5Hanakapiai Beach, Hawaii, USA
Nestled on the island of Kauai, Hanakapiai Beach is a hidden gem along the stunning Na Pali Coast. However, its beauty hides one of the most dangerous aspects of Hawaiian beaches: deadly rip currents. There are no reefs to protect the shore from the powerful Pacific waves, and the rip currents here have claimed the lives of many swimmers. There are no lifeguards on duty, and the beach is remote, making rescue efforts difficult. Strong swimmers have been swept out to sea, leading locals to warn visitors against swimming in the area.
