Waimea Bay Shorebreak Rescue: 74-Year-Old Tourist in Critical Condition

On Saturday, a man was found unresponsive in the water at Waimea Bay.

Lifeguards at the famed big wave surf spot sprang into action, grabbing the 74-year-old tourist from the shorebreak, and began CPR on shore.

It was reported that: “The incident occurred during moderate surf and strong shorebreak conditions.” And yet, despite the modest conditions, as most people know, or should know, spots like Waimea are not to be trifled with…even if it’s not 40-foot.

Following the rescue, the septuagenarian was transported to Honolulu Emergency Medical Services. The current status of the man is unknown.

The rescue comes amidst of flurry of others for Oahu lifeguards, as they’ve reportedly conducted 23 rescues across east Oahu this holiday weekend. And it’s not over yet.

Waimea Bay, on the other hand, is a different beast. It’s simultaneously known as a pioneering spot for big wave surfing, and still to this day hosts the most coveted trophy in surfing: The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational. At the same time, it’s an extremely popular tourist beach, with visitors unaware of the sheer power, especially in the shorebreak.

The contest window for the Eddie runs through March 6th – fingers crossed for conditions to reach the requisite 40-foot requirement for the event to run.

Recently, in a video showing wild conditions at Waimea, North Shore Lifeguards offered this warning:

“High Surf Warning remains in effect until 6 PM this evening for North and West facing shores. Expect large surf and coastal surges creating dangerous longshore rip currents. Even spectating can be dangerous. Obey lifeguard warning signs and only go to lifeguarded beaches. Check in with lifeguards to stay informed of the immediate hazards. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO and WHEN IN DOUBT, DON’T GO OUT!”

Heed that advice.