Shark Species in Hawaii
Of all of the creatures that call the ocean home, the shark is easily the most feared and intimidating. Though it strikes terror into most, the shark is a vital part of the ocean’s ecosystem, and a very important dweller around the Hawaiian Islands. There are a number of species of sharks that call the waters around Hawaii home, and though running into one is not on many visitors wish lists, knowing the variety of shark species in Hawaii may be helpful during a Shark Cage Tour, or at the aquarium.
Some shark species are more common than others, and there are a few that are very rarely seen, though anything is possible, and has happened. With an abundance of reefs surrounding Hawaii, many smaller, reef sharks are routinely seen. These are not predatory, and keep their distance from people, meaning interactions rare, and attacks generally don't happen.
Common inshore sharks in Hawaii include:
- White Tipped Reef Shark
- Grey Reef Shark
- Black Tip Reef Shark
- Sandbar Shark
- Hammerhead Shark
Away from the reefs and shallow waters, sharks get bigger and more aggressive, and unfortunately, run-ins with people increase. Understanding that we are in their habitat, and it is impossible for sharks to discern us from food, shark attacks do happen. Larger sharks live in deeper waters and come in close to shore in search of food. The most common offshore sharks include:
- Oceanic White Tip Shark
- Blue Shark
- Mako Shark
The most aggressive shark species that lives in Hawaii is the Tiger Shark. These sharks are known to be most closely associated with bites and near bites, and tend to have a “bite first, ask questions later” approach. They are large, between 14-16 feet, and have faint stripping that makes their likeness to tigers undeniable.
While encountering a shark is not always a welcome activity, Shark Cage Tours allow you to get up close to them in their habitat, and have the assurance that you are 100% safe. Boats depart daily, and a Shark Cage Tour is an incredible experience for an activity in Hawaii.
Hawaii Discount offers the internet’s largest selection of Oahu tours, Oahu Activities, and Maui travel packages. Please make sure to book your activity well in advance of your trip, since tours fill up quickly.