Planning a trip to Hawaiʻi and feeling nervous about sharks?
You’re definitely not alone — this is one of the most common questions travelers ask before booking an ocean tour.
The good news: the ocean in Hawaiʻi is incredibly safe, especially when you join a guided tour with trained captains and crew… and your chance of meeting a shark is extremely low.
Here’s what you really need to know before you snorkel, swim, or join an ocean adventure in Oʻahu.
Why Visitors Often Worry About Sharks
Movies, viral headlines, and dramatic social media clips make sharks seem like a daily threat.
In reality?
Millions of people enter the ocean in Hawaiʻi every year—and only 3 to 4 shark incidents happen statewide annually.
That means shark encounters are not just rare…
They’re very rare.
Most visitors end up seeing dolphins, turtles, flying fish, or—if it’s winter—whales… long before they’d ever spot a shark.
What the Data Actually Says (Shark Stats in Hawaiʻi)
How many shark incidents happen each year?
On average: 3–4 minor incidents per year across all Hawaiian Islands combined.
To put this in perspective:
- Over 8 million visitors come to Hawaiʻi annually
- Millions of beach entries happen every year
- Most beaches never experience any shark activity at all
Your odds of encountering a dangerous shark?
Close to zero.
Your odds of seeing a dolphin with us on tour?
Very high. 😄
Where do most shark incidents happen?
You might be surprised:
- Majority happen in Maui, not Oʻahu
- Waikiki and West Oʻahu (where Dolphins & You operates) have very low historical activity
- Most shark species actively avoid busy, shallow, or high-traffic waters
What sharks actually live in Hawaiʻi?
Here’s the simple version:
- Most common sharks: Reef sharks → harmless and shy
- Less common: Tiger sharks → still rare
- Reality: Sharks prefer deep, quiet areas far from popular tour routes
They are part of the ecosystem, but not something the average visitor ever sees.
Why Guided Ocean Tours Are Even Safer
Joining a professional ocean tour significantly reduces risks—here’s why:
✔ Experienced captains monitor ocean conditions
Our crew checks visibility, currents, and local reports long before guests even board.
✔ Tours avoid higher-risk zones
We stay away from murky water, river mouths after heavy rain, and deep isolated channels.
✔ Dolphins & turtles naturally avoid sharks
Wild spinner dolphins travel in tight pods that repel predators.
Green sea turtles stay near reefs—areas sharks don’t prefer.
✔ Sharks avoid busy tour areas
Boats, swimmers, and ocean activity naturally discourage shark presence.
✨ All AYC tours follow strict ocean safety protocols approved by professionals.
Sharks Are Actually a Sign of a Healthy Ocean
This part surprises many visitors:
Sharks play an important role as apex predators.
Their presence means:
- Coral reefs are healthy
- Fish populations are strong
- Marine life—including dolphins and turtles—thrives!
Seeing a shark from a safe distance is a reminder that Hawaiʻi’s marine ecosystem is alive and well.
How to Stay Safe in the Ocean
Whether you’re snorkeling, swimming, or paddling:
- Avoid swimming alone at dawn or dusk
- Stay out of murky or brown water after heavy rain
- Remove shiny jewelry
- Always follow lifeguard signs
- Stick to designated beach areas
On our tours, these conditions are already monitored for you—so you don’t have to worry.
The Truth: Ocean Tours in Hawaiʻi Are Very Safe
We’ve hosted hundreds of thousands of guests over the past decade with zero shark incidents.
The wildlife you’re most likely to see?
- 🐬 Playful spinner dolphins
- 🐢 Curious sea turtles
- 🐋 Majestic humpback whales (Dec–Mar)
- 🐟 Tropical reef fish
- ✨ And beautiful clear water views all around
In other words:
You can enjoy Hawaiʻi’s ocean with confidence.
Ready to Explore the Ocean Safely?
Our tours are designed for travelers who want unforgettable wildlife experiences in a safe, guided environment.
Snorkel, watch wild dolphins, enjoy ocean toys
➡ 30% OFF with code: BFCM30
Beginner-friendly turtle snorkel in calm Waikiki waters
➡ 30% OFF with code: BFCM30
🐋 Whales & You (Dec–Mar)
Whale-watching season is here!
➡ 30% OFF with code: BFCM30
Should you be worried about sharks in Hawaiʻi?
Honestly… no.
With the right information and an experienced crew, exploring the ocean is one of the safest and most memorable things you can do in Hawaiʻi.
We can’t wait to show you the beautiful side of the ocean — without the fear.
