Strong trade winds (20+ mph) make windward shores choppy-ideal for windsurfing. South shore's Ala Moana offers calm, reef-protected waters. North Shore advisories remain-do not enter the water.
Oahu's **windward shores** are **windy today** (20+ mph from the ENE), making **Kailua Beach Park** ideal for windsurfing but choppy for swimming. The **south shore** (Ala Moana Beach Park) offers **calm, reef-protected waters**-perfect for families and beginners. **North Shore beaches** (Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay) have **choppy conditions (2-4 ft)**, but **brown water advisories** remain active-**do not enter the water**. Lifeguards are on duty at major beaches, but always check for discolored water and posted warnings before entering. Rain chances are high (65-85%), so pack a windbreaker and plan for brief showers.
Currently posted advisories from the Hawaii Department of Health affecting Oahu. Source: official DOH Clean Water Branch.
Posted Apr 30, 2026 · Makua Beach
Full advisory at health.hawaii.gov →Posted Apr 23, 2026 · Haleiwa Beach Park to Mokuleia 260A Beach Access
Full advisory at health.hawaii.gov →Oahu · Best window: midday
high confidenceOahu · Best window: afternoon
high confidenceOahu · Best window: morning
medium confidenceOahu · Best window: morning
medium confidenceOahu · Best window: morning
medium confidence**Stick to south shore spots** like **Magic Island Lagoon** or **Ala Moana Beach Park**-calm, reef-protected waters with lifeguards. **Avoid windward shores** (choppy) and **North Shore beaches** (brown water advisories). Winds are strong (20+ mph), so expect choppy conditions. **Never swim beyond the reef** and rinse off after swimming to avoid skin irritation.
**Magic Island Lagoon** is your safest bet today-calm waters, lifeguards, and space for kids to play. **Ala Moana Beach Park** is another great option with picnic areas. **Avoid North Shore beaches** (brown water advisories) and **Waikiki** (contaminated runoff risk). Pack windbreakers (trade winds are strong) and rinse off after swimming. Check the [Clean Water Branch advisories](https://eha-cloud.doh.hawaii.gov/cwb) before heading out.
**Kailua Beach Park** is ideal for **windsurfing or kitesurfing** (20+ mph winds). North Shore beaches have **choppy conditions (2-4 ft)**, but **brown water advisories** make swimming unsafe. If you're set on getting in the water, **south shore spots** like **Magic Island Lagoon** are safer, but **avoid discolored water**. Rinse gear thoroughly after use to avoid contamination.
Oahu's **windward shores** (Kailua, Waimanalo) are **windy today** (20+ mph from the ENE), creating choppy conditions (2-4 ft)-ideal for windsurfing but challenging for swimming. The **south shore** (Ala Moana, Magic Island) offers **calm, reef-protected waters** with minimal waves (2-4 ft)-safe for families and beginners. **North Shore beaches** (Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay) have **choppy conditions (2-4 ft)**, but **brown water advisories** remain active-**do not enter the water**. Lifeguards are on duty at major beaches, but always check conditions before entering.
Oahu is under **patchy rain nearby** today, with temperatures in the **low to mid-70s°F**. Winds are **strong from the east-northeast at 20+ mph**, keeping conditions breezy. Rain chances are **high (65-85%)**, with brief showers likely-pack a windbreaker. 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.
**Heavy rainfall surge explained**: Researchers cite climate patterns for Oahu's recent deluge. [Read more](https://www.khon2.com/local-news/cause-of-recent-surge-in-hawaii-rainfall/). **Poi now on school menus**: Hawaii public schools are adding poi to student meals as part of farm-to-school initiatives. [Read more](https://www.khon2.com/local-news/poi-yogurt-hawaii-students/). **Film tax credit bill advances**: A new bill aims to attract film productions to Hawaii with expanded tax incentives. [Read more](https://www.khon2.com/local-news/hawaii-film-tax-credit-bill/). **Firefighter memorial weekend**: Fallen firefighters will be honored with half-staff flags and red-illuminated buildings. [Read more](https://www.khon2.com/local-news/fallen-firefighters-hawaii-memorial/). **Pet adoption discount**: Hawaiian Humane Society offers 50% off adoption fees for dogs, cats, and small animals (May 1-17). [Read more](https://www.khon2.com/local-news/empty-shelters-national-adoption/).
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) - **Makua Beach** (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.