This was my first time in Oʻahu, Hawaii or let alone in Hawaii period. It was everything I could have wished for and more. But the best part of being on this isalad was by far Hanauma Bay in Honolulu. It is a nature preserve snorkeling with the most beautiful tropical fish everywhere you turn. Calm and shallow, Hanauma Bay is home to some of O‘ahu’s best coral and sea life. It is stunning.

Some History

Hanauma Bay became a protected marine life conservation area and underwater park in 1967 but it wasn’t until 1990 that real efforts to restore its neglected and over-visited reefs were made. When the City & County of Honolulu took over, its goal was to integrate public access, reef restoration, and education. It forbade feeding the fish (once a beloved activity among Hanauma’s visitors) and incorporated educational programming about local marine life and reef ecosystems.

Hanauma Bay became a protected marine life conservation area and underwater park in 1967 but it wasn’t until 1990 that real efforts to restore its neglected and over-visited reefs were made. When the City & County of Honolulu took over, its goal was to integrate public access, reef restoration, and education. It forbade feeding the fish (once a beloved activity among Hanauma’s visitors) and incorporated educational programming about local marine life and reef ecosystems.

Most importantly make sure you make reservations before going. You can’t snorkel if you make reservations.