Oahu North Shore: Shark Dive Tour & Cage-Free Swim

Summary

Swim with wild sharks off Oahu’s North Shore, no cage needed

You’ll leave Haleiwa by boat for a cage-free swim among wild sharks off Oahu’s North Shore—guided by locals who know these waters inside out. Expect close encounters with Galapagos or tiger sharks, use of snorkeling gear included, plus stories and laughter from your guides along the way. It’s an experience that sticks with you long after you’re dry again.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I almost backed out at the last minute. The idea of a shark dive tour on Oahu’s North Shore sounded bold in theory, but standing at Haleiwa Boat Harbor with salt in the air and the crew joking around, it suddenly felt very real. Our guide—Kaleo, who grew up here—told us not to worry, “The sharks are just curious neighbors.” He grinned and handed me a mask. I tried to laugh but my heart was pounding louder than the boat engine as we headed three miles out, leaving land behind until all you could see was blue.

The water out here is this deep cobalt color you don’t really get close to shore. Kaleo pointed to where Galapagos sharks usually cruise by, and right on cue, there they were—sleek shadows moving below us. I hesitated before slipping in (the ocean felt colder than I expected), but floating above those sharks was oddly peaceful. You could hear nothing but your own breath through the snorkel and the occasional shout from someone spotting a bigger one—a tiger shark maybe? Hard to say; everything underwater feels slower and dreamlike.

At one point I tried saying thank you in Hawaiian (“mahalo nui loa”) and Li, another guide, just laughed—my pronunciation was hopeless. But everyone was patient, even when I got tangled in my snorkel strap (twice). There’s something about being out here with locals who know these waters that makes you trust the whole experience more. On the way back, sunburned and salty, we all just sat quietly for a bit watching Haleiwa come back into view. I still think about that silent moment floating above the sharks—it’s not scary like you’d expect; it’s weirdly grounding.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Shark dive on Oahu's North Shore

• Leave Haleiwa Boat Harbor
• Head 3 miles offshore
• Spot sharks in natural habitat
• Experience cage-less shark dive

Top questions

How far offshore does the shark dive go?

The boat goes about 3 miles offshore from Haleiwa into waters around 250 feet deep.

What types of sharks can you see on this tour?

You may encounter Galapagos sharks and sometimes tiger sharks during the dive.

Is snorkeling equipment provided for the shark dive?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included in the tour.

Where does the tour depart from?

The shark dive departs from Haleiwa Boat Harbor on Oahu's North Shore.

Is this shark dive suitable for beginners?

You should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness; it's not recommended for those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Are pregnant travelers allowed on this tour?

No, this tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options available near Haleiwa Boat Harbor.

What’s included

Your day includes a boat ride departing from Haleiwa Boat Harbor on Oahu’s North Shore, use of all necessary snorkeling equipment for your cage-free swim with local guides in deep blue water—and plenty of time to watch for Galapagos or tiger sharks gliding below before heading back to shore together.