Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay, a regional beach park and a state underwater park, is one of the most popular attractions on Oahu, Hawaii. Especially during peak summer tourist season, parking can be difficult to find before 9 a.m. Hanauma Bay, named for its resemblance to a sleeping dinosaur, is home to a vibrant array of marine life, making it one of Hawaii's most ideal swimming and snorkeling spots. The Marine Education Center is also a great place to learn about bay conservation, featuring skits and exhibits.

Attractions Location: Hawaii ZIP Code: 96825

Opening hours:
All day (Monday to Sunday, January 1st - December 31st)

Official phone number: Ticketing Inquiry
+1-808-927-7424

Transportation:
Take bus No. 22 and get off at Hanauma Bay Nature Park stop

Time reference: More than 3 hours


Recommended itinerary for Hanauma Bay tours

1-Day Itinerary: Hanauma Bay Snorkeling and Relaxation

Spend a full day enjoying the crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life at Hanauma Bay, one of Oahu’s most famous snorkeling spots.

  • Morning: Take a taxi or rental car from Waikiki to Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve (approx. 30 minutes).
  • Arrive early (opens at 6:00 AM) to secure parking and avoid crowds; enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and beach relaxation.
  • Afternoon: Have lunch at nearby cafes or pack a picnic to enjoy at the bay's designated picnic areas.
  • Late afternoon: Return to Waikiki or your accommodation.

Transportation: Taxi, Uber, or rental car recommended; limited public bus service (TheBus #22 from Waikiki, approx. 45-60 minutes).

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Waikiki for easy access to the bay. Food options nearby include beachside cafes or local restaurants in Honolulu.

Souvenirs: Hanauma Bay gift shop offers reef-safe sunscreen, marine-themed apparel, and Hawaiian souvenirs.


2-Day Itinerary: Hanauma Bay and East Oahu Exploration

Combine your Hanauma Bay visit with a trip to East Oahu’s scenic beaches and cultural spots.

  • Day 1: Follow 1-day itinerary for Hanauma Bay snorkeling.
  • Day 2: Morning: Drive or take a taxi to Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail (20-minute drive) for a scenic hike with ocean views.
  • Midday: Visit Waimanalo Beach Park for a quieter, beautiful beach experience (15-minute drive from Makapu’u).
  • Afternoon: Stop by the Byodo-In Temple in the Valley of the Temples (30-minute drive from Waimanalo).
  • Evening: Return to Waikiki or your hotel.

Transportation: Rental car recommended; taxis/Uber available but more expensive for multiple stops.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Waikiki or nearby. Try local Hawaiian plate lunches or seafood restaurants for meals.

Souvenirs: Hawaiian arts and crafts from temple gift shops, local food products like macadamia nuts, and beach gear.


3-Day Itinerary: Hanauma Bay and Oahu East Coast Highlights

Explore Hanauma Bay and expand your adventure with more natural and cultural sites along Oahu’s east coast.

  • Days 1-2: Follow 2-day itinerary above.
  • Day 3: Morning: Visit Kailua Beach Park (30-minute drive from Waikiki) for kayaking or paddleboarding.
  • Afternoon: Explore Lanikai Beach nearby, known for its stunning turquoise waters and calm shores.
  • Evening: Dinner in Kailua town before heading back to Waikiki.

Transportation: Rental car preferred for flexibility; TheBus #57 and #70 can connect some stops but takes longer.

Accommodation/Food: Options in Waikiki or Kailua. Kailua offers casual dining and local eateries serving fresh seafood and Hawaiian cuisine.

Souvenirs: Local beachwear, handmade jewelry, and Hawaiian coffee from Kailua shops.


4-Day Itinerary: Hanauma Bay and Windward Oahu Exploration

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Hanauma Bay and the Windward side of Oahu with beaches, hikes, and cultural sites.

  • Days 1-3: Follow 3-day itinerary.
  • Day 4: Morning: Hike the Maunawili Falls Trail (approx. 1 hour drive; 2-3 hours hike).
  • Afternoon: Visit Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden nearby for a relaxing stroll.
  • Evening: Return to Waikiki.

Transportation: Rental car required; these destinations are not served by public transit efficiently.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Waikiki. Enjoy farm-to-table restaurants or casual Hawaiian spots.

Souvenirs: Botanical garden gift shop offers native plant products, local art, and Hawaiian cultural items.


5-Day Itinerary: Hanauma Bay with Comprehensive Oahu Adventure

Explore Hanauma Bay and the best of Oahu’s beaches, hiking trails, and cultural landmarks over five days.

