Christine Hitt
The Honolulu Police Department advised the public earlier this month in an Instagram post ahead of the King Kamehameha holiday not to leave their valuables on the beach.
The advice is meant to prevent theft. "For those enjoying the beach, don't leave valuables unattended on the sand," the message said. "Instead, use a waterproof bag that you can take into the water with you."
But although the suggestion came from Honolulu police department, it is generally a best practice to not leave lots of cash or jewelry in the sand at any beaches around Hawaii.
Break-ins do happen if you leave items visible inside your car, and thieves will find an opportunity to steal if you leave items on the beach.
When I go to the beach, I bring the bare minimum: my ID, phone, water, sunscreen and a towel. When I go into the water, I never go too far, and I don't lose the line of sight of my stuff.
However, if you want to go into the water and not worry about watching your important items, then take the Honolulu Police Department's advice: Get a waterproof pouch and take it with you (a clear phone case to wear around your neck also enables you to take photos and videos while you're in the water) or put it into your surf-shorts pocket -- or don't bring it at all.