Big Island Rentals

Ocean Safety in Hawaii

Educate Yourself on the Dangers that Lurk in Hawaii’s Oceans.

Rip Currents account for 80 percent of lifeguard rescues, according to Hawaii’s Lifeguard & Water Safety Fund.  A strong, channeled current of water pulls you in with it as it flows away from the shore. These powerful currents generally begin at the shoreline and extend beyond the line at which a wave breaks. They can occur on any beach with breaking waves. To get yourself out of this frightening treadmill-like action, swim sideways, parallel to the beach and work your way back in with the waves, then swim quickly towards the shallow waters. It is pointless to fight against a strong current. Get out of the narrow current that’s flowing outward by getting off, so to speak. Be alert to muddy streaks in the ocean where waves are not breaking. Only swim at beaches with lifeguards. And don’t underestimate any posted warning signs. Rip currents can sweep away the most seasoned swimmer when least expected.

Big Wave Wipeouts. Surfers need to be ever cautious about getting caught in a big wave. Although rare among experienced surfers, this situation can happen to anyone: From out of nowhere, a breaking wave comes in and slams you way under the surface while spinning you around. A surfer can be pushed down 20 to 50 feet below. The trick is getting back up to the surface in time before another wave hits. Being held down by two or even three waves greatly diminishes your chances of swimming back up to the top—and your chance of survival. Other hazards of being thrown too deep under the sea include ruptured eardrums due to the intense water pressure at these depths, and severe injuries resulting from being tossed into a reef. Be alert to ocean activity and be well-trained on how to swim out of a big-wave hold-down.

Sharks. Although shark bites are rare in Hawaii, knowing the facts about their habits and what attracts them is critical if you spend any time in the ocean. Of the few shark species that have been known to bite people in Hawaii’s waters, the tiger shark is the most dangerous.  After heavy rains when upland fishes and other animals are swept out to sea, sharks may move in closer to shore to feed. The murky waters, combined with the animal’s specialized snout receptors and strong sense of hearing, allow sharks to easily locate prey. Stay clear of stream mouths, channels and harbor entrances, especially after a rain. Trail fish and blood in the vicinity of fishing boats may lure a hungry shark as well, so don’t swim in waters where people are fishing. Since sharks can detect blood and fluids in small concentrations, stay out of the water if you have a wound or are bleeding. And since they see contrast well, don’t wear any bright-colored clothing or jewelry. Refrain from unnecessary splashing or excessive activity. Be aware of any high concentration of dolphins, which some large sharks might prey on, or any erratic behavior by fish and sea turtles.  Only swim at lifeguard-patrolled beaches, and never stray too far out into the ocean.  The Hawaii for Visitors Web site offers information on the different species of sharks and how to protect yourself.

Venomous Ocean Organisms: Study the hazards and habitats of dangerous sea critters.     

Hawaii Beach Safety: Stay in tune to current beach hazards, closures and safety alerts.

Hawaii Lifeguards & Water Safety: Familiarize yourself with swimming and surfing safety tips.