Strong ENE winds (17-23 mph) make Oahu's windward shores choppy and windy. South shore beaches like Ala Moana offer sheltered, reef-protected waters. Brown water advisories remain-avoid North/West Shores for swimming.
Oahu is **windy and choppy** today, with **strong ENE winds (17-23 mph)** making windward shores (Kailua, Waimanalo) **rough for swimming** but ideal for **windsurfing or kitesurfing**. The **south shore** (Ala Moana, Magic Island) offers the **most sheltered, reef-protected waters**-best for families and beginners. **North Shore beaches** (Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay) have **large surf (6-9 ft)**, but **brown water advisories remain active-do not enter the water**. **Pack windproof gear, reef-safe sunscreen, and check advisories before heading out.**
Currently posted advisories from the Hawaii Department of Health affecting Oahu. Source: official DOH Clean Water Branch.
Posted May 19, 2026 · Haleiwa
Full advisory at health.hawaii.gov →Posted May 16, 2026 · Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam
Full advisory at health.hawaii.gov →Posted Apr 30, 2026 · Makua Beach
Full advisory at health.hawaii.gov →Oahu · Best window: midday
high confidenceOahu · Best window: afternoon
high confidenceOahu · Best window: morning
low 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. **At Ala Moana, stay inside the reef** to avoid strong currents. **Avoid windward shores** (choppy, windy) and **North Shore beaches** (brown water advisories). **Never swim beyond the reef**, and rinse off after swimming to avoid skin irritation. **Pack windproof gear and a waterproof bag** for electronics.
**Magic Island Lagoon** is your safest bet today-**fully enclosed, no waves, and lifeguards nearby**. **Sans Souci Beach** is another good option with gentle waves and lifeguards. **Avoid Ala Moana Beach Park's outer reef and west channel**-strong currents can be dangerous. **Avoid North Shore beaches** (brown water advisories) and **windward shores** (windy and choppy). **Pack windproof jackets, snacks, and a change of clothes**-conditions may change quickly. 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** (22.6 mph winds). North Shore beaches have **large surf (6-9 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**. **Windy conditions may develop suddenly**-monitor conditions closely. Rinse gear thoroughly after use to avoid contamination.
Oahu's **south shore** (Ala Moana, Magic Island) offers the **calmest, most sheltered waters** today with **moderate surf (4.9 ft)**-ideal for swimming and snorkeling if water is clear. The **windward shores** (Kailua, Waimanalo) are **windy (17-23 mph from ENE) and choppy (3-5 ft wind chop)**, making them better for **windsurfing or kitesurfing than swimming**. **North Shore beaches** (Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay) have **large surf (6-9 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. **Murky water near storm drains** may indicate runoff-avoid these areas.
Oahu is **windy and partly cloudy** today, with **temperatures in the low 70s°F** and **strong ENE winds (17-23 mph)**. **Windward shores** (Kailua, Waimanalo) will see the **strongest winds and choppiest waters**, while the **south shore** (Ala Moana, Waikiki) offers the most **shelter from wind**. **Rain chances are low (0-84%)**, but **brief showers are possible**-pack a light jacket. **Midday is the best time for beach visits**, with the least wind and most stable conditions.
**Missing Jet Ski Operator**: Honolulu Ocean Safety, HFD, and the Coast Guard are searching for a missing jet ski operator near Kaʻena Point after an unmanned jet ski was found offshore with the key still in the ignition. [Read more](https://www.khon2.com/local-news/unmanned-jet-ski-honolulu/). **Earthquake Safety**: A **6.0 magnitude earthquake** struck off Hawaii's coast on May 23, with no tsunami threat reported. Officials remind residents and visitors to **"Drop, Cover, and Hold On"** during shaking and seek higher ground if in tsunami-risk areas. [Read more](https://www.khon2.com/local-news/earthquake-safety-tips-hawaii/). **Memorial Day Tribute**: Girl Scouts hosted the **Lei of Aloha** event to honor veterans, continuing a tradition started in 2013. [Read more](https://www.khon2.com/local-news/girl-scouts-memorial-day-remembrance/).
**Active advisories on Oahu's North and West Shores**: The Hawaii Department of Health has issued brown water advisories for: - **Haleiwa** (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.