Helpful Guides on each Category
Are you planning on an adventure to Hawaii as an angler? This is a list of the 10 best snorkeling spots in Oahu you must enjoy before leaving. I’m talking about safety, serenity, aqua life and the many other attractions.
This blog post is immense enough to help you make the right decision to make your snorkeling experience in Oahu a memorable one. Let’s cut to the chase and quickly go into it.
Read Also: 31+ Best Spearfishing Locations in the World
What Should I Know About Snorkeling in Oahu?
Oahu is a snorkeler’s paradise, with abundant coral reefs, colourful fish, and other marine life to explore. Here are some things to know before you go:
- The best time to snorkel in Oahu is between May and September when the water is calm and clear.
- Check the weather conditions before you go, as strong waves and currents can make snorkelling dangerous.
- The water temperature in Oahu averages around 78 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.
- Be respectful of marine life and the environment.
- Do not touch or stand on the coral.
- Do not feed the fish.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid swimming in areas with strong currents.
- Renting snorkeling equipments in Oahu is expensive so bring yours
- Familiarise yourself with any local regulations or guidelines for snorkeling. Some snorkeling spots may require an entry fee, limited visitor capacity, or specific operating hours.
- Pack light and breathable clothing.
- Don’t forget to pack your ID and any necessary permits or reservations.
Best Snorkeling Locations in Oahu – Spots to try
- Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve
- Kahe Point Beach Park – Electric Beach
- Kuilima Cove
- Waimea Bay Beach Park
- Shark’s Cove
- Three Tables
- Queens Beach/Sans Souci Beach
- Ko Olina Lagoons
- Lanikai Beach
1. Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve.
Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve, often nicknamed “Hanauma Bay,” is perfect for families, kids and even snorkeling beginners.
What makes it special is that the bay is protected and very safe with excellent visibility, perfect for snorkelers of all levels.
The healthy coral reefs teem with over 400 species of fish, including tangs, butterflyfish, triggerfish, and even the occasional Hawaiian green sea turtle.
Before entering the water, visitors are required to watch a short educational video about reef etiquette and conservation. This ensures responsible snorkeling practices and protects the delicate ecosystem.
There is a $7.50 entrance fee (plus tax) for adults and $3.75 for children ages 3-12. Snorkel gear rental is available on-site for an additional fee.
2. Kahe Point Beach Park – Electric Beach
Kahe Point Beach Park, also known as Electric Beach, offers a different kind of snorkeling experience on Oahu. With warm and very clean waters, it’s an unparalleled underwater playground.
Nicknamed “Electric Beach” due to the nearby power plant, Kahe Point boasts unique snorkeling thanks to the warm water discharged from its cooling pipes. This attracts a wider variety of marine life, including Tangs, butterflyfish, triggerfish, manta rays, Curious Hawaiian green sea turtles, Moray eels, octopus, and even the occasional Hawaiian monk seal might surprise you.
3. Kuilima Cove
Nestled on Oahu’s North Shore, Kuilima Cove is a snorkeler’s dream. Unlike its crowded cousin Hanauma Bay, Kuilima Cove offers a serene escape with calm, clear waters teeming with diverse marine life.
Sheltered by a natural rock wall, Kuilima Cove boasts calm, shallow waters with excellent visibility. This makes it perfect for families with young children and beginner snorkelers who want to ease into the underwater world without feeling overwhelmed.
Expect to encounter angelfish, butterflyfish, trumpetfish, and even the occasional Hawaiian green sea turtle. Keep your eyes peeled for playful spinner dolphins that sometimes grace the bay with their presence.
The shallow waters and calm conditions make Kuilima Cove ideal for first-time snorkelers. The entry point is easily accessible, and the lack of strong currents allows for a relaxed exploration. Plus, the abundance of fish close to shore ensures you won’t miss out on the underwater action.
4. Waimea Bay Beach Park
From November to February, Waimea Bay transforms into a big wave surfer’s paradise. Towering waves, reaching up to 30 feet and sometimes even exceeding 50 feet, attract fearless professionals like Kelly Slater and Garrett McNamara. Witnessing these daredevils conquer the waves is an unforgettable experience.
During the summer months, the bay calms down, offering a tranquil escape with gentle waves and crystal-clear waters. It’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding. Explore the underwater world teeming with colorful fish, vibrant coral reefs, and even the occasional Hawaiian green sea turtle.
5. Shark’s Cove
This great spot is for experienced snorkelers who want to see a variety of fish, including eels, sharks, and octopus.
Shark’s Cove, aptly named for its dramatic aerial resemblance to a shark, might raise eyebrows, but don’t let the name deter you. This North Shore gem is a haven for snorkelers of all levels, offering an underwater wonderland teeming with vibrant life and unique rock formations.
Angelfish, butterflyfish, trumpetfish are popular here, Keep an eye out for playful spinner dolphins that sometimes grace the bay with their presence.
Underwater, you are treated to an amazing sight of lava tubes, swim through arches, and discover hidden nooks teeming with marine life. The diverse topography creates a captivating underwater landscape, offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
6. Three Tables
This will be my next spot. Three Tables is a shore snorkeling spot located in Pupukea on Oahu’s North Shore. It’s known for its three flat lava rock ledges that create shallow pools teeming with marine life.
