Beaches & Water Safety
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Waves Don't Discriminate
The 9 miles of shoreline that stretch along the MCBH peninsula offer wonderful recreational activities, but also possess very different water conditions that also change throughout the year. Caution should always be taken before entering the ocean. Please read over all the safety information, watch the video and follow the water safety Facebook page to stay updated on conditions.
Water Safety
Water safety is a priority at MCBH beaches. Swimmers should follow posted rules and use floatation devices when necessary. Lifeguards are on duty during certain hours. Practicing water safety helps prevent accidents and injuries.
Current Conditions and Closures Beach Rules MCBH Ocean SafetyKnow Your Flags
Beach conditions are often communicated through a flag system using white, yellow, and red flags. A white flag indicates calm conditions, a yellow flag warns of potential hazards, and a red flag signals dangerous conditions that require swimmers to stay out of the water. It's important to pay attention to these flags for your safety while enjoying the beach.
- White Flag Conditions - Water activities open, surf and currents are moderate.
- Yellow Flag Conditions - Water activities open, fins are required when swimming due to high surf or strong currents.
- Red Flag Conditions - Unsafe conditions water & beach closed.
Lifeguard Stations
When swimming at the beach, it's important to know the location of the lifeguard stations and stay close to them for safety. By staying within the designated swim area, you increase your visibility to the lifeguards, making it easier for them to assist you in case of an emergency. Additionally, it's important to never swim alone and to always keep an eye on children in the water.
Rescue Tubes
When arriving at a beach location, it's important to look for the rescue tubes. These tubes can be used to assist swimmers who are in distress or struggling in the water. Knowing the location of these tubes can help you quickly access them in case of an emergency, and potentially save a life.
- If you DO NOT know how to swim in surf and rip currents, DO NOT grab the device and DO NOT enter the water.
- Get help - call or yell 911.
- Pull Rescue Tube behind you and use fins if possible.
- Stay calm.
- Kick across current towards the shore.
Beaches
MCBH (Marine Corps Base Hawaii) has several beaches available for use by military personnel and their families. These beaches offer a range of activities, including swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Visitors to these beaches are required to follow all rules and regulations to ensure the safety and preservation of the natural environment.
The North Beach, Pyramid Rock Beach, Hale Koa Beach, Pali Kilo Beach, and Ft. Hase Beach are all open 0700-1700 daily to all Active Duty, Dependents, Retirees and MCBH Civilians.
LIFEGUARD 1100-1730
North Beach
North Beach aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii is a beautiful and secluded beach located on the Marine Corps Base Hawaii, offering clear blue waters, soft sand, and breathtaking views of the mountains. It is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, and is accessible only to authorized personnel and their guests.
Get DirectionsLIFEGUARD 1100-1730
Pyramid Rock Beach
Pyramid Rock Beach aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii is a picturesque beach nestled on the Marine Corps Base Hawaii, known for its unique pyramid-shaped rock formation rising from the water. With its crystal-clear water and pristine white sand, the beach is a popular spot for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. It is also accessible only to authorized personnel and their guests.
Get DirectionsNO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY
Hale Koa Beach
Hale Koa Beach at Kaneohe Bay Marine Corps Base Hawaii is an ideal destination for families looking for fun water activities. With calm and clear waters, it is perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, and swimming with kids. Additionally, the beach offers stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. It is also accessible only to authorized personnel and their guests.
Get DirectionsNO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY
Pali Kilo Beach
Pali Kilo Beach is a great spot for families looking for water activities on the windward side of Oahu. The beach offers calm waters that are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding, making it an excellent spot for kids. Additionally, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Ko'olau Mountains and the bay. It is also accessible only to authorized personnel and their guests.
NO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY
Ft. Hase Beach
This stunning beach is the epitome of paradise, offering crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and basking in the sun on the soft sand. With its breathtaking views of Kailua and a serene atmosphere, it's the perfect place to unwind and soak up the Hawaiian vibes. It is also accessible only to authorized personnel and their guests.
Get Directions