Hanauma Bay

This beach is perfect for families as it is strictly prohibited to bring alcohol or drugs and play loud music. Parking costs $3 and entry is $25 per person, but it is advisable to make a reservation beforehand since only 1,400 people are allowed in daily. Upon entering the beach, you will receive educational information and be required to listen to the beach policy, which may cause a slight delay but not too long. Snorkel rentals are available on the beach or you can bring your own. The best time for snorkeling is in the morning as the water gets stirred up by the evening. A free shuttle is provided to bring you up and down the steep incline or you can walk. The beach closes at 3pm with the last shuttle leaving at 3:40pm and gates for cars to leave closing at 4pm. Overall, I would definitely come back as it was a very relaxing experience.

The beach is great for relaxation and offers good snorkeling opportunities to see some amazing fish. However, it's important to note that the majority of the corals are dead, with only a few still alive. If you're hoping to see a lot of corals, this might not be the best spot for you. I've seen bigger corals around the Waikiki area. Additionally, the bottom of the beach is rocky, so it's not recommended for swimming. This beach is better suited for either snorkeling or sunbathing. Personally, I don't think it quite lives up to the hype, but it's definitely worth a visit to decide for yourself whether or not to return.

Hanauma Bay is undeniably stunning, whether you're standing on the beach or admiring the view from above. The water is truly breathtaking. However, our visit didn't quite meet our expectations. Although the beach was immaculate and had multiple lifeguards on duty, it was incredibly crowded. Even with timed reservations, it felt like there were too many people in one place. The day we went, the water was choppy and the current was strong, which made it difficult to see underwater. The water was also packed with people, and I even mistook someone else for my wife at one point. There's a concession stand at the main entrance, and you can either shuttle or walk up to it. The food is similar to what you'd find at a tavern. The tickets cost $25 per person (unless you're a Hawaii resident), which I thought was a bit steep. I'm grateful for the hardworking people who maintain the land and coral at Hanauma Bay, but if you want a better snorkeling experience where you can see lots of fish and sea turtles, I recommend heading north to Shakes Cove.

The beach is stunning, boasting an incredible panoramic view that is sure to impress. If that's what you're after, it's definitely worth booking ahead and making the trip. However, if you're hoping to do some snorkeling, it might not be the best spot for it.

The snorkeling at this beach is exceptional, with the added bonus of being able to do it in just 4 feet of water mere yards from the shore. Securing a spot can be tricky, but once you do, you'll find this to be an excellent beach for families. A free trolley is provided to transport you from the parking lot to the beach. Restrooms are available and there are lifeguards on duty. The snorkeling experience is truly remarkable, with large schools of fish visible close to the shore.