A routine Wednesday morning at Waikiki’s popular Canoes surf break turned serious when lifeguards pulled an unresponsive surfer from the water and rushed him to shore, where crews immediately began lifesaving efforts. Honolulu Emergency Medical Services then took over treatment on the sand and transported the man to an emergency room in critical condition. Authorities say the patient is believed to be in his 70s.
Rescue at Canoes
The Honolulu Ocean Safety Department said the incident unfolded at about 10:19 a.m., roughly 100 yards offshore at the surf break known as "Canoes." Lifeguards from Tower 2B paddled out to the man, secured him and brought him to shore, according to Hawaii News Now.
Onshore Care and Critical Condition
Once back on the sand, lifeguards immediately started CPR and continued lifesaving measures until Honolulu Emergency Medical Services arrived and provided advanced life support. EMS then transported the man to a nearby emergency room in critical condition. Officials said he is believed to be in his 70s and had not released additional details, as reported by KITV.
Why Quick Response Is Crucial
Honolulu Ocean Safety lifeguards are often the first line of defense in near-drowning emergencies, frequently launching rescues in the lineup, then starting CPR on the shore while coordinating with Honolulu EMS crews. The city’s emergency services site outlines similar rescue scenarios and stresses how critical rapid intervention is in these cases, according to the Honolulu Emergency Services Department.