Here are some of the things you can expect to see at Three Tables:
- Colorful fish such as butterflyfish, tangs, and triggerfish
- Nudibranchs
- Sea turtles
- Octopus
- Moray eels
If you’re looking for a fun and easy shore snorkeling spot on Oahu’s North Shore, Three Tables is a great option. Just be aware that the waves can get big here, so it’s not recommended for beginners.
7. Queens Beach/Sans Souci Beach
Situated at the eastern end of Waikiki Beach, Queens Beach transitions seamlessly into Sans Souci Beach, marked by a small rock outcropping.
the beach offers calm, protected waters ideal for beginner and intermediate snorkelers. The shallow reefs start close to shore, making it easy to explore without venturing too far. However, be mindful of occasional waves and currents, especially near the rock outcropping.
You wil see angelfish, butterflyfish, tangs, triggerfish, and even the occasional sea turtle. Keep an eye out for the endemic Hawaiian Kolekole, a small, vibrant fish unique to the islands.
8. Ko Olina Lagoons
The Ko Olina Lagoons aren’t just for lounging beachside – they offer some of the most accessible and serene snorkeling experiences on Oahu, great for families and snorkelers of all levels. Nestled on the sunny southwest coast, these man-made lagoons boast calm, clear waters teeming with colourful fish and diverse marine life.
- Nai’a Lagoon and Kohola Lagoon: These lagoons are closest to the coral reefs and boast the highest concentration of fish.
- Honu Lagoon and Lagoon 4: While offering slightly fewer fish, these lagoons provide a more peaceful and secluded snorkeling experience.
9. Lanikai Beach
For beginners or seasoned explorers alike, Lanikai’s gentle crescent embraces you with warm, shallow water. No need to worry about deep dives or strong currents here. Simply slip on your mask and fins, and be mesmerized by the kaleidoscope below.
Parrotfish in their dazzling attire nibble at the coral, while butterflyfish flutter by like living stained glass. Angelfish glide serenely, their fins trailing like ethereal ribbons. Even the occasional sea urchin or colourful coral adds a touch of wonder to your aquatic adventure.
Whether you’re taking your first tentative dips or seeking a new underwater playground, Lanikai Beach welcomes you with open arms (and fins!).
10. Poka Lahila Beach Park
Poka Lahila Beach Park, nestled on Oahu’s North Shore near Haleiwa 20 miles from Honolulu, is more than just a stunning beach. This spot offers a unique blend of challenging waves for experienced surfers and a sheltered lagoon teeming with marine life, attracting snorkeling haven for all levels.
Snorkel Conditions: The magic unfolds within the protected lagoon, offering calm, shallow waters ideal for families and beginners. The outer reefs, however, boast impressive waves, attracting experienced surfers.
Sea creatures abundant here include angelfish, butterflyfish, tangs, triggerfish, and even the occasional sea turtle. Keep an eye out for the endemic Hawaiian Kolekole, a vibrant fish unique to the islands.
11. Kaiona Beach Park
Kaiona Beach Park is a great spot for snorkeling, especially for those who are looking for a more low-key experience than some of the other popular spots on Oahu. The beach is located in Waimanalo, on the east side of the island, and is about a 30-minute drive from Honolulu.
The snorkeling at Kaiona Beach Park is best on the right side of the beach, where there is a rocky reef that juts out into the water. This reef is home to a variety of fish, including tangs, butterflyfish, and triggerfish. You may also see some turtles and eels if you’re lucky.
The water at Kaiona Beach Park is usually calm and clear, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the underwater world. However, it is important to be aware of the currents, which can be strong at times. It is also a good idea to wear water shoes, as there are some sharp rocks in the water.
What to Pack for Snorkeling in Oahu
Here’s a list of what to pack for your best snorkeling expenditure in Oahu:
- Mask, snorkel, and fins
- Wetsuit (optional)
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Swimsuit
- Beach towel
- Water shoes to Protect your feet from sharp rocks and coral.
- Quick-dry clothes
- GoPro or waterproof camera
- Waterproof bag to keep your valuables safe from sand and water.
- Mesh bag For carrying your wet gear.
- Snacks and drinks
- First-aid kit
Faqs on Best Snorkeling in Oahu
Which side of Oahu is best for snorkeling?
Hanauma bay wins this contest easily, amazing sights, safety and the tons of coral reefs and water creatures you get to meet there make snorkelers flock here the most to explore.
Can you go snorkeling on your own in Oahu?
You can on the beaches that have lower water cuurrent. Beaches in Waikiki occassionally have some strong currents
Is snorkeling better in Maui or Honolulu?
Maui locations are unrivalled if you ask me, the fact that get to see turtles frequently is a bonus plus its oceans are not always crowded as that oh Honolulu or Oahu.
Is snorkeling better in Oahu or Big Island?
Big Island is usually considered the best snorkeling location because its not populated and therefore less damage to the coral reefs there. Oahu just has a reputation of attracting the crowd.
Related to Best Snorkeling in Oahu
