Formed by a volcanic cone, Hanauma Bay provides a pristine marine ecosystem that both animals and humans can enjoy. It is one of Honolulu’s greatest attractions.
In 1990, the city and country of Honolulu planned to restore this amazing area, which is why it is now a heaven on earth.
Millions of visitors came to witness this treasure trove and experience what it has to offer, which is why it is voted the best beach in the United States.
The most common activity that people of all ages like to enjoy is snorkeling at Hanauma Bay. In addition, it is the home of the natural spa known as the “Toilet Bowl.”
Haunama Bay is a natural habitat for many plants and fish, which makes it rich in fauna and flora. People of all ages can enjoy such a place, but follow the guidelines and keep it clean.
In this article, we will discuss what to bring with you if you ever want to snorkel at Haunama Bay and how to have the best experience.
Snorkel At Hanauma Bay, Honolulu Hawaii:
If you ever happen to be in Hawaii and need to visit more attractions, you should check out our article about the best things to do in Hawaii, hiking to waterfall in Maui, the best hotels in Big Island, Hawaii, and the best zip line in Oahu.
The Best Time To Visit Hanauma Bay For Snorkeling:
The best time to visit Hanauma Bay, Hawaii for snorkeling is in the morning at 7:00 am when it opens. It is the best time to visit because the bay is less crowded and the wave is calmer, which means you got the chance to see more marine life and enjoy snorkeling at peace.
However, during the peak time, 9:00 am to 2:00 pm can be crowded, so I would highly recommend you to arrive earlier or later in the day if you cannot do it in the morning.
The best time of the year to snorkel at Hanauma Bay is during shoulder season. It is spring time in Hawaii, which means the marine life are more vibrant and most greenery. Therefore, you can enjoy snorkeling at Hanauma Bay at it best and avoid the tourist crowds.
What To Bring With You:
Know that there is a rental booth in the park for snorkeling equipments. It costs 20 dollars per person to rent the snorkeling equipments. However, if you wish to bring your own, we made a list of what to bring with you to snorkel at Haunama Bay.
- Snorkeling Mask: It is critical to find the right mask that fits perfectly on your face. A big mask can result in water leakage, which is not good.
- Mask Defogger: A mask defogger can help prevent your mask from fogging up. Make sure to buy one that is non-toxic, biodegradable, and alcohol-free. It is for your own safety and the habitat of the coral reef.
- Snorkel: make sure to choose a snorkel that has a “purge valve” that allow to exist of water not in.
- Swim Cap Or Bandana: This will keep hair out of your snorkel and prevent your scalp from burning.
- Biodegradable sunscreen: By using a biodegradable sunscreen, you guarantee the safety of coral reef’s habitats.
- Beach Towel: We have a product review for the best beach towel in the world. You can learn more about the Tesalate Beach towel here.
- Camera/ Cell Phone: You can check out our article on how to select the best camera.
The Entrance Fee To Snorkel In Haunama Bay:
The entrance fee to snorkel in Haunama Bay is 25 dollars. However, Kids 12 and under, active military personnel, and local residents with proper ID are free. There is also a 3-dollar parking fee. You can ask for a refund if you leave within 15 minutes before the entrance.
What To Expect When You Snorkel In Haunama Bay:
The Haunama Bay is rich in flora and fauna. Therefore, the marine life is abundant in their numbers and verities. Expect to see some turtle offshore and onshore. Swimming around you as if they welcome you to the sea. You can also spot some tropical fish, such as parrotfish, surgeonfish, and triggerfish. If you go farther into the sea, you can spot dolphins and humpback. whales.
Conclusion:
Snorkeling in Haunama Bay is one of the greatest experience that you could have, so do not miss the opportunity to snorkel at Haunama Bay. It is suitable for all ages and all expertise.
As long as you can swim, you can venture in the sea and discover what it has to offer. There are so much to see under the sea and hidden gems awaiting you to discover them.
You can learn about when is the best time to visit Hawaii in our separate blog, scuba diving in Maui, hiking to waterfalls in Maui, or the best hotels in Maui.
We do also have a blog about the best hotel on the Big island, zipline in Oahu, the best surfing gears in Hawaii, and the best things to do in Honolulu.
We also have a blog post about the best Hawaiian food and where you can find them in Honolulu, as we mention the best restaurants to try these Hawaiian dishes.
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