  • Days 1-4: Follow 4-day itinerary.
  • Day 5: Visit Pearl Harbor National Memorial (approx. 20-minute drive from Waikiki) for a history-focused day.
  • Explore downtown Honolulu and Iolani Palace afterwards.

Transportation: Rental car or taxi; TheBus #20 and #42 serve Pearl Harbor from Waikiki.

Accommodation/Food: Waikiki or downtown Honolulu. Sample local eateries serving Hawaiian BBQ, seafood, and fusion cuisine.

Souvenirs: Pearl Harbor visitor center shop has history books, memorabilia, and Hawaiian gifts; downtown offers artisan crafts.


6-Day Itinerary: Hanauma Bay and Full East & South Shore Experience

Spend six days enjoying Hanauma Bay, cultural landmarks, hiking, and relaxing beach days across Oahu’s east and south shores.

  • Days 1-5: Follow 5-day itinerary.
  • Day 6: Morning: Visit Koko Crater Railway Trail (steep hike, approx. 1.5 hours up).
  • Afternoon: Relax at Sandy Beach Park, known for surfing and sunbathing (10-minute drive from Koko Crater).
  • Evening: Dinner in Hawaii Kai or return to Waikiki.

Transportation: Rental car recommended; taxi/Uber also available.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in Waikiki or Hawaii Kai area. Try seafood grills and local Hawaiian favorites.

Souvenirs: Hiking gear, local snacks, and beach accessories from nearby shops.


7-Day Itinerary: Ultimate Hanauma Bay and Oahu Island Exploration

Explore Hanauma Bay alongside the island’s top beaches, cultural sites, hikes, and historic landmarks over seven days.

  • Days 1-6: Follow 6-day itinerary.
  • Day 7: Take a day trip to North Shore—visit Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, and Haleiwa town (approx. 1-hour drive).
  • Enjoy local shrimp trucks and explore surf shops and art galleries in Haleiwa.
  • Return to Waikiki for a farewell dinner.

Transportation: Rental car essential for North Shore trip; taxis not recommended due to distance.

Accommodation/Food: Waikiki or Haleiwa for the night. Enjoy casual beach town dining with fresh seafood and local specialties.

Souvenirs: Hawaiian surf apparel, local coffee, handmade jewelry, and art from Haleiwa boutiques.


User Reviews

By Fragrant Cat |

I went to Hanauma Bay twice, but unfortunately I didn't snorkel there. The previous time I went there, the waves were too big and the beach below was temporarily closed. This time I went there because the weather was a bit cold and I didn't dare to snorkel, even though there were many Americans below who didn't care about the cold at all.

When you enter the park, you will watch a movie to raise awareness of protecting marine life. It is not recommended to apply sunscreen when snorkeling here, because sunscreen entering the water will pollute the sea here. So looking at such beautiful scenery, we should still abide by the rules. Wearing sun protection clothing is a good way to protect against the sun and it is also environmentally friendly.

Because the two times I went there were not convenient for snorkeling, so naturally there were not many people, and I did not catch up with the phenomenon of limited flow and long queues as mentioned on the Internet. I can only comfort myself in this way. However, if you come here specifically for snorkeling, you must come early.

The Marine Education Center is a great place to bring children to learn about protecting the bay. You can watch short plays and exhibitions here, which is very suitable for bringing children. Of course, it is also good for adults to take a look.

By Royal Coconut Milk |

This is a very well-preserved beach. There is nothing on the shore except a place to rent diving equipment. Food and drinks are not provided, so you need to bring your own. But the beauty is really beautiful, and every shot is a scene.

After snorkeling, there were so many rocks that I was afraid to swim, often getting stuck in the middle. But even in the shallows, the fish were huge and beautiful! They were absolutely amazing! The sea surface and the waves were beautiful too, making any pose look stunning.

By Little donkey Dandan wants to struggle |

My favorite spot on Oahu is Hanauma Bay, a name given to it by the Chinese. From one end of the bay, it looks like a dinosaur nestled in the water. This bowl-shaped bay, a blend of azure and emerald, looks like a modern abstract painting created by nature from above. Snorkeling equipment is available for rental for around $20, which isn't too expensive.

Tip: To better protect Hanauma Bay's ecological environment, the reserve is closed every Tuesday. If you're driving, be sure to arrive early for easy parking. Hanauma Bay's mornings offer gentle waves and high water clarity, perfect for snorkeling. After purchasing your ticket and entering the reserve, you'll need to watch a 9-minute promotional video on coral reef and marine ecological conservation in the theater near the entrance and learn about the reserve's regulations. Our guide mentioned that there were very few visitors today because of the marathon. Otherwise, if we had arrived at 1 a.m., there would probably be no parking available. Lucky!

