updated: Aug 27, 2008 7:44AM

Kauai Ocean Report

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

No OFFICIAL Advisories. Easterly wind-swell with associated chop & currents. Exposed locations may be rough & dangerous.

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

Ocean Report Discussion

Winds and surf are on a downward trend - generally calm conditions around Kauai today. Easterly Trade winds and choppy 2-4' surf are the primary ocean weather factors. Calmer snorkeling and swimming can be found at protected locations like Hanalei Bay, Haena Beach, Kee, Salt Pond, Kekaha, Poipu Beach Park. Swimming near a lifeguard is recommended. Small surf is statistically most dangerous because hazards are not apparent. Na Pali trail is open!

Easterly winds lightening today then increasing again into the weekend. Passing showers mainly in windward and mountain areas.

Outlook to Mon Sept. 1: Choppy surf on E. shores. No significant swells are expected.

updated: Aug 27, 2008 7:44AM

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 1-2 ft. 10-15 kt. good
life guard tower 2 Hanalei 1-2 ft. 10-15 kt. good
life guard tower 3 Kealia 3-5 ft. 10-15 kt. fair
life guard tower 4 Lydgate 3-5 ft. 10-15 kt. fair
life guard tower 5 Poipu 1-2 ft. 10-15 kt good
life guard tower 6 Salt Pond 1-2 ft. 10-15 kt. good
life guard tower 7 Kekaha 0-1 ft. 10-15 kt. poor

Please ask lifeguards for best swimming locations.

updated: Aug 27, 2008 7:44AM

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 1-2 ft.  
West 1-2 ft.  
South 1-2 ft. view graph
East 2-4 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.