Are you heading to the beautiful Island of Oahu Hawaii? Are you thinking about snorkeling in Oahu while you are there?
Well guess what we made it our mission on our last trip to check out all the most amazing snorkeling spots on the island! It was so much fun! I love Hawaii so much! Snorkeling in Oahu was such a blast.
I highly recommend checking out my list of the best places for snorkeling in Oahu. Let’s get started!
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Snorkeling At Shark's Cove
Shark Cove is part of Pupukea Beach Park, and is located on the Northshore of the island.
Snorkeling at Shark’s Cove is worth the trip! I couldn’t believe how many fish were in this area. Pupukea Beach Park is a marine life conservation area so there are so many fish to see!
Shark’s Cove is a calm area in the Summer but in the Winter months there are storms that come in hard and snorkeling may not be possible here.
Snorkel Gear Rental
Snorkeling at Shark’s Cove does not have an entrance fee. We purchased our own snorkeling gear, but if you need to rent snorkel equipment there is a store located across the street where you can.
Safety Tips for Shark’s Cove
This is a high theft area (so we have been told). We actually were really nervous, there was a man that was staring at me and it freaked me out. It was like he was on drugs and had a very evil eye.
My husband decided to stay on the shore while I went in to make sure he didn’t steal anything. We then switched places but it was getting late and we didn’t want to be the only ones in the area.
Despite the crazy guy, this makes the list for the best places for snorkeling in Oahu!
Shark’s cove is not like Hanauma Bay. (which is a paid snorkeling area) It is more like pulling over on the side of the road and hitting the ocean. Although, there are showers and restroom facilitates available at this site.
Turtle Bay Snorkeling (Kuilima Cove)
Snorkeling at Turtle Bay was amazing! Turtle Bay is a resort on the Northshore of Oahu. This enormous resort will not disappoint!
One thing some people do not know is that there is a public beach located right next to the property. This cove is named Kuilima Cove. Snorkeling at Kuilima Cove is a great place to learn because it is protected from incoming waves.
There are schools and more schools of fish. Most likely you will see a sea turtle or even an ell. We were able to see hundreds of fish. Summer months may be better as the north shore has more waves coming in the winter. The beach itself is small but it is very lovely.
We were able to go in the early morning and have the whole place to ourselves!
Renting Snorkeling Equipment at Turtle Bay
If you are staying on the resort snorkeling equipment is free. We bought our own gear at Sam’s Club before getting to Hawaii which we thought was well worth the investment. Not only did we snorkel at Turtle Bay but at many more locations in Oahu.
The closest place to rent snorkeling equipment may be at Shark’s Cove. Maybe you could hit two spots in one day if you decide to rent your snorkeling equipment!
How much time should I spend Snorkeling at Turtle Bay?
We spent about 1-2 hours here. I would allocate at least that amount of time to this area. If you are staying at Turtle Bay than you could spend a lot more time. Relaxing on the beach and snorkeling could consume your whole day if you wanted it to!
Parking at Turtle Bay
There are a very few free public parking spaces dedicated for Kuilima Cove. We went very early in the morning and were able to get a spot but by the time we left majority of the spots were full. I would arrive early to secure your spot.
Snorkeling in Oahu does have some challenges and parking is one of them. We found that if we went early in the morning or later in the afternoon we were able to easily get a spot.
Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is located in Oahu, Hawaii. It is about 10 miles from the famous Waikiki Beach.
Hanauma Bay is a volcanic crater that has been formed into a natural pool. Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay is one of the best spots on the very popular Hawaiian island of Ohau. The water really is as blue as the picture (no filter).
Over three thousand people each day get the opportunity to swim with the marine life in the bay. This area is a protected, and educates participants on preserving wildlife to all those that will enter Hanauma Bay.
Entry Fee at Hanauma Bay
Snorkel Gear and Gift Shop at Hanauma Bay
There is snorkel gear available to rent onsite. Also, you will find a gift shop that has souvenirs and items you may have forgotten (for example, sunscreen). After you enter and pay, you are guided to a room to watch a video on the history of Hanauma Bay and how to protect the coral and fishes that call it home.
Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay
I highly recommend adding Hanauma Bay to your Hawaii itinerary. You will not regret it! We really loved it! This was one of our favorite places for snorkeling in Oahu! You may want to consider getting the Go Oahu Card as Hanauma Bay is included in the price.
Kahe Point (Beach Park) Snorkeling
Kahe Point is located on the west side of Oahu. It is also known as electric beach because it is near a powerplant. The power plant releases clean warm water into the ocean which attracts an immense amount of sea life.
