Sparks agreed that swimmers should be aware that sharks live in Island coastal waters. But it's nothing to be terrified about. It's a lot more likely you'll get hurt in a car wreck going to the beach than swimming in the water. But you do have to be aware. Sparks said it was unusual that this attack occurred near midday and in clear water.
Most attacks occur early or late in the day and in murky waters.
Neighbor Islands editor Christie Wilson contributed to this report. The Honolulu Advertiser, a division of Gannett Co .