Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Hours, Parking and Snorkeling
COVID-19 update
Hanauma Bay hours
Hanauma Bay is open from 6:00am until 7:00pm in Summer and from 6:00am until 6:00pm in Winter. It is closed every Tuesday, Christmas and New Year’s day. Public visits are forbidden during holidays.
The best time to go is between 6:00am and 7:00am. About 3,000 people visit the Nature Preserve each day, that is why it is the best to visit it as early as you can. Note: Changes are possible at any time. For the latest information call the recorded information line at (808) 396-4229.
October thru March
Open from 6am to 6pm.
April thru September
Open from 6am to 7pm.
Every Saturday
Open from 6am to 10pm.
Every Tuesday
Closed all day.
Christmas
Closed all day.
New Years Day
Closed all day.
Hanauma Bay snorkeling
Hanauma Bay snorkeling is the most popular activity in Oahu, Hawaii. You do not have to be a professional diver to enjoy the calm water and white sand. There are over 300 Hawaiian fish species lurking about the shallow coral reefs, it is easy to see why this Oahu Beach holds its fame!
The pristine marine ecosystem and sea life allows you to encounter the famous see green sea turtles and humuhumunukunukuapua’a reef triggerfish considered a symbol of Hawaii. You can also see corals octopuses, eels, and literally thousands of other marine life forms. Before you head out to snorkel in Hanauma bay, we recommend you to check out the snorkeling tips and warning signs.
How much does it cost to rent snorkel gear?
You can bring your own snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel and fins) if you want to snorkel in the bay. Or you can rent it for the day for $20.
Do you need reef shoes?
It is not necessary to wear reef shoes, but it is recommended because there is a sharp reef that can hurt you. You can alternatively swim with fins.
Does Hanauma Bay have green sea turtles?
The green sea turtles often swim alongside snorkelers. If you encounter a turtle and it approaches you, give it plenty of room to swim and surface for air. Do not touch them, it is illegal by the State law.
Are there sharks in the Bay?
There are some reef sharks. However they are only about 4 feet long and they don’t feed on humans. There has never been any shark attack in the bay.
Hanauma Bay Snorkeling Tips and Warning Signs
Hanauma Bay Beach Facilities
Hanauma Bay parking
The parking lot has only 300 spaces and is relatively small. It fills around 7:00am and when it is full there is a “LOT FULL” sign at the entrance to the park. You will not be allowed to enter until there is available space. The parking fee is $1.00 per vehicle and is valid for one entry only.
Vehicle Fees
The fees do not apply to a taxicab unless the vehicle may also be operated as a licensed motor carrier.
Motor Vehicles
(Hawaii residents)
Motor Vehicles
(Non-residents)
Motor vehicles
(1 - 7 passengers)
Motor vehicles
(8 - 25 passengers)
Motor vehicles
(26 and more passengers)
Directions and Address
If you want to use a GPS navigation, the address you should enter is 7455 Kalanianaole Highway, Honolulu, Hawaii.
To find driving directions and more information how to get by car, bus or Waikiki trolley read our article from Waikiki to Hanauma Bay beach park.
Park Admission (updated)
There is a $7.50 entry fee for visitors 13 years of age or older. Children under 13 years of age, active military and Hawaiian residents with acceptable proof of residency can enter the park without paying an admission fee.
Acceptable proof of residency can be Hawaii driver’s license, State ID with Hawaii address on the front (must be valid for one year or more) or Hawaii student ID with current year or semester validation.
Note: Only 1 ID per person per day is permitted.
Person above 13 years of age
Children under 13 years of age
Residents of Hawaii with valid ID
About
Hanauma Bay State Park is a popular snorkeling spot and one of the best beaches in the United States. This incredible natural pool, formed in a volcanic crater, is located in Hawaii Kai residential community area. That is 9 miles (15km) East of the world famous Waikiki beach and is an.
Its name means “curved bay”. However, a whole bunch of legends are brought about the way this place has received its name. For the locals it is part of their history. In the past it has been an excellent place to fish. The archives show that in the 18th century the Hawaiian kings have often come here to have fun and sports.
In fact, the this place is a nature preserve, which aims to protect the fragile and beautiful ecosystem in the area against unlawful influence. For this purpose, every guest at this fabulous place is obliged to watch a short educational film before heading down the steep road to the magnificent coastline. If you do not want to walk, there is a tram and for a sum of 50 cents, in one direction, will take you down to the beach.
The hiking trails along the ridge and along the coast offer breathtaking panoramic views. People can learn more about protecting this beautiful place, at the recent discoveries Marine Education Center.
USS Arizona Memorial
Hawaiian Islands
Oahu Island
The Diamond Head Crater