Snorkeling at Kahe Point
Snorkeling at Kahe Point is a intermediate to advanced level. You will have to swim out pretty far to avoid the crashing of the waves. Once you are out you will not be disappointed. Head to the opening of the pipes and that is where your adventure begins.
If you are a beginner snorkeler don’t be discouraged there are snorkel tour groups for Kahe Point.
What to Expect When Snorkeling at Electric Beach
The water is going to be so clear that you can see everything. You will see lots of sea life around the pipes. Another thing that makes Kahe Point amazing is that spinner dolphins love the warmer temperatures from the power plant and spend their days feeding their young in this area.
There will be many charter boats near by looking at the dolphins. You will be able to see them and hear them up close and personal!
Parking at Kahe Point
There is a parking lot across the street. You should be able to find a parking spot so no need to stress! This is a free park with no admission fee.
Snorkeling at Kahe Point should be on your list no matter what your snorkeling ability.
Snorkeling at Kaena Point State Park
Kaena Point State Park is located on the western most tip of the island. A small hike (2.7 miles) is required to access the park. The park itself has many activities such as fishing, tide pool observing, hiking, and of course snorkeling.
Snorkeling at Kaena Point
Please check the park website before you set out on this adventure. Swimming in this area can be rough on certain days and the website will tell you if it is safe.
If you do have the chance to get to this area you will be surprised at the lack of people. There are miles of beautiful beaches with limited amounts of people. The main reason is because there are no roads that connect to this area.
The water is clear but you may not see as many fish in this area as some of the other Oahu snorkeling sites. Dolphins have been spotted around Kaena Point so be on the look out! Overall, the limited crowds make this spot worth checking out plus there are lots of other enjoyable activities to do as well.
Snorkeling in Oahu!
Snorkeling in Oahu made our vacation so amazing! Out of all of the spots we hit, my favorite was Turtle Bay. We were able to see the most fish and creatures in this area. It actually made me want to stay at Turtle Bay the next time we visit. Snorkeling should make your Oahu bucket list for sure!
Pro Tip
I honestly think it is worth purchasing your own snorkel gear before you head to Hawaii. It may take up more room in your luggage but it will save you money and time if you are planning on snorkeling more than one time.
If you are looking for a more detailed One Week in Oahu Itinerary or are planning to island hop to Maui check out my amazing road of death adventure and my One Day in Maui Itinerary. If you are looking to do a little more research before you go, National Geographic has a great book about Hawaii.
Leave a Comment Below if You Know of Other Great Places for Snorkeling in Oahu!
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Pam
December 19, 2019 1:00 pmThis looks amazing! I am definitely ready to go!
Lisa
December 20, 2019 10:39 pmMe too! It was a really spur of the moment trip and I am so glad we went!
Susan Whitehead
December 19, 2019 6:22 pmOh, my husband would LOVE this. He goes snorkeling at our local beaches, so being able to see clearly all these different things would be a dream come true for him.
Lisa
December 20, 2019 10:39 pmIt is really cool! It was so clear!
Missy
December 19, 2019 7:29 pmWe love snorkeling too! Thank you for sharing the different locations. Before we visit we read about the best snorkeling spots.
Lisa
December 20, 2019 10:38 pmWas there any that I missed?
Hera
December 20, 2019 2:04 amI miss Turtle Bay and it’s been great living vicariously through these pics. Brings back fond memories and reminds me of how long it’s been!
Lisa
December 20, 2019 10:38 pmI really liked Turtle Bay more than the Disney property even!
Ola
December 20, 2019 7:11 amI’m not a snorkeler, but I wouldn’t mind just laying on any of those beaches. Beautiful!
Lisa
December 20, 2019 10:37 pmOh yes, Hawaii’s beaches are so wonderful!
Cynthia
December 20, 2019 9:40 amThis is such a comprehensive guide. I’m going to pin it in for when we make it out that way. I’m sorry about the creeper ?. Thanks for sharing!
Lisa
December 20, 2019 10:36 pmThat creeper scared me! But it all was good!
Stacey Billingsley
December 20, 2019 10:15 amI’ve never been to Hawaii or snorkeling, and it looks like I’ve been missing out! This looks so cool. I’d love to see a sea turtle. I like how the coves have such cool names, too. Hawaii is definitely on my must-see list for someday!
Lisa
December 20, 2019 10:35 pmIt is as good as everyone says!
Abby
December 20, 2019 9:05 pmYou’re first two questions had me hooked! Yes, I’m going to Hawaii and Yes, we plan on snorkeling!! Love this! Pinned it, plan on coming back to this post to plan our snorkeling excursions.
