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Shark Cage Diving

Tour Highlights

Dive into the deep off Oahu's North Shore and to stare straight into the eyes of wild sharks as they rise from cobalt water and circle just inches from your snorkel mask—all from the safety of a custom-made floating cage.

  • Cruise offshore from Haleʻiwa into deep, clear North Shore water
  • Enter a stable floating cage with wide plexiglass viewing panels
  • Watch Galapagos and Sandbar sharks glide inches from the window
  • Learn shark behavior and Hawaiian cultural lore from the crew
  • Take in sweeping coastline and Waianae Mountain views on the ride back to the harbor

Quick Local Tip: Every once in a while a tiger shark cruises through the area. They are much larger than the Galapagos and Sandbar sharks, with bold, shadowy stripes along its sides. If the crew calls it out, look for that slow, confident movement; apex predators announce themselves long before you see their markings.

What to Expect

The tour begins at the small boat harbor in Haleiwa, a laid-back town on Oahu’s famed North Shore. After checking in 30 minutes before departure, you’ll board the 32-foot Radon vessel, Kainani, and head three miles offshore into the deep Pacific. As the shoreline fades, the color of the water deepens to a rich cobalt blue. The ocean here is calm, vast, and full of life.

Once at the dive site, the crew will go over safety protocols and help fit you with a mask and snorkel. No scuba gear is required. This is a surface-level encounter, accessible even for non-swimmers. The floating cage is designed for stability and ease of use, with large plexiglass windows and interior handrails. Entering the cage from above, you’ll stay at the surface while the ocean sways gently around you.

Within minutes, dorsal fins break the surface. Curious Galapagos and Sandbar sharks circle the boat, drawn not by bait, but by their natural curiosity. They glide effortlessly through the water, approaching the cage with calm confidence. From just inches away, you’ll meet their gaze, an unfiltered, eye-level encounter with a powerful and graceful predator.

Throughout the 30-minute dive, the crew shares insights into shark behavior, biology, and their vital role in the marine ecosystem. You’ll also hear about the cultural significance of sharks in Hawaiian traditions, where these animals are often seen as guardians or ancestral spirits.

After surfacing and returning to the boat, you'll head back toward the harbor with Haleiwa’s lush coastline coming back into view. 


Included

  • 30 minutes in the shark cage
  • 3-mile offshore boat ride aboard Kainani (32’ Radon vessel)
  • Masks and snorkels in multiple sizes
  • Sturdy, floating shark cage with interior handholds and plexiglass viewing panels
  • Knowledgeable and conservation-focused crew
  • Educational briefings on shark behavior and marine biology
  • Light refreshments onboard

Restrictions

  • Participants must be able to climb a 5-step ladder to enter and exit the cage. You must be able to pull your own weight back onto the boat.
  • Not available for children under 5 years old.
  • Not available for those in the second or third trimester of pregnancy.
  • Weather conditions can occasionally cause rescheduling. Flexible guests will be offered alternate dates.

Duration

2 hours

Address

Haleiwa Small Boat Harbor 66-105 Haleiwa Rd., Haleiwa, HI 96712

Park next to the Hawaii Shark Encounters sign next to the big two story building in the middle of the harbor. The shark boat will be moored at the loading dock or on her way!


Cancellation Policy

Customers will receive a full refund with 48 hours notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. No-shows will be charged the full price. We sometimes have to shuffle around to meet capacity requirements, you will be notified as such via email and text. Please respond to communication from us. Contact us anytime to cancel or inquire about a cancellation.