Sharks Cove – A Family-Friendly Snorkeling Paradise on Oahu

What Makes Sharks Cove So Unique and Perfect for Families

Crystal blue waters, vibrant marine life, and a tranquil cove shaped amazingly like a shark. Welcome to Sharks Cove, a popular snorkeling spot on Oahu’s North Shore. Its name may sound a bit intimidating, and indeed, it’s not always the friendliest spot for little explorers due to its sharp rocks and challenging entry points (especially during big winter swells). Parents, don’t let these deter you, though, this place is still a great spot to explore.

Preparing for Your Sharks Cove Adventure

Visiting Sharks Cove is a joy for little explorers, especially during calm weather and summer months. We recommend getting there early to avoid the crowds and snag a good parking spot. Don’t forget to pack snorkeling gear and all our must-have cove essentials.

Sharks Cove Must-Have Packing List:

We can’t stress the importance of packing all the essentials enough for a perfect day at the Cove. So, fret not – we’ve whisked up our top 5 items to bring for a fantastic underwater rendezvous. Trust us; these goodies will prepare you to take on the Cove like a pro!

1. Reef Shoes/Water Shoes – A pair of cheap reef shoes will protect your precious feet from those sneaky pointy rocks.
2. Reef-safe Sunscreen – Did you know that some sunscreen ingredients are highly damaging to coral reef ecosystems and exposure has been linked to coral bleaching and coral DNA damage? That’s why Hawaii banned the use of sunscreens containing oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone and octocrylene in 2021. P.S., most of these chemicals are bad for humans as well and have been banned in other countries. What to do? Keep yourself covered with UV protective clothing and use reef safe sunscreen.
3. A trusty Dry Bag – Keep your valuables and electronics snug, dry, and sand-free. A dry bag ensures peace of mind while you dive into the Cove’s beauty! The dry bags low key cousin – Ziploc bag – also does the same job. Either way, wrap valuables in a towel and tuck under a rock to keep gear out of the sun.
4. Water-resistant Smartphone Case – Capture your family’s aquatic adventures without worrying about the water gods claiming your phone. Bonus, you keep your phone safe while you capture happy ocean play memories.
5. A dip net and bucket. – If you have little kids who love to explore, they will delight in catching tiny fish and crabs at Sharks cove.

Are water shoes necessary at Sharks Cove?

It depends. Reef shoes are not normally needed at all in Hawaii. Sand gets in them then they rub your skin off an make you miserable. Most local families just wear slippers (aka flip-flops). However, this cove is shallow and sharp and reef shoes are nice to have if you have little kids, plan to explore inside the cove, and/or like to jump off the rocks into the cove. Once you venture outside the cove, you’re in deep water and they’re not needed.

If you have delicate digits, the good news is that we’ve got your back, er… feet! Foodland, across the street, usually has a selection of cheap reef shoes (and dip nets!). If they’re out or you want something fancy, check out Surf N Sea a local North Shore Surf and water accessory store in Haleiwa.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Exploring the Magnificent Marine Life at Sharks Cove

I’ve always loved snorkeling and used to visit this cove regularly before having kids. Now that they’re older, we get to experience it together. Once you scramble over the boulders in the shallows and plunge into the deep water you’re treated to a fantastic snorkel spot. Lots of fish, giant turtles, and some cool underwater topography to explore. If you’re a good swimmer, the area to the right of the cove usually has turtles. You can swim to the left (towards Haleiwa) to connect to more good snorkeling at adjacent three tables beach.

For beginning swimmers and snorkelers, it’s best to stay inside the cove. It’s shallow throughout so visiting at high tide will give you more space to navigate. If you have small children, enter near the bathroom on the west side of the cove (toward Three Tables and Haleiwa). Here you will find a shallow, sandy entry. This area is typically full of parents with babies and toddlers splashing in the shallows and jumping off rocks or crab hunting.

Sharks cove is a chameleon, though. The clear, placid conditions of summer become turbulent and dangerous with big winter swells. Swimming outside the cove becomes impossible and conditions inside the cove can become too rough. When big surf crashes over the edge of the cove, it creates strong currents inside the cove which can throw you onto urchins and sharp rocks. Monitor conditions before venturing out and avoid the cove on big surf days.

Best Shark Cove Alternate Locations for Snorkeling – From a Local

Looking for a plan B in case Shark’s Cove is a tad too crowded or the conditions just aren’t right? No worries, as your local friend with fins, I’ve snorkeled my way around Oahu’s teal waters to investigate our island’s hidden gems. 

So, let’s guide you to some fantastic alternate snorkeling spots, where the fishes gossip just as much, and the corals shine just as bright, all illustrating the vibrant pages of Hawaii’s underwater storybook. 

