Hanauma Bay Honolulu

Hanauma Bay Honolulu is one of the best places to go snorkeling. The Bay is actually just outside Honolulu and Waikiki but it is a short drive and also easily accessible by city bus and if you make it out there, you will get the chance to see all different types of marine life in a natural setting.

Hanauma Bay Honolulu is a Nature Preserve that is well worth a visit. If you drive over, expect crowded parking on the weekend if you arrive late. There is a fee for parking and another to enter the Preserve though residents enter for free. The first time you visit, the Preserve asks that you view a video about the bay and its conservation. One very important point that is covered in the video: Please do not walk on the reef! Walking on the reef will damage it. The video also talks about the formation of the bay and some of its history.

Click here for more on conservation in Honolulu.

Snorkeling Hanauma Bay

Why is this such a popular place to snorkel? The coral reefs here are teaming with life so you will find yourself swimming with all sorts of different types of fish and even sea turtles who have come to feed. The fish are very comfortable around people and offer visitors some great photo opportunities so you might want to bring a camera. You can buy cameras and rent snorkel equipment down at the bay or bring your own snorkel gear. Because it's a bay, the water is somewhat protected and calmer than the open ocean though you will still feel waves so the snorkeling here is superb.

Getting Down To The Bay

To get to the bay, visitors go down a fairly steep hill. Don't worry if you don't feel like walking, there is an inexpensive shuttle available to take you down and to bring you back up if you'd like. The path down offers some excellent views of the bay and snorkelers and you can even see some fish.

At the top of the hill, visitors pay the entry fee and watch a video. This is also where you will find the Visitor Center, snack bar, restrooms and an amazing view. Down at the bay you will find snorkel rentals, restrooms, showers and drinking fountains but no food for sale. Feel free to bring your own down or buy something at the snack bar before you head to the beach.

Like everywhere else in Honolulu, be very careful with your valuables! Do not leave them in your vehicle or unattended on the beach. We don't want your trip to the bay ruined by having your car broken into.

Hanauma Bay is an absolutely gorgeous place to snorkel and one of our personal favorites. We're sure you'll enjoy it as much as we do.

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