Hanauma Bay Snorkeling – A Complete Visitor Guide
Are you thinking about going on a Hanauma Bay snorkeling adventure? Need a little advice on what to expect and how to plan for a Hanauma Bay snorkeling trip?
Perfect! You are in the right spot.
In this post, we are going to cover all the basics about snorkeling at Hanauma Bay. We will look at all the information you need to plan a day trip.
Hanauma Bay is gorgeous and is worth putting on your Hawaii itinerary! The water is warm and these pictures do not have any filters! It really is that blue! Snorkeling in Oahu may be the highlight of your entire trip!
Let’s plan a Hanauma Bay snorkeling adventure!
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Hanauma Bay Hawaii
What is Hanauma Bay? Well, in the Hawaiian language hana means bay and uma means curved, so basically Hanauma Bay is curved bay. It is one of the most beautiful bays on Oahu.
Hanauma Bay Snorkel Destination
Hanauma Bay snorkeling is one of the most popular tourist destinations on Oahu. It was formed from a volcanic crater and now is the perfect location for viewing sea life.
Hanauma Bay is now a nature preserve park that has over 400 species of fish living within the coral reef just below the surface of the water. You will also see green sea turtles in this area.
Hanauma Bay has over 3000 visitors every day which is about 1 million visitors every year.
Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay is the best place to snorkel in Oahu! Let’s learn more about it!
Plan your Hanauma Bay Snorkeling Trip
Are you still trying to decide if you should snorkel at Hanauma Bay? Let’s answer some basic questions so you can feel comfortable and make a good decision.
Major Tourist Attraction – How Crowded is Hanauma Bay?
I know what you are thinking (if you are like me), Hanauma Bay is extremely popular and it will be crowded…..but I am here to tell you that I didn’t feel that way at all! Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay is a great experience!
There is enough space to spread out and enjoy what is above and beneath the water.
Do I Need to Be a Good Swimmer to Snorkel at Hanauma Bay?
Yes and No. If the tide is low you shouldn’t have a problem. However, as the tide comes in there are some strong currents. There are lifeguards on duty. They mark where the current is strong with cones and warn to stay out of those areas. Just be smart!
Can I Rent Snorkel Gear at Hanauma Bay?
Taking the shuttle and getting the equipment together is about the same price as driving and having to rent equipment. Meaning it is about $20 to rent equipment. If you are nearsighted they do offer masks with prescription lenses. That might be worth it right there!
Life vest and floaties are not available to rent on site but you can rent them from the shuttle provider.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkel Gear?
Yes, you can bring your own equipment. Personally, I like having my own equipment. I purchased a snorkel set on Amazon before I went on my first trip to Hawaii and used it almost every day of our trip. I highly recommend purchasing it ahead of time.
How Much Time Should I Spend Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay?
Are you wondering how much time you should spend snorkeling at Hanauma Bay? This is a great question.
What I found is that snorkeling is hard work. Ultimately, we swam and swam and explored the reef and become tired. If you take lots of breaks and relax on the beach you could spend all day here. I would probably allow about 3-4 hours to fully enjoy the area.
Shuttle to Hanauma Bay Snorkeling
If you are taking the shuttle they will have a specific return time about 4 hours from the time they drop you off. This is a great option if you do not have a car but does limit your time at Hanauma Bay.
Directions to Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay by Car
If you are driving from Waikiki it will take between 20-40 minutes depending on traffic. It is 10.7 miles away from Waikiki.
We did not experience any problems with driving and thought it was a great option.
Hanauma Bay Shuttle
If you did not rent a car and still want to experience Hanauma Bay snorkeling, there are many shuttle services from Waikiki. The price range for the transportation shuttle ranges from $17 -$25.
For that price, you will receive round-trip transportation as well as professional snorkeling gear to use. A separate $7.50 entrance fee is not included in that price.
Are Reservations for Hanauma Bay Shuttle Required?
The answer is YES! If you are planning to use this service call ahead and arrange your times. There are specific pick-up times throughout the day.
