South shore beaches like Ala Moana and Magic Island Lagoon provide calm, family-friendly waters. North Shore surf remains solid but brown water advisories persist.
Oahu's **south shore** remains the best choice today for **calm, reef-protected waters**, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. **Ala Moana Beach Park** and **Magic Island Lagoon** offer gentle waves and lifeguard supervision. The **windward shores** (Kailua, Waimanalo) are **windy (9-10 mph from the NE)** with **moderate surf (3.4 ft)**, making them better for windsurfing than swimming. **North Shore beaches** (Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay) have **solid surf (5.7-6.2 ft)**, but **brown water advisories** remain active-**do not enter the water**. Tropical storm risk is elevated this season, so check conditions before heading out. Pack a light jacket for brief showers (0-68% rain chance).
Currently posted advisories from the Hawaii Department of Health affecting Oahu. Source: official DOH Clean Water Branch.
Posted May 6, 2026 · Kaneohe Marine Corps Hawaii Wastewater Treatment Plant
Full advisory at health.hawaii.gov →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: midday
medium confidenceOahu · Best window: morning
medium confidenceOahu · Best window: morning
low 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 **moderate (8-10 mph)**, but expect choppy conditions on the east side. **Never swim beyond the reef** and rinse off after swimming to avoid skin irritation. **Tropical storm risk is elevated**-check [NWS Honolulu](https://www.weather.gov/hfo/) for updates.
**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 breezy conditions. 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** (9.6 mph winds). North Shore beaches have **solid surf (5.7-6.2 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. **Tropical storm risk is elevated**-monitor conditions closely.
Oahu's **south shore** (Ala Moana, Magic Island) offers **calm, reef-protected waters** with **moderate surf (2.8 ft)**-ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The **windward shores** (Kailua, Waimanalo) are **windy (9-10 mph from the NE)** with **choppy surf (3.4 ft)**, making them better for windsurfing than swimming. **North Shore beaches** (Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay) have **solid surf (5.7-6.2 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. **Tropical storm risk is elevated this season**-stay updated via [NWS Honolulu](https://www.weather.gov/hfo/).
Oahu is **overcast** today, with temperatures in the **low to mid-70s°F**. Winds are **moderate (7.6-9.6 mph from the NE)**, keeping conditions breezy but comfortable. **Rain chance varies by shore**: **0% on the south shore**, **68% on the windward side** (brief showers possible). The **tropical storm risk is elevated this season**, so monitor forecasts for sudden changes. Midday is the best time for beach visits, with the least wind and most stable conditions.
**Honolulu Police Chief Finalists Announced**: Three candidates-Mike Lambert, Scott Ebner, and David Lazar-are in the running for Honolulu's next police chief. The commission aims to announce the selection on **May 20**. [Details here](https://www.khon2.com/local-news/honolulu-police-chief-finalists-bios/). **Mother's Day Rush for Local Businesses**: Florists and restaurants are preparing for one of the busiest weeks of the year. Watanabe Floral reports high demand for leis and arrangements. [Read more](https://www.khon2.com/local-news/busy-outlook-for-crucial-mothers-day-for-recovering-businesses/). **Tropical Storm Risk Elevated**: The **2026 hurricane season** is forecasted to bring **above-average tropical impacts** to Hawaii, including damaging winds, flooding, and storm surge. [AccuWeather report](https://www.insurancejournal.com/news/west/2026/05/06/868735.htm). **Kailua Man Fights Water Damage Claim**: A Kailua resident's claim for water damage was denied by the Board of Water Supply, which cited "first-time main breaks" as a valid reason. The resident plans to continue fighting the decision. [Full story](https://www.khon2.com/local-news/kailua-man-fights-water-damage-claim/).
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.