Use Kauai Surf Report for local ocean conditions and surf reports from Surf Line. Wind direction, tides, and currents are all factors in finding the perfect and appropriate spot for your level of surfing. Find Kauai Surf Reports from Hanalei, Anahola, Poipu and Kekaha Beach. Always check current conditions and Kauai Surf Report before heading out to any water activity.  Check with the locals or a county lifeguard for local conditions, hazards, and warnings.

NORTH SHORE SURF REPORT
SOUTH SHORE SURF REPORT

BEACH SAFETY TIPS

1. Swim at Lifeguarded Beaches

  • Always choose beaches with a lifeguard on duty.

  • Kauai’s most popular lifeguarded beaches: Poipu Beach, Hanalei Bay, Kealia Beach, Salt Pond, and Lydgate Beach Park.

2. Check Conditions Before You Go

  • Conditions can change hour to hour, especially during winter months (high surf season).

3. Heed Warning Signs

  • Pay close attention to posted signs about rip currents, jellyfish, or high surf.

  • They’re there for your protection.

4. Never Turn Your Back on the Ocean

  • Rogue waves can surprise you — even on seemingly calm days.

  • Stay alert, especially when walking or sitting near shorelines or rocks.

5. Know How to Identify & Escape Rip Currents

  • If caught in a rip current:

    • Don’t panic

    • Don’t fight the current

    • Swim parallel to shore until free from the current, then swim back.

6. Avoid Remote Beaches Unless Experienced

  • Some beaches like Queen’s Bath, Polihale, and Lumahai are beautiful but notoriously dangerous.

  • Only experienced swimmers should consider them — and only in calm conditions.

7. Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen

  • Protect your skin and Kauai’s fragile coral reefs. Avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate.

8. Stay Hydrated & Wear Sun Protection

  • Bring water, wear a hat, rash guard, and reapply sunscreen often — the tropical sun is strong year-round.

9. Watch Your Children Closely

  • Currents and shore breaks can be powerful.

  • Never leave children unattended, even in shallow water.

10. If in Doubt, Don’t Go Out

  • The ocean will be there tomorrow. If you’re unsure, it’s better to relax and enjoy the view from shore.

How to Behave if Caught in a Rip Tide

If you find yourself caught in a current that you cannot comfortably make progress against, take these steps to stay safe:

  • Stay calm and don’t panic. Currents will generally not pull you under the water.
  • Conserve your energy. Regulate your breathing and minimize any erratic movement. Float on your back or front.
  • Even if the current moves you further away from shore, go with the flow rather than fight/swim against the current and become exhausted.
  • Signal for help by yelling towards the shore and waving your arms

Kauai Beach Safety