Hanauma Bay State Park

Hanauma Bay is one of Oahu’s greatest natural treasures, and over a million visitors enjoy its scenic beach, abundant wildlife, and recreational opportunities every year. Snorkeling is an especially popular activity here, as Hanauma Bay is home to coral reefs, green sea turtles, and hundreds of fish species. The area is protected under the auspices of the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, and offers visitors amenities like an education center, snack bar, gift shop, and snorkel rentals.

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Hanauma Bay History

Hanauma Bay is a magnificent natural sight on Oahu’s southeastern coast. It’s located just 10 miles east of Waikiki, right off Route 72 (Kalanianaole Highway), in the shadow of Koko Head and Koko Crater; for good measure, iconic Halona Blowhole is just minutes away, too. Hanauma Bay is one of Oahu’s most popular destinations for beachgoers—in particular, snorkeling afficionados—so much so that it was declared a protected marine life conservation district in 1967. This district has changed names over the years, but today its known as the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. In accordance with this status, access to the attraction is controlled and limited. This means all individuals who are not residents of Hawaii must make advance reservations to visit.

The Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is open to the public every Wednesday through Sunday between the hours of 6:45am and 4:00pm. However, actual entry here is only permitted until 1:30pm, and the Parks and Recreation Department begins clearing the beach at 3:30pm. All these logistical details are subject to change at any point in time, however; when in doubt, be certain and visit the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve official website in advance of your visit for the latest information.

What’s at Hanauma Bay

One of the most popular activities available to the public at Hanauma Bay is snorkeling; in fact, many people swear Hanauma Bay has the best snorkeling anywhere on the island. If you’ve come prepared with your own gear, you’re in business. If you haven’t, numerous local tour companies offer full-day snorkeling rentals to visitors based in Waikiki and the nature preserve also has its own rental booth and locker facilities.

The Marine Education Center opened at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve in the summer of 2002. It’s a great spot to take some time to learn a bit about the many wonders of this majestic natural treasure prior to embarking on your day of fun in the sun. Regardless of your interest level in the nature preserve’s educational programs, though, please note that all visitors will be required to stop at the center’s theater to watch a brief educational video.

There are a number of amenities available at Hanauma Bay, including a snack bar and small gift shop. Just keep in mind as you’re planning your beach day that the hours of these operations don’t match up with the hours of the beach itself. The gift shop is usually open between the hours of 8:00am and 3:30 pm, while food may be purchased here only from 8:30am to 2:00pm.

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Tips for Visiting Hanauma Bay

*Due to its immense popularity, important steps have been taken in recent years to protect the fragile ecosystem and natural beauty of Hanauma Bay. As a result, only a limited number of individuals are allowed to visit Hanauma Bay each day. Thus, regardless of how you choose to experience this attraction, you’re absolutely going to need to make a reservation in advance.

*Parking here costs only a few dollars per vehicle, but spots are limited and infamous for being all filled up before 8:00am. If you don’t want to hassle yourself with parking headaches, consider traveling to Hanauma Bay via private shuttle service or a guided tour.

*There’s an approximately 10-minute walk from the parking lot to the beach itself. That may not sound like the world’s worst hike, but the path does get steep in places. If you’d like to avoid the effort or simply save your energy, you can take a brief tram ride from the parking lot to the beach for a small fee.

*While Hanauma Bay features a food concession stand, a fun way to save money and avoid wasting your precious beach time standing in a line is by bringing along a picnic lunch. It’s a classic method for beating the crowds and creating a special memory.

*Be advised that all amenities available to the public at Hanauma Bay—snack bar, gift shop, and snorkel rental—only take payment via credit or debit card. Cash is not accepted anywhere within the nature preserve.