UPDATE: High surf advisory extended through Tuesday morning for most Big Island shores as swells from Lowell, Karina will keep surf elevated
Updated at 4:19 p.m. Sept. 5, 2026.
The high surf advisory for south, east and west exposures of the Big Island will now remain in effect through 6 a.m. Tuesday.
National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu report south and southwest swells from Hurricane Lowell will keep surf elevated above high surf advisory conditions through at least Sunday along south- and west-facing shores.
“A forecasted northward turn will cause an increase in swell, likely bringing surf along these shores rapidly to warning levels by Monday,” the updated advisory said. “A large, medium-period east swell from Tropical Storm Karina will also persist through at least Monday, producing advisory level surf along east-facing shores.”
Surf up to 14 feet is forecast along eastern shorelines; up to 12 feet along south-facing shores, increasing to 14 feet by Sunday night; and up to 10 feet along west exposures.
Large breaking surf, significant shorebreak and dangerous currents will make entering the water very hazardous.
The high surf advisory also is expected to be upgraded to a high surf warning Sunday night into Monday for affected south- and west-facing shores as surf heights are expected to rapidly increase to warning levels.
Members of the public should heed all advice from ocean safety officials. When in doubt, don’t go out.
The swells generated by Lowell are expected to drop off quickly Tuesday.
Hawaiʻi County announced early Saturday afternoon that several county park and recreation facilities are closed because of high surf conditions.
The following parks and facilities are closed:
- Hōnaunau Boat Ramp, 84-5571 Hōnaunau Beach Road, Hōnaunau.
- Kahaluʻu Beach Park, 78-6702 Aliʻi Drive, Kaulia-Kona.
- Laʻaloa Beach Park, 77-6474 Aliʻi Drive, Kailua-Kona.
- Old Kona Airport Beach Park Strip, 75-5500 Kuakini Highway, Kailua-Kona.
- Kohanaiki Beach Park, Kohanaiki Golf Club, Kailua-Kona.
- Māhukona Wharf, 57-2001 Māhukona Park Road, Māhukona.
Visit the Hawaiʻi County Hazard Impact Map for additional information.