What are the Shuttle Times for Hanauma Bay?
Pick up and return times are as follows:
7:15 am – 11:45 am
8:45 am -1:15 pm
10:15 am – 2:45 pm
Parking at Hanauma Bay
Parking at Hanauma Bay was pretty easy. One piece of advice we read was to get there early as the parking lot fills up fast. Taking it easy is part of why we go to Hawaii and we did not get there too early.
Finding a spot was not a problem! There were still quite a few available by the time we got there. We went at a very busy time of year and observed that even when we left there were spots available. But just be aware that there are only 300 available spots.
Parking Fee
The parking fee is $1. Parking fee is refundable if you are in the lot for less than 15 minutes. Parking spots are very close to the entrance.
Hanauma Bay Snorkeling Admission and Introduction Video
Admission Price for Hanauma Bay
Admission is $7.50 per person. Children 12 years and younger, Hawaii residents, and active US military (with ID) are free. The $7.50 does not include snorkel gear.
One thing you might want to consider is the Go Oahu Card, which will get you into Hanauma Bay and many more Hawaii attractions.
Hours for Hanauma Bay Snorkeling
I’m so glad I took a picture of the sign! Hours of operation are 6:00 am – 7:00 pm daily in the summer months. In the winter it closes at 6:00 pm. Tuesdays they are not open.
Are Lockers Available at Hanauma Bay?
Yes, there are two sizes of lockers available to rent. For a smaller locker, the price is $10. A larger locker is priced at $12.
A smaller locker will hold a cell phone, wallet, and keys. The larger locker will hold a backpack.
Instructional Video
Once you pay your admission fee you are guided to an area to wait for a mandatory instructional video. This video tells the history of Hanauma Bay and the nature of the natural preserve.
I really enjoyed the video and learned many things. Most importantly, I learned that you can not step on the coral reef! The fish depend on the coral reef to survive and we do not want to damage it.
Hanauma Bay Snorkeling Educational Center
Hanauma Bay has an educational center where you can observe what types of animal life are present in the bay.
The main goal is to preserve animal life and learn about all the ways to keep the environment safe.
It also has a 12 minute video that is interesting and informative.
Get Ready for Hanauma Bay Snorkeling
It is so hard to know what to pack for Hawaii…but for Hanauma Bay snorkeling a beach bag filled with the following items is just want you need.
What Do I Need to Bring to Hanauma Bay?
Here is your checklist! If you need any of the following items, you can click on the links below and order them on Amazon.
Hanauma Bay Snorkeling
Getting To and From the Hanauma Bay Cove
I wanted to warn you it is a steep 10-minute walk down to the bay from the visitor center.
Fortunately, we made some friends as we watched the video and didn’t mind the walk as we were chatting. On the other side walking up the hill was intense. It was a really steep climb!
Tram Service
If you prefer not to walk a tram service is available to take you down for $1 and up for $1.25. I would consider this for the hike up!
Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay
Once you walk down the steep hill it is time to snorkel. There is a nice beach to relax and get your gear on.
One thing to be aware of is that the water is very shallow during low tide. The coral extends pretty far out but the depth of the cove remains fairly shallow even as you swim farther out. It was really easy to get scratched and cut.
Hanauma Bay Snorkeling – Sea Life
The sea life is amazing. There are so many beautiful fish to see! You will even get to see the Humuhumunukunukuapuaa, which is the state fish. Yellowfish, trumpet fish, and angelfish are also swimming throughout the cove.
Lifeguards
There are lifeguards on duty but I imagine that would be a hard job as everyone is sticking their face in the water!
Hanauma Bay Beach
Many people were relaxing on the beach. In my mind, I had only thought of Hanauma Bay as a place to snorkel not relax, and hang out. I was wrong so many people were enjoying the beach.
Hanauma Bay Tips for Snorkeling
I have a few tips for snorkeling for first-timers.
Hanauma Bay Tip Number 1
Before you trip to Hawaii, practice using your gear. For most adults, it shouldn’t be too hard to learn to snorkel. Kids find using the equipment a lot harder. Practice makes perfect!
