Trade winds (13-17 mph) and patchy rain make windward shores ideal for windsurfing, while south shore spots like Ala Moana offer sheltered swims. Avoid Waikiki-contaminated runoff risk. North Shore surf is solid (4 ft), but brown water advisories are active.
Oahu's trade winds are strong today (13-17 mph from the ENE), bringing patchy rain and choppy conditions to windward shores like Kailua-perfect for windsurfing but less ideal for swimming. South shore beaches (Ala Moana, Magic Island) offer sheltered, reef-protected waters for safe swimming, but **avoid Waikiki** due to a confirmed risk of contaminated runoff from the Ala Wai Canal. North Shore beaches (Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay) have solid surf (4 ft), but **brown water advisories** are active from Haleiwa to Maili-do not enter the water in these areas. Lifeguards are on duty at major beaches, but always check for discolored water and posted warnings. Expect traffic delays near Sand Island (now Mauliola) due to ongoing recovery efforts.
Currently posted advisories from the Hawaii Department of Health affecting Oahu. Source: official DOH Clean Water Branch.
Posted Apr 23, 2026 · Makaha Beach Park to Maili Beach Park
Full advisory at health.hawaii.gov →Posted Apr 23, 2026 · Haleiwa Beach Park to Mokuleia 260A Beach Access
Full advisory at health.hawaii.gov →Posted Apr 11, 2026 · Wahiawa Wastewater Treatment Plant
Full advisory at health.hawaii.gov →Oahu · Best window: morning
high confidenceOahu · Best window: midday
high confidenceOahu · Best window: afternoon
high 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-**brown water advisories** are active, and surf is unsafe for swimming. Winds are strong (13-17 mph), so expect choppy conditions on windward shores. Always swim near a lifeguard and **avoid discolored water**-runoff risks are high after recent storms. Rinse off after swimming to avoid skin irritation.
Ala Moana and Magic Island Lagoon are your safest bets today. Both have lifeguards, calm waters, and space for kids to play. **Avoid Waikiki**-contaminated runoff risk is confirmed. Pack windbreakers (trade winds are strong) and rinse off after swimming. North Shore beaches are off-limits for water activities due to brown water advisories. Check the [Ocean Safety Division's website](https://www.oceansafety.honolulu.gov) for updates.
Kailua's steady trade winds (17 mph) are ideal for windsurfing or kitesurfing-rentals are available nearby. North Shore surf is solid (4 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** and Waikiki. Check the [Clean Water Branch advisories](https://eha-cloud.doh.hawaii.gov/cwb) before heading out. Rinse gear thoroughly after use to avoid contamination.
Oahu's trade winds are strong today (13-17 mph from the ENE), making windward shores like Kailua ideal for windsurfing but choppy for swimming. South shore beaches (Ala Moana, Magic Island) offer sheltered, reef-protected waters with waves around 3 ft-safe for swimming if water is clear. North Shore beaches (Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay) have solid surf (4 ft), but **brown water advisories** are active from Haleiwa to Maili-do not enter the water. Waikiki is at risk of contaminated runoff from the Ala Wai Canal; avoid swimming there until further notice. Lifeguards are on duty at major beaches, but always check conditions before entering.
Oahu is under patchy rain today, with temperatures in the mid-70s. Winds are strong from the east-northeast at 13-17 mph, keeping conditions breezy and humid. Rain chances are high (67-100%) but showers will be brief and scattered. Morning fog is possible near windward shores, clearing by midday. The ground remains saturated from recent storms-avoid hiking trails or low-lying areas prone to flooding. Midday is the best time for beach visits, with the least rain and sunniest conditions.
**Sand Island is now Mauliola**: The Hawaiʻi Board on Geographic Names officially renamed the Honolulu neighborhood after community input. The change reflects the area's cultural significance and history. Expect updated signage and maps in the coming months. **Waikiki faces contaminated flooding risk**: A UH Mānoa study warns that rising sea levels could cause the Ala Wai Canal to backwash sewage-contaminated water into Waikiki streets and beaches, even without heavy rain. Researchers emphasize the need for urgent infrastructure upgrades. Avoid swimming in Waikiki until further notice. **Hawaii Softball sweeps Cal Poly**: The Rainbow Wahine outhit Cal Poly 25-2 in a doubleheader at Rainbow Wahine Softball Stadium. Millie Fidge and Carys Murakami led the offense with RBI singles in the first inning. Next game: Saturday vs. Cal Poly at 1 p.m. **Traffic delays near Mauliola (Sand Island)**: Recovery efforts continue after recent storms-expect delays on Nimitz Highway and Kamehameha Highway. Use alternate routes if traveling through the area.
**Active advisories on Oahu's North and West Shores**: The Hawaii Department of Health has issued brown water advisories for two zones: - **Haleiwa Beach Park to Mokuleia 260A Beach Access** (North Shore) - **Makaha Beach Park to Maili Beach Park** (West Side) **Do not enter the water** in these areas-runoff from recent storms may contain harmful bacteria, chemicals, and debris. Advisories remain in effect until water quality improves. Check the [Clean Water Branch website](https://eha-cloud.doh.hawaii.gov/cwb) for updates.
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.