Published on October 15, 2023
HANALEI – Ocean Safety officials have closed Hanalei Bay to swimming and other ocean activities until further notice due to an apparent shark bite that occurred at approximately 4 p.m. on Sunday.
According to a preliminary report, a male resident had been surfing in waters off Hanalei 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.
Lifeguards are posting “Shark Sighted” and “No Swimming” signs along Hanalei Bay and are roving the shoreline and waters to warn surfers and beachgoers to stay out of the water until further notice.
Per standard protocol, officials are notifying the state Department of Land and Natural Resources of the incident.
Lifeguards will reassess the water Monday afternoon, at least 24 hours after the incident, to determine if it is safe for swimming.
For up-to-date information about Kaua‘i ocean conditions and ocean safety, please speak to a county lifeguard at any lifeguard station, visit www.hawaiibeachsafety.com, or call the Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984.
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