Oahu faces strong ENE winds (17-23 mph) and choppy waters. South shore beaches like Magic Island offer sheltered, reef-protected waters. Brown water advisories remain-avoid North/West Shores.
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, Waikiki) offers the **most sheltered, reef-protected waters**-best for families and beginners. **North Shore beaches** (Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay) have **large surf (5-7 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: afternoon
high confidenceOahu · Best window: midday
medium confidenceOahu · Best window: midday
medium confidenceOahu · Best window: morning
low confidenceOahu · Best window: morning
medium confidence**Stick to south shore spots** like **Magic Island Lagoon** or **Sans Souci Beach**-calm, reef-protected waters with lifeguards. **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 windward shores** (windy and choppy) and **North Shore beaches** (brown water advisories). **Pack windproof jackets, snacks, and a change of clothes**-conditions may change quickly. **Always swim near a lifeguard tower and avoid areas beyond the reef.** 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** (23 mph winds). **North Shore beaches have large surf (5-7 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, Waikiki) offers the **calmest, most sheltered waters** today with **moderate surf (4-5 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 (5-7 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 mid-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 moderate (64-100%)**, with **brief showers likely**-pack a light jacket. **Midday is the best time for beach visits**, with the least wind and most stable conditions.
**Dog Attack on North Shore**: A 6-year-old girl was attacked by a dog at Off the Wall Beach, resulting in multiple puncture wounds. The dog will be euthanized. [Read more](https://www.khon2.com/local-news/girl-recovers-dog-attack-oahu/). **Traffic Alert**: Multiple scheduled lane closures begin Tuesday, May 26. Plan ahead for delays. [Read more](https://www.khon2.com/traffic/scheduled-lane-closures-traffic/). **Fatal Crash**: A 28-year-old man died in a crash on Farrington Highway in Kapolei. [Read more](https://www.khon2.com/traffic/farrington-highway-fatal-accident/).
**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.