Shark's Cove

This is an easy dive as proved by the fact that local PADI instructors take learner divers to this spot to complete their open water certificate dives. The most often sighted specimens of aquatic life are turtles and various types of fish which one can observe when exploring the swim-throughs in the reef. Not many dangerous creatures inhabit the area though one might see the occasional reef shark. This is a great O'ahu dive but it can get crowded in summer. The nearby Three Tables is another option if this spot is too crowded although parking might be problematic. Located just off the Sunset Beach Fire Station, the Sharks Cove dive spot is the second most popular O'ahu shore dives. Sharks do not frequent this spot so there are a couple of theories as to the origin of its name: either that the cove looks rather like a shark has taken a bite out of the cove, or that when flying above the cove the rocks forming the cove seem to look like a shark. The depth of the water at this site ranges from 15 to 60 feet. The site is made more interesting by the many arches and open-ended lava tubes which allow easy access and light penetration. The primary caverns found at this cove are all in 30 feet or less. In the shallows, large boulders are interspersed with lava formations and sand and there are frequent sightings of large schools of convict tangs and baby mullets. With a diameter of 10 feet, the hole known as the '�Elevator'� allows a descent to 20 feet and then provides the option of three possible exits. One of these exits, 90 degrees to the left, is 40 feet long and has a diameter of 4 feet. The remaining two exit straight into the sea and are almost connected, the top exit is in 10 to 15 feet and the bottom is in 20 feet. One of the exit tubes leads divers to an dry, enclosed chamber which can accommodate three to four people. Caution should be exercised when diving here as the site is strictly for experienced divers only and should only be attempted with a guide to lead one through the '�Elevator'�.