Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay is a protected marine life conservation area on Oahu's southeastern shore, renowned for its clear waters, abundant coral reefs, and over 450 species of tropical fish. As one of Hawaii's top snorkeling destinations, it offers a unique underwater experience in a volcanic crater, with strict preservation rules to protect its fragile ecosystem.
Hanauma Bay, Oahu
Ever fancied swimming amidst some of the world's rarest marine wildlife? It can't get much better than at Hanauma Bay, located on Oahu's southeastern shore near Hawaii Kai. Named America's best beach in 2016 by coastal scientist Dr. Stephen Leatherman, aka Dr. Beach, Hanauma Bay (view panorama) × 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. 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.
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 video 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 shuttle bus that takes people to the beach.
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. Non-residents of the state of Hawaii have to pay an admission fee of $25 to enter Hanauma Bay. This fee is waved for Hawaii residents, active military and children under 13. There is a parking fee ($3 per vehicle for non-residents and $1 per vehicle for Hawaii residents). The beach opens at 6:45 a.m. every day, except Mondays and Tuesdays when it is closed. Only a limited amount of walk-in or drive-in tickets without an online reservation is available. Hawaii residents may access Hanauma Bay without a reservation during all open hours. If you are planning to visit Hanauma Bay, it is recommended to reserve your tickets in advance. The online reservation system can be accessed at https://pros8.hnl.info/
Special Note: Hanauma Bay is the top site on Oahu for drownings. Although the bay is protected by a reef and the nearshore waters are usually calm, Hanauma Bay is considered one of the deadliest beaches in Hawaii. According to the State Department of Health, 32 people died here between 2009 and 2018. Keep this in mind when planning a trip to Hanauma Bay. Always go snorkeling together with a buddy and stay together at all times. If you are not an experienced open ocean swimmer, stay close to the shore and don't swim out of the channel at Hanauma Bay (the channel that leads into deeper waters behind the reef).
Key Features of Hanauma Bay
- Snorkeling site in a volcanic crater with vibrant marine life
- Home to over 450 species of tropical fish, some found only in Hawaii
- Educational video required for all visitors before beach access
- Admission fee required for non-residents, closed Mondays and Tuesdays
- Snorkel gear rental, lifeguards, restrooms, and concession stand available
- High safety risk - one of the top locations for drownings in Hawaii
- Online reservations strongly recommended due to visitor limits
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation to visit Hanauma Bay?
Yes, reservations are strongly encouraged. A limited number of walk-ins are allowed, but online booking is recommended to secure entry.
What makes Hanauma Bay special for snorkeling?
It's a protected marine preserve with hundreds of tropical fish species, coral reefs, and clear waters inside a volcanic crater.
Is there an entrance fee for Hanauma Bay?
Yes. Non-residents pay $25. The fee is waived for Hawaii residents, active military, and children under 13.
When is Hanauma Bay open?
The beach is open Wednesday through Sunday from 6:45 a.m. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Is it safe to swim at Hanauma Bay?
Although generally calm, Hanauma Bay has strong currents and has seen drownings. Always stay close to shore, snorkel with a buddy, and follow posted safety rules.