Hanauma Bay

[caged]

Hanauma Bay (pronounced "ha-NOW-mah", not "ha-NAH-mah" or "ha-nah-OOMAH") is a marine embayment formed within a volcanic cone or crater and located along the southeast coast of the Island of O‘ahu (just east of Honolulu) in the Hawaiian Islands. Hanauma is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Island and has suffered somewhat from overuse (at one time accommodating over three million visitors per year).

The Park is open every day except Tuesday. But once the parking lot is full, which frequently happens by mid-morning, no more cars are admitted. It is best to come early or arrive by bus and walk in. Admission is free to kama'aina—those who are State residents—upon showing identification. All others are asked to pay a small fee and all view an educational video before entering the Park. Private companies cater to the public with tram rides to the beach, food services, and rental of snorkeling gear.

On most days, Hanauma offers visitors a picturesque beach and view of nearshore ocean life in the Hawaiian Islands. Hanauma Bay is extremely popular spot on O‘ahu for snorkeling and diving, providing opportunities to everyone from beginning snorkelers to experienced SCUBA divers.

[illusions]

Hmm I wonder why it isn't open on Tuesday?
Is that some sort of sacred day?

Thats great how they dont allow more cars once its full, it really saves congestion.

[caged]

No idea about tuesdays, sorry. That could be the reason though, perhaps their tuesday is like our sunday?
That would be a good question to ask the locals.

[travelmule]

TheBus will take you right to the front gate, and it's only two bucks. Also, the water is clearer in the morning because the sediment hasn't been stirred up by the m***es yet. This spot is very popular, and for good reason. It's like swimming in an aquariam. Swim out to the protective reef to see the most fish.

[vermontcathy]

When you say get there early to be sure and get a parking space, how early do you mean? Also, it turns out we will be in Oahu Saturday-Monday in November. Is it reasonable to go to Hanauma Bay on the weekend or will it be a zoo?

Cathy

[eekthetripsinaweek]

since it's a snorkeling beach, may i ask if the water is flat all day? or only early mornings?

the reason i ask is because i don't know how to swim and this is very important for me, haha!

also, are the waters clean or murky please? that's of major importance too. i'll be basing my hotel stay on whichever is near this beach. i've been to Honolulu lots of times before. on business, or taking care of a sick relative at Queens Memorial (i think, if memory serves). but this will be my very first time truly "vacationing" in Oahu.

can't wait to read your advice. thank you.

[vermontcathy]

When we were there (November), it was kind of rough, even though we were there pretty early. They mentioned it during orientation. So the water was a little cloudy from sand being tossed around. But we did see a sea turtle! It was out by the rough area, so the waves were pushing us around and pushing the turtle around... if it wasn't for seeing the turtle, I would have thought Sharks Cove on the North Shore was better - very calm and clear water.

Although I say it was rough, I still don't think it would be hard for beginners - you just float, face down, breathing through the snorkel. Sharks Cove, though, is so shallow we were touching bottom the whole time, so if you're worried about swimming, you might like it there.

Cathy

[lilient]

What bus route(s) would you take from Waikiki to get to Hanauma bay?

[floor]

Hanauma Bay is great for snorkeling, the beach is nice, the access is great. You have pay for the parking and it can get really crounded.
If you like snorkeling the north shore spot, Sharks Cove is a great place, it is free.Make sure you ask locals before you get to the water , when the waves picks up at the north shore this place is dangerous.
When the water is calm this is the great place to get close with the ocean wide life.