Hanauma Bay Beach Park at a Glance
Ever fancied swimming amidst some of the world’s rarest
marine wildlife? It can’t get much better than at Hanauma
Bay on southeastern Oahu, Hawaii. Named America’s best beach in
2004, Hanauma is a longtime favorite among snorkelers and
marine enthusiasts. It is home to over 450 kinds of tropical
fish, many of which can only be found in Hawaii.
Although often called a beach park, Hanauma Bay is
actually a nature preserve established to protect the
delicate ecosystems in the bay. Visitors have to watch a short educational
videoclip about the bay’s history and wildlife before entering
the beach. A steep, but paved road leads down to it. If
you don't feel like walking or have a physical disability,
there's a small bus that takes people to the beach (it costs
50 cents on the way down and one dollar back up).
Swimming at Hanauma Bay is safe, as the water is protected by a large
reef. Here you can observe marine life up close, including
the humuhumunukunukuapua‘a, the Hawaiian state fish. Feeding,
chasing or touching the fish and turtles is not allowed,
but you can swim alongside them and take pictures. You can
rent snorkeling gear from the nearby shops, and lifeguards
are more than willing to assist beginners.
If you forgot to bring your own food, there's a concession
stand at the entrance of the bay. There’s also a gift shop
and shower facilities. Parking can be difficult because
of the crowds, so try to come early - preferably before
9:30 a.m. Non-residents of the state of Hawaii have to pay
an admission fee of $5 to enter Hanauma Bay. This fee is
waved for Hawaii residents and active military. The beach
opens at 6 a.m. every day, except Tuesdays when it is
closed.
Hanauma Bay Beach Park in Bullet Points
- Hanauma Bay is the most famous snorkeling spot on
Oahu
- Can be crowded during summer and winter tourist
peak seasons
- View plenty of colorful fish as you snorkel over
a coral reef
Hanauma Bay Beach Park Facilities
(top)
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Information booths
- Lifeguards
- Equipment rental
- Restaurant
Hanauma Bay Beach Park Water Activities
- Snorkeling
- Diving
- Swimming
Driving Directions to Hanauma Bay Beach Park
Hanauma Bay Rd., Honolulu, Hawaii 96825
Hanauma Bay Beach Park Map (top)
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Hanauma Bay Beach Park Weather
(top)
Now
75°F
Windchill:
75°F
Partly Cloudy
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Location: Honolulu, HI, US
Wind: 8 mph NE
Humidity: 82%
Visibility: 0.1 mi
Pressure: 30.01 in steady
Sunrise: 6:37 am
Sunset: 5:52 pm
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Sat
Hi: 84°F
Low: 71°F
Partly Cloudy
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Sun
Hi: 85°F
Low: 72°F
Mostly Cloudy
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Hanauma Bay Beach Park Photos (click to enlarge)
(top)
Hanauma Bay Beach Park Reviews and Comments
(top)
Safety Tip
Whatever beach in Hawaii you visit, please have in mind that the ocean can
be very dangerous. Never turn your back against the waves and watch out for underwater
currents and always check the surf conditions. Pay attention to signs posted on
the beach. If you are not sure about the conditions, ask the lifeguards (if any
on the beach). Please
click here to
read more about ocean safety in Hawaii.
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