Lisa
December 20, 2019 10:35 pmOh good! We just went and I am already planning my next trip with the kids this time!
kmf
December 20, 2019 9:35 pmWow…I can’t believe how clear and beautiful the water is – especially love the turtle shot! Stunning photos! Wish I were in Hawaii right now.
Lisa
December 20, 2019 10:34 pmI wish I was in Hawaii too! A Hawaiian Christmas sounds really nice!
Jill DeMasi
December 23, 2019 7:53 amI want to go! Only been snorkeling once in St. Thomas and it wasn’t the best experience but I definitely want to try it again.
Lisa
December 27, 2019 9:17 pmHawaii is so magical, but I want to do the Caribbean one day as well!
heather
December 23, 2019 8:30 amAhhh.. I am dreaming of warm beaches. These look like amazing spots to hit. A great list to save for later for sure.
Lisa
December 27, 2019 9:17 pmFor sure, I am going to take my kids next time and they will love some of these spots!
Tricia Snow
December 23, 2019 5:25 pmIt looks like an amazing spot! I can’t wait to try it!
Lisa
December 27, 2019 9:15 pmI hope you get too!
Jen
December 23, 2019 5:41 pmThanks for these insider tips! I really hope to visit and will keep this post handy for when i do!
Lisa
December 27, 2019 9:15 pmOh good!
ANgela
December 23, 2019 9:15 pmI love this island. Hanauma Bay is a fav. I like your tips for North Shore too.
Lisa
December 27, 2019 9:15 pmWe loved Northshore!
Suzan
December 24, 2019 6:25 amDiving & snorkeling…my all time favorite things to do! Hanauma Bay looks absolutely stunning!!
Lisa
December 27, 2019 9:14 pmIt is gorgeous! I love it too!
Tracy
December 24, 2019 7:50 amGreat info! Saving this for our upcoming trip! Thanks!
Lisa
December 27, 2019 9:13 pmOh good!
Carrie Beaton
December 24, 2019 9:02 amWe love snorkeling, especially in Hawaii! Thanks for these suggestions on where we should try next!
Lisa
December 27, 2019 9:13 pmI hope you get to try a new location listed and let us know!
Beatriz
December 26, 2019 9:41 amThis looks like a dream! Yesterday I went to the snow though I love it. It is nothing like the beach!
Lisa
December 27, 2019 9:11 pmIt really is a dream!
Michele
December 28, 2019 7:03 amWe love to snorkel and dream of Hawaii! What a combination! Looking forward to the day we make it there!
Lisa
December 30, 2019 1:56 pmIt really is what everyone says, Paradise!
Susan
December 28, 2019 8:35 amI’m going to have to make a trip back. It’s so beautiful and so much to do. Thanks for sharing your recommendations and adventures.
Lisa
December 30, 2019 1:56 pmI am already planning another trip with my kids this time!
Malia
December 28, 2019 10:24 amGreat list! Each place definitely has its pros and cons. Good job being smart and taking turns getting into the water when you were sketched out by that guy. Better safe than sorry!
Lisa
December 30, 2019 1:55 pmYeah, we had so much fun!
Cindy
December 28, 2019 9:31 pmIt would be so fun to snorkel in Hawaii! This is a great post for reference.
Lisa
December 30, 2019 1:54 pmIt is so amazing!
Karen
January 25, 2021 9:27 pmYou did find the best places to snorkel in Oahu, Hawaii! I love Hawaii and can’t wait to visit again.
Lisa
January 27, 2021 9:16 amThere are some fun places to snorkel!
Marianne
January 26, 2021 5:17 amI can’t wait to reschedule our trip to Hawaii… possibly for next year! We had at least 3 snorkeling excursions booked… and it would have been the kids’ first time. Thanks for the great suggestions! The list will definitely come in handy!
Lisa
January 27, 2021 9:16 amWe are taking our kids 2022. It is such a fun place!
Kendra
January 26, 2021 8:23 pmSnorkeling always makes me nervous at first, and then I end up loving it! Oahu looks like a perfect destination for snorkeling!
Lisa
January 27, 2021 9:13 amIt is an underwater dream!
Cas
January 26, 2021 10:15 pmI did a SUP yoga class in Kuilima Cove when we stayed at Turtle Bay. It’s a beautiful part of Hawaii, the north shore is one of my favorites actually. These are great suggestions for snorkeling on Oahu!
Lisa
January 27, 2021 9:13 amI loved Turtle Bay too! It is a great place to stay.
Suz | TravelsWithSuz.com
January 31, 2021 11:26 pmSnorkeling in Oahu?! Sounds amazing!! Good to know you can rent quality equipment at many places – packing it takes a lot of room.
Lisa
February 2, 2021 5:34 pmYou can but you won’t be able to go to the remote areas.