A 43-year-old visitor from California drowned while snorkeling on Kauai at Larsen’s “Ka’aka’aniu” Beach on Friday. It’s tragic because it could have been prevented as we’ll discuss today. The incident again highlights the recurring pattern of visitor drownings—often tied to unfamiliarity with Hawaii’s rapidly changing and sometimes extreme ocean conditions.
According to Kauai officials, the visitor had gone snorkeling around 12:30 p.m. on March 14 when he became separated from friends in the water. Emergency responders from the Kauai Fire Department found him unresponsive offshore and brought him back to the beach, where he was declared dead at the scene despite life-saving efforts. While no foul play is suspected, an autopsy will determine the exact cause of death.
A beach with a very troubling history.
Larsen’s Beach is unquestionably beautiful but has a troubling record of visitor drownings. The one-mile trail down takes about 20-25 minutes. Once on the beach, you can’t see the entire stretch of sand because it’s curved and hidden. A swimmer in distress could go unnoticed.
Past fatalities at this beach have included other visitors from California, Alaska and beyond. Though not officially classified as a high-risk beach, its remoteness, lack of resources and signage, and sometimes deceptively calm appearance have proven dangerous.
A recent reviewer on All Trails said this about Larsen’s: “The waves are big but break before they come to shore & currents are strong. A few swells came in & took us to neck deep quickly.” (January 2025)
A hand-painted warning sign at the trailhead famously reads, “No Safe Swimming. Deadly Unseen Currents Have Killed 20+,” with tally marks etched into the surface—a haunting local reminder of the risks. Some Kauai residents say the ocean here can go from shallow to very deep instantly.
What people are saying about Kauai snorkeling drownings.
To begin with, it’s best to avoid remote, non-lifeguarded beaches like Larsen’s when snorkeling.
Despite the risks, Larsen’s remains a frequently recommended stop in guidebooks and online forums. As one person said, “They need more information before they step into our waters… what beaches are safe and have lifeguards!” Another added, “You can’t force people to listen,” pointing to the warning signage already posted at the trailhead.
One commenter shared a near-drowning and rescue that took place nearby: “A man in his 70s, an experienced swimmer, was caught in a rip. My husband had fins and barely got them both back.”
These stories point to a sobering truth: even skilled swimmers can quickly find themselves in trouble in Hawaii’s unpredictable waters. BOH editors are long-time ocean swimmers on Kauai and know the risks firsthand—Jeff had two close calls with death in rip currents (Brennecke Beach on Kauai and Sandy Beach on Oahu), despite being lifeguard certified.
Tripadvisor reviews of Larsen’s Beach offer similar caution. One visitor wrote, “You have to pay attention to tides and currents… there are rip tides and you need to understand the currents here.” Others described rough surf, steep access, and difficult water entry due to shallow reef and rocky bottoms. Several said they stayed out of the water entirely because it simply looked too dangerous.
Snorkeling risks in Hawaii.
Snorkeling remains one of the top causes of visitor drownings in Hawaii. While it may seem like a low-risk activity, unfamiliar gear, ocean fatigue, and unexpected currents make it more hazardous than many expect—especially when done alone or without flotation aids. Some visitors panic or feel disoriented using full-face masks, especially if unfamiliar with snorkels.
The State of Hawaii’s official ocean safety guidelines recommend using the buddy system, wearing bright or inflatable snorkel vests, and avoiding unfamiliar beaches, especially when tired, dehydrated, or in high surf.
What surprises many is how quickly a calm moment can turn fatal. Several Reddit commenters said they were caught off guard at Larsen’s by the strength of riptides and shore breaks, even in places that “looked like a swimming pool.”
Safety measures and what’s missing.
Kauai officials continue to urge visitors to swim and snorkel only at lifeguarded beaches. Yet with only a limited number of staffed beaches island-wide, many scenic locations—including Larsen’s—remain completely unmonitored.
It’s also important to remember that ocean conditions on Kauai change seasonally, so you must pay attention to the time of year you are visiting and the surf conditions when you are here.
The rescue tube program is one low-cost safety measure already in place at most Kauai beaches. These bright yellow flotation devices, mounted in simple stands, are available for emergency use by bystanders until help arrives. The program has saved lives across the island and may now be present at virtually all Kauai beaches. However, BOH hasn’t independently verified their current status at Larsen’s since our last on-site reporting.