A sudden rainstorm knocked us to the beach. According to my observation, it would rain on Oahu Island around 4 pm for two consecutive days, and it would clear up before 5 pm. Hanauma Bay was really a great experience!

By Mandarin |

Hanauma Bay is a beach park and state underwater park. The name "Hanauma Bay" originated in China because, from a distance, it resembles a sleeping dinosaur lying on its stomach. The shallow waters, low waves, coral reefs, and tropical fish make it one of Hawaii's most ideal swimming and snorkeling spots.

The parking lot at Hanauma Bay is quite small, so you might encounter road closures when you visit, forcing you to drive around for a while. The closures will be lifted once more parking spaces become available. While we were waiting, we took some photos along the nearby coastal highway, which was quite nice!

By Luo Xiaoyu_Raining |

Hanauma Bay doesn't translate to "Dinosaur Bay." It's called differently in different countries, and some even call it "toilet seat"—very descriptive.

If you're driving to snorkel, you'll need to arrive quite early. We arrived at 8:30 AM, and the parking lot was already full. However, tour buses can park for 15 minutes for free, but only for 15 minutes. Hanauma Bay has no shade, as you can tell from the beach. Wear sunscreen!!!

The photos taken in panoramic mode show what the dinosaurs looked like~~

By crop circles |

One of Hawaii's best snorkeling spots, go in the morning to avoid the crowds and find parking easily. Once you're at the beach, you can freely snorkel. The water is crystal clear, and you can spot a variety of colorful tropical fish along the coral reef. If you're lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle, but you'll need to be brave enough to swim far. Snorkel gear rentals and storage are available on the shore, as well as restrooms and outdoor showers.

By Hana |

Swimming in the crater is a unique experience. There are many reefs in the sea, so it is recommended to wear beach shoes for protection. You can swim and snorkel, and there are many small fish.

By Old craftsmanship |

Hanauma Bay is Crocodile Bay, except that the volcanic reef looks like a dinosaur.

By The stars' good friends Fang Fang |

Hawaii is an outlying island of the United States. It's America's vacation paradise, just like Tasmania is to Australia and Hainan Island is to China.

By Night Fury |

Hanauma Bay is great for taking photos from a distance, and a panoramic view is even more beautiful. There are many fish and beautiful corals when snorkeling below. Be careful not to get sunburned, as the sun is very strong.

By Fish Flower |

Hanauma Bay is a regional beach park and one of the most popular attractions on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. The sea water has carved the rocks into dinosaur shapes.

By liguanqiang |

One of the 50 must-visit places in life. Hawaii is a great summer escape!

By Ziziphus Jujuba |

Four people were led by a guide.

Because I was sea sick, we all went back to shore... Although the remaining three of us returned to the water later, we didn't go very far and didn't see any more fish.

The remaining three said it was fun

By Go with the flow |

Hawaii's weather is amazing! Hanauma Bay is even more beautiful! But you have to take aerial photos! If your phone or camera doesn't work, it's a must!

By cat king |

Hanauma Bay is amazing. Just off the beach, there's a large coral reef, making it a natural snorkeling destination. It's also a rare place where you'll need to pay an entrance fee. Snorkeling gear rentals cost $20 per set, which is roughly the same price at the supermarket. Frequent snorkelers might consider buying their own.

By Wang Amei |

Looking down from above, it really looks like a dinosaur lying in the sea. This is also a snorkeling paradise. You have to watch an introductory video before you can go to the beach. The snorkeling area is not deep. You can see many coral reefs after swimming a little.

By Dream Dream |

The beach was packed with tourists. Snorkeling equipment was available for rent right on the beach. I highly recommend bringing your own from China, as the rental prices are similar.

By China-TravelNote user AF7836 |

Many travel websites rank Hanauma Bay as Hawaii's most popular destination. It's a favorite diving spot for Hawaiian tourists, boasting shallow waters, low waves, abundant fish, and beautiful scenery, including a variety of natural coral reefs and tropical fish.

Tickets are $7.50, but before entering, you need to watch a video on how to protect the coral reefs and fish here and ensure your own safety. Snorkeling equipment can be rented. Remember to wear water shoes, as the rocks in the water are sharp and can easily scratch your feet.

I've seen many people say that parking is difficult if you arrive late. When we went in early October, we had no problem finding parking from morning until noon. However, since there are fewer people if you go earlier, I still recommend visiting this place early.

