Very sad. I would think just seeing the size of the waves would keep people a safe distance away from the beach, not to mention the warnings. I guess they don't comprehend the power of the water.

We are leaving shortly for Kauai and the Big Island. Are the warnings posted on the beach? Some of the beaches have to be hiked to so how would one know of the warnings?

People who are not familiar with the ocean can be completely clueless about how dangerous it is.

The first time we took a teen niece from Cleveland to the beach she simply walked out into the breakers - and it took 3 people to pull her back in. We had explained and said start with water at your knees and work out gradually - but she thought she could swim through shoulder high breakers.

I was there in Kauai, staying in Kapaa up to today. I drove up to the north side to the end Ke'e and WHOA! the ocean was fierce. People were warned not to go into the water at the main beaches where I stopped. They said on the local news that they could not get the bodies right away because it was too risky.

That is so sad--but people do such foolish things.

Yesterday there was a sign posted at the pavilion at Hanalei Bay that the beach was closed. I still walked the length of the beach but stayed far from the ocean--and kept an eye on it. There were quite a few people strolling and lounging. There was no sign at the area around the pier and Black Pot--and there were lots of people swimming there.

I've been to Ke'e Beach (but not on this trip) when there was a sign posted that the beach was closed. But I'm guessing that a remote beach that you would hike to would probably not have a sign. I'd check the weather reports online to see if there is a high surf advisory.

FYI, over the past couple of weeks, on the days I visited, Hanalei Bay, Anini Beach, Kealia Beach, Donkey Beach, and Anahola were all pretty calm--and lots of people were swimming. I believe the high surf advisory is expected to end tomorrow.

Sigh...another tragedy.

"Some of the beaches have to be hiked to so how would one know of the warnings?"

One needs to use common sense and have a healthy respect for the power of the ocean. Many of these places ARE posted as dangerous, but people looking for a "more exciting ocean experience" or "a more country style adventure" don't care. Some people seem to have an inflated sense of themselves and often disregard warnings, advice and get caught up in the moment. I have seen this attitude at work all over the island at many of the places and beaches mentioned above.

It is very sad.

I've seen people along boardwalks ( on TV news) .. some wave splashing over the railings and then suddenly a big mother wave comes and throws them to the ground.

I assume the waves crashing before they were swept away were not that alarming to them and they are simply ignorant about the possibiity of the next waves being MUCH worse.It's such a sad story. No one on purpose puts themsleves in this situtuation.. it's just sad ignorance.

I agree that it is sad ignorance. If there is a high surf advisory, should one assume that a 'sneaker wave' or 'mother wave' COULD be a possibility? And to stay away from the shoreline?

Of course .. if they are aware of all the warnings.. of course. I hope the others have now learned .. but the hard way.

Unfortunately this sort of thing happens every winter on the north shore of Kauai. People see the signs. They hear the warnings and read the surf reports, but they don't think they apply to them. I don't think ignorance plays as large a part in happenings like this as one would like to think.

I'm wondering if the Pacific is not more prone to danger than the Atlantic when it comes to "sneaker" waves. We have beach vacationed often on the east coast and Gulf of Mexico and I have never heard of this until just now when reading in preparation of staying in Hawaii. Perhaps these tourists are those who think that a surf advisory pertains to just not swimming and has nothing to do with wading along the shore. I honestly would of thought that. I'm glad I know differantly now.

yes cd, it's a whole different beast when you are in the middle of the ocean. And it is not just a winter seasonal thing. Just last summer a young boy drowned by a rogue wave that swept him off the rocks while on a hiking/kayaking trip on a day of relatively calm conditions. He was considered one of the strongest swimmers of the group, yet didn't have a chance.

That is why I become vocal on this forum when someone who has never been to the islands and wants some good waves and a more exciting ocean experience, because their kids are "strong swimmers". . . well when people here post about "fun epic waves", or "if it is choppy at a beach just wear fins and you'll be fine", attention must be paid.

There's a reason why people Revile the Blue Books and Mr. Daughty's cavalier attitude of ocean safety.

Many victims are just plain stupid, like the guy that got sucked into the blow hole on Maui. I don't think they ever recovered his body. There are hundreds of stories.

Again, I think these two websites should be visited by every tourist and played by the airlines as they begin their decent.

http://kauailifeguards.org/

http://www.KauaiExplorer.com/guides/beach/beach_safety.php

Sometimes just a little education and a lot of common sense is the only thing between life and death. Have a wonderful time cd. And some great safe ocean swimming!

