Brown water advisories remain active, but reef-protected spots offer safe swimming. Here’s where to go—and what to avoid.
Oahu’s beaches are still recovering from recent Kona Low storms, with brown water advisories active in many areas. While runoff risks persist, reef-protected spots like Ala Moana Beach Park and Magic Island Lagoon offer safe, calm waters for swimming. North Shore beaches (Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach) remain unsafe due to moderate surf (3–3.5 ft) and potential contamination. Kamehameha Highway near Waimea Bay is still down to one lane—plan for delays if visiting the North Shore. Always check the Clean Water Branch’s advisory map before heading out: [https://health.hawaii.gov/cwb/](https://health.hawaii.gov/cwb/).
Oahu · Best window: midday
high confidenceOahu · Best window: afternoon
high confidenceOahu · Best window: morning
medium confidenceOahu · Best window: midday
medium confidenceOahu · Best window: morning
low confidenceStick to enclosed, reef-protected spots like Magic Island Lagoon or Ala Moana’s inner lagoon. Avoid North Shore beaches—surf is moderate (3–3.5 ft) and unsafe for swimming. Wait 48–72 hours after heavy rain to let runoff clear. Always swim near a lifeguard and check the Clean Water Branch’s advisory map before heading out: [https://health.hawaii.gov/cwb/](https://health.hawaii.gov/cwb/).
Ala Moana and Magic Island Lagoon are your safest bets today. Both have lifeguards, calm waters, and space for kids to play. Rinse off after swimming to avoid skin irritation from lingering runoff. Pack a picnic—these parks have tables, shade, and nearby restrooms. Avoid windward shores like Kailua unless water is clear.
North Shore surf is moderate (3–3.5 ft), but brown water advisories make swimming unsafe. If you’re set on getting in the water, south shore spots like Ala Moana or Sans Souci are safer, but avoid discolored water. Check the Ocean Safety Division’s beach conditions page for updates: [https://www.oceansafety.honolulu.gov](https://www.oceansafety.honolulu.gov). Rinse off immediately after swimming—bacteria levels may still be elevated.
Oahu’s ocean remains under brown water advisories due to storm runoff, with many beaches still unsafe for swimming. South shore beaches like Ala Moana and Waikiki are seeing moderate waves (2.5–3.5 ft) with light to moderate winds (2–4 mph from the NE/NNW)—ideal for swimming only if you stay inside the reef and avoid discolored water. Windward spots like Kailua have moderate waves (3 ft), but runoff risks persist, especially near stream mouths. North Shore beaches (Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach) have moderate surf (3–3.5 ft), making them unsafe for swimming due to potential runoff and currents. Lifeguards are on duty at most major beaches, but always check conditions before entering. The National Weather Service has lifted all flood watches, but isolated showers could still affect water clarity.
Oahu is mostly sunny today, with temperatures in the low 70s to mid-70s. Winds are light (2–4 mph) from the northeast, keeping conditions breezy but comfortable. Humidity remains moderate, and no significant rain is expected. Morning fog is possible near windward shores, but skies should clear by midday. The ground is still saturated from recent storms—avoid hiking trails or low-lying areas prone to flooding. Midday is the best time for beach visits, with the sunniest and driest conditions.
Oahu’s recovery continues, with brown water advisories still in place for some areas. Kamehameha Highway near Waimea Bay remains down to one lane due to rockfall—expect delays. The Lāhui Foundation is wrapping up its financial relief efforts for flood victims in North Shore and Waiʻanae communities today (April 21). A new chancellor finalist for UH Mānoa will visit campus this week. For beachgoers, the Clean Water Branch’s advisory map is the best resource for up-to-date water quality: [https://health.hawaii.gov/cwb/](https://health.hawaii.gov/cwb/).
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.