Another tip is to absolutely apply plenty of sunscreen to your back. When snorkeling, your back is exposed to the sun for extended periods, and if you're not careful, it can get several shades darker. Oh, I'm going to tear up a bit here.

When we went there it was already crowded, but thankfully the bay is big enough so it didn't feel crowded.

There are many coral reefs throughout the bay. When snorkeling, remember that some areas are full of fish, while others are nearly empty no matter how long you wait. If you don't see many fish, try looking in a different area.

By Linda Li Li |

This is another popular snorkeling destination for snorkelers, besides Maldives. Online reports say Hanauma Bay's parking lot has limited spaces and easily fills up. Since I wasn't planning on snorkeling, it seemed wise to visit in the afternoon. Because the crowds had already left, there were plenty of empty parking spaces. Of course, if you plan on snorkeling, be sure to arrive before 9:00 AM.

By Dreaming Ant |

The parking lot is large and has complete public facilities. The fee is $1. We found a spot with shade, lowered the car windows and seats, and took a nice nap in the breeze.

By lei wu |

It's free to go after 4:00 pm. We arrived just after 4:00 pm. After entering, if you want to snorkel, you need to watch a video first. We need to protect the natural environment of Hanauma Bay and ensure safety. They also explained that there will be strong currents in the rapids that will rush back into the sea and we need to avoid them.

You need to rent equipment for snorkeling, and the area must be cleared at 7:00. Beach rescuers will ask people to leave the water on time.

By Observe the people and help their virtues |

The best snorkeling spot, the bus can go directly there, try to go early, otherwise there will be a queue

By Yevsky |

The gradient-colored beach, unique location, suitable for snorkeling, sunbathing, beautiful~

By Yu Dagou |

Hanauma, which means bend.

Here, the land stretches out its arms, embracing a calm blue sea.

Some say that this is God's will;

Some people also say that this is a deep pit created by volcanic lava;

Others say it was created by the magical erosion of the ocean.

By iris |

You must go to Hanauma Bay and queue up in the morning. The coral reefs here are very well protected, there are many fish and it is very safe. Although there are a lot of people, it does not affect the mood at all.

By Take a look |

This is a beautiful bay. It was my first time snorkeling there, and it was easy to learn. Since I could swim, I had no worries. The underwater world was beautiful, just like you see in the movies, with lots of colorful fish and vibrant coral. It was stunning. Luckily, a sea lion came ashore to sunbathe, and we came over to see it. A large crowd gathered to watch the clumsy sea lion.

By Amelia Lazy Xiaomi |

Since I can't swim, I didn't go there specifically. I went hiking at Cape Coco and saw it after reaching the top. The water is very clear. It is said to be a good place for diving.

By ᶘ ᵒᴥᵒᶅ |

The bay is beautiful, but the coral reefs make walking difficult. If you're snorkeling, it's best to buy a buoyancy belt to make it easier. Remember to buy swimming shoes.

By Steven.S 🇺🇸 |

Hanauma Bay is a snorkeling paradise with abundant fish. You can just walk down when you go down, or you can choose to take a car. There is a storage place below, so don’t worry. But remember to bring your own beach mat. They are not sold below. Snorkeling equipment can be rented to you below, but it is very dirty. It is recommended that you buy it and bring it with you for the sake of hygiene.

By Zhu Duoxi✨ |

It's a very suitable place for landlubbers to dive. It's not deep, but you can see many colorful fish.

By Gao Miemie |

If you want to snorkel at Hanauma Bay, it's best to get up early because it's so popular. If you arrive late, you might not even have to pay for parking, and you might not even have a spot. Another advantage of going early in the morning is that the wind is lower, there are fewer people, and there are more fish.

By Ladyjj |

We walked around outside and left. We saw many people snorkeling here. At first, I didn't think it looked like a dinosaur, but when you go to see it, you will know that it is a big dinosaur lying there, exactly the same!

By Duoduo |

It was so beautiful! I really regretted not booking a scuba diving trip because I've already dived in many places in Australia and thought there was nothing special to do, so I didn't plan on going. I regretted it immediately after I saw it. I'll go diving again next time. So I recommend everyone to definitely go snorkeling!

By Photographer Wei Bai |

Two days before arriving in Hawaii, I drove to Hanauma Bay with a friend in the pouring rain. There were no dinosaurs there, but there were volcanic rocks pounded by the sea for millennia, and young people surfing in the strong winds and waves.

