Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve on the southeastern coast of Oahu is a protected marine conservation district set within a volcanic crater bay, and one of the most visited snorkeling destinations in the Hawaiian Islands. The bay's curved, sheltered geometry — a collapsed volcanic crater partially breached by the ocean — creates calm, clear water within the cove, while the surrounding reef supports an extraordinary concentration of tropical fish in accessible shallow water. The preserve hosts more than 400 species of tropical reef fish, including the humuhumunukunukuapua'a (reef triggerfish, Hawaii's state fish), parrotfish, butterflyfish, surgeonfish, Moorish idols, and moray eels. Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) visit the bay regularly and can be seen swimming alongside snorkelers or resting near the reef. The reef begins just yards from the sandy central beach, making it accessible to all experience levels; deeper, fish-rich sections extend further into the crater's center. Entry is managed through an advance online reservation system. A mandatory educational video on reef conservation and marine biology must be viewed at the Nature Education Center before entering the water. Equipment rental — masks, fins, and snorkels — is available on-site. Reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreen is required within the preserve; chemical sunscreens containing oxybenzone are banned to protect the coral ecosystem. From the entry overlook above the beach, visitors have a sweeping aerial view down into the bay's volcanic bowl — a popular photography vantage point showing the turquoise interior water against the dark crater rim. A tram runs from the upper parking area to the beach for a small fee, providing access for those who prefer not to walk the paved hill path. Hanauma Bay is closed every Tuesday to allow the marine environment to recover from visitor activity. The preserve is located approximately 10 miles east of Waikiki. Admission is $25 per adult.