Where to snorkel more safely on Kauai.
The best North Shore Kauai beaches for snorkeling are:
- Anini Beach
- Protected by Hawaii’s longest barrier reef.
- Usually calm, clear waters with abundant marine life.
- Ideal year-round, even during winter.
- Tunnels Beach (Makua Beach)
- Renowned for vibrant coral formations and marine biodiversity.
- Best in summer (May–October) due to calmer conditions.
- Ke’e Beach
- Excellent reef, abundant fish, and spectacular scenery.
- Summer snorkeling is safest due to calmer ocean conditions.
- Lifeguarded but parking reservations required.
The best South Shore Kauai beaches for snorkeling are:
- Poipu Beach Park
- Lifeguarded, family-friendly, ideal for beginners.
- Calm, clear waters with diverse marine life, including turtles and monk seals.
- Lawai Beach (Beach House Beach)
- Rich coral reef, excellent fish diversity, common turtle sightings.
- Best snorkeling close to shore; suitable year-round.
- Koloa Landing
- Popular spot for sea turtles, colorful fish, and occasional rays.
- Easy entry, typically calm waters, excellent for snorkeling and diving.
These beaches generally have safe conditions year-round, though mornings offer the calmest water. Always confirm ocean conditions before entering.
If you’re unsure and there is no lifeguard, the best advice is, “When in doubt, stay out!”
The challenge of improving access and awareness.
Efforts to expand lifeguard coverage and signage across the island have been ongoing, but obstacles remain. Kauai’s terrain and rural layout mean many beaches are difficult to staff or reach consistently. Warnings about unguarded beaches are not always posted, and visitor education materials are often overlooked.
One idea gaining traction is the use of QR-coded ocean safety links at airports, car rental counters, or vacation rentals. These could direct visitors to real-time conditions, safety tips, and maps of lifeguarded beaches—a small step that could make a significant difference.
There is also growing interest globally in AI-powered drowning detection cameras, which can monitor swimmers and alert responders to distress in real time. While Kauai has not implemented this technology, it may offer a future solution for early warning at beaches without lifeguards.
Meanwhile, as long as remote beaches are presented in travel guides without adequate caution, the cycle of preventable incidents is likely to continue.
Final thoughts.
Hawaii’s beauty comes with risk, especially in the ocean. The combination of dangerous currents, isolation, and unfamiliar conditions has led to repeated tragedies—this latest snorkeling death being just one more in a long list.
While efforts like rescue tubes, QR-coded safety info, and future tech may help, they haven’t reached every beach. Until systemic improvements are truly in place island-wide, visitors must take personal responsibility. That means choosing guarded beaches, asking questions, using flotation, and avoiding solo snorkeling.
And if you see someone heading into unsafe waters unaware of the danger, say something. A few words of caution could save a life.
We invite your comments on today’s article. Mahalo!
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I am a decent swimmer and not a risk-taker. About 7 years ago, I snorkeled in relatively calm water at a public beach. A wave washed me over some shallow coral, so I swam against the wave. I did inspire a small amount of seawater in the process but thought nothing of it. Suddenly, I could not breathe. I stopped and stood up on the coral to catch my breath, took off my snorkel, and tried to swim to shore. Again, I could not breathe. All I could do was lay on my back, take shallow breaths, and paddle slowly to the shore. I was within feet of others but could not speak. To them, I just looked like someone relaxing in the water. I reported this to the Hawaii Snorkel Safety study, which was not conclusive but did result in a good set of guidelines. Why are most of the visitor “drowning” deaths in Hawaii snorkelers? Snorkel Induced Rapid Onset Pulmonary Edema is probably under-recognized and should be noted. I think I survived it.
It can probably happen to anyone. The main thing is you survived! Have you been back to the Ocean? I certainly hope so, just cautiously
“ And if you see someone heading into unsafe waters unaware of the danger, say something. A few words of caution could save a life.”
How many tourists in Hawaii have you personally said this to when you saw them going into dangerous conditions? What was their reaction?
