Hawaii's Most Popular Snorkel Destination

Hanauma Bay is known world wide for the pristine marine ecosystem and the snorkeling opportunities it offers.  It was not always this way.  At one time Hanauma Bay's reef and marine life were nearly destroyed.  Years of over use from millions of visitors lead to the death of much of the reef and the marine life that called it home.  That was until 1990 when the City of Honolulu enacted a plan to restore the bay.  Today the number of visitors is limited and the bay is only open during certain days and times to help limit the human impact.  The City's plan has worked.  The bay is now flourishing with life offer amazing snorkeling opportunities to all who visit. 

Hanauma Bay is currently taking reservations for all who wish to visit.  Please plan ahead and make a reservation.  The park entry fee is $25 and the parking fee is $3.  You can make your reservation by clicking here. Anyone who visits the park will be required to watch a brief safety/informational video before heading down to the bay.

The Beach

The beach at Hanauma Bay is similar to most beaches in Hawaii in that it is absolutely beautiful.  The sand is a bit more course than the sand at many other beaches, but it is very clean and well kept.  One of the most important things to note is the lack of shade.  There are several palm trees located behind the beach in the green space that offer a little shade, but if you wish to sit on the beach itself you will have absolutely no shade.  We recommend picking up a beach package from GoGo Rental so you can get out of the sun and spend more time at the bay.  Even if you are traveling with one of our many two wheeled vehicles, our tents and umbrellas pack down very small and can easily be carried using the sling.  

Snorkeling

Chances are if you are headed to Hanauma Bay you are going for one reason, the snorkeling.  The bay has a large reef which is home to a variety of marine life.  You may see green sea turtles, triggerfish, tang, surgeonfish, moray eels, butterfly fish, parrot fish, and goat fish.  Be careful of jellyfish as well as urchins.  Touching a jellyfish or stepping on a sea urchin is a sure way to ruin your time at Hanauma Bay.  If there are any jellyfish in the water the lifeguards will likely have signs posted.  They do offer snorkel rentals at the bay, however you can save yourself time and money if you rent with GoGo Rental before heading out.  If you are renting a bike, moped, scooter, or motorcycle you can add a snorkel set for just $5 per day!  Just looking for a snorkel set? No problem, our snorkel rentals are just $15 each if you are not renting any of our two wheeled vehicles.  Snorkel rentals at the bay will cost $20.  Lastly, BRING REEF SAFE SUNSCREEN! 

Amenities

Hanauma Bay will be able to meet most if not all of your needs while visiting the park.  They have restrooms and showers available.  There is also a place to grab some food.  The menu includes burger and sandwiches, wraps, snacks, and beverages.  You'll also find an information center that will have some info on the marine life as well as the history of the bay.  There are 3 lifeguard stands and lifeguards will always be on duty while the park is open.  Lockers are also available if you would like to lock up your valuables while out snorkeling.