Tragedy in Hawai’i: Two Teenagers Drown While Fishing from Rocks
- William
- Nov 2
- 2 min read
Two teenage boys have drowned while fishing from the rocks at Kaʻena Point, on the island of Oʻahu, Hawai’i. According to reports from local media, the teenagers were casting lines from the rocky shore last Saturday morning when a powerful wave surged over the ledge, knocking one of them into the sea.
The second boy entered the water to try to save his friend, and emergency services were called when a walker spotted them in the water.
The Honolulu Ocean Safety and Fire Department launched a coordinated search but both boys were recovered unresponsive and taken to hospital, where they were later pronounced dead.
Kaʻena Point is popular with fishers and hikers for its isolation and views of the open Pacific, but the same remoteness makes it extremely hazardous. With no lifeguard towers nearby and limited mobile signal, rescue times are longer than in more populated areas.
Adding to the remoteness, the rocky shelves sit directly in the path of large, long-period waves generated thousands of miles away. These waves rise sharply as they reach the shallows, sending sudden surges across the rocks — powerful enough to knock even experienced locals from their footing and pulling them into the sea.
Half of the people who drown didn’t intend to tho into the sea. Even if you’re not a sea swimmer, this manual will keep you safe if you get swept in and need to swim to safety
Stay Safe
3 Key Lessons from Kaʻena Point
This heartbreaking incident is a reminder that the most dangerous moments often come when you least expect it. One moment it’s a fun day out, then you’re fighting for your life. To stay safe when exploring remote coastlines, be vigilant near the waters edge, wear a buoyancy aid, carry a rescue kit, and make sure you understand wave dynamics.
Be vigilant near the waters edge
Nearly half of all people who drown never intended to go in the sea. Most were walking, fishing, or simply standing too close when a surge hit. Even calm seas can send a single powerful wave that runs far up the rocks, knocking you over and pulling you out to sea. Always keep one eye on the water and never turn your back on the sea.
Wear a pfd and carry a throw bag
Exploring exposed coastal ledges without flotation is asking for trouble. A personal flotation device buys you time if you fall in, keeping you above the surface and helping rescuers find you. A small throw bag lets your friends pull you to safety without entering the danger zone themselves.
Tune into the swell
Waves arrive in sets — long lulls followed by a few larger surges. Don’t be fooled by calm moments; the big ones are always coming. Watch the sea for a few minutes before stepping close, and note how far the spray reaches. If you’re fishing or walking, stay higher than the highest wet mark. That line in the rock tells you where the ocean’s power reaches, and be ready for the occasional rogue wave to push even further.
If you love spending time by the ocean and want to understand it better, book a Tide School Masterclass. Sessions are available for any group size, whether it’s 1:1, friends, or family.
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