Is the snorkeling good enough in Oahu to warrant bringing our own snorkel gear? We can rent at our hotel, but if day trips would bring us to great snorkeling areas, maybe we should pack it. We are staying on the North Shore. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.

Hi Avalon4-
Well, we are avid divers and snorkelers so we always have a piece of luggage dedicated to our gear for our island trips. I think it is vital to have your mask fit properly and to have your own personal snorkel along, so that would be the minimum for gear worth packing.
Fins can be rented at one of our favorite dive shops, Surf n Sea in Haleiwa up on the North Shore.

Shark's Cove at Kalalua Point is one of the best sites on Oahu. The entry is easy, and I feel snorkelers will find the cove perfect for their activities.

Just head on up the Kamehameha Highway in the Waimea area.

Have fun !

R5

I'm not much of a snorkeler. I've only been to Hanauma Bay. It's really nice both day time & night time. It is open at night once a month winter & twice a month summer.

Here are some links with some info. Shark's Cove that razzledazzle mentioned is one of the better places. But, summer only or winter when the ocean is really calm. Kuilima Cove at Turtle Bay Resort is good year around except when there are huge waves on North Shore.

http://www.co.honolulu.hi.us/parks/f...ay/welcome.htm

http://www.snorkeling-hawaii-insider...com/index.html

www.snorkelbobs.com
Click on: Hawaii Gear & Adventure
Click on: Map'n Tips

Like Dusty, I'm not much of a snorkeler either but the snorkeling was so good I ended up going every day! I also recommend Shark's Cove - we stayed at KoOlina but enjoyed the snorkeling at Shark's Cove so much that we ran up to the North Shore 3 days the week we were there. Instead of renting, another option is to purchase gear when you get there - Costco has a nice set for about $25 or so.

I agree that Hanauma Bay is great to snorkel. Bring your gear! We brought ours [including fins] in a gear bag and used that as 1 of our carryon's. We were able to get both sets in 1 bag and have room for a bathing suits, sun block. That way, we could get out to the beach fast and didn't have to worry about the possibility of losing the most important part of our luggage! I can do without everything else.

Also, if you have snorkeled before, you know the importance of good fitting gear. If you are first timers and aren't sure if you will like it, either rent or buy inexpensive stuff in HI. There are some folks that get freaked out by a mask and snorkel.

Hope this helps...
Debi