updated: Mar 10, 2010 10:38AM

Kauai Ocean Report

Supported by the Kauai Fire Department Ocean Safety Bureau. Forecast and warning information provided by the National Weather Service.

HIGH SURF ADVISORY EAST FACING SHORES. Rough at any location with E exposure. New NW surf energy building to 4-8' today.

Consult lifeguards before entering the water - WHEN IN DOUBT DON'T GO OUT!

Ocean Report Discussion

Continued strong E winds creating hoppy, rough conditions & strong currents on N, E & S shores. As small new NW swell will also build today. Calmest conditions at protected coves on S & W shores. Always use caution in & around the ocean - esp when unfamiliar & help is a long way away. Recommended lifeguarded beaches: Poipu, Salt Pond, Kekaha, Hanalei Pavilion. Lifeguards reporting marginal conditions in Haena.

Outlook to Tues 3-16: Strong E winds diminishing slightly over the next few days. Advisory-level NW swell Sun-Mon.

updated: Mar 10, 2010 10:38AM

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
life guard tower 1 Haena 5-10 ft. 15-20 kt. fair
life guard tower 2 Hanalei 3-6 ft. 15-20 kt. fair
life guard tower 3 Kealia 4-8+ ft. 15-20 kt. poor
life guard tower 4 Lydgate 4-7+ ft. 15-20 kt. fair
life guard tower 5 Poipu 1-3 ft. 15-20 kt good
life guard tower 6 Salt Pond 1-3 ft. 15-20 kt. good
life guard tower 7 Kekaha FL-2 ft. 10-15 kt. fair

Please ask lifeguards for best swimming locations.

updated: Mar 10, 2010 10:38AM

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 4-7 ft.  
West 3-5 ft.  
South 1-2 ft. view graph
East 5-8 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.