Home Destinations USA Hawaii Honolulu and Oahu Sights Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve Review

Read our Honolulu and Oahu sights reviews. Or post your own.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Fodor's Review:

The exterior wall of a volcanic crater collapsed thousands of years ago, opening it to the sea and thereby giving birth to Oahu's most famous snorkeling destination. Even from the overlook, the horseshoe-shape bay is a beauty, and you can easily see the reefs through the clear aqua waters. The wide beach is a great place for sunbathing and picnics. This is a marine conservation district, and regulations prohibit feeding the fish. Visitors are required to go through the Education Center before trekking down to the bay. The center provides a cultural history of the area and exhibits about the importance of protecting its marine life. Check out the "Today at the Bay" exhibit for up-to-date information on daily tides, ocean safety warnings, and activities. Food concessions and equipment rentals are also on-site. Come early to get parking, as the number of visitors allowed per day is limited. Also note that the bay is best in the early hours before the waters are churned up. Call for current conditions. Thursday evening lectures, Saturday morning field trips, and Saturday night Hanauma Bay by Starlight events (extending opening hours to 10 PM) are held weekly.

  • Cost: $5; parking $1; mask, snorkel, and fin rental $6; tram from parking lot $1.50 round-trip
  • Open: Wed.-Mon. 6-6
Find more sights in Honolulu and Oahu »

Member Reviews and Ratings

Add your own review

Get Advice From Other Travelers

Visit the Travel Talk forums for help on planning your trip



Get the Fodor's Newsletter

For more travel ideas, tips, and deals, sign up for the Fodor's newsletter here. Read the current issue. Browse previous issues.




Copyright © 2009 Fodor's Travel, a division of Random House, Inc.