Key points about Hanauma Bay
Essential Information for Visitors to Hanauma Bay
Location
Where: Southeast coast of Oahu, Hawaii
Distance from Waikiki: -30 minute drive (10 miles)
Operating Hours
Open: Wednesday through Sunday, 6:45 AM to 1:30 PM (Bay closes at 4 PM).
Closed: Mondays and Tuesdays.
Last entry: 1:30 PM sharp
Reservation System
Required:: Yes, for all visitors aged 13+. (We get the reservations for you on our tour).
How to book: Online via official reservation site (can book 2 days in advance).
Cost:
General Admissions: $25
Children under 12: Free
Hawaii residents (with ID): Free
Parking: $3 (cash only)
Mandatory Education Video
Visitors must watch a 9-minute safety and conservation video before entering
This video emphasizes reef protection, marine life respect, and sunscreen safety.
Snorkeling Info
Rental Gear: Available on site $25 -$45
Marine life: Over 400 species of fish, green sea turtles, and living coral reef.
Stay safe: Swim with a buddy, stay is designated areas, and never step on coral.
Conservation rules
No touching or standing on coral.
No feeding fish or wildlife.
Reef-safe sunscreen only (no oxybenzone or octinoxate).
Facilities
Restrooms, showers, lifeguards, snack bar available.
Tram shuttle: Included in entrance fee
Bring: Water, reef-safe sunscreen, towel, and snorkeling gear.
Best time to visit
Early morning (before 9 AM) for calmer water, more fish activity, and fewer crowds.
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible restrooms and paved paths: tram recommended for those with mobility challenges.
About Hanauma Bay:
1. Volcanic Formation – Hanauma Bay was formed over 32,000 years ago as a volcanic crater, later flooded by the ocean to create the stunning bay we see today.
2. Ancient Hawaiian Use – The bay was a favorite fishing and recreational area for Hawaiian royalty (ali‘i), who recognized its abundant marine life.
3. Meaning of Hanauma – The name “Hanauma” comes from the Hawaiian words “Hana” (bay) and “Uma” (curved or hand wrestling), possibly referring to its shape or an ancient sport practiced there.
4. Strategic Military Site – During World War II, Hanauma Bay was used as a military training ground and lookout point due to its location on Oahu’s southeastern coast.
5. Rise in Popularity – In the 1950s and 1960s, Hanauma Bay became a major tourist attraction, drawing thousands of visitors for snorkeling and sightseeing.
6. Environmental Damage – Unregulated tourism in the 1970s and 1980s led to severe coral reef damage and pollution, as over 10,000 visitors per day came to the bay.
7. Marine Sanctuary Designation – In 1967, the bay was declared a Marine Life Conservation District, restricting fishing and other harmful activities to protect its ecosystem.
8. Restoration Efforts – In the 1990s, the City and County of Honolulu introduced visitor limits, an entrance fee, and mandatory educational programs to restore the bay’s fragile environment.
9. Closure for Recovery – To further protect the bay, authorities closed Hanauma Bay every Monday and Tuesday starting in 2021, allowing marine life and coral to recover.
10. Ongoing Conservation – Today, Hanauma Bay is considered one of Hawaii’s most successful marine conservation efforts, with improved coral health, thriving fish populations, and sustainable tourism practices.
Experience the beauty of Hanauma Bay while helping to preserve its history and marine life!
Hanauma Bay on Oahu, Hawaii is one of the best places for snorkeling, and it’s packed with marine life thanks to its status as a protected marine life conservation area. Here’s a list of some of the coolest marine life you might spot while snorkeling or diving at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve.
Hawaii Fish
Humuhumunukunukuapua’a – Hawaii’s state fish, known as the reef triggerfish.
Parrotfish – Colorful and often seen munching on coral.
Butterflyfish – Small, brightly colored, and travel in pairs.
Tang (like yellow tangs and convict tangs) – Very common and vibrant.
Surgeonfish – Known for their blade-like spines near the tail.
Wrasses – Brightly colored and very active.
Hawaii Sea Turtles
Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (Honu) – Gentle giants often seen near the coral reefs. You’re not allowed to touch or get too close, but watching them is magical.
Invertebrates & Others
Eels – Moray eels are commonly spotted peeking out of crevices.
Octopus (He’e) – Hidden in crevices.
Crabs & Shrimp – Often hiding under rocks or among coral.
Rare Sightings
Reef sharks – Harmless blacktip or whitetip reef sharks are very occasionally seen.
Stingrays – Not super common, but do pass through sometimes.
If you’re snorkeling there, mornings are usually best ( clearer waters and fewer people ), and make sure to wear reef-safe sunscreen – it’s required by law to protect the coral reef.
Don’t miss the chance to experience the best snorkeling in Oahu at this world-famous Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Book your Hanauma Bay snorkeling adventure today!
Photo Gallery
