* Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Brings back fond memories and reminds me of how long its been! 1. The turtles are often seen basking in the sun on the shore, and the waves here make for perfect conditions for snorkeling with these gentle creatures. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. This is a remote spot that is only accessible by hiking and is surrounded by Hawaiian folklore. You may want to consider getting the Go Oahu Card as snorkel rental near Hanauma Bay s is included in the price. The water gets especially warm from the sun, and much of it is sandy bottomed. North Shore Surf Shop across the road rents snorkeling gear and reef shoes so you dont need to bring a thing beyond your credit card. And judging by the number of people in the water with snorkels and fins, it seems like word has gotten out about this little snorkeling spot! Also, you will find a gift shop that has souvenirs and items you may have forgotten (for example, sunscreen). Overall, the limited crowds make this one of the best places to snorkel. I am dreaming of warm beaches. The power plant releases clean warm water into the ocean which attracts an immense amount of sea life. I did a SUP yoga class in Kuilima Cove when we stayed at Turtle Bay. This pretty spot on the North Shore between Banzai Pipeline and Waimea Bay offers some of the best snorkeling in Oahu. Hanauma Bay has one of the best beaches for snorkeling in Oahu. I have a few snorkeling on Oahu tips to help your prepare for your Oahu snorkeling adventure. You get supreme visibility, calm waters and plenty of marine life to explore! If youre looking for a truly unique way to experience marine life, try booking a snorkeling cruise along the Waianae Coast. Looking for a waterproof case for your precious iPhone 14? However, you may also be able to see them around sunset. If you are looking for the best snorkeling in Oahu, Hanauma Bay is the place you need to visit! Dont be alarmed by its name, as this sheltered lava rock formation is home to a diverse range of marine species. Maybe. I like how the coves have such cool names, too. 3 best snorkeling spots in Oahu 1. This is an ideal place to take your kids, or if you aren't too comfortable with the ocean or marine life yourself. If you want to save this information for later be sure to pin this on Pinterest! Swimming conditions can occasionally be challenging due to how shallow the reef is during low tides and certain seasons, but it makes for ideal snorkeling conditions. Snorkeling in Oahu is a great form of exercise, boosting your cardio health, flexibility and overall fitness level. Pupukea Beach Park is a marine life conservation area so there are so many fish to see! Haleiwa Harbor is where most tours depart from Aside from sharks, you may also get to see other aquatic creatures like turtles, dolphins, and whales. But it all was good! Phone +1 808-677-1277. Out of the 3 snorkeling spots listed on this page, Sharks Cove is located between the other 2. The underwater landscape at Pupukea Beach Park is dotted with fascinating lava formations, providing a unique backdrop for snorkelers. This enormous resort will not disappoint! However, this area is not as protected from the waves and currents as other Oahu coves, so the best is snorkeling here in the summertime when the water is calm. If you are a beginner snorkeler dont be discouraged there are snorkel tour groups for Kahe Point. THE 10 BEST Oahu's North Shore Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Scuba & Snorkeling in Oahu's North Shore Enter dates Filters 1 Outdoor Activities Traveler favorites All things to do Category types Attractions Tours Day Trips Outdoor Activities Concerts & Shows Food & Drink Shopping Transportation Traveler Resources Outdoor Activities Yes, Hawaii is paradise and there are great locations full of coral and tropical fish. The beach area is small, easy and safe to snorkel even for kids and has extreme rich marine life with lots of coral and many turtles around! Lets plan, Read More 20 of the Best Guys Trip IdeasContinue, Do you want to plan a trip to Universal Orlando? We found that if we went early in the morning or later in the afternoon we were able to easily get a spot. Read More 15 Awesome Tips For Legoland CaliforniaContinue, Have you been thinking about planning a guys trip? Secret Beach is located on Kaneohe Bay, behind MCBH, the Marine Corps Base Hawaii. Each of these Oahu snorkeling locations can be found on different parts of the island. Thanks for these insider tips! Anett is a certified scuba diver, freediver and an expert in snorkeling with more than 10 years experience. Awesome! Moreover, the islands south side also features some decent spots to snorkel. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Yes, absolutely! It has a very scenic, small deserted beach that is usually empty. Out of all of the snorkeling spots on Oahu we hit, my favorite was Turtle Bay. North Shore Oahu is a beautiful region of Hawaii situated on the easternmost side of the island. Ko Olina Marina, 92-100 Waipahe Pl, Kapolei, HI 96707-4293, USA. There are so many Oahu snorkeling beaches to choose from. We then switched places but it was getting late and we didnt want to be the only ones in the area. North Shore snorkeling is full of surprises. 12 Best Aruba Snorkeling Tours Which Should You Choose? Hawaii Best Oahu Snorkeling Dive Spots Oahu has 23 snorkel dives. Swimming in this area can be rough on certain days and the website will tell you if it is safe. Shark's Cove was named because a reef outside the cove resembled the shape of a shark, so you shouldnt have to worry about encountering any real ones as you snorkel. The waters are warm, the visibility is impeccable and the number of fish and sea turtles is awe-striking especially if you go during high tide. Grab a bingsu aka Korean shaved ice while there. As you will see, these beaches are pretty close to each other. Each place definitely has its pros and cons. Is Hawaiian Electric Beach on the west side of the island too far for comfort? Once youre in, there are plenty of tide pools and reefs to explore. So if youre looking for a place to get up close and personal with some marine life, Three Tables is the perfect spot. The warm water allows you to feel comfortable staying in the water and exploring marine life. Diving & snorkelingmy all time favorite things to do! Its a relaxing experience for them and an incredible one for us humans to witness. For a detailed dive site description and printable snorkel dive map, just select a North . Kaena means the heat in Hawaiian, and the beach is located on the northwestern tip of Oahu, in Ka'ena Point State Park. ago. There are several hotels in the area that keep the waters and surrounding area clean and safe. It is not one of the best Oahu snorkeling beaches, as it is very rocky. Here are the top five. Oahu is one of the best places for snorkeling on all of the major Hawaiian islands and you'll find some of the most pristine waters filled with fish just waiting to meet you. Hanauma Bay is a volcanic crater that has been formed into a natural pool. Most of my list includes the best free snorkeling spots. Im going to pin it in for when we make it out that way. Lets answer some basic questions you might have about snorkeling in Oahu. The calm waters make it a great spot for novice snorkelers, but even experienced swimmers will be impressed by the sheer number of fish swimming around. We actually were really nervous, there was a man that was staring at me and it freaked me out. Youll see more fish, turtles, and who knows what else. Glass Bottom Boat Tours (sister company in Honolulu), The Best Places To Snorkel On The North Shore, snorkeling tours along the North Shore provide a great opportunity. We purchased our own snorkeling gear, but if you need to rent snorkel equipment there is a store located across the street where you can. Check out Turtle Beach, to find the sea turtles swimming in the calm waters. I honestly think it is worth purchasing your own snorkel gear before you head to Hawaii. gets its name from the three or four flat sections of reef visible at low tide. iPhone 14 Plus/Pro/Max Waterproof & Underwater Cases, Best iPhone 13 Mini/Pro/Pro Max Waterproof Cases, Snorkeling in Cozumel When to visit & Best spots to go, Cenote snorkeling in Tulum Best 3 spots to visit. This is such a comprehensive guide. It looks like an amazing spot! If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. This is an ideal place to take your kids, or if you arent too comfortable with the ocean or marine life yourself. It is what is under the water that makes this one of the best Oahu Hawaii snorkeling spots. I would allocate at least that amount of time to this area. There are so many fun things including the Dole Pineapple Plantation, Polynesian Cultural Center, and the Jurassic Adventure tour. Shark's Cove is a bit of a misnomer as you are unlikely to spot any sharks here. This North Shore snorkeling spot is located on the grounds of Turtle Bay Resort. Because the bay is such a popular tourist destination, make sure you book your tickets at least a day in advance to avoid missing out! It actually made me want to stay at Turtle Bay the next time we visit. Snorkeling in Oahu should make your Oahu bucket list for sure! Hanauma Bay is the exception. He goes snorkeling at our local beaches, so being able to see clearly all these different things would be a dream come true for him. Also, you will find a gift shop