By Go to bed early every day |

We arrived at Hanauma Bay at 10 AM. Tickets cost $7.50. We watched a guided movie first, then rented snorkeling equipment to explore the fish and corals. The most common snorkeling kit is $20, including fins, goggles, and a snorkel. If you're nearsighted and want prescription goggles, it's an extra $3. Life jackets aren't provided for snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, and the water is quite saline, so those who aren't good swimmers should stay in the shallows near the shore. The temperature in Honolulu in mid-March was around 20-23 degrees Celsius, so the water was quite cool, the kind that felt refreshing the moment you stepped foot into the water.

Hanauma Bay is truly beautiful, with the water a vibrant summer color. It's incredibly relaxing to lie on the beach and enjoy the breeze. If you don't have a large towel, you can borrow a free mat from the guide information booth and return it when you leave.

By Strawberry flavored summer |

It's very crowded, so it's recommended to go early. First, at the visitor center, you'll need to watch a promotional video, in English, of course. If you're not good at English, you can ask the staff to choose headphones with a Chinese translation. The video briefly explains the origins of Hanauma Bay, saying it was formed by volcanic rocks after a volcanic eruption. The sea is rich in minerals, and the high temperature has led to the growth of corals, which in turn has given rise to a wealth of marine life. Snorkeling tips: Avoid stepping on or touching the coral to avoid damaging the environment.

It was beautiful from a distance. Snorkeling wasn't as clear as the waters of Southeast Asian islands, though. Hanauma Bay's water wasn't particularly clear, and there weren't many fish in the shallows. The deeper you went, the more fish you'd see. I didn't dare go too deep because my snorkel mask kept getting water. The corals were all dead, but I still had a blast, and Hanauma Bay is definitely worth a visit.

By Little fat goose doesn't want meat |

We booked our snorkeling spot online in advance, which included a car and complimentary snorkeling gear. Hanauma Bay is closed on Tuesdays, so we booked a Wednesday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Excluding the drive, we spent about two hours at Hanauma Bay. Amazingly, the person who took us to Hanauma Bay was the same person who had been there two years before, and they hadn't changed their hats. The job stability here is incredible!

Entrance to Hanauma Bay costs $7.50 per person. After entering, you'll watch a video in a room about protecting Hanauma Bay's natural environment, and then you can enter. We were lazy, so we bought round-trip shuttle tickets for about $5 each. We marked our wrists with markers as proof of our tickets. Two years ago, we still wore small paper rings. We're really becoming more environmentally friendly. We bought a cool mat at ABC Supermarket in advance; it was very cheap and proved to be very useful! The Hanauma Bay diving trip includes respirators and fins for snorkeling, but the respirators don't have disposable mouthpieces, so we brought our own respirators this time and used their fins.

By Haibara HAN🎉 |

The circular ruins formed by the falling rocks during the volcanic eruption are a famous snorkeling spot on Oahu Island.

In this winding bay, there are as many as 450 species of fish, octopus, crabs, eels and other marine life.

As soon as I got off the car, I saw several families putting on their gear and happily preparing to go snorkeling.

By White snow |

Parking costs $1, and admission is $7.50 per person. After purchasing your ticket, you can take photos at the observation deck, then enter a room to watch a 15-minute short film focusing on safety and environmental protection. After that, you can go down the mountain to the beach. Your ticket is valid for seven days, and after watching the short film, you can sign a booklet. If you come back within seven days, you don't need to watch it again.

Although the weather was not very good and we did not see the blue sky and blue sea scenery like the ones on the Internet, the water in Hanauma Bay was still clear and transparent with distinct layers even on a cloudy day. It was a pity that our schedule was quite tight, otherwise we could have spent the whole afternoon quietly in this place, or gone swimming and snorkeling, which would have been very nice!

By Chengdu Super Pig |

#Pig's Trotters Travel the World# Dreaming of Hawaii. I'm often asked, "You've been to so many places, where's the most beautiful?" Traveling really depends on who you're traveling with, but if I had to pick just one place, I'd choose Hanauma Bay in Hawaii. Especially from above, the beauty of the water, from the transparent surface to the ever-deeper layers of blue, is breathtaking. Nietzsche said, "If you gaze into the abyss, the abyss also gazes into you." If you gaze into heaven, heaven also gazes into you.

By Miffy Kaleidoscope |

Hanauma Bay is closed on Tuesdays, so please plan your visit accordingly. Parking is limited daily, and parking is available before 9:00 AM. Before entering the beach, you'll need to watch a short video. Afterward, you can walk down on your own or take the shuttle for a few dollars. The shuttle will stamp your hand, and you can return to the same spot. There are restrooms and changing rooms on the beach, as well as cold showers. Visibility is not particularly good, and fish are rare close by; you'll need to swim at least 100 meters to see schools of fish. There are no umbrellas or lounge chairs on the beach, so please bring your own beach towel and wear sunscreen.

