South shore beaches like Ala Moana and Magic Island Lagoon offer calm, family-friendly waters. Windward shores are windy; North Shore advisories remain active.
Oahu's **south shore** is the best bet today for families and beginners, with **calm, reef-protected waters** at **Ala Moana Beach Park** and **Magic Island Lagoon**. The **windward shores** (Kailua, Waimanalo) are **windy (4-10 mph)** with **choppy surf (4 ft)**, making them better for windsurfing than swimming. **North Shore beaches** (Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay) have **solid surf (4.5-5.2 ft)**, but **brown water advisories** remain active-**do not enter the water**. A **monk seal pup was born at Kaimana Beach**, so keep a respectful distance if visiting. Pack a light jacket for brief showers (64-100% rain chance).
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: midday
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 light (4-10 mph), but expect choppy conditions on the east side. **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's Kuhio Beach** (crowded). Pack a light jacket for brief showers. Check the [Clean Water Branch advisories](https://eha-cloud.doh.hawaii.gov/cwb) before heading out. **Monk seal pup at Kaimana Beach**-keep a respectful distance.
**Kailua Beach Park** is ideal for **windsurfing or kitesurfing** (4 mph winds). North Shore beaches have **solid surf (4.5-5.2 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 **south shore** (Ala Moana, Magic Island) offers **calm, reef-protected waters** with **moderate surf (3.3 ft)**-ideal for families and beginners. The **windward shores** (Kailua, Waimanalo) are **windy (4-10 mph from the E/SE)** with **choppy surf (4 ft)**, making them better for windsurfing than swimming. **North Shore beaches** (Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay) have **solid surf (4.5-5.2 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 **light to moderate (4-10 mph from the E/SE)**, keeping conditions breezy but manageable. Rain chances are **moderate to high (64-100%)**, with brief showers likely-pack a light jacket. The ground remains saturated from recent storms, so avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding. Midday is the best time for beach visits, with the least wind and sunniest conditions.
**Monk Seal Pup Born at Kaimana Beach**: A 15-year-old female monk seal named Kaiwi gave birth to a pup at Kaimana Beach. The public is reminded to **maintain a respectful distance** to protect both the community and the endangered species. [Read more](https://www.khon2.com/local-news/monk-seal-pup-kaimana/). **Hawaii Men's Volleyball Advances**: The University of Hawaiʻi men's volleyball team is **two wins away from the National Championship** after defeating USC in four sets. The semifinals are set for later this week. [Full story](https://www.khon2.com/sports/hawaii-mens-volleyball-just-2-wins-away-from-national-championship/). **Tourism Industry Adjusts to Summer Challenges**: Hawaii's tourism industry is facing reduced flights and weather-related disruptions, but a **$2 million emergency campaign** aims to encourage visitors. [Details here](https://www.khon2.com/local-news/flights-cut-hawaii-tourism/). **Honolulu Police Chief Search Nears Decision**: The search for Honolulu's next police chief is entering its final phase, with a decision expected later this month. [Read more](https://www.khon2.com/local-news/honolulu-police-chief-search/).
**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.