6 Best Snorkeling Spots In Oahu, Hawaii That You Don’t Want To Miss
WRITTEN BY: JE’ANA C.
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Is snorkeling on your list for your Hawaii vacation?
Snorkeling is a popular activity for visitors to the Hawaiian Islands. Hawaii is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The islands are also home to some amazing snorkeling spots and some great places to dive. The island of Oahu has more than 60 beaches, and snorkeling can be done at any of them. You can see a whole new world under the surface of the open ocean, and it’s a great way to cool off from the hot Hawaiian sun.
Oahu is known as "The Gathering Place" because it has so many great destinations to visit, making it difficult to choose just one. While you can go diving anywhere in Hawaii, there are the six best snorkel spots you don't want to miss out on for your snorkeling adventure!
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Best Snorkeling Spots On The Island of Oahu
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01) Waimea Bay
Waimea Bay is located on Oahu's north shore and is one of the best beaches for surfing. It is also a great spot for snorkeling. The bay gets its name from the Waimea River, which runs through Waimea Valley. The river begins on Haleakala Volcano in Maui and then flows into Waipio Valley before finally emptying into the Pacific Ocean at Waimea Bay.
Waimea Bay is famous for its 30-foot waves and strong currents during the winter months. There are calm waters in the summer, so it is the best time to explore sea life, dive, and swim. Also, these crystal clear waters are a great place for all snorkeling skill levels!
02) Shark’s Cove
Sharks Cove is a popular spot with clear blue water. It’s easy to get there — just follow Lihue and Haleilio Roads signs until you reach the parking lot. From there, it takes about 15 minutes to hike down to the beach. The hike can be a bit tricky at times because there are no handrails, but it’s totally worth it when you see all the colorful fish swimming around in their natural habitat.
03) Kuilima Cove
Kuilima Cove is located in turtle bay resort on the north shore of Oahu. It's just a short walk from this luxury resort to this beautiful cove with crystal clear water. The cove is surrounded by lava rock formations and coral reefs, which make it an ideal spot for divers and snorkelers alike. It's known for its abundance of marine life, including sea turtles and tropical fish.
FUN FACT #1:
Spinner dolphins are found in Hawaii year-round along with many other sea creatures like parrot fish, eels, tuna, marlin, manta rays, whales, and sharks. The best time to see these creatures is at sunrise or sunset when they come closer to shore to feed on plankton.
04) Kahe Point Beach Park
Kahe Point Beach Park is a popular snorkeling spot near Kailua-Kona on the Big Island. This beach park has beautiful white sand and clear water with lots of colorful coral reefs. You can rent snorkel gear at the beach or bring your own if you prefer. There are also restrooms, showers, and picnic areas at this park so there are plenty of things to do when you aren't out snorkeling!
05) Lanikai Beach
Lanikai Beach is suitable for beginners. However, it doesn't have snorkel equipment, so be sure to bring your own gear. Lanikai Beach is located on the Windward Coast of Oahu and has white sand beaches with calm waters, making it ideal for families with small children or those who might be nervous about snorkeling in open water. The best time to visit Lanikai Beach is early morning before the crowds arrive because there are no facilities available, like bathrooms or food vendors (just bring your own snacks). If you decide to come here later in the day, check out the famous Lanikai Pillbox Hike as well!
06) Waikiki Beach
Some of the popular places for snorkeling on Waikiki beach are Queens Beach and Sans Souci Beach. This snorkeling spot is part of the marine life conservation district and is a good place with plenty of fish and a sandy beach. Moreover, the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa is one of the best places to snorkel in Hawaii! It has a shallow area where children can play, as well as plenty of reefs for experienced snorkelers to explore. Plus, you can book a fun snorkeling tour!
FUN FACT #2:
The best time to go snorkeling is during the summer months when the water is warmer.
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07) Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Another great snorkeling spot in Hawaii is Hanauma Bay which was originally a volcanic crater filled with lava tunnels. But now, it's an underwater habitat filled with tropical fish and coral reefs. The bay has been turned into a marine life conservation area where divers can swim with turtles, manta rays, reef sharks, eels, and more! Plus, it is the perfect place to snorkel daily!
There are also unique small dense coral formations in this area of the Pacific Ocean that are not found anywhere else in Hawaii. A fence protects the reef, so you don't have to worry about stumbling onto any sharp rocks while exploring below the surface of the water.
08) Big Island
If you have ever visited Big Island, you must have heard about Makua Beach Park. This place is around 3 miles north of Kailua-Kona town center and offers some great snorkeling opportunities along with a beautiful view of the Hualalai volcano in the background. It is advisable to go there early as it gets crowded later in the day with tourists worldwide.