I can tell you from personal experience, they don’t listen and don’t care. They know better! Especially the ones clearly stepping foot into the ocean for the first time in their lives. It doesn’t even have to be the ocean, same applies for stepping over ledges, walls, etc, all with warning signs saying it is prohibited to do so.
Just the other day, I saw a mother with 2 small children standing in the ocean and I told her that the waves are unpredictable and might not be able to hold her baby and save her daughter. Believe me, she listened …I also warn people about the rocks that you don’t necessarily see when you swim out without goggles …most thank me for the advice, especially when I tell them that I have personally witnessed emergency crews not being able to save someone …Other times, I tell them not to enter the ocean and ask how long they stay so that they can come back on a calmer day. I tell them I am a good swimmer, but not entering the ocean that day.
As a former resident on Kauai and chef at Princeville Sheraton the mantra was only swim North Shore in summer or winter south shore.
Unless you’re Titus Kinimaka or Laird Hamilton. Every year people die.
Especially Lumahai which locals calls LumDie.
I know the danger of Kauai beaches firsthand. Almost drowned at Anini Beach a couple years ago because I didn’t pay attention to warning signs and the water looked calm. Big mistake! The conditions changed very quickly and I was pulled out before being rescued in by family. Pay attention to the signs and don’t go in the water if lifeguards or readily available floatation devices aren’t around.
I’m someone with moderate background snorkeling in Kauai so if someone more experienced wants to correct, please do.
My impression is that all North Shore beaches are suspect in the winter, Including Anini. All South Shore beaches are suspect in the Summer. You take that information and then follow the surf report and ask lifeguards. Contrary to prior posters, Anini and Tunnels do not have lifeguards. And contrary to your otherwise great article, Lawaii beach is Not safe in the summer. The one thing that would really make a difference is more lifeguards on more beaches and real-time information to swimmers from a single reputable source on current conditions beach by beach. Mahalo for spreading awareness.
For Years since my first trip 1973 there was constant buzz to visitors from visitors about hidden beaches and hiking through private properties, sugar cane fields, etc. to swim at a “special” beach. I hiked down to queens beach once and while it was beautiful, it was dangerous, scary, and from then on, I decided that there is NO beach as pretty as the public ones that are easy access and legal access. I can see the person now proudly sharing their private beach directions, and they are all, like, hey I know something, that no one else does and “man, you will love it”. Its crazy when the State of Hawaii has carefully planned very nice public beaches, and that nothing is ever good enough for many. Deadly wrong, they are!
I was a college swimmer, lifeguard, surfer, but this was in Cali. Big difference in ocean currents and waves between Cali and Hawaii. I’m 67 yrs old now and yet I humble myself to realize I’m no longer that young waterman. I check in with the lifeguards and ask them where I can swim. How’s the current. Sometimes they tell me it’s not a good day (Sandy beach), I listen and do not go in water.
Aloha 🌺
Another snorkeling death, sad. I was unfamiliar with this beach, so looked it up on Google Maps. It’s noted as “Permanently closed.” Is this beach off limits?
No.
Your well-crafted and balanced article gave me chills. I was on that beach 18 years ago, experiencing it firsthand. My girlfriend and I were snorkeling when she ventured farther out than I did. As I swam toward her, I felt a strong pull, slowly drawing me farther than I wanted to go. A large wave crashed over me, and water filled my snorkel. I struggled to return to shore, terrified.
I’ve always respected the ocean and learned to never turn my back on it, but it all happened so quickly, and I was lucky. At the time, I don’t recall any warning signs, and I’m grateful to see more of them now. In these litigious times, I believe every beach should have at least one sign. Many people think it won’t happen to them, and while some may ignore the warnings, others will at least have the chance to make the right choice.
What’s the rest of the story? Did your girl friend make it back to shore? Are you two still together??
She did make it back, too. She didn’t get as much water in her snorkel as I did, and no, we are not together anymore.
She was a stronger swimmer than I was, and she had more experience in the water.
What I learned, and as many have mentioned here….go to the beaches with Lifeguards and live to tell about it and return someday with no fear, only memories of fun! Kauai is very magical and truly a special place. Proceed with caution and respect when entering the waters.
