Oahu, Hawaii, the third largest and most populated Hawaiian island, is known for its balance of beaches, mountains, sights, nightlife and dining. It’s safe to say that Oahu has everything you could dream of and more.
But because of many shark-based movies featuring Hawaii, some are wary of venturing into the waters in the area. Is this a valid fear for those visiting or living in Honolulu?
The short and simple answer is no.
How Many Shark Attacks Happen in Oahu?
Shark attacks have happened in Oahu but this is a rare occurrence. Over the past 20 years, there have been roughly 35 shark-related incidences which means, on average, approximately two incidences per year.
In 2024 there were three reported incidents, one of which did not result in injury to the person only harm to their surfboard, the second was considered a provoked attack while swimming with sharks three miles offshore in Oʻahu, Haleʻiwa and the third occurred at Kualoa Beach with lacerations to the victim’s left foot.
In terms of 2025 incidents, there has been one. This was also in Oʻahu, Haleʻiwa three miles offshore while swimming with the sharks and has been deemed a provoked attack.
Of the recorded shark-related incidents in Oahu, fatal ones are scarce.
What Kinds of Sharks Live/Migrate in Oahu?
Within Oahu, you will most likely encounter Galapagos, tiger, scalloped hammerhead and sandbar sharks.
Galapagos sharks: Galapagos sharks are commonly spotted in Oahu and while they can reach 12 feet in length, the maximum reported length in Hawaii is 9.8 feet. Their colors vary from dark to light gray with white spots near their fins.
Tiger sharks: Tiger sharks are considered to be the most aggressive sharks that inhabit the Hawaiian waters as they are rather territorial. They can reach 18 feet in length and up to 1,900 pounds. A tiger shark can typically be distinguished by their stripes.
Scalloped hammerhead sharks: The scalloped hammerhead is easy to spot based on its unique head shape. They can reach up to 14 feet but this length is not common. Their colors will range from light to dark brown.
Sandbar sharks: Sandbar sharks will reach eight feet and are also commonly referred to as the brown or ground shark due to their ability to blend into the sand and their habit of staying low to the ocean floor.
What Months Are Sharks Most Active in Oahu?
Sharks in Oahu tend to be more prevalent in the fall and early winter months of September through December. Based on reports, the most common month for shark-related incidents in Hawaii is October.
This trend can be attributed to the shark’s migratory patterns. Most of the attacks during this time are tiger shark related and this is their prime migratory time known as “shark pupping season”. This is when the tiger sharks will migrate to the main island. It also contributes to more “voracious eaters” which can also be linked to the increase in incidents.
How to Protect yourself from a Shark Attack in Oahu
While hearing about shark attacks and sightings may seem overwhelming and a bit scary for some, it is important to remember that when you enter the water you are entering their home. Nonetheless, there are things that you can do when doing so that will significantly reduce your chances of having a run in yourself.
Never swim alone: Always swim with a buddy or a group no matter what activity you are doing. This will limit your chances of being singled out by a shark and being considered easy prey. You should also try to stay close to lifeguard stations as another precaution.
Swim in clear conditions: Quite a few of the reported incidents in Hawaii have occurred because of turbid waters, meaning that the visibility was poor. Not only does this mean you can’t see what’s ahead of you but neither can the sharks. This can create a completely accidental run-in so it is best to swim when the water is clear to avoid this.
Avoid dawn and dusk times: Dawn and dusk hours are when sharks are typically on the hunt for food and the water has poor visibility. To avoid being mistaken for a fish it is best to swim when it is daylight.
Ditch your jewelry and high-contrast swimwear: Jewelry can often resemble fish scales when reflected off of the water, attracting the shark’s attention. The same goes for high-contrast swimwear as they can see this very well. To avoid being mistaken for a midday snack it is best to leave these items on the shore.
What to do if You Witness a Shark Attack in Oahu
If you witness a shark attack in Oahu, or anywhere for that matter, then follow these tips to ensure the most safety for everyone involved.
The number one thing to do is remember the three c’s: Stay calm, cool and collected. No one in the situation is going to benefit from frantic onlookers or helpers.
Once you have been made aware of an attack, notify everyone in the nearby area. This means lifeguards, people in the water, those on shore and emergency corresponds. By doing so the victim has the best chance of being helped as soon as they are back onto the shore.
Some people freeze in emergencies and some spring into action. If you are one to spring into action do so on land. Do not enter the water because you will put yourself at risk if the shark is still in the vicinity. Allow the lifeguards and emergency services, who are trained for these situations, to enter the water and help the victim to shore.
If you are already in the water, near the victim and able to safely help then remember to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Locate the shark and maintain eye contact with it. If the shark decides to strike again remember that their most vulnerable areas are the snout, gills and eyes.
Once the victim is safely on the shore, provide them with warmth from towels or blankets in case of shock and give the emergency services space to help them. Crowding around a victim will only worsen panic and shock. If emergency services have not yet reached the scene, apply pressure to any wounds and apply a tourniquet to stop any bleeding until further help can be given.
Conclusion: Shark Attacks on Oahu
While sharks are certainly in Oahu, incidents are rare in the area. With that being said some are still wary and avoid specific spots or the water altogether but this is not necessary.
Sharks are just as common in Oahu as they are in other areas of the world and are no more aggressive in Oahu than in other places.
The important thing to note is that you are in their homes and precaution is required. By following the tips you will significantly reduce your chances of running into a shark and increase your chances of a more relaxing beach day in the beautiful waters of Oahu.