Sharks Cove

Shark's Cove is a popular shore dive in the Pupukea Marine Life Conservation District on Oahu's North Shore, noted for a rocky volcanic reef with extensive lava tubes, arches, caverns and many swim-throughs. The site is protected and supports abundant marine life, and is widely regarded as one of the North Shore's most frequently dived locations. Divers enter from the beach after hiking down a steep rocky trail and swim out past submerged boulders; a guarded main entrance on the south side is often recommended. Depths range from a few feet in the inner cove to about 45 ft on the outer reefs, with average depths around 20-40 ft; an advanced vertical lava tube nicknamed the "elevator" drops 25-30 ft into a cavern. Visibility is usually fair to good outside the cove but often poor inside the narrow entry. Water temperatures in summer are typically mid-70s to 80°F. Conditions are best in summer (roughly May through early October); winter brings high surf and dangerous currents. Surge and currents can occur in caverns even on calm days. Significant hazards include the rocky entry with sharp lava and sea urchins, strong surge in swim-throughs, and overhead sections that require proper training.