Cd, I stopped at Ha'ena Beach several years ago. The beach was closed and it should have been obvious that even wading or walking along the shore was dangerous. We kept a good distance away from ocean, but there were a couple of people, including a family with children who would make quick runs into the water. Even though the beach was closed, there was a lifeguard on duty, so maybe he added a false sense of security.

I have always thought that people who "reviled" the Blue books were more concerned about their special places being revealed to outsiders than safety issues. I think that the books are pretty safety focused, frankly, and I never thought there was a "cavalier attitude of ocean safety" in any of the books(tho I admit I've only had editions of Oahu, BI, and Maui; I did note that some private land/access issues were resolved between editions).
Anyway, whether you are swimming in Hawaii, climbing in Rocky Mountain NP, hiking in Death Valley, or skiing in Utah, only an idiot thinks that nature is a playground and that nothing bad can happen.

in response to some posts.....the drownings i've responded to on Kauai as a local born resident and far too many throughout my life as a county life guard and fire fighter/emt on oahu and maui county are because of visitors taking a risk no matter how seemingly insignificant in adverse conditions. Signs are out, float rings in place to assist, life guards adamantly pro active and in your face if you approach a dangerous shoreline. Visitors disregard their sense of responsibility! When someone is swept off a rocky outcropping, they drown quickly and turn to hamburger from being dragged back and forth along the reef/rocks, unless a sand beach drowning. The latest drownings with these 5(two died) guests occurred at a spot off the beaten path ...the first victim chose to walk out to the plateau of lava overlooking the ocean, seemingly safe as the long lulls of this large swell presented the illusion of "its not so bad" and he lost his life as the set inundated him as there was no retreat mostly due to his position far out on the rocks. His friend instinctively jumped in and they both disappeared as the set kept pounding for the next few minutes. Thats how it goes here...large sets of waves can be seen coming from afar after a long lull...these storms far off the Aleutians are powerful yet far a way so lulls are long, and then a giant set of up to 8 to 10 waves detonate on the reef. kalihiwai bay that day was small and we surfed all day as the west component missed the bay yet was nailing the north facing rocks. This whole set up happens far too often and no matter the level of prevention, it affect everyone here. I cannot imagine the families receiving such horrible news. As civil servants,we are putting our lives on the line in response to these tragedies. many times, the captain will pull his crew out of the area as its too dangerous to send anyone in and certain death for a fellow fire fighter is avoided.
the cavalier attitude of opening up the off the radar spots is evident in the presentation to showcase and sell the island. these places were never portrayed to anyone until the travel guides started "sharing" the hidden reef/coves/ocean walkways...there is no safety first,, instead go visit here and walk there...there is zero chance of rescue at some of these places showcased. nothing about us worrying about visitors seeing our places. I'm happy to show you myself when the time is right. the editors are diluting the issues and drownings do happen directly related to them showcasing the places unsafe for visitors....community forums speak endlessly about this issue. Try come and be present in forums with the local emergency room drs and fire fighters as we go through the particulars of how to prevent further deaths.
I defer to you when i come to Idaho to ski, or Yosemite to hike..your local knowledge is concise and i do not pretend to know more than you or follow a guide book exclusively. Always find a local born and raised, not someone having lived there for 10 years and advocating he/she is a local. conditions are learned from kid days. knowledge is compiled by involvement.

slyvia, the national parks didn't ban the books from their giftshops many years ago, because they were promoting trespassing to hidden gems. They banned them because they were suggesting dangerous behavior and tourists were dying.

I've followed Doughty thru the press for about 15 years of controversy. His partner took her names of the books as a cowriter. I'm sure she had good reason. He has no remorse but a great sense of entitlement. Not once have I heard him mourn the loss of life or take a single bit of responsibility.

I have often wondered how many of these deaths had a Blue Book sitting nearby as they died.

Kauaistyle, although I understand you may be using this website as a platform to promote and advertise your concierge skills for hire, I don't appreciate when you belittle others and act superior. Just a week or two ago, you acted flippant about ocean safety. Since I and others called you out, you have taken a new tact, a responsible tact. You have made clearly irresponsible comments and have now changed your position. I truly appreciate that. But please don't belittle me and other haole mainlanders who have invested in bringing up ocean safety and respect for years on these forums.

