Hawaiis Lifeguard Water Safety Fund » Beaches

Poipu Beach Park

admin — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 18:32:11 +0000

Also known as Brenneke’s beach is a gorgeous lifeguarded south shore beach that is popular with visitors to Kauai. The beach is basically protected by the`rock jetties so it’s great for swimming and snorkeling. There is surf outside the jetties, but we recommend you leave that to more advanced surfers who are familiar to the area, unless of course you are out there with a certified instructor.

If you choose to play in Poipu HLWSF wants you to be aware of the hazards. Strong currents are often found inside the barriers especially if the outside surf is big. It’s better not to walk on the jetties as the rocks are slippery and the waves breaking are probably hitting those rocks with more power than you realize. The reef is sharp so don’t walk on it. These are just some safety tips for current and recent safety information always ask your lifeguards on duty about the conditions. That’s the surest way to have a fun and safe time. J.R.

Hanalei Bay

admin — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 18:22:35 +0000

Hanalei Bay is a lifeguarded beach on the beautiful coast line of Kauai’s famous north shore. It’s a crescent shaped bay that has about two miles of sandy beach. In the winter months, September – May, it’s not uncommon to see big waves and epic surfing. Of course on these winter swell days it is suggested that only the more advanced surfers brave the strong currents all others should enjoy watching the expert surfers rip it up from the pier or the shore.

Because it is a sand bar area HLWSF does not recommend snorkeling, There is not enough reef to support the fish snorkelers like to see; however, if you visit when the bay is calm it’s a great place to swim, go sailing or paddling. There are also plenty of days with smaller surf suitable for the beginner, we recommend to never count on your leash or surf vehicle to save you in the ocean, only count on your own swimming ability. Know your limits, If you don’t know don’t go! J.R.

Ho’okipa

admin — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 16:59:44 +0000

Drive along Maui’s north shore on any day surf’s up with a brisk trade wind and you’ll wonder why a plethora of photographers are aiming1000 mm lenses at the water. Pull into the cliff top or beach parking lot and you’ll likely see superstar windsurfers doing back flips on the breakers while TV crews in helicopters shoot footage for the Extreme Sports channel. Mix in the traditional local surfer crowd who’ve been catchin’ waves at Ho’okipa since they were keiki’s and it’s clear why they call this place the world’s water sports Mecca.

Makena Beach

admin — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 07:31:57 +0000

Makena also known as Big Beach is considered one of the most desired beaches in Hawaii. The name Makena is derived from the word makâke which means “many gathered”. This name still suites the beach as families are known to pack a cooler, grab some beach toys and spend the whole day basking in the sun. Being one of the largest beaches on Maui you’re never left out on a nice spot to lay down your towel, there is always plenty of fun for everyone.

There are three separate entrances to choose from, but don’t become too concerned on choosing the right one as they are all connected and equally as entertaining. There are several new facilities out at Makena including portable toilets, paved parking, and several Mobile food stands in a variety from shave ice to fish tacos. Makena Beach is a State Park. Even though the beach is closed in the late afternoon, as a way to reduce unwanted incidents, it does remain open just long enough to admire a marvelous seaside sunset.

The waves at Makena can be very unpredictable. It is advised to use caution and always keep an eye out for those unexpected swells to come rolling in. Although funding has been approved for Lifeguards to patrol Makena this has not been implemented yet. You may see the experienced locals braving the large waves, but it is not advised that you follow with confidence as these waves can be fierce and there have been many serious injuries. However, don’t let this scare you off from visiting for there are many days when the water is calm and suitable for swimming. On days when the waves are too large to enter, and remember on these days the rip currents are strong, you may enjoy just lying on the beach and watching the experts in the water.