By soy sauce ash |

Recommended Recommended Recommended Recommended Recommended Recommended

By Fukamori |

Hanauma Bay was truly stunning at the time, the water a brilliant blue that was dazzling to the eyes. We went snorkeling, but the gear was rudimentary and poorly cleaned. After use, passengers returned it to the service center, but they didn't even clean it and rented it out to someone else. It was like that eight years ago; I wonder how it's going to be now.

By Flame Green |

The scenery is beautiful, the water quality is decent, and you can see lots of beautiful fish if you swim further out. However, be careful of the coral reefs; they can really sting your feet. I personally think it's better to rent snorkeling gear; at least you get fins. Be careful with some fish; they can bite. I got two very deep bites from piranhas.

By Stuart the Bear |

The scenery is nice, but the shallow water is quite muddy and you can't see much. There are a lot of people snorkeling, and it's one of the top beaches. They don't allow food, but I saw a lot of Americans bringing their packed lunches in and no one cared. I also recommend taking the small car up and down the slopes; it's quite tiring, but it's not expensive at just $5 round trip.

By Bingying is on the road |

The weather was not very good on the day we went there, and the water was a bit muddy, so we didn’t see much, which was a pity.

By Deng Huayan |

Hanauma Bay is a favorite snorkeling destination for Hawaiian tourists. The waters are shallow, the waves are gentle, the fish are plentiful, and the scenery is beautiful. It boasts a variety of natural coral reefs and tropical fish, making it a perfect spot for first-time snorkelers. The No. 22 bus is easily accessible, though it runs early. However, there are many affordable, shared taxis available.

By Duanduan and Niels |

We arrived at Oahu's most famous snorkeling spot, Hanauma Bay. Hanauma Bay is a marine fish sanctuary. Before entering the bay, everyone must watch a 10-minute short film that briefly explains the formation of Hanauma Bay and provides snorkeling tips. It reminds visitors to protect this area and avoid damaging the marine ecosystem, as well as to pay attention to their own safety (Hauma Bay is shallow and full of coral, so wear fins to avoid coral scratches). However, compared to snorkeling areas on other islands, I personally feel that the waves at Hanauma Bay on Oahu, Hawaii, are a bit strong, stirring up a lot of fine sand, so the water isn't as clear as it appears from a distance.

By Guoer Xiaoqian |

Hanauma Bay's beauty speaks for itself. It's a prime location.

By Little Apple Dad |

Hanauma Bay is a popular destination for snorkeling, as it's quite famous. However, you often can't see anything there because it's so large and the waves are bigger than you might imagine. Beginners are likely to be unable to see anything.

By Walking Tintin Cat |

Hanauma Bay is Oahu's most popular snorkeling spot, but it seems overly crowded, much like Waikiki Beach, and is often overcrowded. There are actually many good, relatively quiet beaches across the Hawaiian islands; there's no need to crowd into a few famous ones. Also, I personally feel that diving in Australia and Southeast Asia is far better than in Hawaii.

By Simba |

The most beautiful part of Honolulu is simply strolling along the beach and enjoying the scenery. Bringing snorkeling equipment to admire the tropical fish in the ocean would be even more perfect. I improvised and booked a three-piece snorkeling package at the beach for $17. I spotted dozens of fish in the ocean, some as large as my forearm. It was a truly unforgettable experience.

By sisi229 |

The water is very clear. You can stay here for an entire afternoon snorkeling. There are lots of small fish.

By Da Pengpengzi |

Honolulu is actually surrounded by the sea and has about four or five famous bays. Because I drove along the way, I took some photos and forgot the difference between each bay. Haha~~ But in three or four hours, you can actually walk all the bays. You can also see sea turtles~

By Rebecca |

What a nice place! It was my first time diving and I saw corals and all kinds of tropical fish. Nature is so amazing. It’s a pity that I can’t see these in the sea back home.

By Crystal |

You have to go! You have to go! You have to go! I can't say this enough! This is the best snorkeling spot I've ever seen. You can see schools of fish and vibrant corals. It's incredible! But you have to get up early! You have to get up early! You basically can't get in after 9 o'clock.

By CHANNING Qin |

Hanauma Bay is full of pheasants, which is much more interesting than the scenery itself.

By A hornet's nest |

There are many similar scenes such as the curved bay, the beach, the sea and the green mountains, but they are not must-see attractions.

