5 Best Oahu Shark Dive Tours: Cage Dives + Freediving

Imagine yourself face to face with the ocean’s apex predator. Would you prefer to gaze upon him from within the safety of a metal shark cage, or gracefully swim beside him in the open ocean?

Whether you prefer shark cage diving or freediving with sharks, you have the opportunity to dive with sharks just an hour away from Honolulu, Hawaii.

During my recent Oahu vacation, I had the privilege of diving with sharks and since I got back home, I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it! Although my time in Hawaii was chock full of unforgettable adventures, freediving diving with sharks in Oahu was the highlight.

I researched the best shark tours before my trip, and I wanted to share all that information with you so you can make an informed decision.

This guide details the five very best Oahu shark dive tours, including cage diving experiences and open water (cageless) shark encounters. I also include reviews directly from folks who took each of these tours so you can get a sense of what each tour is like. Read on to figure out which Ohau shark dive experience is best for you!

Note: This article may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases through these links, at no cost to you. But don’t worry, I only share products I’d truly recommend to a friend.

Shark Diving in Oahu: Best Tours to Book

There are two types of shark encounters that you can experience in Oahu, Hawaii. The most popular are shark cage diving tour that take groups of tourists out into the open ocean to observe sharks from large metal cages. Alternatively, you can go freediving with sharks off the coast of Oahu—cage free!

I personally chose to go on a cageless shark diving experience when I was in Oahu and I didn’t regret it for a moment. In fact, it was one of my most impactful travel experiences to date, and I hope to do it again in the future.

Ultimately, which type of Oahu shark dive experience you choose during your Hawaii vacation depends on your own comfort level, competence as a diver, and personal preference.

If you’re curious about cageless shark diving, read my full guide to on what to know before freediving with sharks in Ohau.

Now, on to the best tours for shark diving in Oahu.

Best Shark Freediving Tours in Oahu

1. Pelagic Shark Dive Tour (Best Option)

★★★★★ 5/5 stars from 166 reviews

The Pelagic Shark Dive Tour by IslandView Hawaii is my top recommendation amongst all the Ohau shark dive tours. This is the tour I did—and I loved it!

Hosted a local Hawaiian-owned tourism company that pioneering shark diving on Oahu’s north coast, join this tour for an unforgettable shark encounter experience.

If you want to go with a local crew that is both low key and professional, and will make you feel safe and comfortable in the water, this is the tour to book!

Photos and videos are included free of charge, along with fins and snorkel equipment.

“Our crew was AMAZING! Knowledgeable, careful, and created an overall fantastic experience. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to go out with a local outfit that will treat you like family.”

Review from Chris on Viator

Pelagic Shark Dive Tour Booking Link

2. Snorkel and Dive with Sharks in Hawaii

★★★★★ 5/5 stars from 334 reviews

This second Oahu cage-free shark diving tour is another incredible option.

This tour is hosted by One Ocean Diving’s marine researchers who are trained by world renowned shark experts like Ocean Ramsay and Juan Oliphant.

Before jumping in the water, you’ll be taught how to respond if a shark approaches you and given an overview of the types of sharks you might be swimming with.

In the water you have the opportunity to participate in shark data collection, or just observe the sharks as they swim beneath and beside you.

“Such an amazing experience. I will absolutely go on this tour every time I come to Oahu. I never thought I’d be so comfortable in the water with sharks but the guides do a great job at keeping you safe while still giving you a great experience. 100% recommend.”

Review from Jacqueline on Viator

Snorkel and Dive with Sharks in Hawai Booking Link

3. Shark Dive Tour Oahu North Shore

★★★★★ 5/5 stars from 98 reviews

This small group shark diving tour is another great way to swim amongst the ocean’s apex predators.

Your crew will take you a few miles off the North Shore of Oahu, where you’ll have the opportunity to dive with sharks, such as Galapagos sharks, tiger sharks, and more.

You’ll be joined in the water by a professional photographer who will take photos of you swimming with the sharks, and you’ll have the option to purchase photos afterward.

“We had SUCH a good time! We were nervous at first but our guides were very knowledgeable and made us feel extremely comfortable and safe. What a cool experience!”

