28-05-2025
Vote now to name two baby sharks at Sea Life Park Hawaii
HONOLULU (KHON2) — Sea Life Park Hawaii is asking the public to help name two baby sharks as part of a celebration leading up to World Reef Day.
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In partnership with Pearl Harbor Kai Elementary School, students from pre-K through sixth grade submitted name ideas, with eight finalists now up for a public vote. The naming contest is live on the park's Instagram page, @sealifepark, and runs through 12 p.m. on May 27.
The winners will be revealed during Sea Life Park's Keiki Sunday Mālama Kai – World Reef Day celebration on June 1 at the Hawaiian Reef Habitat, following the Aloha Nai'a dolphin show at 12:30 p.m.
'This partnership with Pearl Harbor Kai Elementary gives students a hands-on way to connect with marine life and learn about conservation,' said Michael Davis, the park's education manager.
Each shark pup has its own personality. One, known as 'The Big Shark,' is the boldest swimmer in the park's Hawaiian Reef Lagoon. 'I'm the biggest shark in the lagoon—which means I'm kind of a big deal,' the pup's bio options for this outgoing pup include:
Bluey (Pre-K)
Charzard (Kindergarten)
Koa (1st grade)
Shadow (2nd grade)
The second, 'The Shy Shark,' is a quiet observer who prefers calm waters and shady spots.
Finalists for this pup's name include:
Pearl (3rd grade)
Mālie (4th grade)
Midnight (5th grade)
Moonie (6th grade)
'Our school mascot is a shark, so this project was a natural fit,' said Chelsea Tavo, an instructional coach at Pearl Harbor Kai. 'For our military families, it's also a meaningful way to create lasting memories in Hawai'i.'
Student ambassadors from the school will join the celebration on June 1 to help announce the winning names.
The World Reef Day event will kick off with a beach cleanup at Baby Makapuʻu Beach at 8:30 a.m., followed by a green sea turtle release at 9:30 a.m. The park opens at 10 a.m.
Event highlights include:
Shark pup name reveal ceremony
Free keiki face painting and souvenir photo booth
Meet-and-greets with storybook characters
Keiki hula performance and kapa making
Craft fair and marine animal talks
A special BOGO ticket deal will also be available: one free child admission (ages 4–12) with every paid adult ticket. Kamaʻāina rates apply, and annual pass holders enjoy free entry year-round. Children under three always get in free.
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Tickets and more information are available at or by calling (808) 259-2500.
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