Although the surf is down considerably along O'ahu's north- and west-facing shores, surfers are still urged to exercise great caution when venturing out into ocean waters, said Bryan Cheplic, spokesman for the city Department of Emergency Services.

"The high-surf advisory has been canceled but we are still urging surfers to check with lifeguards before entering the water," Cheplic said.

Although the surf has dropped appreciably, inexperienced surfers can get themselves into trouble very quickly, Cheplic said.