Larsen’s Beach is not Kaakaaniu. Kaakaaniu is the baby beach south of Larsen’s. It is visible to the right of Larsen’s looking towards the ocean at the drowning sign. The Hawaiian name of Larsen’s is Lepeuli. Please correct. Thank you.
BOH editors, I spotted a rescue tube at Larson’s when I was there in January. But the thing is, who is going to take the risk to swim it out to the person in distress? You put yourself in danger too. I won’t take the chance of going in the water there especially since I am usually alone.
Somehow people drown in Waikiki and Magic Island also. Tourists be careful.
I am so encouraged by the comments about this tragedy.
Not a single post blames the victim and several people have postive suggestions to prevent more deaths. If Hawaiian leaders will add more lifeguards and improve tourist education lives can be saved.
This article has some dangerous shortcomings.
Anini Beach is not safe all year around. Drownings happen, especially during higher surf, which in the winter is common. Like many of Hawaii’s beaches it can appear calm unless you see the channels with outflowing waters. Anini has a lifeguard, but they are “roving”, so it’s possible they won’t even see you in trouble.
Tunnels, aka Makua, has a full time lifeguard. It’s best practice to check in with the lifeguard at ANY guarded beach. They prefer that.
Koloa Landing and Lawai beaches have NO lifeguards. Summer swells make these Very dangerous.
Don’t assume “locals” are always giving you the best advice. Many are hard core ocean water people and don’t understand how easy it is for someone to drown.
In general if you are not fully aware of all the dangers:
Only enter the water at lifeguarded beaches.
Always ask the lifeguards for advice on where to enter.
Lawai Beach (Beach House Beach)
extremely dangerous. there’s a sign x the street warning of major rip tides and how many people have died here.
China Walls (Koko Kai Beach) in E. Oahu. Constant rescues needed for visitors who are in waaay over their heads…
Best Regards
What’s the rest of the story? Did your girl friend make it back to shore? Are you two still together??
So many people in my state go to the beach and don’t even know what a riptide is. The news warns people Beware of the Sneaker Waves and sure enough some person goes out to his armpits in the surf and suddenly gets knocked down and sucked under and missing.Every year this happens. Somehow people think the ocean is one big swimming pool. Our beaches have 40-55 degree water so hypothermia sets in very quick. Hawaii’s water is so much warmer that in most cases it feels like a heated swimming pool to some folk. Not an excuse but maybe just caught up in the moment not thinking.
Hey Don: What state? Where do you hit the beach and swim the surf?
Excellent article BOH editors! As a regular visitor to Kauai for over 60 years (yes I’m an old one) it never ceases to amaze me the number of careless people who think they can tame the ocean. Warning: you can’t so don’t try!
Aloha to all.
I just clicked on that beach and it now says “permanently closed”. Always a tragedy when someone dies in the ocean in Hawaii. I saw 2 who died in Maui and a few that were rescued ….I only put goggles that are easily removable and always check out the conditions before entering the ocean. Thank you so much for pointing out the safer options in Kauai. Looking forward to exploring those when I return.
I nearly got swept out once here myself—terrifying experience I’ll never forget. People underestimate how quickly Kauai’s conditions can change and how powerful the ocean is there.
This is a Kauai beach that looks postcard-perfect on Instagram—but underwater currents don’t come with a warning label.
Travel guides rarely mention the hidden dangers of popular beaches—so thanks for highlighting this. Awareness is the first step toward prevention.
Sobering for sure, especially for visitors who might underestimate the ocean’s power. Respecting nature is always key, but clearer safety measures are definitely needed since so many don’t suspect how dangerous it is until it’s too late.
This is heartbreaking—it’s easy to overlook dangers when surrounded by such incredible beauty. Maybe more visible warnings, camera or a lifeguard presence could prevent further tragedies.
When we were recently in Maui, we signed up to get the daily morning report from The Snorkel Store on snorkel/ocean conditions at various Maui spots. We found it incredibly helpful, very much impacting when and where we chose to snorkel. It kept us from potentially foolishly trying out the ocean just to see if it was safe for snorkeling. It would be wonderful if Kauai could have a morning snorkel report too. (You don’t have to purchase gear from The Snorkel Store to get the daily report, altho we did and it’s great equipment.)
I snorkeled there several times and had no idea about this. It really makes you rethink what “safe” actually means when exploring Kauai.