updated: May 22, 2013 1:18PM
Kauai Ocean Report
Supported by the Kauai Fire Department Ocean Safety Bureau. Forecast and warning information provided by the National Weather Service.
USE CAUTION ON NORTH & SOUTH FACING SHORES. High surf advisory South plus solid Northwest swell today. Watch out.
Consult lifeguards before entering the water - WHEN IN DOUBT DON'T GO OUT!
Ocean Report Discussion
Mixed South and Northwest swells will make potentially dangerous conditions at many locations around Kauai today. Expect currents & surf to be more powerful at exposed locations, outer reefs & channels. Light winds. Calmer conditions on East facing shores. Always use caution - esp. when unfamiliar & help is a long way away. Recommended lifeguarded beaches: Hanalei Pavilion, Kealia, Lydgate. Limited swimming on North shores.
Outlook to Tues May 28: South swell slowly declining after today. New NW swell peaking tonight, then declining.
updated: May 22, 2013 1:18PM
Lifeguard Surf Observations
Lifeguards report on current ocean conditions daily at 9AM. Lifeguard tower locations correspond to those shown on the surf observations table.
| Station | Surf | Wind | Visibility |
|---|---|---|---|
 Haena |
8-12 ft. | 5-15 kt. | fair |
 Hanalei |
4-8 ft. | 5-15 kt. | fair |
 Kealia |
3-5 ft. | 5-15 kt. | good |
 Lydgate |
3-6 ft. | 5-15 kt. | good |
 Poipu |
4-8 ft. | 5-15 kt | fair |
 Salt Pond |
3-6 ft. | 5-15 kt. | fair |
 Kekaha |
3-5 ft. | 5-15 kt. | fair |
Please ask lifeguards for best swimming locations.
updated: May 22, 2013 1:18PM
Forecast Surf Heights
National Weather Service predicted surf heights are based on a Oahu forecasting system. Kauai forcast coming soon.
| Location | Surf heights | Tides |
|---|---|---|
| North | 8-12 ft. | |
| West | 6-8 ft. | |
| South | 6-10 ft. | view graph |
| East | 1-3 ft. | view graph |
Surf heights are forecast heights of the face or front of waves. Some waves may be more than twice as high as the significant wave height. Expect to encounter rip currents in or near any surf zone. National Weather Service Weather Hotline: 808-245-6001
Printable Ocean Report
The most effective way to share ocean conditions with visitors! (Updated daily)
Beach Safety
Varied shoreline topography and constantly changing conditions make our beaches great for activities, but often dangerous and suited for experienced water people only. Plan for a safe vacation with education.
