So you’ve started to look into snorkeling in Oahu, and you know that there’s this one really famous bay that’s good for snorkeling that you keep hearing about.
But, you can’t remember… what is the name of that bay?!
There’s a really good chance the bay for snorkeling in Oahu that you’re thinking about is…
Hanauma Bay!
There is another bay on Oahu that can be good for snorkeling too for a limited time during the year. And that bay in Oahu is…
Side note!
See about the best shoes for hiking in Hawaii and what to wear snorkeling in Hawaii! And for Hawaii vacation ideas, see the best things to do in Waikiki that will give you Hawaii vibes!
Waimea Bay!
So, which bay for snorkeling on Oahu?
1. Hanauma Bay, East Oahu
The bay on Oahu that’s more popular for snorkeling is Hanauma Bay. This is one of the 3 areas on Oahu in which marine life is protected. Around this area of Waikiki and around this area of the North Shore are the other areas, also good spots for snorkeling in Oahu.
There is an entry fee to Hanauma Bay, and you can also rent snorkel gear at Hanauma Bay too.
If you want to get in more activity on the day you go snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, the Koko Head hike is right nearby. Koko Head is a strenuous hike, so you should have decent fitness for doing this hike. But then, snorkeling at the bay can make for a perfect post-hike activity!
Another trail is Makapuu Lighthouse Trail that’s down the road, which you may want to put high on your priority list if you are in Oahu during whale season. If you’re not going on a dedicated whale tour, this paved trail could be one of your best chances to see whales in Oahu. It’s not as difficult as the Koko Head hike, but since it is an uphill trail to get to the end of the trail (it’s an out-and-back hike), it would be a good idea to have decent fitness for the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail as well.
more things to do on the east side of oahu
2. Waimea Bay, North Shore
The North Shore of Oahu is best known for its high surf during surfing season which is at its peak during the winter months. Outside of surfing season when the waves are calmer, it can make for some good snorkeling. And this includes Waimea Bay. This bay is one of the popular beaches on the North Shore.
If you choose not to bring snorkel gear to Hawaii, you can rent snorkel gear nearby at Shark’s Cove. There is free parking at Waimea Bay Beach Park. If you arrive to find a full parking lot, nearby Waimea Valley has parking.
Of course, it wouldn’t be such a bad idea to actually visit the grounds of Waimea Valley if you do this. 😉 Here you will find a botanical garden with a variety of plants, a paved trail taking you to waterfalls, and an ancient Hawaiian living site. There is a fee to enter the attractions of Waimea Valley, but not the parking lot, at last check. See pictures of Waimea Valley attractions here.
It will be a little bit of a walk (maybe about 10 minutes or so), and you will have to cross the main road to go from Waimea Valley to Waimea Bay, so be careful if you do this.
more things to do on the north shore
Things to pack for your Oahu bay snorkeling trip
Now, here are some things you just may want to consider adding to your Hawaii packing list so you’re ready for the sun when you’re snorkeling in Oahu!
- A standard snorkel set like this one or a full face snorkeling mask like this one
- This type of case so you can take pristine underwater pictures with your camera. (It’s cheap!)
- This type of pouch so you can take your valuables with you in the water!
- This personal buoy or this flotation snorkel vest so your family on the beach can spot you out in the water in an instant!
- These types of UV protection shirts to wear so you don’t burn under the strong tropical sun rays when you’re in the water! If you’re on a desktop, use the far left column to filter by women, men, girls, or boys! Look at these types of swim shorts too, for women and men!
For a more in-depth look at what to bring snorkeling in Oahu, have a look at what to wear snorkeling!
HAPPY BAY SNORKELING IN OAHU!
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🐠 Here are things you must consider packing!
- Swimsuit or swimming shirt aka rash guard
- rash guard: swim set for women and swim shirt for men
- Water shoes
- Waterproof phone case (so you can capture pictures of fishies underwater!)
- cheapo phone case OR waterproof camera
- I also have this "camera" wrist float to attach to my cheapo waterproof phone case so my phone won't sink to the bottom of the ocean in case I somehow let go of it. (Mine does stay afloat - test this for yourself before completely trusting it!)
- Swimming goggles or snorkeling mask set
- Reef-safe(r) sunscreen
- lightweight travel towel:
- walking sandals:
I also don't go snorkeling without a personal swim float buoy. Not only does it help to keep me visible, but it makes for a perfect way to rest out in deeper water! Oh, and it also serves as a dry bag so I can take stuff into the water with me.
Another way I have taken valuables into the water with me is to wear a travel money belt that I don't mind getting wet with salt water (it's not waterproof but I have several so I just use one of them) and then I put things in a ziplock freezer bag, and put that freezer bag in the money belt.
There are also designated waterproof waist pouches that you can store your valuables and take into the water with you.
see more:
- What to wear hiking
- What to wear snorkeling