Shark's Cove Photos
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Shark's Cove, Oahu
Don't worry, you will most likely not run into any sharks when swimming at Shark's Cove (see more photos). This cove got its name from a popular story that says that the outline of a reef outside the cove looks like a shark when seen from above.
Shark’s Cove is a lava-rock beach located on the North Shore of Oahu. It is unique not only because of its spectacular underwater rock formations, but also because of its diverse marine life. Tropical colorful fish and sea turtles are the cove’s constant inhabitants. Harmless white-tipped reef sharks may also be spotted here. Their behavior is usually calm and not aggressive, but in case you see one, remembers you should not approach or disturb it.
Because of its amazing underwater world, Shark’s Cove is a favorite spot for snorkelers and scuba divers. The lava has formed underwater caves and tunnels at about 15 to 45 feet (4.5 to 13.7 m) under the surface. These caves are a real thrill for experienced scuba divers.
There are no lifeguards at the beach. If you want to go swimming at Shark’s Cove, it is a good idea to wear reef shoes because of the sharp coral reef that is everywhere in the cove. The best time to explore the cove is in the summer months when the water is calm. During the winter, getting into the water at Shark’s Cove is not recommended as it can be very dangerous because of big waves.
Shark’s Cove is part of an 80-acre Marine Life Conservation District. People need to respect the cove’s marine inhabitants and keep the area clean. The cove has restrooms and shower facilities. There’s plenty of free street parking available.
Shark's Cove Overview
- Lava-rock beach located on the North Shore of Oahu
- Known with its rock formations and diverse marine life
- Harmless white-tipped reef sharks may be spotted here
- Favorite spot among snorkelers and scuba divers
- Wearing reef shoes is recommended
- Best time to explore the cove is the summer; big waves and strong currents in the winter
- Part of an 80-acre Marine Life Conservation District
Location: 59-712 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712 Directions: Shark’s Cove is located between Kawela and Waimea on Oahu’s North Shore. It’s about a 40-mile drive from Waikiki. From Waikiki, take the H1 freeway west until you reach the Likelike Highway (63). Exit H1 onto the Likelike Highway (toward the mountains) and stay on it until you pass through the tunnel and emerge on the windward side of the island. Exit Likelike and drive onto Kahekili Highway (83) north. After you pass the town of Kahuku, it’s about ten more minutes. First you will see a long and wide white-sand beach. This is Sunset Beach. After passing it, you’re almost there. If you don’t have a car, you can take bus number 55 (Kaneohe Circle Island), which leaves from Ala Moana Center in Honolulu. The bus stops right there at Shark’s Cove. Ask the driver if you don’t know the area.