By Vicky |

This is truly a snorkeling paradise. Even in winter, the water isn't too cold. The beach isn't as fine as you might imagine, but the facilities are still very nice. Be sure to arrive early! The parking lot is usually full by around 10 a.m., and it might fill up even earlier during Christmas. Tickets come with a guaranteed introductory video. It basically explains the marine life here and reminds you to protect it. Afterward, you can head to the beach. You can walk down or take an electric cart. I recommend taking a diving tour, usually called a Discovery Tour or a First Timer (Beginner) Tour. You usually need a diving license to go diving elsewhere, but in Hawaii, you don't need one. With a guide, you can dive, though you won't be able to go very deep. If you want to see if diving is your thing, Hanauma Bay is the place to go. Slightly deeper than snorkeling, you can see lots of fish, but it's not too deep, so it's not too dangerous.

By Small fruit |

Hanauma Bay, a famous snorkeling destination, was incredibly crowded. Arriving early in the morning is essential, so we set off at 7:00 AM. The water is clearer in the morning, but starts to get murky later in the day. They let people in batches, and after entering, they were shown a short promotional video. We mostly snorkeled closer to the shore, in deeper areas where fish are more plentiful.

By Hawaii has you |

Hanauma Bay is arguably one of Hawaii's most famous attractions! Hana means "bay" in Hawaiian, and "uma" refers to the shape of a native canoe! The ridge of Hanauma Bay does, however, resemble a large, reclining dinosaur. Hanauma Bay is currently a nature preserve and closed on Tuesdays. Admission is $7.50 per person, free for children 12 and under and Hawaii residents. Parking is $1 per vehicle, refundable for parking for less than 15 minutes. Hanauma Bay is also an extinct volcano, approximately 32,000 years old. Its proximity to the ocean gave rise to its unique landscape. The volcano's gap has been filled by seawater, which then flowed into the crater, creating this beautiful bay. The downside is that it's overcrowded! Hanauma Bay is also a famous snorkeling destination in Hawaii, but whether or not you can spot fish depends on many factors. The bay's waters are a brilliant blue, like a gemstone, and are home to a diverse array of marine life. After purchasing the ticket, you must queue up to watch a 12-minute documentary before you can go to the beach below. While you're waiting in line, there's a small area next to it with many exhibits introducing the unique geology and ecological environment of Hanauma Bay. It's worth a look. Those with limited mobility or who don't want to walk can pay to take a shuttle bus to the beach below the cliff. The beach has lifeguards, toilets, showers, and snorkeling equipment for rent. The ecological environment here is fragile, so don't feed the fish or turtles. Please be sure to protect the environment after entering the water. Hanauma Bay opens at 6 a.m., so there will be no parking if you arrive late. It's also important to note that it's closed to the public on Tuesdays, so please avoid visiting at this time. US President Obama and his family go diving at Hanauma Bay almost every Christmas. I'm generally not interested in places with a lot of tourists, so whenever I take people there, I just look at the observation deck on the mountain and don't go down to the bay! by Youli Zhao

By A*New Zealand fully licensed immigration consultant Jenny Li |

This afternoon, after returning to our hotel from Hanauma Bay, we showered and took Bus No. 20 downtown to visit Chinatown. On the way, we met a Westerner who advised us not to go shopping in Chinatown. Another Cantonese man told us not to eat in Chinatown, saying it was unsafe. So, we gave up on Chinatown and went to Ala Moana Shopping Center instead. Chinatown still has many Chinese elements, and the street signs are all in Chinese.

Three years ago, Ala Monoa Shopping Mall was the largest outdoor shopping mall in the United States. It has three floors, but due to time constraints, I only visited the first floor today. I'll continue exploring the other two floors tomorrow. Since many streets in Honolulu are one-way, finding the return bus stop can be a major challenge for foreigners traveling by bus. Thankfully, there are plenty of buses from downtown to Ala Moana. In this respect, it's still much more prosperous than Auckland.



Honolulu is incredibly lively on weekends. The area around Waikiki Beach is buzzing with activity. The shops along the road stay open late, and some even have live bands and hip-hop performances outside. For some reason, there are even lights on both sides of the road. The weather is already quite hot [tears][tears]. The ice cream here is pretty good. I highly recommend trying it.

By Playing is loneliness |

Suitable for snorkeling, this island is the best diving spot, but it is too tiring. You need to carry your own tank and walk 2 kilometers and then swim 3 kilometers. The waves are very big and the underwater is very beautiful. There is a chance to see whales and a high probability of seeing dolphins. The underwater life is very rich!