that has souvenirs and items you may have forgotten (for example, sunscreen). There is a marine life nature preserve that allows snorkelers to see up to 300 different Hawaiian fish species in the Hanauma Bay area. The list will definitely come in handy! Oh, my husband would LOVE this. Feel free to message us on Facebookto chat! Just a short walk away from the touristy side of Waikiki, you can experience Oahus best snorkeling experience at this small sandy beach with a wide variety of Hawaiian reef fish species around such as butterflyfish, parrotfish and the famous Hawaii State Fish, the Humuhumunukunukuapua`a! Want to be carefree and be one with the ocean? Since then , she is traveling all over the world to discover our waters. This is one of the more adventurous places to snorkel on this list, and most certainly the least crowded. Information provided on this website is for entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. I know you will enjoy the best beaches on Oahu for snorkeling. If you are staying at the resort snorkeling equipment is free. These look like amazing spots to hit. These are great suggestions for snorkeling on Oahu! I cant wait to try it! Each of these Oahu snorkeling locations can be found on different parts of the island. I have put together a One Week in Oahu Itinerary as well as some of the best family resorts on Oahu. The park features a series of rocky coves and tide pools that teem with marine life. I highly recommend adding Hanauma Bay to your Hawaii itinerary. Yes, but only during the summer months when the surf is low. My favorite Oahu snorkeling beaches are Hanauma Bay for its high fish population, Kuilima Cove for its perfect beginner snorkeling conditions, Kahe Point for its clear deep water and advanced snorkeling conditions, Kaena Point State Park for its beautiful sand beach further away from the city, and Sharks Cove for its wonderful blue water and tro. 10.4 Best Time of Day to Snorkel in Oahu. Underwater visibility may be affected in the winter months when the waves are more prevalent, but the rest of the year should feature ideal conditions. If you are looking for the best North Shore Oahu snorkeling sites, this is one of them! We spent about 1-2 hours here. We were reticent to give up the goods on Kaunala Gulch, but the cover on this treasure trove was already blown when we released an article on how to spend a day on the North Shore. This is by far the best way to spot a variety of fish species, dolphins, and turtles. Where Can I Watch Surfing on the North Shore? One thing I love about snorkeling is that going to the best beaches in Oahu for snorkeling is a free activity that is fun. The water really is as blue as the picture (no filter). I am already planning another trip with my kids this time! Here are the best ones for all models! more about the best shoes for hiking in Hawaii. Snorkelers who come this location need to be strong swimmers because the currents get strong sometimes. Please join me on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter. Sharks Cove is located on the northern coast of Oahu on the Kamehameha Highway. Oahu's North Shore has some of the best snorkeling on the island. It is also at the bottom of a volcanic crater, making for some spectacular scenery and a cool story to tell your friends. Hanauma Bay Cost: $25 per person Go to Hanauma Bay for possibly the most popular snorkeling spot on Oahu. The beach itself is small but it is very lovely. I cant wait to reschedule our trip to Hawaii possibly for next year! Snorkeling at Kahe Point should be on your snorkel Oahu list no matter what your snorkeling ability. Its more than reasonable to snorkel both locations in the same half day. All Rights Reserved. So cool! These tours grant access to secluded snorkeling spots that are inaccessible from the shore, offering an exclusive experience. We found some of the best beaches for snorkeling in Oahu. But you can give a try to other snorkeling spots on Oahu. Sunsets are also phenomenal from this beach. A few miles from Sharks Cove in the opposite direction of Waimea Bay to the north is Kuilima Cove. Where to Snorkel on the North Shore of Oahu. Despite its small size, this cove boasts an impressive amount of coral and all of it is incredibly vibrant and healthy. This site contains affiliate links. The cove is located on the eastern edge of the beautiful Turtle Bay Resort. It is small but well-kept. We had at least 3 snorkeling excursions booked and it would have been the kids first time. Skip Fumi's and hit up Kahuku Famous. It is not uncommon to see goggled visitors float facedown with lifejackets on. Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay is one of the best places to snorkel on Oahu. