Snorkeling on Your Hawaii Vacation

Snorkeling is an easy way to look below the surface of the water, especially in Hawaii. Unlike scuba diving, it takes no special training to encounter the beautiful fish that populate the waters around the islands.

Snorkeling in Hawaii is like swimming in a giant aquarium. The fish look just like those you would see in a large tank: many different colors, shapes and sizes. They are relatively oblivious to humans, not trying especially hard to dart away but wary nonetheless. This is the perfect opportunity for an underwater camera.

I had never gone snorkeling until my sister visited. That would put us both above 50 years of age. We visited Hanauma Bay: a unique area, geologically significant and beautiful. It is also very accessible from Honolulu hotels. We took a tour because they provided hotel pick up and drop off, as well mask and fins. It is not difficult to catch a bus and bring your own equipment — every grocery or convenience store in Hawaii carries an inexpensive mask and fin combination package.

If you are going to Hanauma Bay, it is good to arrive early because it is a very popular destination. The later in the day that you arrive, the more people have already stirred up sand and clouded the water. We were not out at the crack of dawn, we arrived about mid-morning and had a wonderful experience.

People also snorkel at local beaches. (The people in the picture above are at Lanikai.) Anywhere with a coral ridge is good because fish like to hang out there. Any place you are staying will know of good snorkeling spots nearby. The important part is that it is not physically demanding. You put on a mask that allows you to look down, a mouthpiece that allows you to breathe while looking down, and a pair of fins that allow you to glide among the fish. If you can float and paddle your legs, you're good. As with all ocean experiences in Hawaii, go in pairs, watch out for one another, and don't explore beyond your swimming abilities.

Posted by Cindy Scheopner Follow me on Twitter @Scheopner

Related post: World class snorkeling in Hawaii

Published by Bruce Fisher

Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.

Entry Filed under: Customs, Practices and Pastimes,Fun Stuff,Hawaiiana

September 9th, 2010

3 Comments Add your own

1. Nancy | September 9th, 2010 at 9:16 am

I love snorkeling and it really is so simple. There are many areas on each island where you can snorkel right off the beach. North Shore Oahu has some great snorkel spots and you oftentimes see the Honu. I just snorkeled at Molokini and Coral Gardens in Maui which was amazing!
2. Marta Lane | September 9th, 2010 at 9:13 pm

I love snorkeling!! I like to just float and let the waves bobble me about! So very relaxing. I’m from the mainland so sometimes I get a little sacred but that’s no big deal because my adventurous husband holds my hand!! The fish are amazing!!
3. paul | September 10th, 2010 at 9:18 am

I LOVE the fish at Hanauma Bay, very friendly and they swim right up to you !

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