Are there good places for kids to snorkel?

Question

We are looking to go to Oahu in the summer and will have 5 year old with us. Are there any places that you can see fish where it is fairly shallow? Obviously we can just take her out and let her put her face in any water but we’d like her to be able to see fish. I’m thinking something like baby beach is in Lahaina. If anyone has any suggestions for me to look into, I would really appreciate it! 💕

Answer

It’s wonderful that you're planning a trip to Oahu with your 5-year-old and looking to explore some kid-friendly snorkeling spots. Oahu offers several great locations for snorkeling, especially where the water is shallow, calm, and abundant with marine life—perfect for young children. Here are some of the best places to check out:

1. Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay is one of the top snorkeling spots on Oahu and is perfect for families with young children. The water is clear and calm, and the bay is protected, which makes it a safe environment for beginners. You’ll find an abundance of colorful fish close to shore, and there are shallow areas where your child can easily float and see the marine life. Hanauma Bay also has lifeguards on duty, making it a safer option. The only catch is that it gets busy, so it’s best to get there early.

2. Kailua Beach
Kailua Beach, located on the Windward side of Oahu, has gentle waters, soft sand, and is perfect for a relaxing day with your little one. While it's not a dedicated snorkeling spot like Hanauma Bay, there are some areas where you can wade into the water and see fish, especially near the rocks. The shallow waters make it ideal for young children to get comfortable with snorkeling in a more relaxed setting.

3. Shark's Cove (North Shore)
Shark's Cove is a great spot for families, and while it’s known for its excellent snorkeling, it also has shallow areas perfect for beginners. The cove has clear, protected waters and is home to a variety of fish. You’ll find shallow pools along the rocks where kids can safely observe the marine life. Be cautious of the waves and current, though, as they can get strong in certain areas. It's best to go during calm weather, especially if you're with young children.

4. Waikiki Beach
Waikiki may be a busy area, but it also offers convenient and shallow waters for beginners to try snorkeling. There are several areas along the beach where you can wade into the water and spot fish, particularly near the shoreline. The beach has calmer waters, making it a good option for kids who want to dip their toes in and see some fish. If you’re looking for an easy and accessible spot, Waikiki can work well for short, fun snorkeling sessions.

5. Baby Beach (in Lahaina, Maui, if you are considering Maui as well)
While Baby Beach is located on Maui, you mentioned it in your question, so it’s worth noting that it’s a fantastic beach for young children. The calm, shallow waters provide an excellent environment for little ones to safely enjoy snorkeling and see fish. Since you’re traveling to Oahu, though, it might be a good idea to check out the other beaches on Oahu, as mentioned earlier.

6. Kaiona Beach Park (Waimanalo)
Kaiona Beach Park is another quiet and less crowded spot on Oahu, located in Waimanalo on the east side of the island. The beach has shallow waters and is often protected from large waves, making it ideal for young children to snorkel. You can find a variety of fish and other marine life just off the shore. It’s a local favorite and not as busy as Hanauma Bay, which can make it a nice alternative.

7. Magic Island Lagoon (Ala Moana Beach Park)
If you’re looking for a calm and easy snorkeling spot, the Magic Island Lagoon in Ala Moana Beach Park is perfect for families with young kids. The waters are shallow and protected from the waves, making it a safe environment for beginners. The lagoon is home to a variety of small fish and marine life, and it’s a great place for kids to practice snorkeling in a relaxed setting.

Additional Tips:
- Always make sure your child is wearing a properly fitted life jacket or floatation device, especially if they are new to snorkeling. - Be mindful of the weather and ocean conditions, as some beaches can get rougher depending on the season and time of day. - It's a good idea to visit snorkeling spots in the morning before the crowds arrive to ensure the best experience.

Overall, Oahu offers many wonderful spots where your child can safely snorkel and enjoy the underwater world. Hanauma Bay, Kailua Beach, and Magic Island Lagoon are especially great for young children. With shallow waters and abundant fish, these areas will make for a memorable snorkeling experience for your family!