Island events and beach ratings

Advertiser Staff and News Services

Why let the tourists have all the fun? GoHawaii.com, the Web site of the Hawai'i Visitor & Convention Bureau, has an extensive calendar of events aimed at, but not limited to, tourists. Users can plug in the date, category — such as performing arts or ocean sports — and island to customize the calendar.

The water off Kailua Beach turned brown several times in the past few months after heavy rains, making many people wonder how clean the water is where we swim.

The Surfrider Foundation, a non-profit group dedicated to protecting oceans and beaches, tracks water quality at several U.S. beaches. You can see the annual results at its Web site. The site offers state-by-state ratings of access, surf-zone water quality, shoreline structures, erosion, nourishment and surfing areas.

If your favorite beach is not on their list, Surfrider sells a $25 water testing kit through its site.