Three Visitors Rescued off Papalaua Beach, Maui

PC: US Coast Guard (7.18.18)

Three visitors were rescued from waters off of Papalaua Beach Park in West Maui on Wednesday afternoon after being swept out in choppy seas and 25-30 mph winds.

The incident was reported at around 1:40 p.m. on Wednesday, July 18, 2018 in waters near Ukumehame.

The 45-year-old man and his sons– 10 and 14 years old–were observed floating on bodyboards and a surfboard approximately a mile out.

The three were picked up by personnel aboard a responding Coast Guard vessel and then transported to shore via Jetski.

There were no injuries reported, and all refused medical attention.

Maui Fire Services Chief Rylan Yatsushiro said the incident is a reminder that ocean conditions can change in an instant and it is important to pay close attention to your surroundings, and consult a lifeguard about ocean conditions if one is available.

The Coast Guard also advises all waterway users to create a float plan and to notify someone of their intentions before they go out.

In addition to response from the Maui Fire Department, crews from the US Coast Guard Maui Station dispatched a response boat.  An Air Station Barbers Point MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew was also diverted from nearby training to assist.