Check the surf before you go
The National Weather Service surf forecast lists expected wave heights by shore and posts high surf advisories and warnings. Hawaiʻi Beach Safety shows current conditions and alerts beach by beach. Check both the morning you go.
During a high surf warning, stay out of the water and well back from the shoreline. Waves can wash across beaches and rocks without warning.
Watch it like a local
- Swim only at beaches with lifeguards, and ask them about conditions before you go in.
- Never turn your back on the ocean, and stay off wet rocks and ledges.
- Park only in legal spaces; North Shore roads are narrow and busy on big days.
- When in doubt, don't go out.
If you are caught in a rip current
Stay calm and float. Swim parallel to the shoreline to get out of the current, then back toward shore. If you cannot escape, face the shore and call or wave for help, per NOAA.
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Our nurse editor's notes
- Big-surf injuries often happen on the sand and rocks, not just in the water. Keep children close and well back from the waterline.
- In an emergency, call 911 and point to the person in the water so you do not lose sight of them.
- Summer is usually calmer on the North Shore, but always check conditions; they change daily.
Quick answers
Is it safe to swim on the North Shore in winter?
Often not. Winter swells can bring very large surf. Check the National Weather Service surf forecast, swim only near lifeguards and stay out during high surf warnings.
Where can I check Oʻahu surf conditions?
The National Weather Service Honolulu surf forecast and Hawaiʻi Beach Safety's Oʻahu page show wave heights, advisories and beach conditions.
What should I do in a rip current?
Stay calm and float, swim parallel to the shore to get out of the current, then head back to shore. If you cannot, face shore and call or wave for help.
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Sources
Last checked November 13, 2026. Reviewed by our nurse editor for safety notes.