Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Honolulu, Oahu

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve This is a must-see wonder of nature on Oahu's south shore. In the years under protected status, the fish population has returned to very high numbers, and numerous marine life is thriving, creating unparalleled snorkeling opportunities. As a State Nature Preserve, the focus here is educating island visitors and residents alike on the ocean's ecosystems. The bay itself is a spectacular geological feature, as it is formed by a collapsed eroded volcanic cinder cone. The park is only about 15-minute drive from downtown Honolulu and easy to find, but parking is somewhat limited to lessen the strain on park's resources. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: Healthy reefs and variety of underwater sea life, it is Oahu's best and safest snorkeling. Close to Honolulu, but feels like a world away. Beautifully scenic. ACTIVITIES: Snorkeling, swimming, marine education, scuba diving, beach lounging. LIFEGUARD: YES, 6am to 6pm. 3 lifeguard towers on the beach, and one on the cliffs above. WARNINGS!: Closed Tuesdays! Summer hours: 6 am to 7 pm, winter: 6 am to 6 pm. Please regard posted advisories on the orange-flagged signs. Do not swim too close to the cliffs, especially at the farthest half of the bay, as currents and surf smash into the coves with brutal force; a number of visitors have disregarded those warnings resulting in tragedies. It is best to ask lifeguards for advice before setting off to snorkel. The side ledges are off-limits as well. *narrated video of near beach snorkel recommendations: http://youtu.be/8DyPD6-_Vwg AMENITIES: Parking, picnic benches, restrooms, showers, tram running from parking lot down to the beach and back, gift shop, and snack bar top side near the parking. Snorkel gear rentals! Hanauma Bay received protective Preserve status in 1967. Prior to that it was a prime fishing ground dating back to the times of Hawaiian royalty known as "Ali'i". Modern day protections and protocols have helped this marine sanctuary to recover its fish stocks. With an on-going management plan Hanauma Bay hosts nearly a million visitors a year for what is surely their most amazing snorkeling or diving experience on Oahu. Adventure Tip: The parking lot here can fill up early, and the vehicle access is restricted based on how many empty spaces remain open. If you come later then 9 am, chances are you may see orange cones and signs saying the bay is closed due to full parking. If closed, visitors must drive down the road and may turn around at Sandy Beach Park (1.9 miles) to drive by later to see if parking has reopened. Coming out early is the best solution for finding Hanauma Bay less crowded and easily accessible. If starting late, it is good to have a back-up plan in case you cannot get in to Hanauma Bay. From the Visitor Center the path leads to the beach down a steep 200 yard-walk. A $2 tram ride ticket provides access to an all-d…