By Xiaoyaoyou 666 |

We arrived after a slow, 20-minute drive along the coast. A long line of cars formed at the entrance, but it was quiet and orderly. Parking was $1 per car, free for up to 15 minutes. Travelogues had suggested limited parking, but the parking lot was quite large, with space for several hundred cars. Since we weren't snorkeling today, we didn't pay the $7.50 per person fee to access the beach below. However, the azure bay offered a clear view of the coral reef, and many snorkelers were snorkeling. The golden sands were stunning, and the hills surrounding the bay resembled a crouching dinosaur, its head and claws clearly visible. Returning to the parking lot, we encountered an elderly man humming a beautiful song softly to a guitar under a tree in the sunshine. The scene was truly beautiful.

By Sunrise in 2046 |

Hanauma Bay is closed on Tuesdays! Please avoid it! Also, be sure to go early! Hanauma Bay has a daily limit on the number of people allowed in, and parking is incredibly difficult! We parked far away and walked down! It truly deserves to be ranked #1 for a tourist attraction! The water is absolutely beautiful!!! It's much bluer than the water at Waikiki Beach! Go diving in areas with lots of coral reefs, and the fish will scurry all around you! Also, be sure to bring your swimsuit! I didn't plan on going in the water with my kids! The day before Hanauma Bay, I figured my aunt and uncle would watch the kids while I went diving! I bought a swimsuit downstairs from the hotel for over a thousand RMB. WTF!!! Qianqian and her brother Owen spent the entire day digging in the sand!!! They ran back and forth hundreds of times!! They finally let her energy out!

By Hina |

Hanauma Bay is indeed a great snorkeling destination. Just by looking at it, you can tell that the water is very clean and beautiful. It is said that the fish are given one day off a week to rest. I can only say that it is not easy for either humans or animals to work these days.

By Jusaka |

We headed to Hanauma Bay, which is only a 20-minute drive from the hotel. We were already late, so we tried our luck to see if there were any parking spots. Sure enough, there weren't any. Hanauma Bay is closed every Tuesday to protect the environment, and there's a daily limit on the number of visitors. There were no parking spots at Hanauma Bay, so we headed to a nearby viewing point, where we could see the Pacific Ocean waves. My balance is terrible, and climbing down from such a high place would have been fatal. Luckily, Mr. Xiao helped me get to the rocks safely, and I got soaked taking this photo. We had a blast here.

By Flowing River |

Hanauma Bay is a beautiful beach perfect for snorkeling. Before entering, there's a short, 10-minute educational presentation explaining the formation of Hanauma Bay and the marine life. If you're a frequent visitor, you can sign up for it on paper so you can skip this step next time. Since we made a last-minute decision to visit Hanauma Bay, we brought almost nothing—no swimsuit, no snorkeling gear—so we just walked around the beach a few times, which was quite satisfying.

By Dafa 💰 |

The Hanauma Bay is so beautiful!!! I will definitely come again. The water is so clear. I must go snorkeling next time I come.

By rainbow |

You can take bus No. 22, which costs 2.5 yuan for adults and 1.25 yuan for children. You can transfer twice within 2 hours, making it very convenient to get to Waikiki in less than an hour. I saw hundreds of fish of varying sizes and colors while lurking. It is highly recommended!

By The World of Omaha |

Hanauma Bay is free to enter before 7pm. It's a great place for beginner snorkelers to practice.

By SYRAH has emotions |

Personally, I think this place is suitable for visiting attractions in the morning when no one is here. There are really many good places for snorkeling. If you are not staying only on Oahu, it is not recommended to stay here for too long.

By kate_佳 |

Ranked #1 Best Beach in America in 2016.

There are only 300 parking spaces on a first-come, first-served basis. It is a great place for snorkeling, but the fish species are a bit limited.

By China-TravelNote users |

We took bus No. 24 from the bus stop at the foot of Diamond Head, then transferred to No. 22 to get to Hanauma Bay. Just get off when everyone else does; the bus was packed with people wearing beach towels. Admission was $7.50. Once inside, you had to watch a video. There was a translator in the room for foreigners. Then you could walk down or take a bus to the beach, which wasn't far. We didn't bring swimsuits or snorkeling gear, so we didn't go in the water, but they rent them right on the shore. The sand was much nicer than Waikiki, and someone said there were lots of fish. I'll definitely bring my swimsuit and gear next time I go. Highly recommended!

By suzieluo |

Ah ha ha ~ It is indeed a famous tourist destination ~ but finding a parking space depends on luck


The attractions mentioned in the above itinerary