While on Kauai we want you to enjoy, explore, relax and most importantly stay healthy and safe. Kauai is beautiful, exotic, mysterious and full of spectacular wonders to explore. Most of Kauai activities are associated with the outdoors, hiking and ocean activities. With these activities comes a share of precautions and potentially dangerous situations. Please become familiar with these to help you stay safe and relaxed.

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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. 

  • 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! 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.
  • Check the weather before you set off on your hike.
  • Do not expose open wounds or cuts to river water.
  • Foot Wear- 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 Hospitals and Clinics

  • Wilcox Memorial Hospital
    808-245-1100
  • Kauai Veterans Memorial Hospital
    808-338-9431
  • Samuel Mahelona Hospital
    808-823-4194
  • North Shore Medical Center
    808-828-1418
  • Koloa Clinic
    808-742-1621
  • West Kalaheo Clinic
    808-332-8523
  • Kapaa Clinic
    808-822-3431