Hanauma Bay Tip Number 2
Arrive early for your Hanauma Bay snorkeling adventure. You will be able to get a good parking spot and get in the water quickly. We found that the early we snorkeled in Hawaii the more sea life we saw.
Hanauma Bay Tip Number 3
When you put your gear on particularly your fins. Sit close to the water and as you enter the ocean walk backward. It is so much easier.
Is There Anywhere to Eat at Hanauma Bay?
Yes, a snack bar is located on the upper level across from the cashier. They have bacon cheeseburgers, hot dogs, chili with rice, pulled pork sandwiches, and french fries.
They also have some healthier options such as turkey wraps, teriyaki chicken, and garden salads. There are also lots of snack and drink options available. meals are under $8.00.
I didn’t get a chance to try it out. so, I’m not sure what the quality of food is. The reviews are really good.
Are you Ready for a Hanauma Bay Snorkeling Adventure?
Hopefully, all of your questions were answered and you feel ready to go and have some fun! Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay is really a must-do in Oahu! I hope you have a great time! Be sure to check out my One Week In Oahu Hawaii itinerary.
Comment below if you have any experiences snorkeling in Hawaii and what your favorite spots have been!
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Have Fun in Hawaii
Have you planned your Hawaii trip yet? If you need some ideas I have you covered.
We split our trip between Oahu and had one day in Maui. We had some fun experiences driving in Maui to see a really cool blowhole. Maui was so gorgeous we wish we had more time to explore it.
We spent most of our time on Oahu. We focused on hiking in Oahu and snorkeling in Oahu but also did most of the touristy stuff as well. We had so much fun and I know you will too!
Hawaii Adventures
If you need ideas for things to do on Oahu with kids I highly recommend visiting Pearl Harbor and then heading to the North Shore and going on a Jurassic Adventure Tour or getting a Dole Whip at the Dole Pineapple Plantation. You could also visit the Polynesian Cultural Center.
You can also check out the best family resorts on Oahu!
If you need guidance on what to pack for Hawaii, I share all my tips in my post.
Also, do not forget to get your Hawaii Souvenirs!
I like snorkeling but love diving. I wonder if you can dive here? I’ll have to check it out next time I’m in Oahu.
You can dive but it’s a little farther out. The water in this area is really shallow. But they do have diving tours from Hanauma Bay.
Beautiful pictures! It looks like a great experience!
It was so gorgeous! I want to go back!
Great pics it’s been a while since I have been snorkeling! I loved snuba, that’s what we did when we went to Oahu!
I want to try scuba, that would be awesome!
I’ve always dreamed of going here. My parents went decades ago, and my mom bought a picture that still hangs in their house.
I had never been until this last summer and it is up there with Disney World as my favorite places!
We have snorkeled before on Maui but I will for sure be adding this to our Oahu visit! Thank you for sharing your experience!
We snorkeled at one spot in Maui but it wasn’t great! I thought Hanauma Bay was wonderful!
What a paradise! Adding this to my list the next time I visit!
Hawaii is paradise! I want to go back!
I’ve never been to Hawaii but it is definitely on my bucket list. Was this a trip with just you or your husband or did your kids come along? I’m just wondering how kid-friendly it is. I’m assuming it is since it says 12 and under free? Thanks for such an informative post. Hope to visit someday!
It was just my husband and I that went on this trip. Hanauma bay would be good for older kids. It would be hard if you are not a strong swimmer. So little kids probably couldn’t go to far out. There is a beach for them to play on so that would be good for kids. I personally think I would be worried because of the amount of people and keeping track of my little ones.
We love snorkeling. We would love to snorkel at Hanauma Bay! Thank you for the tip!
I hope you get to one day!
We love to snorkel. This looks like another great spot to add to our list of must go to places just for snorkeling.
Totally is, so beautiful!
since its such a popular destination now this is great information before going.
