Hanalei Bay closed to swimming due to shark sighting

HANALEI — Ocean Safety officials closed Hanalei Bay on Thursday to swimming until further notice due to a shark sighting.

Lifeguards report that a roughly six-foot shark was sighted breaching and thrashing near the shoreline. The type of shark is unknown.

As a safety precaution, ‘No Swimming’ and ‘Shark Sighted’ signs have been posted along the beach and the public is advised to stay out of the water. Lifeguards will continue to monitor the area.

The beach will remain closed until at least this morning when lifeguards will reassess if it can be reopened.

Beachgoers are also reminded to stay out of brown and turbid water as a safety precaution. Ocean Safety officials advise swimming or snorkeling at Po‘ipu Beach where the water clarity is better.