Located on the island of Oahu is Hanauma Bay which is a 25-minute drive from Waikiki Beach.
This stunning natural reserve is home to lots of active marine life and has over one million visitors each year.
Here is a video of my experience snorkeling Hanauma Bay:
What’s amazing about this natural sight is how it was created. It began over 40 thousands year ago, when volcanic eruptions from beneath the ocean formed its crescent-shaped crater turned bay.
After siting through a 15-minute information session, you’re ready to head to the reef, where I recommend visitors walk down the hill as the views are amazing. Once at the bottom you can hire snorkel gear and lockers which costs $20 for a full snorkel set and $8-$10 for lockers.
As you explore the water you’ll come across various types of fish such as parrotfish, goatfish and butterfly fish, and if you’re lucky green sea turtles.
You can even see and hear the fish chomping away at the coral which is incredible. As the coral is a vital part of their ecosystem (source of food and shelter), it’s important all snorkelers take care and avoid touching and damaging the coral structures.
Once you’ve had your Hanauma Bay snorkelling fix and ready to go – you can jump on a $2 shuttle taking you back up the hill. Otherwise be warned it’s a steep thigh burning walk to the top.
If you’re looking at snorkeling Hanauma Bay, here are my three top tips:
- Don’t go on a Tuesday as the natural reserve is closed that day.
- Bring a cooler with bottled water and snacks, as food is not sold on the beach. Also be sure to take any rubbish with you.
- Bring sunscreen, an underwater camera and have fun!
Have you been snorkeling at Hanauma Bay Hawaii? Tell us what you thought.
