The Kaua‘i Ocean Safety Bureau (OSB) has issued a no-go for swimmers and other sea enthusiasts at Po‘ipū Beach following a shark sighting close to the shores. Not an everyday occurrence, the advisory came after lifeguards spotted a reef shark, measuring somewhere between 3 and 4 feet, cruising the shallows yesterday afternoon, around 4:50 p.m. Luckily, this surprise visit to the popular beach destination didn't give rise to any injuries, but it sure did stir up the usual tranquility.
With the safety of the public in mind, the OSB has taken the precaution of planting warning signs all around Po‘ipū Beach. Monitoring the area throughout the day, OSB officials have temporarily barred entry into the water, making a ripple in people's beach day plans, who came to Po‘ipū for a swim or snorkel session.
County officials, in a stance erring on the side of caution, have outlined that the beach might open up for water activities today if further shark-related incidents coast into the clear. A statement published on the county's website reveals that lifeguards are set to reassess the situation as the day bleeds into the evening.
For beachgoers left high and not-so-dry by this development, the OSB insists on staying informed directly via county lifeguards or by dialing their hotline at 808-241-4984.
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