Surfer Bitten at Cromwell's Beach; Serious Lower Leg Injuries

On May 30, 2026, at approximately 6:30 a.m., a 38-year-old male surfer was attacked by a shark while paddling his surfboard in the waters off Cromwell's Beach in the Waikiki area of Honolulu, Hawaii. The incident occurred in the Pacific Ocean near the channel at Hale Mano, as the victim was paddling out from Cromwell's toward Kaikoo. The shark, estimated to measure between 6 and 8 feet in length, inflicted serious injuries to the victim's lower extremities. Despite the severity of his wounds, the surfer demonstrated exceptional composure and self-rescue ability by paddling back to shore independently. A beachgoer witnessed his return and immediately contacted emergency services at 911. Honolulu Emergency Medical Services paramedics arrived promptly at the scene and provided life-saving treatment before transporting the victim to a nearby hospital in serious condition. He required immediate hospitalization and specialized medical care for his injuries. Following confirmation of the unprovoked attack, the City and County of Honolulu's Ocean Safety Division issued a shark warning for the Cromwell's swim area and surf break. Within an hour, at approximately 7:20 a.m., a second shark warning was issued for the nearby Ala Moana Bowls Surf Break after lifeguards reported sightings of two aggressive 8-foot sharks in that location. Official warning signs were posted at all affected beaches, and the public was advised to avoid entering the water in these areas and to comply with all posted warnings. Ocean Safety officials encouraged beachgoers to report any shark sightings or encounters to authorities immediately.