1. Waimea Bay. If parking is full at the cove there are private, paid parking options across from Waimea bay. Snorkel along the edges of the bay for the most diversity. Bonus – dolphins occasionally visit in the summer months and squid and octopus are always hiding somewhere. Waimea is good for snorkeling during summer months or when conditions are calm.
2. Electric Beach. Visit the west side for a more adventurous, less crowded snorkel option. Best during calm weather.
3. Paradise Cove. Tiny, and not much diversity but usually calm with an easy entry making it a good option for inexperienced swimmers/snorkelers. Bonus – turtles love to visit in the winter months.

Other Family Activities Around Sharks Cove

The fun doesn’t stop at snorkeling. Around Sharks Cove, you can also enjoy different local eateries and food trucks, experience some crab hunting, have picnics, take scenic hikes, and more. The beach may sometimes get crowded during the day, so consider mornings or evenings for a more peaceful experience.

Local Eateries To Savor Near Sharks Cove

If you wish to round off a magnificent day of underwater exploration with mouth-watering local dishes, you’ve got a variety of choices.

• Directly across from the cove is a cluster of food trucks. The lineup changes regularly but it’s easy to pop across the street to satisfy your post-snorkeling hunger. Alternatively, Foodland has bentos, poke, sushi, and sandwiches if a picnic fits your style better. That’s what we do ;)
• Ted’s Bakery is famous for its chocolate haupia cream pie, but also makes a solid local style breakfast or lunch spot.
• Banzai sushi is a stylish spot for sushi & Japanese fare. I know not everyone loves sushi, but my kids always ask to stop here. It has traditional floor seating & outdoor patio. Downside – it doesn’t open until 4pm.
• Wicked HI cafe is a little out of the way, but my family loves this spot so much! They serve fresh, oven baked pizza (goat cheese, honey, arugula is amazing!) and must-try local slushies. The combo is so good after a beach day. Bonus, they’re next door to Paala kai bakery so you can take home so famous snow puffies for later.
• Island Vintage Coffee in North Shore offers a very tasty, high-quality, Hawaii-grown coffee for aficionados in need of a fix.

Whether you pack a picnic or plan to explore these local gems, a culinary adventure awaits you after your snorkeling journey at Sharks Cove!

Best Nearby Hiking Spots

Near Sharks Cove in North Shore, Oahu, there are several popular hiking spots that attract both locals and tourists alike for their scenic views and refreshing trails.

• Looking over the north shore is the short climb to Ehukai pillbox trail known for its panoramic ocean views.
• Another gem is Kaena Point, a coastal hike to the very tip of Oahu. A nature lover’s delight!
• Another option is the Mokulēʻia Trail in Mokulēʻia Forest Reserve which offers hikers a thrilling experience with its rugged terrain, diverse flora and fauna, and panoramic views of the reserve.

Please note that these trails have different difficulty levels and lengths, so choosing a hike that fits your physical ability and hiking experience is essential.

5 Free Must-Do Activities Beyond the Cove

As much as we love Sharks Cove, there’s so much more to explore around North Shore, Oahu. So, why not bundle up the kids and hit some of these fun attractions nearby? Here are four of my favorite family activities near Sharks Cove!

1. Sunset Beach: Gawk at surfers as they take on the formidable winter waves at this world-class surfing spot. A mecca for pros and thrill-seekers alike! If you’re lucky, you might even catch a surf competition. In the summer months, you won’t recognize the same placid beach.
2. Haleiwa Town: Haleiwa oozes of a relaxed plantation era vibe. Ice creams, art, and surf shops line up its coastal roads for a slow-day charm.
3. Laniakea Beach: Meet gracious green sea turtles in their natural habitat at ‘Turtle Beach’. An unforgettable encounter with the wildlife!
4. Pu’u o Mahuka Heiau: Experience tranquility, history, and panoramic bay views at the largest heiau on Oahu.
5. Family photos. Let me plan a fun morning for your family so you can take home great memories and beautiful images! You can seen family photos near Sharks Cove here and here.

These nearby attractions offer unforgettable experiences that will enhance your Sharks Cove adventure and create lasting family memories.

How to Get to Sharks Cove and Key Information

Sharks Cove, located on the North Shore of Oahu, is about an hour’s drive from Waikiki (longer in the middle of the day and during peak travel times). You’ll find parking options and a public bathroom that includes shower facilities. Important to note there is no lifeguard on duty at Sharks Cove, so always use caution and note the tide charts on the day of your visit to be aware of currents in the area that affect the tide levels. 

Our Top North Shore Tips:

• Plan to arrive early (ideally before 10:00 am, earlier in the summer) to beat the crowds & snag a parking spot
• Use extra caution if visiting with small children, especially if the surf is up. And never turn your back on the ocean
• The best months to visit Sharks Cove are during summer when the waves are not at their peak

Sharks Cove is a gem on Oahu that can be suitable for toddlers and families of all ages with our expert local tips. So, come explore this unique haven with us and create unforgettable memories.