Thousands warned of 20-foot waves at popular beaches

Thousands of Hawaii beachgoers were warned of 20-foot waves on Tuesday.

“Winter is when we see the highest surf that we get, and it’s usually on the north- and west-facing shores,” National Weather Service (NWS) meteorologist Joseph Clark told Newsweek.

Why It Matters

Significant wave activity triggered by a moderate-sized northwest swell has prompted the NWS to issue a high surf advisory for Hawaii’s north and west shores. The advisory, which affects some of the state’s beaches on Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, and Maui, underscores the ongoing exposure of island communities and tourists to marine hazards.

These events highlight the importance of following official warnings and reinforce the potential for dangerous swimming conditions, rescue operations, and impacts on coastal infrastructure. Similar weather-driven events have led to beach closures and water rescues elsewhere in the United States, emphasizing the need for vigilance during periods of high surf and strong currents.

What To Know

NWS Honolulu has issued a high surf advisory that remains in effect until 6 p.m. HST on Tuesday. The advisory covers north and west-facing shores of Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, and Molokai, as well as the north-facing shores of Maui. According to the NWS, surf heights are expected to reach as high as 15 to 20 feet along north-facing shores and 12 to 16 feet along west-facing shores.

The source of this hazardous surf is a moderate-size, long-period northwest (320-degree) swell, which will impact the listed shorelines throughout the day. The NWS cautions that these wave conditions can result in strong breaking waves and powerful currents, presenting moderate impacts and making swimming dangerous. The advisory urges all residents and visitors to heed recommendations from ocean safety officials and to avoid entering the water if uncertain.

“When in doubt, don’t go out,” NWS Honolulu said.

The combination of high surf and strong rip currents significantly increases the risks for swimmers, surfers, and anyone near the water’s edge. Such advisories are part of a routine safety protocol designed to prevent injuries, water rescues, and fatalities.

Earlier this month, Hawaii public safety officials responded to numerous near drownings, water rescues, and medical incidents across Oahu during a high surf advisory, Hawaii News Now reported.

The NWS recommends that people remain cautious and closely monitor local updates, particularly as conditions can change rapidly during ongoing swells.

In addition to the high surf advisory, NWS Honolulu also issued a small craft advisory.

What People Are Saying

NWS meteorologist Joseph Clark told Newsweek: “We are starting to get into that time of year where the surf is starting to come up on those shores.”

NWS Honolulu in a small craft advisory: “Inexperienced mariners, especially those operating smaller vessels, should avoid navigating in these conditions.”

What Happens Next

The high surf advisory is expected to remain in effect until at least 6 p.m. HST Tuesday. However, if the swell lingers, changes are possible, and the advisory will be extended. NWS officials will continue to monitor ocean conditions, providing updated advisories and warnings as needed.