HONOLULU -- This month's box jellyfish invasion was large enough to prompt ocean safety officials to close Hanauma Bay.

An Ocean Safety Division spokesperson says he popular tourist spot was closed at 11 a.m. Thursday after there were 14 people stung in an hour.

In Waikiki, lifeguards found more than 1,000 jellyfish washed up on the beach Thursday morning.

Warning signs were posted, but many still ventured into the water, risking stings.

Michelle Newberry, of Orange County, California, was on an inflatable raft when she was stung on her arms. It felt "like a bunch of hair. And then I knew, it just started stinging. Oh God, it hurts," she said.

Lifeguards at tower 2D on Kuhio Beach reported treating more than 50 stings by 10 a.m.

A woman visiting from Korea was taken by ambulance from Kuhio Beach after she was stung on her face, arms and back.

A 4-year-old girl was treated for jellyfish stings at the Ko Olina Beach in Leeward Oahu, according to an ocean safety spokesperson.

Jellyfish usually invade south shore beaches when they mate, seven to 10 days after a full moon.

The jellyfish can cause a painful sting that can be dangerous for those who are allergic to the toxins. Officials said that pouring vinegar over the affected areas can help ease the sting. Anyone who suffers breathing problems, muscle spasms or constant pain should get immediate medical attention, ocean safety officials said.

The influx is expected to peak Thursday, and diminish Friday and Saturday.

"I'm going to the pool. It'll be at the pool the rest of the time," Newberry said after being treated with vinegar for her sting.