Snorkeling at Shark’s Cove

Shark’s Cove is located here on the North Shore of Oahu and is known as one of the better snorkeling locations on the island. Despite the name, I’ve never seen any sharks at the cove. I have seen plenty of beautiful fish, honu (turtles), eels, taco (octopus), starfish and much more under the water. Humpback whales and Spinner dolphins can even be seen from the shore.

The Humpback whales can be spotted relatively close to shore during the Hawaii whale migration season, which generally runs from December through April. Peak months tend to be February and March. Binoculars are handy if you want a closer look.

Unlike Hanauma Bay, Sharks Cove is completely free and there are no lines or annoying videos to watch before jumping into the water. The shallow area of the cove is perfect for children and beginners. The water is only a couple feet deep and is completely shielded from any outer waves and currents. You can wade through the shallow water and watch the sea life from above the surface or peek underneath for a closer look. In the shallow tide pools you’re likely to see plenty of smaller fish, urchins, starfish, sea cumbers, the occasional eel and more.

The outer wall of Shark's Cove creates a calm lagoon with crystal-clear water.

If you’re hunting bigger game, journey into the deeper water just east of the shallow tide pools. If the waves are up, be careful when entering the deep zone. There are several razor sharp lava rocks that the waves can slam you in to near the shore. After safely entering the water you’ll witness large underwater boulders and reef teeming with sea life. I’ve been lucky enough to see a large Mahi Mahi darting around the boulders. Usually I only see them on my plate.

Striking a graceful pose walking through the shallow pools on a day I did not anticipate getting in the water.

Personally, I’m not a big fan of masks and snorkels. I can’t stand those uncomfortable contraptions wrapping around my face. I prefer a small set of goggles and bodyboard fins. It feels much more free to me, even though I’m forced to come up for air on a regular basis. Whatever your preferred rig may be, I suggest diving beneath the surface for a closer look in the crevices and underneath the boulders. You never know what you’ll spot hiding in the dark holes of the ocean.

Shark’s Cove is generally best in the summer when the North Shore swell is down and the water is a few degrees warmer. There are bathroom and shower facilities available, and occasionally there are food and drink vendors. It is a must-stop location on any first-time trip to the North Shore of Oahu.

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