Is Hanauma Bay the Best Snorkeling Spot in Hawaii?
Hanauma Bay on Oahu, Hawaii
Is Hanauma Bay the Best Snorkeling Spot in Hawaii?
By Patti Morrow
Hawaii is well-known for its many azure and aqua beaches that offer prime snorkeling opportunities. If you are looking for a location teeming with marine life, head to Hanauma Bay on the southeast side of Oahu.
Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay
An easy 10-mile drive from Waikiki, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is actually the floor of a volcanic crater, believed to be 35,000 years old. Hanauma means “curved bay” fitly describing the stunning view obtained when looking down on it from the ledge above. Due to its shape and surrounding craggy landscape sheltering it, the beach is mostly protected from strong waves, making it ideal for snorkeling. The reef is just a few feet from shore, so even small children are able to enjoy it, even without a mask.
What can you expect to see in the waters of Hanauma Bay? On any given day, you can expect to come face-to-face with one or more of these reef inhabitants: sea turtles, rainbow-colored tropical fish, parrotfish, butterfly fish, snapper, trumpet fish, eels and more. And the nature observations don’t stop there. Birds and other wildlife make their way onto the beach.
Birds and other wildlife are on the beach
Not to be overlooked is the white-sand, palm-fringed beach with lots of shady areas for beachcombing, picnicking, or chilling out. On sunny days you might even see a breaching humpback whale across the bay.
The stunning beach area
Hanauma Bay is not without its challenges. On certain days, a strong current can form near the mouth of the bay which can make present a challenge unless you are a good swimmer, as well as churn up the sandy bottom creating less visibility for snorkeling. It is advisable to check the park staff about the conditions on the day you want to visit. The beach is also rocky where the waves break, making it necessary to walk beyond before slipping on fins. Water shoes provide extra protection for swimmers.
Snorkeling on a day with strong currents. The water was a bit murky.
The most spectacular panoramic view of the bay is undoubtedly from the famous photo spot on the ridge at the top of the walkway.
The most photographed point
The steep, walled trail is the most scenic path to the beach with breathtaking views that change with every step you take, but there is also a tram for those with physical challenges. There are also several hiking trails that connect the beach to additional heights for scenic lookouts, including sightings of Molokai and Lanai on a clear day.
A concession stand is conveniently located on the premise for purchase of refreshments and a rental shop for snorkeling equipment is located near the beach area.
Because Hanauma Bay is actually a nature preserve, ecological conservation of the bay has been increased in recent years to protect the marine life and reverse some of the past neglect and abuse. Previously, tourists could feed the fish, but this is now banned. Only 3,000 visitors are allowed in daily, and before they are allowed to enter the area, each visitor must go through the Marine Education Center where they are required to watch a short environmental video. Thanks to these efforts, the bay will be more likely to retain its natural beauty.
Patti Morrow Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, Hawaii
With a draw of more than one million people each year, it’s easy to see why Hanauma Bay is considered by many to be the best snorkeling destination in Hawaii.
IF YOU GO:
Read More Travel Tips and Tales by Patti Morrow:
- The Egypt I Knew: When Western Women Were Welcomed!
- Bora Bora: Bungalows, Beaches, Baguettes and Black Pearls
- Travel Tip: Curacao Ostrich Farm – This Place Is For The Birds!
- 10 Reasons to Visit La Paz, Mexico
- Badlands National Park, South Dakota
BIO:
Patti Morrow
Patti Morrow was born with incurable wanderlust, eventually leading her to a career as a freelance travel writer and photographer. She specializes in women’s adventure travel and has traveled throughout most of the United States and 35 countries abroad.
Patti has been published in numerous media, including International Living, Women’s Home Journal, Travel Post Monthly, MORE magazine, WAVEJourney.com, and Diva Toolbox and was featured on Tori Johnson (of Good Morning America) Spark and Hustle.
She is the editor of Luggage, Lipstick and Laptop, an online resource for women’s adventure travel, and is a member of ITWPA, AWAI, Intrepid Travel, Media Kitty, and TravelWriters.com.
See Where Patti Is Now:
http://www.luggageandlipstick.com/
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