Trade winds (20 mph) keep windward shores breezy-perfect for windsurfing at Kailua. South shore spots like Ala Moana offer calm, reef-protected waters. North Shore has moderate surf but brown water advisories persist-avoid swimming.
Oahu's trade winds are steady today (20 mph from the ENE), bringing breezy conditions to windward shores like Kailua-ideal for windsurfing but choppy for swimming. The **south shore** (Ala Moana, Magic Island) offers calm, reef-protected waters perfect for families and beginners. **North Shore beaches** (Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay) have moderate surf (3.5-4.3 ft), but **brown water advisories** remain in effect from Haleiwa to Maili-do not enter the water. Waikiki's contaminated runoff risk persists; avoid swimming there. Lifeguards are on duty at major beaches, but always check for discolored water and posted warnings.
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: morning
low confidenceOahu · Best window: morning
low confidenceStick to enclosed, reef-protected spots like Magic Island Lagoon. Avoid North Shore beaches-**brown water advisories** are active, and surf is unsafe for swimming. Winds are strong (20 mph), so expect choppy conditions on windward shores. Always swim near a lifeguard and **avoid discolored water**-runoff risks are high. Rinse off after swimming to avoid skin irritation. **Never swim beyond the reef** at any beach.
Magic Island Lagoon is your safest bet today. It has lifeguards, calm waters, and space for kids to play. **Avoid Waikiki**-contaminated runoff risk persists. 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 [Clean Water Branch advisories](https://eha-cloud.doh.hawaii.gov/cwb) before heading out.
Kailua's trade winds (20 mph) are ideal for windsurfing or kitesurfing-rentals are available nearby. North Shore surf is moderate (3.5-4.3 ft), but **brown water advisories** make swimming unsafe. If you're set on getting in the water, south shore spots like Ala Moana are safer, but **avoid discolored water** and Waikiki. Check the [Clean Water Branch website](https://eha-cloud.doh.hawaii.gov/cwb) for updates. Rinse gear thoroughly after use to avoid contamination.
Oahu's trade winds are steady today (20 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 2.5-3 ft-safe for swimming if water is clear. **North Shore beaches** (Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay) have moderate surf (3.5-4.3 ft), but **brown water advisories** remain active from Haleiwa to Maili-do not enter the water. Waikiki's contaminated runoff risk persists; avoid swimming there. Lifeguards are on duty at major beaches, but always check conditions before entering.
Oahu is under partly cloudy skies today, with temperatures in the mid-70s. Winds are steady from the east-northeast at 20 mph, keeping conditions breezy. Rain chances are low (0%), but 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 wind and sunniest conditions.
**Oahu's new flood maps go into effect June 10**: FEMA's updated flood insurance maps will move nearly 4,000 properties into flood zones, impacting areas like Iwilei and Kapālama. Property owners with federally backed mortgages in flood zones will need to purchase flood insurance. [Read more](https://www.hawaiipublicradio.org/local-news/2026-04-24/oahus-new-flood-maps-could-cost-you). **City proposes rounding cash transactions due to penny shortage**: Honolulu is considering a bill to round cash payments for city taxes and fees to the nearest five cents. [Read more](https://www.khon2.com/local-news/rounding-fees-taxes-bill/). **AI hazard detection system on hold**: The Department of Emergency Management's all-hazard AI detection project is paused due to federal funding constraints. [Read more](https://www.khon2.com/local-news/dem-funding-all-hazard/). **Waikiki's contaminated flooding risk persists**: 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. Avoid swimming in Waikiki until further notice.
Sources
**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.