And please do not suggest that only tourists drown because they disregarded the signs. As you know many locals too have drowned in the past 20 years as well. Locals like you that knew the signs, and ignored them.

wtm, If the beach was closed why was a lifeguard on duty?

As a kid growing up in San Diego my born/raised SD cousins taught me to respect the ocean.
My travels to Kauai have taught me to fear the ocean. Not too much room for error on that gorgeous, wonderful island.

cd...While we were at Haena last week the beach was closed due to hi surf. Big signs posted. While laying there catching some rays and hearing "the thumpers" we hear the Lifegaurd whistle. 4 young boneheads were going in.

kauaistyle-love your posts but I'm beggin' yah...paragraphs please.

We were staying on the Coconut Coast until last Friday.
The waves hitting the East Coast were some of the biggest and most consistant we've seen since we started going over in '89. Awesome to look at tho. Usually pretty calm in the Dec/Jan mos.

"...While we were at Haena last week..."

Cd, I have no idea. There was a "beach closed" sign in the sand. Kauaistyle and Kal note similar experiences so it must be a common procedure.

complicated in all regards. good forum dialogue regardless. stirs it up for the better understanding. Before social media, face to face sharing of insights lessoned how strong wording may poke or offend. As well as directly helping folks new to this lush place.These forums are wide open to properly interject and pick apart from different opinion/experience points. Not my personal intentions to roust. been called plenty of things from afar in response over the years in multiple forums and publications. opposing views are welcome. On the ground reality is more tangible. We all seem to agree that the concern should remain so noone else dies. Yup, locals have perished as well and equally horrific for their families. My "biz" has always been in concert with everyone else embracing kokua and kahiau, meaning, being of gracious service and generosity. not being hired or showcasing for compensation. plenty of great guests find me from appropriate word of mouth. Thats how
This is the final day of searching for the second person. Air 1 has been flying low since sunrise hoping to bring some peace to the family. We walked the cliff line in hopes of something. Still stormy yet smaller surf today. Tomorrow, another round of giant surf forecast to hit all north and west shore of all Hawaiian islands.

ww,
And the only tan line I have is from my watch.

http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Vacation-tragedy-claimed-best-of-friends-4211981.php

this article puts some humanity into the horrible lose although makes it even more sad to know them a bit....

The lifeguards cannot stop people from entering the water, even if the beach is closd. the guards are there are there to try and prevent people from going into the water, or saving them if they go in despite signs and verbal warnings.

The victims shouldn't be judged. It's not always stupidity or disregard. I thnk it's more likely that these tourists went to look at the waterfall in the region, approaching the coast from a path behind the waterfall (i.e. relative safety). From here they may even have followed routine safety advice "watch the ocean for 20 minutes" (which is an over simplification), and then decided to go out on the lower rock shelves.

Tourists to Kauai have to be taught that the surf report is a pre-requisite for visiting the ocean. That's the only way to know what the ocean is capable of, versus what's being observed. Most don't know this. I believe rogue waves are very rare - they're confused with a predicted change in ocean conditions.

The warnings from radio/tv etc are not constant and all pervasive, they only appear that way to locals because so much of life revolves around the ocean and they're tuned in. The majority of beaches don't have warnings. I'm happy to see there's a new initiative to place informational signs.

Don't assume that "expert" advice is correct or safe - whether from a local, guide book, or even surf instructor. You have to add your own judgement and take responsibility for your safety (and that of your family). I've seen surf instructors place their students in dangerous situations because they don't appreciate how foreign an environment the ocean is to people who aren't accustomed.

I use to view the ocean as "Mother Nature". She had so much to teach and brought joy to my life. Then one day she nearly killed me and I stopped personifying her although the love was still there.

Nearly everyone who spends a significant amount of time in and around the ocean has a story - a lapse in judgement, an error compounded, a desire too strong.

great post!

"the national parks didn't ban the books from their giftshops many years ago, because they were promoting trespassing to hidden gems. They banned them because they were suggesting dangerous behavior and tourists were dying."

That's nonsense. There was simply hate for the books. And only one was removed from shelves, mostly due to uproar over roads getting more traffic.
http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2004/May/23/ln/ln01a.html

hgjames...well said!!!

It seems those that are the least familiar with the ocean are the ones that have the least understanding of the dangers.

One should never go to a beach they are unfamiliar with unless it was guarded.

I've read of posters telling other posters that certain unguarded beaches are fine (because they've been there and didn't have problems). Terrible advice.

<<it was guarded.>>

sorry ... is guarded.

