Kauai Health and Safety

BEACH SAFETY

The biggest safety concern is understanding the oceans and the environment. Ocean conditions are difficult to judge and can change quickly. Always use common sense when entering Hawaiian Waters. Conditions vary with the seasons, tides, locations, and local weather patterns.

Swim at Life-guarded beaches
Ask a lifeguard about the conditions of the ocean.
Before entering the water, check for any warning signs indicating hazardous conditions.
Avoid shorelines and rocky areas, and swim during high surf.
Never turn your back on the ocean; an unexpected wave can knock you down and drag you out.
Never swim alone.
Never allow small children to swim or play in the water unattended.
Never swim in murky water, and never swim in river mouths.
Listen to weather and surf forecasts on local radio or check the surf report. Learn about rip currents, how to avoid them, or what to do if caught in one.
Check out the Beach Safety page for more information.

HIKING SAFETY TIPS

Heading into Kauai’s interior and remote terrain offers some of the most beautiful backdrops in the world. By doing a little planning and being prepared, you will make your hiking trip one of your best Kauai experiences. Hiking on Kauai will take you into some of the most beautiful and remote rainforests, mountain tops, river valleys, and canyons. It is important to remember to plan your hike and follow well-marked trails as well as learn about precautions and trail etiquette. As you hike along some of Kauai’s historical trails, you will find yourself amongst historic and archeological sites. It is important to preserve and respect these areas as well as stay safe while exploring.

Always tell someone where you are hiking (name and location of trail), you plan to hike, and when you plan on returning. It is best to take a partner and be informed about the trail that you pick, and study the route before you set off.
Water -When hiking, it is important to stay hydrated. Do not wait until you start feeling thirsty to start replacing lost fluid. By the time you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated! Your body can absorb only about one quart of fluid per hour. Drink one-half to one full quart of water or a sports drink each hour you are hiking in the heat. Carry your water bottle in your hand and drink small amounts often. Make sure if you are drinking water from any streams or fresh water sources, you purify your water with a purifier is certified to filter microbial leptosporosis or Giardia (not all do).
Food -Eating is equally important to both day hikers and overnight backpackers. Carry high-energy, salty snacks as well as meals. The hike out is much easier when you provide your body with enough calories to support the extreme physical activity you are engaged in.
Check the weather before you set off on your hike.
It is important to know that cuts in tropical climates should be monitored closely. Do not expose open wounds or cuts to river water. Open cuts are highly susceptible to infection that can set in rapidly (one of the most dangerous infections being leptospirosis, and one of the most common being staphylococcus or “staph”). It is important not to let an infected wound go untreated.
Foot Wear- There are a variety of footwear options to choose from. The best advise is to wear what is comfortable for you. Do not break in new shoes along a hiking trail.
Dress in layers so you can protect your skin from the tropical sun.
Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended.
A light rain jacket is always good to have in your pack. Kauai’s weather changes quickly.

Kauai Health and Safety

Beach Safety

Hiking Tips