It goes without saying there is incredible snorkeling around Oahu. We try to find new spots on each visit.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Probably the most well-known and most accessible snorkeling spot for tourists like us. The scenery is beautiful and the fish are plentiful. It can get crowded and the water can get cloudy at times. That being said, it shouldn’t be missed. There is a fee to get in ($7.50 entry fee the last time we were there).
Tips
- CLOSED on Tuesdays!
- Go early or late – we’ve had luck getting there early or arriving late (around 4pm). The park closes at 6pm, but we went after 4pm on a Sunday and were able to get in without paying the entry fee (because the ticket windows had closed). We’ve heard the parking lot fills and you’ll be turned away sometimes, but we’ve never run into this before.
- Take The Bus – you can catch right next to the Luana Waikiki on Kalakaua. Previously, the bus stop was across the street from the Luana – but it has recently moved to be on Kalakaua. The 22 bus will drop you off at Hanauma Bay (it is a stop on the route). Make sure you have EXACT change for the bus – $2.50 each way (for a total of $5). See the image below of where the bus picks you up. It does take 30-40 minutes to get there, but the scenery is nice – not a bad ride.
- If you plan to return, make sure to sign the book after you watch the environmental video IF you plan to return within the next 12 months. This allows you to skip the video on any visits over that time.
