Whenever travelling away from home, even if it is in the United States, researching safety precautions ahead of time will provide you with additional reassurance for your trip. While Kauai is an extremely safe island, activities involving nature can always lead to accidents. Below I will list out important safety tips to ensure your vacation is fun and safe.
Ocean Safety
Swimming in the beautiful warm waters of Kauai is probably half the reason you chose this picturesque destination. Oceans can have unpredictable tides and creatures, so taking a few safety precautions will provide you with fun memories of the deep blue.
• Make sure you check out the surf report before hitting the waves…find out the ocean conditions, tide, swell and winds to make sure it is a good beach day.
• Recommended beaches around the island that have lifeguards are Hanalei Pavilion, Kealia, Lydgate, Poipu and Salt Pond.
• Use the buddy system and never go out in the ocean on your own.
• Ocean conditions change constantly so make sure you are following the lifeguard instructions and posted signs.
Snorkeling and SCUBA carry other precautions and you want to make sure you go in a reputable guided group. Certain fish and sea life may be harmful to humans so observe and enjoy from a distance. Remember, you are in their backyard now. Poisonous aquatic life includes starfish, urchin, stingray, scorpionfish, lionfish, stonefish, catfish, sea snakes, some octopus and jellyfish.
Sun Safety
The sun in Kauai is strong so it is important to enjoy it safely. Apply sunscreen and then apply it again! The sun is the strongest when your shadow is shorter than you are…generally between 10am and 4pm. Make sure you re-apply sunscreen frequently, where protective headwear and protective sunglasses. Apply aloe vera if you do get burnt to ease the pain. Nothing is worse on your vacation then spending half of it indoors because you overindulged in the sun…take breaks in the shade and remember to re-apply sunscreen frequently.
Dehydration can also occur if you are out in the sun too long…make sure you are drinking lots of water and replenishing your electrolytes. Swimming, hiking and even spending a day on the beach can drain your body of water, vitamins and electrolytes.
First Aid Kit
Bring a small first aid kit with you that you can bring in a beach bag or backpack. Include items for cuts and scrapes, OTC meds for headaches or discomforts, soothing cream for insect bites, etc. If you are taking prescription medications make sure you bring enough for your trip. Remember to check with your medical insurance to make sure you get coverage outside of your local area…travel insurance is available. You may want to bring allergy medications if you are prone to allergic reactions.
Emergency / Police / Fire / Ambulance 911
Police Dispatch (non-emergency) 808-241-1711
Visitor Information Line 808-262-1400
Kauai Visitors Bureau 808-245-3971
Kauai Weather 808-245-6001
Kauai Bus Information 808-246-8110
Visitor Aloha Society of Kauai 808-482-0111
Lihue Airport Information 808-246-1448
Kauai Hospitals and Emergency Rooms
Kauai Medical Clinic Urgent Care
3-3420B Kuhio Highway
Lihue, HI 96766 Open daily from 8:00 – 5:00 808-245-1532
Wilcox Memorial Hospital
3-3420B Kuhio Highway
Lihue, HI 96766 808-245-1100
Kauai Veterans Memorial Hospital
4643 Waimea Canyon Dr.
Waimea, Kauai, HI 96796 808-338-9431
Samuel Mahelona Hospital
4800 Kawaihau Rd.
Kapaa, Kauai, HI 96746 808-823-4194
Island Clinics
North Shore Medical Center 808-828-1418
Koloa Clinic 808-742-1621
West Kalaheo Clinic 808-332-8523
Kapaa Clinic 808-822-3431