Shark's Cove

Sharks Cove is a rocky North Shore cove in Pupukea, known for summer snorkeling, tide pools, lava-rock shelves and protected reef life.

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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. This cove got its name from a popular story that says the outline of a reef outside the cove looks like a shark when seen from above.

Shark's Cove is a lava-rock beach on Oahu's North Shore and is part of Pupukea Beach Park. It is known for underwater rock formations and a wide variety of marine life. Colorful reef fish and sea turtles are often seen here, and harmless white-tipped reef sharks may sometimes be spotted just outside the cove.

Because of its underwater world, Shark's Cove is a favorite spot among snorkelers and scuba divers. The lava has formed underwater caves and tunnels about 15 to 45 feet (4.5 to 13.7 m) below the surface. These areas are best for experienced scuba divers.

A lifeguard tower has been added at Shark's Cove, but ocean conditions still need careful attention. If you want to go into the water, sturdy water shoes can help because sharp rocks and coral reef are common throughout the cove. The best time to visit is during the summer months, when the ocean is usually calmer. During winter, entering the water at Shark's Cove is not recommended because North Shore surf can be large and dangerous.

Shark's Cove is part of an 80-acre Marine Life Conservation District. Keep a respectful distance from marine animals, stay off coral and reef, and help keep the area clean.

Key Features

Rocky North Shore cove in Pupukea
Part of the Pupukea Marine Life Conservation District
Known for summer snorkeling, tide pools and reef fish
Lava-rock shelves and uneven rocky entry
Not a sandy swimming beach
Winter surf can make the cove unsafe
Close to Three Tables and Waimea Bay
Parking can fill up quickly on calm summer days
Do not stand on living reef or take marine life
Check surf, visibility and posted guidance before entering

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there sharks at Sharks Cove?

The name does not mean this is a usual shark-viewing spot. One common explanation is that the cove's rocky outline was thought to resemble a shark from above, while most visitors come for reef fish, tide pools and summer snorkeling.

Why is Sharks Cove protected?

Sharks Cove is part of the Pupukea Marine Life Conservation District, which protects reef habitat and marine life. Do not take coral, rocks or marine animals, and avoid standing on living reef.

When is Sharks Cove best for snorkeling?

Summer usually brings calmer North Shore water and better visibility. Winter surf can make the cove unsafe, even when it looks interesting from shore.

How is Sharks Cove different from Three Tables?

Sharks Cove is rockier, with lava shelves, tide pools and a more enclosed cove. Three Tables has a sandier beach edge and three flat reef formations offshore when the water is calm.

Is Sharks Cove easy to enter?

No. The entry is rocky, uneven and often slippery, so getting in and out takes care. Move slowly, protect your feet and skip the water if waves are washing across the rocks.