Hanauma Bay

This "Curved" bay was declared a protected marine life conservation area and underwater park in 1967. This is THE BEST protected cove if you are new to scuba diving or snorkeling with a diverse population of marine life and a large, rich coral reef. Advanced snorkelers and divers can also enjoy the beauty of this bay as the reef extends throughout the cove into deeper water. The bay floor is actually the crater of an ancient volcano that flooded when the exterior wall collapsed and the ocean rushed in.

The curvature of the bay usually provides protection from large ocean waves and allows swimmers a great opportunity to view the marine and reef life in a safer, protected environment. Always monitor the ocean conditions at all times and obey lifeguard warnings and postings.

Hanauma Bay from the air


Hanauma Bay beach


The ticket entrance lines


The mouth of the bay


Snorkeling amongst the reef


Directions:
Take Kalaniana'ole Highway east from Waikiki for approximately 10 miles. Entrance to the preserve is on the right. Frequent buses from Waikiki

Useful Information:
* This is a Marine Life Conservation Area: no pets allowed; no alcoholic beverages; no fishing or feeding the fish; do not remove, harass, or harm any marine life
* Call 808-396-4229 for recorded message with all current fees, times, conditions
* Currently OPEN from 6am - 6pm (winter - October thru March) and 6am - 7pm (summer - April thru September)
* Currently OPEN every Saturday from 6am - 10pm throughout the year
* Currently CLOSED every Tuesday
* $1 per car parking fee - large, paved parking lot - arrive early as the lot fills quickly and lines may be long
* $5 per person admission fee for 13 year old or older; Free for children under 13 years and for Hawaii residents and military stationed in Hawaii with proper ID
* Visitors are required to watch an educational film about the bay, the marine life and the preserve prior to going down to the beach.
* Paved walkway from entrance down to beach
* Optional shuttle bus available to bring visitors up and down the hill to the beach. - currently fee is $1 per person each way. Handicap accessible.
* 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.
* Lifeguards
* Reef and sand beach area
* Picnic facilities with tables, grassy areas and shade located near the parking lot
* Concession stand located near the entrance
* Restrooms located at the top and bottom area
* Showers
* Phones
* Snorkel, mask and fin rental available on the beach
* Locker rental available on the beach
* Educational information center and theater located near the entrance
* Gift shop
* Wheelchair Accessible via shuttle bus or trolley

Link to more Hanauma Bay fotos