Avoid walking on the rocky ledges where waves are breaking, they can be very dangerous.
Rocks become slippery and are sharp, abrasive lava stone. Lava is very porous and it crumbles easily.
Don’t ever go into the wet rocky zone, it can be very slippery when wet. The ocean is unpredictable and has been known to wash people away.
Don’t put yourself in a position where you could be swept away.If you have any questions, see a lifeguard.

Hanauma Bay has sharp coral reefs close to the shoreline. Use caution when swimming in shallow reef areas. Should you be injured, see a lifeguard for minor first aid assistance. City and County of Honolulu lifeguards provide first aid and emergency ground and air response. Should coral become embedded deeply see your doctor as soon as possible to have it removed. Deep cuts should be attended to by a physician to avoid the risk of infection.

Large powerful waves are generated by winds and storms at sea sometimes thousands of miles from the Hawaiian Islands. Seasonal high surf occurs on all shores of O’ahu. High surf can make swimming difficult, create strong currents, or push you onto the rocks or reef.

These are swift moving flows of water through channels in the reef against which it is difficult to swim. Strong currents accompany high surf and rapid tide changes. They can be recognized as a turbulent channel of water between areas where waves are breaking.
When caught in a strong current — Try to keep a level head, i.e., don’t panic! Wave one or both hands in the air, and scream or call for help. Swim diagonally to the current, not against it.