The Honolulu Ocean Safety Department issued a shark warning last month for Waimea Bay on Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi.
What’s happening?
According to the department’s HNL Alert, the shark sighting happened on Dec. 29 and was “confirmed by Ocean Safety Lifeguards or another reliable source.” The shark was reportedly 6 feet long, and signs were posted accordingly.
Earlier in 2025, there were two confirmed shark sightings at Nanakuli Beach. A shark also attacked a lifeguard while he was surfing in Hanalei Bay.
While shark attacks are still rare, there are a few reasons why sharks have been swimming closer to coastlines.
Why can shark sightings be concerning?
Green Matters brought up several explanations for why sharks are moving closer inland. Some are as simple as younger sharks veering off course and loving warmer water…