Hanalei Bay closed to swimming, ocean activities after apparent shark bite

Hanalei Bay on Kaua‘i’s North Shore is closed to swimming and other ocean activities until further notice because of an apparent shark bite that occurred at about 4 p.m. Oct. 15.

According to a preliminary report from the Kaua‘i Fire Department, a male resident of Kaua‘i was surfing in waters off the bay at a spot commonly known as “The Bowl” when he was bit by a large shark. The type and size of the shark is unknown.

The man sustained non-life threatening injuries to his leg and was transported in stable condition to Wilcox Medical Center in Līhuʻe.

“Shark Sighted” and “No Swimming” signs have been posted along Hanalei Bay and lifeguards were roving the shoreline and waters Sunday to warn surfers and beachgoers to stay out of the water.

Per standard protocol, officials are notifying the Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources about the incident.

Lifeguards will reassess the water Monday afternoon, at least 24 hours after the incident, to determine if it is safe for swimming.