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Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Honolulu

4.3
#1 of 164 in Nature in Hawaii
Water Body · Wildlife Area
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Famous for its sheltered inlet of calm and clear turquoise water, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve protects about 400 different species of fish and attracts amateur and professional snorkelers from around the world. The bay is also a nursery for green sea turtles, which you may see nesting as you walk or swim along the coastline. You can rent diving equipment if you don't bring your own and spend a day searching for parrotfish and coral. The preserve's regulations prohibit touching or walking on the coral heads, which often resemble large rocks on the ocean's floor. Keep in mind that touching or brushing up against coral or marine rocks may also result in serious wounds. Arrange your visit to Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve and discover more family-friendly attractions in Honolulu using our Honolulu day trip app.
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Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
17,117 reviews
Google
4.5
TripAdvisor
  • This area is absolutely breathtaking and a must-see if you're visiting Hawaii. Please be respectful of the wildlife and wear reef safe sunscreen when you come. 
    This area is absolutely breathtaking and a must-see if you're visiting Hawaii. Please be respectful of the wildlife and wear reef safe sunscreen when you come.  more »
  • Amazing Snorkeling,beautiful bay, bit touristy though, should go once & experience the amazing fish..I even snorkeled with a seal lion, not sure that is a normal occurrence (based on lifeguard... 
    Amazing Snorkeling,beautiful bay, bit touristy though, should go once & experience the amazing fish..I even snorkeled with a seal lion, not sure that is a normal occurrence (based on lifeguard...  more »
Google
  • Amazing place. So many views in the bay and around. Def bring all beach essentials like towels, water, snacks etc. def reserve because it can sell out however I’ll detail my experience to avoid extra price. The coral are pretty much dead unfortunately. But there is a lot of fish to see! Did not have reservations BUT we showed up at 645am right when the park opens to get walk on tickets. Do not show up earlier otherwise they will turn you away! Show up at 645am and you will get tickets and pay 3$ for parking. Cash only. Park your car and head inside with all your stuff I highly recommend going in at this time to avoid the crowds and so you have more time here. The admission office takes cash and card so pay 25$ per person. They do offer rentals for lockers and equipment but the beach is pretty safe. As for snorkeling, we just bought our own from ABC store since it’s cheaper but you can rent your own I recommend booking thru trip advisor if you do not have a car or are going late since they can shuttle you and it includes the snorkel rental (50$). The lot does get full closer to lunch time and they don’t let you park if it’s full. Otherwise, if you go first thing in the morning, you can enjoy the park at half price of trip advisor
  • Best day of my life. Plan to spend the whole day there! You could just snorkel as long as you want. The beach is amazing and great snorkelling experience for a beginner

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