Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve at 100 Hanauma Bay Road in Hawaii Kai, on the southeast coast of Oahu, Hawaii, is a marine life conservation district set in a flooded volcanic crater. The curved, sheltered bay holds a coral reef and is one of the island's most popular snorkeling destinations. Visitors begin with a mandatory short educational video about reef protection before walking or taking a tram down to the beach. The shallow, protected waters shelter reef fish such as parrotfish, triggerfish and the Hawaiian state fish, the humuhumunukunukuapua'a, and green sea turtles are sometimes seen. The best vantage point is the overlook at the top of the access road, which frames the crescent of the bay and the reef pattern, and the beach itself is a good place for photography. Snorkel gear can be rented on site. A typical visit takes three to four hours. Water conditions are calmest and clearest before about 10:00 AM, and crowds build through the late morning. The preserve is open Wednesday through Sunday, with entry from 6:45 AM to 1:30 PM and the preserve cleared by 4:00 PM, and it is closed Monday, Tuesday, Christmas Day and New Year's Day. A repair closure is expected in early 2027, so visitors should confirm dates before traveling. Non-residents pay $25 plus a 2.35 percent online fee, children 12 and under are free, and Hawaii residents and active military enter free with ID. Parking costs $3 for non-residents, cash only. Reservations open two days ahead at 7:00 AM Hawaii time, and a limited number of walk-in tickets are available starting at 6:45 AM. Visitors can reach the bay by rideshare from Waikiki or a Roberts Hawaii transport package.
| Admission | Non-residents $25 plus 2.35% online fee; children 12 and under free; Hawaii residents and active military free with ID; parking $3 non-resident, cash only (US$25) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Wed-Sun; entry 6:45 AM-1:30 PM, preserve must be cleared by 4:00 PM (beach cleared 3:30 PM); closed Monday, Tuesday, Christmas Day and New Year's Day; a repair closure is expected in early 2027, so confirm dates before traveling |
| Typical visit | 3-4 hours |
| Best time | Arrive 6:45 AM for limited walk-in tickets, or reserve up to 2 days ahead (slots open 7:00 AM Hawaii time); calmest water before 10:00 AM |
| Getting there | Rideshare from Waikiki; Roberts Hawaii admission-plus-transport package booked up to a month ahead; check DaBus2 for any bus route |
| Address | 100 Hanauma Bay Rd, Honolulu, HI 96825 |
Location
100 Hanauma Bay Rd, Honolulu, HI 96825
21.2693, -157.6938 View on map
Highlights
- Snorkeling in a protected volcanic-crater reef
- Reef fish including the state fish humuhumunukunukuapua'a
- Overlook view of the crescent bay
- Educational video on reef protection
- Occasional green sea turtle sightings
Tips for visiting
- Reserve online up to two days ahead; slots open at 7:00 AM Hawaii time.
- Arrive at 6:45 AM for limited walk-in tickets.
- Parking is $3 for non-residents and cash only.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen and do not touch the coral or turtles.
- Confirm dates, since a repair closure is expected in early 2027.
When to visit
Arrive at 6:45 AM; water is calmest and clearest before 10:00 AM. Late morning is the most crowded.
Accessibility
The overlook and a paved path are accessible, and a tram runs between the top and the beach for visitors with mobility needs. The sand and water entry can be difficult for wheelchairs.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Hanauma Bay take?
Most visitors spend three to four hours, including the video, walk down and snorkeling.
Is it worth it for kids?
Children 12 and under enter free, and the shallow protected water suits confident young swimmers with supervision.
Is photography allowed?
Yes. Visitors can take photos from the overlook and underwater cameras are common.
Which days is the preserve open?
It is open Wednesday through Sunday and is closed Monday and Tuesday.