Visitor Warned of Shorebreak, Rescued at Mākena, Maui

A 27-year-old male visitor was transported to the hospital after injuring his lower back in large shorebreak in Mākena on Saturday afternoon, May 11, 2109.

The incident was reported shortly before 12:30 p.m. at the area known as “Big Beach.”

Fire officials say the man was cautioned about the large shorebreak by lifeguards prior to venturing out.

Lifeguards then witnessed the man go from the top of the 8-foot face wave to the bottom.

The man was unable to get out on his own and lifeguards took spinal precautions as they extricated him from the ocean.

Fire officials say a large than normal swell form the south was evident at the time.

Maui Department of Fire and Public Safety Assistant Chief of Support Services, Val Martin, said the man “was very apologetic and now realizes the danger when large shorebreaks are present.”