Hanauma Bay Beach Park, Oahu, Hawaii

Hanauma Bay Beach Park, Oahu, Hawaii

Hanauma Bay Hawaii is one of the most popular and most visited beaches outside of Waikiki and the North Shore beaches. But it’s not so much about the beach as it is about the marine life nature preserve, and the amazing Hanauma Bay snorkeling experience! With over 300 different Hawaiian fish species lurking about the shallow coral reefs, it is easy to see why this Oahu Beach holds its fame! 

Best Time

The best time to go to the bay is in the early morning, especially if your in a rental car, as the parking lot fills up to capacity fairly quickly. (Never leave any thing of value in the car.) Otherwise, we would recommend taking the bus out there. However, if you bus it, consider leaving Hanauma bay early, like before 2:00 P.M. or you might have to wait your turn for more than one bus headed back. We have waited over an hour and a half for the return, as the returns can be very crowded on some of the busy days, as many parents will drop off the kids to swim there, knowing the kids can just catch the bus home later.

OCEAN WARNING! For your own safety DO NOT go in the water if the beach has signs posted with these warnings: “No Diving,” “Surge Area” or “Jellyfish.” The Jellyfish Normally float into shore while breeding and this happens for about 2 or 3 days every month. Secondly, and equally important, never swim where you don’t see locals or other people swimming–not surfing, swimming! If no one is swimming, please, for your own safety don’t go in the water. There are many unseen hazards in the water.