Thanks to another poster sharing a celebration of amazing photos

http://twistedsifter.com/2012/01/picture-of-the-day-maelstrom-at-kauai-hawaii/

A fabulous photo! but I noted the tongue-in-cheek instructions on how to get the photo at the bottom of the page. There are some pretty zealous camera hounds out there, and I wouldn't put it past them (even some people I know) to try and duplicate (or one-up) this shot!

love the photo...thats by Kahili Bay known as Rock Quarry beach,down the back road off Kilauea RD where we surf,,,lava pool around the bend toward lighthouse...heres a random internet grab from someones blog showing the Ka Puka moi/Waikaama pools where the guests drown...
http://kauaipie.blogspot.com/2008/06/secret-lava-pools.html

Pretty, but not worth dying for.

kauaistyle, this blogspot looks so tranquil. Is this really where people have drowned?

cd, you have to imagine it in the winter with 30' surf in the background. Or even in the summer with one bigger than usual wave coming over the rocks and leaving people with nowhere to go. In spots where there is no reef , the power of the whole Pacific is breaking right there on the beach.

Wow, it just scares me because we will be there tomorrow and I don't want to go anyplace that is dangerous!

Don't be afraid cd. You now know to use due caution. If the surf is kicking up, you know to stay back and enjoy it from a safe distance. You know not to go rock climbing when the surf is crashing. The one place I would not visit in the winter is Queen's Bath.

Have a wonderful trip. Hopefully you will have some refreshing light showers and returning sunshine, beautiful sunrises and sunsets and some lovely swims in calm waters. If the surf is up, Hanalei Bay usually sections off a well guarded area. You are going to have a wonderful trip!

hey CD, as aloha said, that spot and other north shore overlooks are very approachable in the summer after/before our winter surf season. Sadly, that is exactly where the two san francisco friends perished, making a bad decision. The whole aftermath has been spoken about by all of us and it is just tragic. The SF paper highlighted some wonderful insights about their humanity and friendship. If you notice in a couple of the photos,there is a nice little waterfall and ponds where we catch opae shrimp in the summer, play in the brackish pond and jump off the rocks into the ocean. As stated above, the ocean right outside the outcropping is deep so winter swells don't break way out and allow someone to see the white water coming and perhaps avoiding; instead, it breaks right on the rocks even when huge. I've sat up many times by the home to watch, a good 100' above .......YET summer trade wind swells can be dangerous at specific spots. ex: Queens bath in the morning, warm water and perfect for families to hang out. Been going there since kids day. IF the trade winds are up producing short period swell, an occasional large wave can surprise anyone sitting too comfortable close. It happens. Go to Hanalei bay, Anini,...places where there are life guards or at least other local families hanging out. For sure ask your hotel concierge or anyone about places to go and to avoid. Different set of cautions during winter.
I can show you Waikoko's, the west end of Hanalei bay where, if a sunny winter day, families can safely hang out away from even giant surf. I've said before too, Lumahai by the river is awesome IF IF IF you stay far away from the shoreline and just cruise by the river bank. Go see for yourself; plenty of local and guest families hanging out. I'll dig in my photo library for a winter picture showing the power.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=bV6a3t6BXAA
vid of fisherman walking to the spot...notice; decent size swell, he choses to avoid. Imagine a swell 5 times larger covering the whole shelf up to the waterfall....

Thanks all, we'll be landing at sunset tomorrow.

The changing seasonal conditions at Queen's Bath

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbEXXVPClWM

and still, even in the summer, the people lounging with their backs to the ocean is mighty risky if you don't know how to read surf charts and ocean and wind conditions hundreds of miles out.

No. 5 for the year...

http://thegardenisland.com/news/local/ocean-claims-fifth-victim-in/article_aac073bc-7038-11e2-8a15-001a4bcf887a.html

Very sad!

It's a shame when this happens - and fortunately - millions of tourists visit Hawaii each year without getting into trouble.

Admire Kauai as they have really stepped up their efforts to educate/make people aware of possible problems when going near the ocean.

Usually - during calm conditions - the ocean is generally safe (absent rip tides, etc) - but still - people need to double check on local conditions, especially on the North Shores during the winter/big surf time.

Agree!
Admire Kauai as they have really stepped up their efforts to educate/make people aware of possible problems when going near the ocean.

I almost posted yesterday about Monday's drowning. 2 deaths in 2 days

Wow, what a great thread. Thx to the OP and PPs for all the insights and discussion. I'm not the bravado type who would foolishly cast caution aside but I can see how being somewhat ignorant could really result in tragedy while on vacation.

