Hanauma Bay State Park is a popular nature preserve that offers a variety of aquatic activities with a focus on snorkeling and exploring the inviting waters. You'll find lush, green hills and peaceful tranquility away from the busyness of the downtown area.
The whole family can find fun at this park, but visitors who are interested in outdoor adventure will have the best time. Most people spend about 2 or 3 hours here, but given the extent of the waters and surrounding nature area, your visit could easily turn into an all-day affair.
Hanauma Bay State Park - one of the highlights of 10 Best Things to Do in Honolulu and 8 Best Family Things to Do in Honolulu (Read all about Honolulu here)
Hanauma Bay State Park highlights
One of the major highlights of Hanauma Bay State Park is the opportunity for snorkeling. You'll find around 400 species of fish in this bay during the day, and you may even be able to spot green sea turtles. Of course, larger aquatic life is present as well.
Setting sail on a whale-watching voyage is a great way to see something a bit bigger. If you're feeling particularly daring, you can even take part in shark-cage dives off the North Shore, where these ferocious predators get so close you could touch them.
Good to know when visiting Hanauma Bay State Park
You'll find Hanauma Bay State Park about half an hour from Honolulu by car, so it's a convenient destination if you're looking to get out of the city for a bit. You may want to leave early, however, as the crowds start to form as early as 9.30 am. Parking can be tough to find after that since the local lot is fairly limited.
Keep in mind that there is a fee for parking as well as an admission fee for the park. Additionally, the beach is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays for the benefit of the fish, allowing them to feed without interruption.
Hanauma Bay State Park
Location: 7455 Kalanianaʻole Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96825, USA
Open: Wednesday–Sunday from 8 am to 2 pm (closed Monday–Tuesday)
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