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase through these links at no extra cost to you. This snorkel tour in Oahu might just be what the doctor ordered. And dont worry if you notice a few inverted fins while youre under the water. This area is protected and educates participants on preserving wildlife to all those that will enter Hanauma Bay. The water is clear but you may not see as many fish in this area as some of the other snorkeling spots on Oahu. We have done a fair share of snorkeling, but never on Oahu. http://yahglobal.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/which_outrigger_in_waikiki_is_better_-_view-600x800.jpg, http://yahglobal.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/best_beachcombing_oahu_1-600x800.jpg, How To Rent Snorkel Gear For Your North Shore Trip DesertDivers. This stretch of sand lies near Koko Head on the east side of Oahu in an old volcanic crater. Sharks Cove. But the marine life is so cool. This beginner guide on snorkeling can help prepare you. Oh good I will update it. One such district is on the North Shore and includes Sharks Cove. Hawaii Oahu 25 Best Snorkeling Spots in Oahu, Hawaii (with Map) December 6, 2022 Hawaiian green sea turtles, tropical fish, moray eels, and rainbow corals are just a hint of the impeccable underwater world thriving in the North Pacific Ocean surrounding Oahu island. It is known for its picturesque beaches, lush tropical forests, and world-class surf. If you are wondering. Just a short walk away from Sharks Cove lies Three Tables, named after the three flat-topped coral formations visible during low tide. As you venture into the pristine waters, youll encounter colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even the occasional sea turtle. Tropical fish sighting is a little more sparse, so youll have to cover more area, but with a little patience youll enjoy quite the show. Good for surfers, but not so good for snorkelers! This is a high theft area (so we have been told). The Oahu snorkeling season is May through September. Snorkeling in Turtle Bay will not disappoint! Snorkel Around The World aims to inspire people to discover the undersea world through snorkeling photos and videos. Snorkeling on Oahu was such a blast. The bay is home to a colorful reef and an incredible amount of sea life, making it the perfect place to see eels, sea urchins, and tropical fish in their natural habitat. On Oahu, the best snorkeling tours around are here. But trust us, its worth it. It is about 10 miles from the famous Waikiki Beach. Nearly a dozen snorkeling spots can be explored around the island. For sure, I am going to take my kids next time and they will love some of these spots! Im going to have to make a trip back. There will be many charter boats nearby looking at the dolphins. Good job being smart and taking turns getting into the water when you were sketched out by that guy. All three snorkeling spots are on the north shore. A protected marine conservation area since 1967, Hanauma Bay is one of the most popular snorkeling destinations in Oahu and its easy to see why. Oahus North Shore is world famous for its perfect surf breaks and unbelievable beaches. Sounds amazing!! Mahalo! Malaekahana Beach Snorkeling Kahuku, Oahu Malaekahana Beach is popular for North Shore snorkeling Oahu, as the waters here are calm and shallow, creating a great environment for snorkeling. Sharks Cove Yelp Page In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a journey through the best snorkeling spots on the North Shore, unveiling the hidden gems and providing you with useful tips to make the most out of your snorkeling adventure. There are famous coves that you may already know, and less familiar spots to explore without bumping elbows. Please heed signage and verbal warnings from lifeguards. Legend has it that the lava shoreline on the western tip is where the souls of Hawaiians would jump off into the spirit world to go meet their ancestors. We just went and I am already planning my next trip with the kids this time! We felt like people were constantly going in and out through the parking area, that we felt safe to leave our car. Laniakea Beach Laniakea Beach, also known as Turtle Beach, is one of the best places in all of Hawaii to see green sea turtles. Kuilima Cove is located on a beautiful white sand beach and is one of the best-sheltered spots for snorkeling in Oahu. Required fields are marked *, 2023 Planning Away - WordPress Theme by Kadence WP, Address: 11167 Aspen Peak Dr South Jordan, UT 84095. While this part of North Shore is frequented by people for its legendary surf spots, Kuilima Cove is fantastic for snorkeling all year round too! Sharks Cove is a calm area in the Summer but in the Winter months there are storms that come in hard and