Pro Surfer Koa Smith Crawled Across the Sand After Shark Bit Both Legs at South Shore Break

Professional surfer Koa Smith displayed remarkable composure and determination Tuesday morning after a shark attacked him at a popular South Shore surf break, biting both of his legs before he managed to paddle to shore and crawl across the sand to safety.

The 38-year-old Oahu native was surfing alone around 7 a.m. near Diamond Head when the attack occurred. Smith, who has been surfing professionally for over two decades, immediately began making his way to shore despite significant injuries to both lower legs.

“I felt something grab my leg, then realized it was a shark when I saw it let go and come back for the other leg,” Smith said from his hospital bed at Queen’s Medical Center. “Training kicked in — I knew I had to get to shore as quickly as possible.”

After reaching the beach, Smith crawled approximately 50 yards across the sand before other early morning beachgoers spotted him and called 911. Honolulu Emergency Medical Services responded within eight minutes, treating Smith at the scene before transporting him to the hospital.

Dr. Michael Tanaka, the trauma surgeon overseeing Smith’s care, said the surfer’s quick thinking likely prevented more serious complications. The wounds, while requiring multiple sutures on both legs, avoided major arteries and tendons.

“Koa’s immediate response — getting out of the water and seeking help — was textbook,” Tanaka said. “His injuries are significant but manageable, and we expect a full recovery within six to eight weeks.”

Experienced Ocean Athlete

Smith has been a fixture on Oahu’s surf scene since the early 2000s, competing professionally on the World Surf League’s Qualifying Series and later transitioning to big wave surfing. He’s also worked as a surf instructor and ocean safety advocate, making Tuesday’s incident particularly striking for the local surfing community.

The attack occurred at a break known locally as “Publics,” situated between Diamond Head and the Koko Head side of Maunalua Bay. The area is popular with both locals and visitors, particularly during summer months when South Shore swells provide consistent waves.

Hawaiian Islands see an average of three to four unprovoked shark incidents annually, according to the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Aquatic Resources. Tuesday’s attack marks the first reported incident of 2024 in Oahu waters.

Ocean Safety Reminder

City and County lifeguards have increased patrols in the Diamond Head area following the incident, though no beach closures have been implemented. Officials are reminding ocean users to follow standard safety protocols, particularly during dawn and dusk hours when shark activity typically increases.

“We always encourage people to surf, swim, and dive with a buddy,” said Honolulu Ocean Safety Division Captain James Rodrigues. “Solo water activities, especially during early morning hours, carry inherent risks that this incident unfortunately highlights.”

The species responsible for Tuesday’s attack has not been confirmed, though tiger sharks are the most common species involved in incidents around the Hawaiian Islands. These sharks typically range from 10 to 14 feet in length and are known to frequent near-shore waters where recreational activities occur.

Smith’s experience has sparked renewed discussion about ocean safety protocols as summer approaches and visitor numbers increase. Local surf shops and schools have reported increased interest in shark deterrent devices and buddy system protocols since news of the attack spread.

Recovery and Return

Despite the traumatic experience, Smith remains optimistic about returning to the water. The veteran surfer said he holds no animosity toward the shark and views the incident as part of the inherent risks of ocean activities.

“The ocean has given me everything — my career, my passion, my livelihood,” Smith said. “One bad encounter doesn’t change that relationship. I’ll be back out there as soon as the doctor clears me.”

Smith’s story serves as both a reminder of ocean risks and a testament to the importance of remaining calm during marine emergencies. His experience underscores why ocean safety education remains crucial for Hawaii’s residents and the millions of visitors who enter island waters each year.

The incident also highlights the effectiveness of Honolulu’s emergency response system, with Smith’s quick rescue and treatment demonstrating the coordination between beachgoers, emergency services, and medical professionals that helps ensure the best possible outcomes during ocean emergencies.