Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Located on Oahu’s southeastern coast, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is one of the prettiest places on Oahu and it is renowned for being one of the best snorkeling spots.
This marine hotspot is located in a volcanic cone and is home to over 400 species of fish (as well as coral reefs and turtles).
Because the coral reefs are some of the best on Oahu, reservations are required to visit Hanauma Bay, as well as a small fee for non-residents.
Hanauma Bay is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays to give the sensitive ecosystem time to rest and recover.
Visitors will find restrooms, showers, and a snack bar at Hanauma Bay. There is also a small visitor center that has exhibits to educate visitors about the ecosystem of Hanauma Bay.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve Visitor Information
Island: Oahu
Address: 7455 Kalanianaole Hwy, Honolulu, Hawaii
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 6:45 am to 4 pm
Ticket Prices: $25 per person (local residents and children 12 & under go free)
Parking: Parking is limited and there’s a $3 parking fee for all vehicles
Restrooms/Showers: Yes
What to See and Do at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Relax on the Beach
No trip to Hanauma Bay is complete without simply relaxing on the beach.
Back in 2016, it was voted the best beach in the United States and it’s not hard to see why, with its clean shores, crystal-clear waters, and relaxing vibe.
Go Snorkeling
Snorkeling is a popular activity in Hanauma Bay, with snorkeling tours running from Waikiki Beach (Honolulu).
As the water is so clear, you can spot a variety of marine life including turtles. Snorkeling equipment is available to hire from the on-site rental booth.
Go Hiking
While at Hanauma Bay State Park, you can take advantage of local hiking trails which offer jaw-dropping coastal views.
The Hanauma Bay Ridge Hike is a popular option, as you’ll get beautiful vistas of the bay as you head along the trail.
How to Get to Hanauma Bay from Honolulu
Hanauma Bay is around a 22-minute drive from the city of Honolulu, with the fastest route taking you via I-H-1 E and HI-72.
Those traveling from Waikiki can take advantage of public transport. Route 22, also called the Beach Bus, used to service the two destinations but it’s been discontinued.
Now there’s No.23, which drops you off Wailua St + Lunalilo Home Rd. From here, it’s around a 35-minute walk to the preserve.
Alternatively, you can take an Uber or Lyft to Hanauma Bay or book a shuttle. Do note that taking takes around Oahu is pretty expensive.
Visiting with a Rental Car
The best way to reach Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve (and visit other attractions on the island of Oahu) is to rent a car.
Luckily, there are some fantastic rental car companies in Honolulu including Enterprise, First Rent-A-Car, and Voyage Rental Cars. Alternatively, you can rent a car straight from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). Popular rental companies such as Sixt, Alamo, and National Car are located here.
Your other option is to rent a car in advance using a platform such as Discover Cars. You’ll often get much better rental rates this way and will have a wider selection of vehicles to choose from!
Visiting on a Tour
If you don’t have your own mode of transport, then taking a tour is another great option.
This Hanauma Bay snorkeling tour lasts for approximately 6 hours and departs from Waikiki Beach (Honolulu). There are three morning departure times, and your transport and snorkeling gear are included in the price.
Booking a tour eliminates the hassle of organizing transport and finding a parking space. However, if you want to visit other locations on the same day, a rental car is your best option!
Places to Visit near Hanauma Bay
Halona Blowhole Lookout
The Halona Blowhole Lookout is one of Oahu’s most popular attractions and is around a 6-minute drive from the beach.
It’s especially impressive during the winter when there are strong currents and large waves. Water coming up through the blowhole can reach up to 30 feet (9 meters) high.
Koko Crater Arch
The Koko Crater Arch Trail is a relatively easy hike. This 0.9-mile (1.4-km) trail starts from the Halona Blowhole Lookout and will take you to an impressive natural arch. During the winter, this arch is a great whale-watching spot.
Koko Crater Botanical Garden
Koko Crater Botanical Garden is around a 10-minute drive from the bay. This garden focuses on cultivating rare and endangered dryland plants and is free to visit.
There’s a 2-mile (3.2 km) loop path that runs through the area.