Shark Cage Diving in Oahu
Three miles off Haleiwa Harbor on Oahu's North Shore, Galapagos and sandbar sharks cruise in deep blue water — and you can watch them from the safety of a floating surface cage. No scuba certification is needed; you breathe through a snorkel at the surface. It's one of Hawaii's most memorable adventures, and Oahu operators have run these tours for over two decades with an excellent safety record. Here are the shark cage experiences we currently feature.
North Shore Shark Cage Dive
Cage dive with Galapagos sharks off Oahu's North Shore: tour length, what to bring, seasickness tips, and the best time of year to book. Updated 2026.
From $150
Shark Cage Dive
Cage-free or steel-cage encounters with Galapagos and sandbar sharks three miles off Haleiwa harbor. No chum on Oahu — federally regulated.
From $149
How to choose
- All reputable operators depart from Haleiwa Harbor — compare group size; smaller boats mean more cage time per person.
- Morning departures (7–9 AM) have the calmest seas and the best light for photos.
- If you're prone to seasickness, take motion medication 30–60 minutes before boarding — the ride is short but choppy.
- Ask about photo packages; underwater GoPro footage is usually available as an add-on.
Best time to go
Tours run year-round. May through September brings the calmest ocean conditions and the smoothest boat rides. Winter tours still operate but can be cancelled on big-swell days — book early in your trip so you can rebook if weather intervenes.
Frequently asked questions
Is shark cage diving in Oahu safe?
Yes. You snorkel from inside a steel cage at the surface — no scuba diving involved. Oahu operators have run these tours for 20+ years with no recorded incidents.
What sharks will I see?
Mostly Galapagos and sandbar sharks, typically 5–10 feet long. Tiger sharks are occasionally spotted. Sightings are extremely consistent because the sharks are resident to the area.
How much does shark cage diving cost?
Expect $150–$200 per person for the standard two-hour tour including the boat ride and cage time.