I appreciate the links provided and will be sure to check out the daily tide/weather warnings while in Hawaii - I've bookmarked them!

Enjoy-la!

#6

I was actually looking at the hanalei webcam late last night EST and wondered what was up with jetski.

http://thegardenisland.com/news/local/surfer-drowns-in-hanalei/article_cf99a2f6-735a-11e2-af79-001a4bcf887a.html

I found this to be poignant.

http://thegardenisland.com/news/local/hanalei-drowning-victim-identified/article_bc665062-7418-11e2-95d1-0019bb2963f4.html


Surfing soul

In the late 1960s and early 1970s, the waves and Kaua‘i’s beautiful backdrops brought many of us from around the globe to settle in Hanalei. Rick Proczka was affectionately nicknamed Waimea Rick. We all had nicknames that reflected who we were. Rick loved to charge. He would be out in tiny spring and fall waves while charging at first light and or at last light in some of the most treacherous conditions imaginable. Rick would either ride or give the best wave of a set to a friend, with the same smile, regardless.

When Rick was living at Pine Trees, he baited me to paddle out in waves that were far beyond my physical and mental abilities. Or so I thought. Yet, he inspired me on this particular new years eve to push the limits. There were just a few of us out and he encouraged me to take off and ride what is still, to this day the most memorable wave I have ever ridden at Hanalei. One that I will never forget. Thanks to Rick!

Another time when the eye of Hurricane Iwa had settled over Hanalei, he and I were tempted to paddle out for a brief surf. The air was steamy hot, the waves were perfect and the conditions were most amazing. I noticed there were no birds.. he noticed the winds were starting to blow from a different direction, and his judgment steered us clear of that go out. Within 10 minutes, Iwa’s north winds imploded houses and blew roofs to the ground. We both shared dreams of what that potential go out would have been like. Even for just a moment or two. Rick was always an eternal optimist.

Of late Rick stopped by our house with a deeper optimism. He had a Jehovah Witness glisten in his eye. Adding to the quiet gleam he had on days when we would score Rifle Range or Poko Moi with no one out. Days before leashes. Days before surf reports. Days when we had to seek and find the perfect wave. He knew the calm. He knew the Grace. He knew a Secret. And he always tried to share it with an open heart. He knew what these moments on earth were all about. I only wish I had one more moment to share with him. However his passing on Saturday Feb. 9, while surfing deep Hanalei in some of the most treacherous and yet rewarding winter waves brought him closer to where he belonged. Forever. I will miss the quiet laughter in his voice.

Andy Melamed

Hanalei

For those who continually test Mother Nature - some will lose.

Do I have this right? Richard was 64? Holy cow.
Who of that age belongs out in the big surf - where your chances of survival depend on your reflexes and sometimes, youthful stamina.

Tom. You are such a jerk.

Weke, Weke, Weke...I'm sure what you meant to say was "Ye are such an olde jerk, Sir".

Be a bit more respectful to your elders that obviously know and accept their own limitations and transfer them to others of their age that don't.

...uno mas....my local buddy is 64 and he surfs 2, 3x a week with his other "OFs".

There is a difference between suring and going out in huge surf. Big difference.

If he's been surfing all is life, no there isn't. It's in the blood.
Will you now tell us stories of you surfing with Duke Kahanamoku back in the 30s?

Garden variety jerk works for me.
My husband is 66. He runs 6 miles a day and swims 45 minutes every day. Tom, how old are you and other than flapping your lips what sort of exercise do you get? Please don't spin another of your yarns to mask your jerkiness.

UNA mas, I don't know why people don't check on surf/water conditions especially when they are new to an area. And they should always go to guarded beaches, no matter how experienced a surfer, waterman, or swimmer you are - you are no match for mother nature.

To say surfers/swimmers in an beach area they have been using for years, an area they know well, is quite different from a tourist who is not familiar with the breaks, conditions.

Weke - I am the same age as your husband and still work out - but can't come close to getting in the shape and haveing the speed/reflexes I had when I was an active Martial Artist (Karate, Judo/Jijitsu) in my 40's, nor would I attack a skiing downhill course at 60 mph like we used to do in our 30's. And don't even talk about what it took to play college athletics.

And I have body surfed in some fairly good size waves - both in Hawaii and California - but for board surfing the really big waves - and since you want some surfing knowledge - here it is.

