and poor visibility** make conditions hazardous. The bacterial advisory at Moloaʻa Beach **discourages all swimming/snorkeling**. Prioritize **dry-land exploration** or surfing in **designated areas only** if conditions improve. **Respect wildlife closures** and avoid storm drains. **Check for earthquake damage** before entering the water, and **report hazards to lifeguards**.

Full Briefing

Ocean Conditions

high

Kauai's ocean conditions are **hazardous** today. **Hanalei Bay (North Shore) reports large surf (9.1ft)**, unusually high for May, while **Poipu Beach Park (South Shore) has 7.7ft waves**. Both areas face **strong currents and poor visibility**-lifeguards advise **avoiding all water entry**. A **bacterial advisory is active at Moloaʻa Beach**-do not enter the water there. **Earthquake aftershocks** may increase hazards-check for structural damage before ocean activities. **Storm drains may increase runoff**-stay clear of discolored water.

Weather Snapshot

high

Kauai is **partly cloudy** today, with temperatures around **73-74°F** and winds up to **13.9 mph (E/ENE direction)**. **100% rain chance** persists at Hanalei Bay and Poipu Beach Park, though showers may be light. **Earthquake aftershocks** are possible-avoid open beaches during tremors. **Sun protection is still recommended** for brief outdoor stays. **Check for structural damage** before entering buildings.

News To Know

high

**6.0 magnitude earthquake** struck Kauai and the Big Island yesterday, causing minor damage. **Aftershocks are possible**-report hazards to local authorities. A **bacterial advisory is active at Moloaʻa Beach**-avoid water contact. **Memorial Day events** are underway, including the **Girl Scouts' Lei of Aloha tribute**-check local listings for activities. **Ocean safety officials are searching for a missing jet ski operator** near Mokuleia-stay alert in coastal areas.

What Changed Since Yesterday

Quick Hits

  • **Earthquake aftermath + high surf**-avoid water activities.
  • **Hanalei Bay: 9.1ft surf, 100% rain chance**-experienced surfers only, but visibility is poor.
  • **Poipu Beach Park: 7.7ft surf, lifeguards on duty**-ideal for dry-land walks.
  • **Bacterial advisory at Moloaʻa Beach**-do not enter the water.
  • **Report earthquake damage** to local authorities.

Disclaimer: This update is generated using AI and automated data sources including weather APIs, surf forecasts, and news feeds. It is not professional safety advice. Ocean conditions change rapidly and may differ from what is described here. Always check with on-site lifeguards, observe posted warning signs, and consult official sources such as the National Weather Service before entering the water. HawaiiYeah assumes no liability for injury, loss, or damage arising from use of this information. See our full disclaimer.

Join the Community

Stay Connected

Follow us for the latest beach updates, surf reports, and island vibes