Review from Aliza on Viator

Oahu North Shore Shark Diving Booking Link

PS: You might also be interested in swimming with dolphins in Oahu

Best Oahu Shark Cage Dive Tours

4. Oahu Shark Cage Dive (1700+ 5 Star Reviews)

★★★★★ 5/5 stars from 1,962 reviews

If a shark cage diving is more your style, this tour with nearly two thousand positive reviews should be at the top of your Oahu itinerary!

It’s also a budget-friendly option with the lowest price point compared to all the Oahu shark dive experiences.

You can either observe the sharks from the submerged shark cage or watch from the boat.

At the end of the experience, you’ll have the option to purchase photos from the crew.

“The crew put my nerves at ease, I felt safe and excited to face a fear! Once we were down there, it was incredible to experience. I’m so glad we went, I’m looking forward to the next time!”

Review from Tessa on Viator

Oahu Shark Cage Dive Booking Link

5. Shark Cage Diving in Oahu

★★★★★ 5/5 stars from 1,962 reviews

This tour is another excellent Oahu shark cage dive option!

With a heavier focus on education, you’ll get the chance to learn about shark biology and behavior, shark conversation issues, and the role that sharks play in Hawaiian culture.

After an engaging lesson, you’ll get the opportunity to encounter sharks in their natural habitat—behind the protective walls of the shark cage, of course!

If you wish, you can rent a GoPro directly on the boat to capture the sharks as they swim by the cage.

“This was the best part of my vacation to Hawaii!!! The boat ride to the shark diving site was amazing itself, crew was very professional and friendly, had lots of fun. Waters are blue and crystal clear and many sharks are often spotted!! Definitely a lot of fun for all ages.”

Review from Erick on Viator

Oahu Shark Cage Dive Booking Link

Shark Diving in Hawaii Packing List

★ Bathing suit: This one seems obvious, but it has to be on the list!
★ Waterproof sandals: My husband and I both love our Arizona EVA Birkenstocks, which are waterproof (unlike normal Birks) and make the perfect flip flop alternative for beach vacations
★ Towel: If you’re looking for a great travel towel, check out Nomadix (I bring mine everywhere!)
★ Light sweatshirt: Depending on the day, it can be a little chilly on the boat ride back to shore. I recommend packing a light sweatshirt or shirt for the ride.
★ Dry bag: A dry bag keeps your electronics, wallet, and other important items from getting wet on the boat. I have this dry bag and I bring it on all my beach vacations to protect my camera, phone, wallet, and journal
★ GoPro or waterproof phone case: GoPros and waterproof phone cases may or may not be allowed on your tour. Be sure to check ahead of time!

Cage Shark Diving & Snorkeling FAQs

Is shark cage diving safe?

Shark cage diving is the safest way you can encounter sharks directly in the water. Metal shark cages are designed specific to keep humans in and sharks out!

Is freediving with sharks in Oahu safe?

Freediving with sharks is not as dangerous as you might think. If shark attacks were common (or happened at all) on these tours, these tour companies would not be able to operate.

If you are curious to learn more about the safety measures taken by the professional guides on Oahu shark dives, read my Oahu shark freediving guide!

What type of sharks can you expect to see?

Galapagos sharks most common shark species you’ll see on an Oahu shark tour. In the summertime it can be common to see tiger sharks as well. In addition, you may see sandbar sharks, hammerhead sharks, white tipped reef sharks, and grey reef sharks.

Can you see turtles and whales while shark cage diving?

Yes! Whale sightings are more common in the winter months, but you can see a diversity of marine life year round, including sea turtles, tropical fish, dolphins, amongst others.

Final Thoughts: Shark Diving Tours in Oahu

I hope this Hawaii travel guide encouraged you to face your fears and dive with sharks in Oahu.

I can personally say that shark diving was the highlight of my most recent Hawaii trip, and I hope to do it again in the future.

As you plan your trip to Oahu, be sure to check out my other Oahu travel guides:

★ 21 Oahu Hidden Gems to Explore Off the Beaten Path
★ The Ultimate Hawaii Packing List for Females
★ How to Visit the Mermaid Caves in Oahu
★ Oahu Byodo-In Temple Travel Guide
★ 21 Fun Things to do in Kailua, Oahu (And Nearby!)
★ How to Visit the China Walls in Oahu
★ What to Know BEFORE Swimming with Sharks in Oahu
★ How to Spend One Perfect Day on Oahu’s North Shore
★ Hiking the Lanikai Pillbox Trail at Sunrise
★ How to Visit Halona Beach Cove (Eternity Beach) on Oahu