Along with visiting the Dole Plantation and the Polynesian Cultural Center, Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay in Oahu, Hawaii is a must.
You can ride a bus here but ours was so packed, if I could go back in time, I’d rent a little car instead. The park also has shuttles which you can learn about here.
The park has more structure than newbies might realize. There is a required video to watch before entering which takes about 10 minutes.
The park opens at 6 am and closes at 6 pm.
There is a tram which is super fun to take from the parking to the bay which is $1 and the trip back up is $1.25 per person. The price applies to each trip, so if you are the kind who forgets things in the car, you might want to pack some spare change.
There’s an entrance fee of $7.50 per person.
They do have a place for lunch, but you can also bring your own.
There’s a fee for lockers down at the bay so you can lock up valuables like a camera but still have them close by when needed.
There are rental items such as flippers & face masks at the bay and a gift shop on your way out.
Be sure to keep your eyes open for the unique birds in the park… and the parking lot.
My Most Important Tip for Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay in Oahu, Hawaii
If you’re not used to the rocks & corals at the beach, I highly recommend bringing some swimming shoes. I regret not having some with me for my dainty, city girl feet. I blame my soft, cushy Uggs. Staying close to shore where the sand was soft prevented me from seeing sea life… which kinda was the point of visiting.