Thanks
I would love to do this one day! It looks like an amazing experience. Thank you for providing so much valuable information.
I hope you get to go!
This would be a wonderful place to learn how to snorkel!
I agree! The water is super shallow!
Looks absolutely amazing!
It really was!
What an amazing place to visit! I have snorkeled in many places around the world and this looks like a beautiful place to go!
It is a great location!
This looks like so much fun! I’d love to do this one day!
I hope you get to!
This beach is so beautiful! ? After dealing with the parking meters in Savannah, GA for a few years, I think I got a bit over-excited over that $1 parking annoucement!
This beach is so beautiful! ? After dealing with the parking meters in Savannah, GA for a few years, I think I got a bit over-excited over that $1 parking announcement!
I know! that is a great thing!
This is one of my happy places. Such a great place and there are so many colorful fish it is unreal!
I loved all the fishes!
We are big snorkelers! This looks like the perfect spot!
It is gorgeous!
As I sit here writing this note, the snow is piling up outside and a forecast of double digits below zero in a couple days. Thank you for taking me to a warm, inviting spot for a bit to enjoy one of my all time favorite things to do…snorkel!!
Exactly! It is cold here too! I had to start dreaming!
Another great review! Love the pictures. It looks so amazing there. I hope to get to Hawaii one day. You would be an awesome travel guide!!
Thanks! I just like to learn things when I go places and share!
I’ve done this and it was so fun!! Thanks for the trip down memory lane….your pics are gorgeous!
Thanks! It is a great tourist spot!
Great post to make sure anyone that goes is completely ready!
For sure! my favorite kind of post to write!
Thanks for sharing! We love snorkeling here!
It is so beautiful and lots of fish
It was on my list when I was on Oahu, unfortunately it was really storm that whole week, zero visibility and choppy waters. So for obvious reasons I did not end up going…if I ever get back there (too many other places to visit), I’ll attempt to go again!
I hear you! so many places so little time!
Oh my goodness! My husband and I went snorkeling here 30 years ago. It is unbelievably beautiful and has great snorkeling. I’d love to return and see it again. These are great tips.
Thanks! It is as beautiful as ever!
Beautiful photos! It’s on my wish list. One day 🙂
It has been on mine for a long time and I was finally able to go this year and now I want to go back!
I grew up just about 5 minutes away from Hanauma Bay and have watched as its popularity has increased. I am so glad they have started doing those informational videos! It breaks my heart when I see people standing on the reef (at Hanauma and other places without information videos). I always wish they’d show it in the videos on the airplane for everyone coming in to Hawaii to see! Thanks for your great write up!
I am glad I watched the video, I would have had no idea not to stand on it!
This looks like so much fun! Next time we are in Hawaii, this will have to be on our snorkeling list!
For sure! It is a great spot!
Great tips! It’s been so long since I have been there…if I ever make it back, this sure seems helpful!
Thanks! I hope you can make it back someday!
Wow! It just looks amazing! Definitely on my list now. Thanks for sharing.
Hawaii really does not disappoint!
Such an amazing place to snorkel! We love it there too!
It really is so gorgeous!
I’ve been there and even did the snorkeling so your post brought back some wonderful memories. It’s a beautiful and amazing place so I’m glad you got to do it…everyone should try it there at least once.
I agree!
Snorkeling is so fun! I’d love to explore the waters around Hawaii.
I just went and I am so ready to go back!
We just returned home from Hawaii and I have to agree, the snorkeling there is AMAZING! Great information in your post!!
Thanks! I loved snorkeling in Oahu!
Although we have traveled to 45 states, Hawaii is one we haven’t traveled to yet. The water is always so amazing to me, love your photos. We will have to visit Ohau when we finally do travel there.
I always thought Hawaii is a dream, I will get there one day. I spontaneously booked it and I regret not doing it sooner!
I may not be ready to go snorkeling there, but I certainly am ready to visit! Hawaii has been on my bucket list for YEARS!! The boys would love snorkeling, though!
Hawaii is so amazing! I can’t wait to go back!