The Hawaiian archipelago is a volcanic chain in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, creating diverse marine habitats, from shallow coral reefs to deep pelagic zones. These waters are home to approximately 40 different species of sharks, demonstrating rich biodiversity. Among the native Hawaiian people, the shark, or manō, holds a special place, often revered as an ‘aumākua, or ancestral family guardian. This cultural reverence emphasizes a relationship of respect and coexistence with these ocean inhabitants.
The Most Common Nearshore Species
The sharks most frequently encountered in the clear, shallow waters of Hawaii are generally smaller species that play a significant role in maintaining the health of the reef ecosystem. The Whitetip Reef Shark is the most common, identifiable by the distinct white tips on its first dorsal fin and upper caudal fin. These slender sharks typically reach lengths of about five to six feet and are often seen resting motionless in caves or under coral ledges during the day. Their nocturnal hunting habits focus on small fish, octopuses, and crustaceans, making them docile and non-aggressive toward humans.
Another species commonly seen near the main islands is the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark, distinguished by the prominent indentation in the center of its hammer-shaped head. These sharks are highly migratory and are often observed in large, dense schools, particularly near coastal nursery areas around islands like Maui and the Big Island. Adults can grow up to 10 feet long, and they primarily feed on bony fish, squid, and rays.
The Galapagos Shark is a robust and curious species found in coastal waters, especially near island slopes and offshore islets. These sharks are larger than the reef species, often reaching lengths of up to 10 feet, and possess a sleek, streamlined body. They are known to be bold and will often approach divers, but are not typically aggressive unless provoked. Galapagos Sharks are top predators, feeding on bottom fish, eels, and other sharks.
Apex Predators and Larger Species
Hawaii’s waters host larger apex predators that inhabit both coastal areas and the open ocean, including the Tiger Shark. Recognized by its blunt snout and the fading dark, vertical stripes (more noticeable on juveniles), the Tiger Shark can grow to lengths exceeding 14 feet. This shark is an opportunistic feeder with a diverse diet that includes fish, sea turtles, marine mammals, and seabirds.
Tiger Sharks are the species most frequently involved in unprovoked interactions with humans in Hawaiian waters. Research indicates that a portion of the adult female population engages in seasonal movements, migrating from the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands to the main islands for pupping and mating. This seasonal presence of large females can lead to a temporary increase in sightings near the coasts, typically in the autumn.
The Sandbar Shark is another coastal cruiser, though it tends to frequent deeper waters slightly offshore, often over sandy or muddy bottoms. Easily recognizable by its high, triangular first dorsal fin, the Sandbar Shark grows up to eight feet in length. While large, they are primarily bottom feeders, consuming small fish, crabs, and shrimp.
Great White Sharks are exceptionally rare visitors to the warm Hawaiian waters, which are outside their typical migration paths. When sighted, it is usually in the deep, pelagic zones or around the colder, more remote Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. They are not considered a resident species of the main Hawaiian Islands.
Safety and Interaction Guidelines
Minimizing the risk of a shark encounter in Hawaiian waters is achieved through adherence to simple guidelines. Avoid entering the ocean during dawn, dusk, and nighttime, as some shark species move closer to shore to feed during these periods. Tiger Sharks, however, have been known to interact with people at any time of day.
The following guidelines help reduce the risk of an encounter:
- Stay out of murky or cloudy water, especially near river mouths after heavy rains, because poor visibility can cause sharks to mistake humans for their natural prey.
- Do not enter the water if you have open wounds or are bleeding, as sharks can detect blood and body fluids in extremely low concentrations.
- Swim, surf, or dive with a partner or in a group, as solitary individuals are perceived to be easier targets.
- Avoid excessive splashing or erratic movement, which can inadvertently mimic the distress signal of an injured animal.
- Never attempt to harass, provoke, or feed any marine life, including sharks, as this can alter their natural behavior and lead to dangerous habituation.