A 63-year-old California man tragically died following a kitesurfing accident at Kailua Beach, Oahu. What began as a typical Wednesday morning for beachgoers turned into a frightening ordeal when emergency responders were called to assist the unconscious kitesurfer at 11:33 a.m.
Despite emergency CPR and defibrillation, paramedics transported him to the hospital in serious condition. Sadly, he succumbed to his injuries two days later.
Multiple Emergencies at Kailua Beach
Astonishingly, this wasn’t the only water emergency at Kailua Beach that day. Just 90 minutes earlier, another 60-year-old man was found unresponsive in the water. Fortunately, bystanders administered CPR before lifeguards and rescue personnel arrived. Unlike the kitesurfer, this man regained a pulse after advanced life support treatment and was rushed to the hospital for further care.
Both incidents occurred at “Flagpoles,” a well-known section of Kailua Beach.
Hawaii’s Waters: Beauty and Danger
Hawaii’s waters, while stunningly beautiful, can be treacherous. According to the 2025 Hawaii Water Safety Plan, the state has the second-highest drowning rate in the U.S.. Alarmingly, tourists—who make up only 12% of Hawaii’s population—account for half of all drownings.
Lifeguards and safety officials continue to push for increased ocean safety education, additional lifeguard towers, and heightened public awareness. As Hawaii’s beaches remain a major draw for visitors, officials hope to prevent further tragedies through improved safety measures and public education campaigns.