Over the years - I have met a few big wave surfers - and any number of wannabes. Really - mostly wanabes. And I truly admire the guys who conquer those 40 foot plus monsters - but still think there comes a time when you hang it up.

This includes my saying hello years ago at a party - to a couple of guys who had successfully challenged the huge surf at Waimea on Oahu (where a friend of mine has lived for 40 years) - and also hearing many big wave stories, going all the way back to the former San Diegan/La Jollan - Butch Van Artsdalen - who died trying to rescue somebody off the North Shore. http://files.legendarysurfers.com/surf/legends/lsc214.html and a video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9Dyc5e8bJs

About 8 years ago - also met a local on Maui - who had successfully surfed big waves at Jaws - both paddling in and later - using a jet ski. He wasn't a big guy either - not a Laird Hamilton type by any means - and he said each time he came back - he kissed the sand and swore it would be his last time going out.

He was getting into his late 30's - I seem to remember 37? - and said he didn't go out as much any more - or in as big of a surf - but he still wanted that last - super exhilarating ride. He even said if he didn't make it back - so be it - that's the way he wanted to go.

Here in California - knew a couple guys who had surfed both Todos Santos - off Ensenada - (pics - http://tinyurl.com/b6p9sqz ) where they get big surf - and also at Mavericks - up by Santa Cruz. They were also little guys - and said they trained carrying rocks under water to extend their breathing capacity.

They too thought they were coming toward the end of their big surf time - and were not much over 40, if that. Part of the reason was they said they really had to train hard if they were going to challenge the big stuff, and as you get older - you lose some of that desire to train.

FYI - here are some other Big Wave spots in the world. http://www.extremehorizon.com/surf-shop/big_waves.html

Actually - Todos Santos is closer to Cabo. There is another place off Ensenada that gets pretty big surf, but not like Todos Santos.

Once in as while - Swamis here in San Diego gets 20 plus footers - but nothing like the other big wave places.

My double bad. Todos Santos is just down the coast off Ensenada. There is another fairly big wave place down by Cabo.

Oh Lord.

RESPECT!!!!!!!!

I posted a beautiful eulogy written by a fellow surfer to a great waterman who caught his last wave. He was not out trying to catch the 90ft wave. He was out catching a good wave on an average day, when the surf was up.

RESPECT.....

It was a nice eulogy - but the surf was not averaqe:

"KFD’s Air 1 was dispatched and spotted the body about 200 yards off shore, at roughly 6:30 p.m. Lifeguards recovered the body via Jet Ski and returned the victim to shore, where he was pronounced dead. Kaua‘i’s north and west facing shores were in a high surf warning at the time the drowning took place."

And from the eulogy:

"However his passing on Saturday Feb. 9, while surfing deep Hanalei in some of the most treacherous and yet rewarding winter waves brought him closer to where he belonged. Forever. I will miss the quiet laughter in his voice."

o. m. g.

More on Rick

http://thegardenisland.com/news/local/proczka-s-final-wave/article_80f6a910-78d6-11e2-898c-0019bb2963f4.html

and ocean safety concerns:

http://thegardenisland.com/news/local/despite-community-efforts-drownings-still-occur/article_045206d4-78d6-11e2-9e8c-0019bb2963f4.html

we spoke a couple days before his passing about his healing arm from his dog and his love of his religion. he lived a few doors down from my home. although i'm not a jehovahs witness, it was always my great privilege to speak with Rick and his friend as they walked through our neighborhood in Kilauea... ...he was such a sweet man...lived a glorious life...ALWAYS pleasant in the lineup and he Charged!he had just purchased a few new channel island boards from hanalei surf to try and upgrade his quiver(no dis to papa sau)... The day he passed was nothing unusual for us all, although big... chris the life guard on the jet ski had called it a day. usually, Pico comes in and snags us when we eat crap on a set and takes us to our boards for paddle back out. Rick may have had a chance had the lifeguards witnessed his hold down. Paddle out at 4:30 tomorrow tuesday feb 20 in his honor... come and join if on island. although he is forever surfing the best waves in the spiritual realm, it tears us up that such a nice man should pass even though doing what he absolutely loved...a hui ho Rick

He sounds like a great guy. What a loss for the community and his family.

tomsd, do you ever read the Ocean Magazine? You probably have but if not you might want to pick up a copy (I get them at El Pescador in La Jolla) or check out online. They do a lot of stories on surfing legends and surfing history.

http://www.theoceanmag.com/The_Ocean_Magazine.html

nana: Like Ocean magazine and read it when I can. Also a big fan of Surfing mag - and the latest edition (April?) - had a great story on the history of surfing the North Shore of Oahu. Actually - believe it's called The North Shore Issue. http://www.oceanmagazine.org/ and http://www.surfingmagazine.com/

Always wanted to see the Pipe in full curl - or the huge surf at Waimea - but so far - have only been lucky enough to see nicely formed 8 to 10 footers at Sunset (measured Hawaiian style - back of the wave) - and the locals were ripping 'em.

