No matter what side of the island you find yourself on, there’s a great chance you can throw on your mask, snorkel and fins and check out some of the underwater life. A little caveat while snorkeling or swimming, if you come to a patch of reef, do not step on the razor sharp coral or rocks: not only will it cut your skin, but also damage the already endangered reef life. Don’t touch the fish, always have a buddy with you, choose reef safe sunscreen, and ask a local if you have any questions!
Hanauma Bay
7455 Kalanianaole Hwy, Honolulu
Hanauma Bay, south of Waikiki, is world famous for its snorkeling, this protected bay offers plenty of fish and wildlife to view the moment you dip your feet into the water. This bay has both an inner and an outer reef, it is family friendly, and offers snorkeling for beginning and experienced snorkelers alike. Except to see a wide variety of fish, turtles, eels, and maybe even an octopus! Days and hours open go here. Hanauma Bay State Park Website
Sharks Cove
On the North Shore, a great spot for snorkeling is Sharks Cove — it has a shallow and protected lagoon, and plenty of open ocean around it, so you will see plenty of fish here. The waters are most approachable in the summertime, there are some winter days when you can access the protected lagoon but pay attention to the surf, the tides, and the signs on the beach. Turtle Bay’s protected lagoon is great for beginners but you won’t see as much wildlife here as you would in places with open ocean access. Days and hours open go here. website.com
Lanikai
Mokulua Drive, Kailua
Lanikai is the best place to snorkel around on the East Side, the sand here is spectacular, the views are unbelievable, and the reef is feet from the shoreline. And if you find yourself on the west side, Ko Olina has a private and safe beach access with a breakwater. Electric Beach may be the most famous place for snorkeling because of the number of fish and wildlife that congregate in these warmer waters, but is for more experienced snorkelers.
Electric Beach
92-201 Farrington Hwy, Kapolei
On the North Shore, a great spot for snorkeling is Sharks Cove — it has a shallow and protected lagoon, and plenty of open ocean around it, so you will see plenty of fish here. The waters are most approachable in the summertime, there are some winter days when you can access the protected lagoon but pay attention to the surf, the tides, and the signs on the beach. Turtle Bay’s protected lagoon is great for beginners but you won’t see as much wildlife here as you would in places with open ocean access. Days and hours open go here. website.com
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