The Beach at Hanauma Bay, Hawaii
The volcanic crater of Hanauma Bay on Oahu Island, Hawaii is one of the best snorkeling destinations of the world. The bay has a preservation park with the same name. The Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve Park is a marine life conservation park, bordering the Hanauma Bay. It is located at a distance of about 30 minutes from Waikiki. The preserve park opens on all days except Tuesdays. Snorkeling and scuba equipment is available on rent at the park. Lockers are also available.
Being the first marine conservation park in Hawaii, the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is an essential part of Hawaii’s tourism. Efforts are being made to keep it pristine. The visitors are expected to show great care and responsibility while entering into the marine kingdom of corals and beautiful aquatic animals. The bay looks magnificent in moonlight.
In case you do not wish to walk till the bay from the visitor center, you may choose to travel via the tram.
An intriguing spot, called Halona Blowhole lies at the Koko Head of the bay. This hole blows out the water of the ocean, forming a fountain. During winters, whales can be spotted near the blowhole.
Points to remember:
- As this is a crowded place, you must not bring your valuables along.
- Leave your cars locked.
- Do not go near the blowhole, as the conditions become unsafe at any moment.
- As the food and drinks are not sold on the bay, you have to buy them at the visitor center. As they will be pretty expensive here, bring water bottles and lunch from your home or local market.
- Bring SPF and toiletries for post-snorkel shower.
Historically, Hanauma Bay serves as a fishing place for the royalty. It is said that King Kamehameha V used to come at the bay for fishing. Also, while sailing canoes from the islands of Oahu to Molokai, the bay served as a resting spot.
There are some other interesting places near the Hanauma Bay, such as the Honolulu Museum of Art and Shangri La, Queen Emma Summer Palace, Iolani Palace, the Bishop Museum, Kapahulu, Downtown Honolulu and Chinatown, Leahi (Diamond Head), etc. Do not forget to include these points of interests in your itinerary.
Also Read: Hawaii Tour
Hanauma Bay Location Map
Location Map of Hanauma Bay
Facts about Hanauma Bay
- The Hanauma Bay is located exactly on the southeastern tip of Oahu.
- The bay spreads over 100 acres.
- About 1.2 million people visit the bay annually.
- The Hanauma Bay Marine Life Conservation District (MLCD) was instituted in 1967.
Where is Hanauma Bay?
Hanauma Bay is located in Honolulu, Hawaii. It is at a distance of about 17.5 miles from the Honolulu International Airport, via I-H-1 E and HI-72.
Address: Hanauma Bay Honolulu, HI 96825, USA
Best time to visit Hanauma Bay
The best time to visit the Hanauma Bay are the early hours of the morning. The water is clear and parking space is available. It may get filled up till 9:00 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.
More about Hanauma Bay
What are the coordinates of the Hanauma Bay?
21° 16.113′ N; 157° 41.700′ W
21° 16.055′ N; 157° 41.643′ W
What are the threats to the Hanauma Bay?
Due to increased tourism, the coral reef is getting damaged, and the quality of water in the bay is getting deteriorated. As it is a conserved area, the visitors must be extra cautious not to cause any harm to the area.
Related : Hawaii Location | Airports in Hawaii | Hawaii Travel Infographic
Image Credit : Cristo Vlahos