Here's the actual cover of April Surfing:

http://www.surfingmagazine.com/magazine/april-issue-2013-surfing-magazine/

super, and thanks tom.
I'll have to get that Surfing Issue. My brother lived and surfed on the North Shore back in the 70's and lived across the street from Pipeline. He remembers Eddie Akau and a lot of the legends from back then. He now lives and still surfs in Australia (on the Gold Coast). I'm sure the article will bring back lots of memories.

Tom, Just checked out the Ocean magazine you posted. that is a different one. The one I am refering to is published locally in Encinitas I believe.

nana and tom, could you take this conversation to a new thread please

kstyle, hoping to catch the paddle out here on the east coast via hanalei webcam, will you be there? Toss a blossom for me please.

seriously lookin glass?

yes, very seriously

it appears there is a memorial going on at the pier as I type, before the paddle out.

this thread is about ocean safety in kauai

my point is you don't need to be rude

This thread started a month ago as a water warning, then morphed into a memorial thread about a surfer; it seems that people can post what they want, if not too far off topics within the thread; if a separate thread is called for in order to be a memorial, one could certainly be started.
No need to order people about.

I think a thread on surfing publications is probably more appropriate, or better yet, why not an open thread where tom can spin all the yarns he wants to without it getting in the way of the original thread. We could call it "Tom's Place".

unless you want to discuss ocean safety wekewoody you need to start a new thread. sorry that's the "rule".

Or he can start a Tom's Place Facebook page where he can be the admin and not be bothered?

Now, I'd like to hear how the practice of martial arts leads to your reactions decreasing once you hit 65.

Maybe you meant marital arts?

First of all - good for the surfing legend Rick - if he went out on his own terms, and very nice tributes by Kauaistyle and Andy.

nana: You might ask your brother if he knew fellow San Diegan Butch Van Artsdalen - whose story you can read here.

Butch was part of the legendary Windansee Beach Club - whom noted authors Ken Kesey and Tom Wolfe wrote about in The Electric Kool Acid Test - and the Pump House Gang. http://www.windansea.org/chuck_hasley_memorial.html and http://files.legendarysurfers.com/surf/legends/lsc214.html and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Pump_House_Gang

Actually - for the founder/"Coach" of the Windansea surfing club - Chuck Hasley - they held a memorial at La Jolla's Boomers Beach - where I have body surfed some good sized waves. Almost as big as the ones I once did down by Poipu, before Iniki rearranged where it broke by Brenneke's Beach.

While I never met Butch - I do know some people here who knew him - and my friend - the surfing Doc on the North Shore of Oahu - knew him - as he did many of the old time surfers, as well as the continuing line of great surfers from the North Shore.

And Kal: Like your play on the the various spellings of "Martial" - and if I wasn't sufficiently clear - what I meant was when I was actively practicing Martial Arts - I could still give the young guys a go when sparring - but there definitely was a slowdown in speed and reflexes as I moved through my Forties, and it only continues after that.

As for Marital relations - hey - that follows a similar path.

He knew of Butch but my brother is about 12 years younger so no they wouldn't have known each other personally.

Ye of Hastings were sufficiently clear. I'm just a State College dullard who would have a problem punching my way out of a wet paper bag.

Kal: State College--as in Penn State Nittany Lions???

If so, we went to the same school! Uh, oh ... better start a new thread: Penn Staters who majored in Kauai. .

Came close to the State pen but no, not PSU.

If I would have stayed back in The Pitt I probably would have gone to Pitt or CMU...I would have gone to Duquesne but didn't know how to spell it.

...now...back to our regularly scheduled thread.....

So Kal. Was it Slippery Rock you attended?

No but I'm on a slippery slope now.
I was educated in the local State of Confusion College system.

