For 50 years, I see the valiant efforts the lifeguards and first responders make to help tourists wake up.   

If you have a swimming pool, it is called an "attractive nuisance" and the homeowner has to take steps to keep people safe.     On Kaua'i, the Hawaii Visitors Bureau has pushed the vacation in Paradise image to the max.   This causes tourists NOT to pay attention to risks.   Plus some of them drink and drug and swim.

While I bow to Dr. Monty Downs, and the whole Rotary/ surf organizations' attempt to make things safer ...here is the truth:

Every Visitor who comes to Kaua'i needs to see an "informed consent" video ON BOARD Hawaiian airlines.  This is an isolated island arising from the sea bed.  Our waves hit our water chiseled cliffs with great force, rip currents and undertows.   You need to respect our wild beauty.
The beach is not a swimming pool.  We want you to enjoy your vacation, not risk your life.

PS. Use cute men and women, like Hawaiian's amazing new safety video