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Kaua‘i Officials Issue Swimming Advisory for Hanalei Bay Amidst Tiger Shark Sighting

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Published on November 05, 2025
Kaua‘i Officials Issue Swimming Advisory for Hanalei Bay Amidst Tiger Shark SightingSource: Wikipedia/Goshea at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

If you were thinking of taking a dip in the waters of Hanalei Bay, you’ll want to shelf those plans. The Kaua‘i Ocean Safety Bureau (OSB) has issued a strong advisory against swimming or engaging in any ocean activities at the bay due to a substantial shark presence, and the locals are taking note. A 10-foot tiger shark, not exactly the neighbor you want to bump into, was sighted cutting through the waters yesterday at approximately 11:30 a.m.

Warning signs have been numerous lines of defense, lined up on the beach by OSB officials as a way to alert beach-goers about the uncuddly marine creature’s presence, which thankfully hasn't led to any injuries – at least, not yet. Meanwhile, the area is being closely watched, as in, don't try to be sneaky and take a quick swim, because the lifeguards’ eyes are like hawks and they're not there to admire the scenic beauty; their reassessment of the beach situation will take place later this evening. 

If there are no more shark sightings, Hanalei Bay is expected to reopen for ocean activities today. However, it’s best to wait for the official confirmation. The Ocean Safety Bureau (OSB) will provide updates as needed. For the latest information about ocean conditions and safety in Kaua‘i, you can speak with a county lifeguard at a local station or call the OSB at 808-241-4984. Staying informed is the best way to stay safe in the water