hanauma bay parking questions

Question

i remember you can beat the parking problem by arriving super early, how about if you arrive quite late in the afternoon? Can one park and ride in? also the web site doesnt appear to show reservations are required as it was two years ago...thx

Answer

Hanauma Bay has undergone some changes over the last couple of years, including adjustments to the parking situation and reservation system. Here’s a breakdown of your questions:

1. Parking Late in the Afternoon: Parking at Hanauma Bay can be tricky, especially during peak hours when the lot fills up quickly. However, if you arrive late in the afternoon (typically after 3pm), there is a chance that the parking lot may have available spots. Since many visitors leave by the afternoon, there may be a window of opportunity for you to park. However, it's still not guaranteed, and parking is often at full capacity earlier in the day, especially during weekends and holidays.

Arriving late: If you do decide to arrive later in the afternoon, it's possible that parking might be available as the crowd thins out. However, keep in mind that the earlier you arrive, the better your chances are of securing a spot.
Park and Ride: Hanauma Bay has a shuttle service, but it primarily operates for those who have made reservations in advance. It’s typically not a drop-off service for those who come late and don’t have a reservation, so if parking is full, you may have to try again the next day or at an earlier time.

2. Reservations Requirement: The reservation system for Hanauma Bay changed after it reopened post-pandemic. As of now, reservations are no longer required for parking or entry. This marks a shift from the previous system where visitors had to book their spot in advance. The website no longer shows the reservation requirement, and this is in line with the current policy where visitors can now enter without prior bookings.

No Reservation Needed: You can now visit without worrying about making a reservation, but note that the bay can get crowded, especially during peak times (like weekends and holidays).
Parking Tips: Arriving early is still the best strategy to guarantee a spot in the parking lot. The parking lot typically fills up by 9am, so aiming for an early morning visit is recommended.

Conclusion: While it is possible to park later in the afternoon, arriving early is always the best option to ensure you have a spot. The shuttle service is mainly for those who have reserved in advance, so if parking is full, you'll likely need to come back the next day. With reservations no longer required, your main focus should be on timing your visit to avoid the crowds, especially during weekends and peak seasons.

hanauma bay parking questions

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