Hanauma Bay

This "Curved" bay was declared a protected marine life conservation area and underwater park in 1967. This is a great location if you want to see lots and lots of fish fairly easily, even if you are new to snorkeling and scuba. There is a large sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and there are several hiking trails leading to breathtaking lookouts.

The bay provides some protection from large ocean waves and allows swimmers a terrific opportunity to view the reef life in a safer, protected environment. However during sometimes of the month (generally 9-10 days after the full moon) the box jellyfish come out in force. Best to keep out of the water then. This beach can be pretty crowded. It's best to get there around 9 a.m. if you want to get a parking spot.

In 1990 the city decided it was time to clean up the bay by limiting the amount of visitors who could access it each day and building an education center. You will be required to view a short video about conservation before going down to the shore.

$1 per car parking fee, $5 per person admission fee for those 13 years or older, $1 per person shuttle bus fee each way (this is optional - there is a good, but steep, road from the parking lot area to the beachfront). Open from 6:00am - 7:00pm, closed on Tuesdays.

Do not stand or walk on the coral reef - this is a live reef. Do not feed the fish. Avoid walking on the rocky ledges on the sides of the bay where waves are breaking - lava is porous and it crumbles easily. Caution must be taken during seasonal high surf.

There are lifeguards, picnic areas, a concession stand, snorkel gear rental, restrooms, showers and phones available.

Location: Hanauma Bay is located in the Windward East Region

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