Hanauma Bay

Just outside of Waikiki Beach, near the town of Hawaii Kai, is one of the most visited destinations in Hawaii, and the place that many flock to in order to witness and explore the underwater world of Oahu. At Hanauma Bay, the waters are clear and calm, the reefs thrive, and the large varieties of tropical fish enjoy pristine ocean conditions that are perfect year round. Hanauma Bay is one of the most visited places on Oahu and a must for a trip to the island.

The bay itself is a commonly seen site, used in all kinds of promotion of Oahu, including pictures, postcards, screensavers, and advertisements. Perfect in appearance, Hanauma Bay is also a perfect place to spend a few hours, entering the water from the beach to snorkel and explore the huge reefs that make up the bay. Fish of all shapes, sizes, and colors are seen eating off the reefs, and are so accustomed to visitors in the water, they won't bat an eye that you are there. As with any snorkeling, please observe only and do not touch or attempt to touch the marine life.

Hanauma Bay is a Nature Preserve and Marine Life Conservation District whose primary objective is to conserve the bay and ensure its short and long-term health. In total, approximately 400 species of fish make their home at Hanauma Bay, including a large number of Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, known as Honu. The presence of Honu are important to the islands, and to the bay, as Hanauma Bay is a nursing ground for sea turtles who make their homes throughout the Hawaiian Islands.

If you look at other sites around Oahu, like Diamond Head and Koko Head, you may notice similarities in the shape of Hanauma Bay. The Hanauma Crater was created more than 30,000 years ago, when a series of violent eruptions created the part of Oahu where Honolulu and many of its most notable destinations are found, Hanauma Bay included. Eventually, thousands of years of wave erosion cut through the lowest part of the volcanoes wall, created the bay that we know today.

Hanauma Bay is famous throughout Hawaii for its snorkeling and the variety of fish that are found here. The water is very calm, perfect for all ages, and shallow along much of the coastline. The reefs are very fragile, and protecting them is a primary concern for the Nature Preserve, and due to the concern of the health of the bay, visitors are required to watch a safety video prior to entering. Hanauma Bay Snorkeling is a great way to spend a day!

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