snorkeling may not be possible here. Snorkeling in Oahu is AMAZING! It has one of the best beaches for snorkeling in Oahu. Plus, I try to add any great deals or promotions that companies send me! With an enclosed rock barrier creating a placid lagoon, you'll still be privy to all of the sea life you can take in without having to worry about large swells creating dangerous conditions. In addition to a stunning bay, theres a beautiful beach park behind Makaha Beach with astounding views of the landscape. In this post, I, Read More 15 Of The Best Places To See The Fall Colors in Utah (Including The Best Fall Drives In Utah)Continue, Want to visit Canyon Lake in Texas? I wish I was in Hawaii too! Ahhh.. In order to restore the marine life, the bay is a nature preserve now and only 3000 visitors per day can enter. I miss Turtle Bay and its been great living vicariously through these pics. Before we visit we read about the best snorkeling spots. Located right near Pupukea Beach Park, Sharks Cove is a renowned snorkeling destination on the North Shore. Snorkeling can be traced back thousands of years, with divers using hollow reeds as snorkels and little else in the early days. Dont swim under this spot while snorkeling to avoid being hit by any cliff jumpers. Prioritize safety by checking the weather conditions, observing any warnings or advisories, and swimming within your comfort level. There is an entry fee (12 USD) and everyone has to watch a short conservation video that explains the important dos and donts on how to protect the marine life. Because of the way its protected, this may be the one beach that you may try your luck at in the winter to see if there are desirable snorkeling conditions, if you are in the area. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. Download your copy of our The beaches are beautiful, and the water is clear and calling you. Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Web Visit website. We love snorkeling, especially in Hawaii! Oahus North Shore has some of the best snorkeling on the island. So youre thinking of heading to the North Shore of Oahu during your Hawaii vacation, and you want to see about getting some snorkeling in along the beaches of the North Shore! 1. At the opening of these pipes, the water is several degrees warmer than the rest of the ocean and this warmth attracts shoals of marine life. Sea turtles are a guarantee, but youll also spy Humuhumunukunukuapuaa, Saddle Wrasse, Butterfly Fish, and even a few small puffers for your pleasure. You will not regret it! So put on your best snorkeling gear and dive right in! We want to make sure you're gear fits just right. Snorkeling in Oahu is, Do you need a little more help planning your Hawaii trip? If you are visiting for the very first time or have been here before, keep reading to discover the best snorkeling locations in Oahu. Also located in Pupukea not too far from Three Tables, Sharks Cove has been the North Shores best-kept secret for years. We made it our mission on our last trip to check out all the best snorkel spots on Oahu! Towards the end of this post, I will give you a few tips to make it easier so that you feel confident about snorkeling in Oahu. Lets get started, and explore all the best places to snorkel in Oahu! If you want to go deep into the ocean a tour is your best bet. It is nice when you need a break from the water. Therefore, the best places to snorkel in Oahu are on the north and west coasts. Sharks cove snorkeling is not like Hanauma Bay. I will also share my opinion, of what I thought the best place to snorkel in Oahu was! If you are staying at Turtle Bay then you could spend a lot more time. These features create the ultimate snorkeling experience for first-timers and families with children. Sharks Cove Located right near Pupukea Beach Park, Sharks Cove is a renowned snorkeling destination on the North Shore. As a snorkeler, you only get the experience of swimming with various fish species as soon as you get through the rocky area and reach the drop-off. It is such a fun place! Are There Good Places to Snorkel on Oahu? Queens Beach/Sans Souci Beach. North Shore snorkeling is world class as well. Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. We really loved it! 2. This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. Keep an eye out for the majestic green sea turtles that gracefully glide through the waters. To access this area you need a military ID, but anyone can stay in the cottages right on the beach that are awesome for the price. Address: 59-711 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI. Where there is coral there will be fish! In Oahu, one of the most popular spots for people to embark on shark cage diving adventures is Haleiwa Boat Harbor. Named for the three flat, table-like coral structures, this beach is a great place to snorkel for medium to experienced snorkeling fans. Snorkelers can explore the rocky edges of the bay, discovering schools of tropical fish and beautiful coral formations. Maybe you could hit two spots in one day if you decide to rent your snorkeling equipment! Their constant presence with snorkelers has made many of the sea creatures much more tolerant of the snorkelers and scuba divers that enter the waters of the cove. Lanikuhonuas Secret Beach isnt the easiest to get to but its a great option if youre looking for a turtle snorkeling adventure thats off the beaten path. The average sea temperature during these months is about 82 F/27.7C. Just off the coast of Waikiki, youll find the Turtle Canyon reef and if snorkeling with turtles is on your bucket list, this is the place to go. The water is going to be so clear that you can see everything. Through the centuries, technology has improved to the point that todays snorkelers can explore the water around Oahu with maximum comfort, efficiency, and safety. Even better, since the beach is pretty far from the nearest large town, Haleiwa, it is generally less crowded and can be quite peaceful if you catch it on a very quiet day. Above water wildlife sightings may include spinner dolphins, flying fish, and - in winter . Should you look for the best snorkeling in Oahu north shore, Kuilima Cove is our top recommendation. Some of the fish you might be lucky enough to see include the blue spine, unicornfish, parrotfish, and bullethead; and some snorkelers claimed to have seen rays, dolphins, and even turtles gathering here. So in addition to the beautiful reef, youll see lots of tropical fish, eels, and even turtles! We love to snorkel and dream of Hawaii! It really is what everyone says, Paradise! June 5, 2023 Located in the Hawaiian Islands, the snorkeling in Oahu offers over twenty awesome snorkel dive spots. The outer edges of the cove boast vibrant coral gardens teeming with life. A hike (2.7 miles) is required to access the park. I would arrive early to secure your spot. If you practice before your trip, your kids may be able to pick it up. If you're new here, I would love for you to subscribe Please join me on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter. 20 Amazing Tips To Plan A Trip to Universal Studios Orlando, 15 Of The Best Places To See The Fall Colors in Utah (Including The Best Fall Drives In Utah), 15 Amazing Things To Do At Canyon Lake Texas, 15 Best Rides at Islands of Adventure (Including My Top 5 Favorites). Great list! If youre lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle or two. The water is so blue it is breathtaking! No need to wear your flippers and mask on the plane, as all necessary gear is provided. Sharks Cove is the first Oahu snorkeling locations we are going to list. We hope you will enjoy our site and find valuable information here! Known as one of Oahus better snorkeling spots but has a tricky access point. Morning is the best time of day to snorkel in Oahu. If your number one goal for your trip is to see a turtle, this is where you need to come. Location: Between the Banzai Pipeline and Waimea Bay on Oahu's North Shore. This area is a great place to snorkel in Oahu all year round. It may take up more room in your luggage but it will save you money and time if you are planning on snorkeling in Oahu more than one time. This 15 tips for Legoland California will help you plan! The North Shore of Oahu encompasses the 17-mile north-facing coastal area between Ka'ena Point in the west and eastward to Kahuku Point. I understand North Shore is best for snorkeling in Summer months so was seeing what options there are for Winter. Laniakea is some of the best north shore snorkeling, but not for the same reasons we love Sharks Cove. Sharks Cove is convenient in being appropriate for all skills levels, but also for parking access and nearby amenities. This is a great post for reference. Mahalo! Sharks Cove is a bit of a more sheltered area which is one of the reasons that makes it a prime snorkeling spot on the North Shore. Its clear blue-green water makes it extremely popular as a family-friendly swimming and snorkeling spot in the summer months. In fact, Turtle Canyon is known as the cleaning station where endangered Hawaiian green turtles come to have their shells cleaned by small fishes. The best time to observe the turtles is during lunchtime-between 11 a.m.-1 p.m-especially during the summer months. Treat marine life and coral reefs with respect, and always follow sustainable snorkeling practices. yourmomhasseveregout 1 min. Want to visit Legoland California Carlsbad? Snorkeling at Sharks Cove does not have an entrance fee.