...now...back to our regularly scheduled thread...

you're already going down a slippery slope when you changed the subject Kal

i did not make Rick's paddle out "Lookin Glas" however titus and papa sau filled me in on the loving particulars. sick daughter takes precedence
Its been raining hard in the mts and from radio chatter, looks as though someone was swept out to sea trying to cross Hanakapi'ai stream last evening...a bunch of folks having to sleep where they are in the mud and rain. to be continued...

BTW, st regis has a web cam as well to see the bay...not as clear as Bali Hai from the shore cam but anyone can watch the day flow forward

This just posted on the evile Facebook's Co of Kauai's page:

PLEASE BE ADVISED: while Rescuers continue their efforts to search for a missing female hiker in waters off Hanakapiai Beach, and assist over 50 hikers across the stream, police have closed Kuhio Hwy north of Haena Beach Park until further notice to allow rescuers full use of the area surrounding the Kee Beach trailhead. Mahalo for your patience & understanding. Updates will be given as information becomes available.

http://thegardenisland.com/news/local/woman-swept-out-to-sea-hikers-stranded-at-hanakapi-ai/article_8c3ea860-7cd0-11e2-aec4-0019bb2963f4.html

Glad you posted the link weke. I thought it had been posted on kauaistyle's new thread, but never bothered to read.

Talk about deja vu. The very same thing happened this time last year. As scary and uncomfortable as it may be to wait for conditions to change and suffering rainy muddy overnight conditions. . .

Both women died trying to cross a raging stream a short distance from dangerously high surf, rather then wait it out.

Last year they had to rescue 30something people under the same conditions in Feb. I've not heard about this recent event, but it is often not a preventable situation as many are campers on the 11 mile hike and not day trippers that didn't look at the days reports.

Tragic. Crossing that stream can be difficult in moderate conditions.

Another search and rescue is underway : (

Here is the Trip Advisor story. One couple turned around before getting out too far - and perhaps more should have?

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g29218-i304-k6172568-54_Hikers_Stranded_at_Hanakapiai_Beach-Kauai_Hawaii.html

After two days a rescue seems unlikely. I hope for the family that there is a recovery for closure, as there were no witnesses.

http://thegardenisland.com/news/local/police-identify-missing-swimmer-off-ninini-beach-resume-search-today/article_640f7992-8233-11e2-af95-0019bb2963f4.html

Unbelievable. Just when they suspended the search for last weeks suspected drowning, they are now searching for a man swept out to see yesterday. His companion managed to make it back to shore after they were both hit by a rogue wave.

http://thegardenisland.com/news/local/another-drowning-in-kalihiwai/article_4bce8500-855b-11e2-8aef-001a4bcf887a.html

Stay safe everyone!

Same general location as the drownings that happened earlier this year. So sad.

One can't help but wonder if the blue bible was involved in both tragedies, since the only reason people would be compelled to hike over that lava shelf is in search of the "Secret" Pools that little Andy "Discovered".

guide book complicit. trail formerly unknown to anyone outside community. where we fish, catch opae, enjoy summer sunsets and cliff jump into puka. Along side mr Stillers home. No drowning prior to highlight in guide book. Blue book one dimensional pseudo authority. real time on the ground dynamics do not adhere to paper back gleam embellishments,especially high surf winter season. we surf there , know when its adverse. no locals anywhere near waika'ama tide pools when advisories...
county tried to make them(guide book folks) liable. did not gain traction. some wanting trail closed. just like kipu falls where visitors died, now fenced off. waipahe'e slippery slide too...old days, perfect hallowed summer fun. drowning forced lawsuits, said failure to warn properly, fence goes up. easy to blame the ocean, the path to the pools, the surf, the world. who to blame when mirror breaks

"who to blame when mirror breaks"
Indeed.

Tough day in Maui this week...

http://www.mauinews.com/page/content.detail/id/570680/1-dies--2-hurt-after-being-found-in-ocean.html?nav=10

Sadly, there was another drowning (a local) today at Glass Beach.

With so many people visiting/playing in the Ocean, a small number will get in trouble and fewer still will not make it. Sad but it happens.

It's an odd and sad story, isn't it iceeu2? He had a leg cramp, made it back to shore, only to be swept back out to drown.

It is always a heavy burden when someone is lost at sea or adventure in Kauai. Everyone who is cognizant of the event, is effected. The volunteers and officials who make themselves available for tourists are good medicine. The locals that gather around the locals lost, too make good medicine.

To dismiss a life lost as ' sad but it happens' speaks volumes.