Hanauma Bay

The basics

Visitors to Hanauma Bay, which has a number of different coral reefs and lagoons to explore, will see hundreds of species of colorful tropical fish, other types of marine life, and vibrant coral. The wide sandy beach is also ideal for sunbathing and relaxing, and the nature preserve is well equipped with restrooms, changing rooms, a snack bar, and a picnic area, with lockers and snorkel gear available to rent.

Visiting Hanauma Bay can be as easy as joining half-day or full-day snorkeling tours, or stopping by on a hop-on hop-off bus tour from Waikiki. Some tours stop at the bay and take in other island highlights such as the Pearl Harbor National Memorial and Diamond Head. For independent travelers, Hanauma Bay offers round-trip shuttles from Waikiki hotels.

Things to know before you go

• Hanauma Bay State Park charges fees for admission and parking.

• Hanauma Bay tickets must be purchased in advance using an online reservation system.

• First-time visitors are required to watch a 9-minute educational video about marine life safety and preservation.

• Trams take visitors from the parking lot down to the beach for a fee.

• Snorkel gear and lockers are available to rent.

• Beach wheelchairs are available to borrow at no cost.

• Bring reef safe sunscreen.

How to get there

Hanauma Bay State Park is located on the Kalanianaole Highway, about 10 miles (15 kilometers) east of Waikiki. The park offers round-trip shuttles from Waikiki hotels, about a 30-minute journey. City bus 22 makes the 45-minute trip to Hanauma Bay from Waikiki. On-site parking spots are available for a fee.

When to get there

Hanauma Bay State Park is open daily except Mondays and Tuesdays. The 300-spot parking lot often fills up by mid-morning, and then it operates on a one-in, one-out basis, so it’s best to arrive early. Oahu has a mild, tropical climate with hotter days in summer and a rainy season that typically runs from November to March.

Hanauma Bay Marine Education Center

The Marine Education Center opened in 2002 as part of an effort to focus on the conservation of the bay. With an average of 1 million visitors each year, it is crucial that everyone knows how to enjoy the park’s natural beauty responsibly. First-time visitors watch a short video in the center’s theater to learn how to interact with marine life safely. The center also has informational and historical exhibits, a gift shop, snack bar, and restrooms.

What is the best time to go to Hanauma Bay?

Hanauma Bay State Park is open from early morning to mid-afternoon from Wednesday through Sunday year-round—last entry is at 1:30pm and the beach closes an hour before the park does. The best times to visit are either early, before peak crowds arrive, or after lunch, when the sun illuminates the reefs, ideal for snorkeling.

Is Hanauma Bay worth it?

Yes, Hanauma Bay is worth visiting, especially if you like snorkeling and wildlife. The protected reserve boasts a pristine bay with white sands and crystal shallows famous for coral reefs, Hawaiian green sea turtles, parrotfish, and other marine life. There’s also a Marine Education Center, which spotlights the bay and its ecosystems.

Do you need reservations for snorkeling Hanauma Bay?

Yes, you need a reservation for snorkeling—unless you’re a Hawaiian resident and arrive before 9am. You can prebook timed entry up to two days in advance on the Honolulu Parks and Recreation website, but you need to be super-quick. Limited walk-ins are available on-site from opening time, but they also go fast.

Is parking difficult at Hanauma Bay?

Yes, because the parking lot fills up quickly. If you’ve reserved early bay entry, you’ll likely bag a space—but otherwise, be ready to park far away. Skip the hassle of parking by booking Hanauma Bay tours that include transport, taking the trolley or buses from Waikiki, or using cabs or rideshare apps.

How long does it take to snorkel at Hanauma Bay?

Most people find that two hours is enough time to snorkel the reefs of Hanauma Bay. However, aim for around four hours at the bay itself—most tours stay for this long—so you’ve got time to watch the 10-minute marine preservation video on entry and make the round-trip tram ride or walk to the beach.

Can I bring my own snorkel gear to Hanauma Bay?

Yes, you can bring your own snorkeling gear to Hanauma Bay. You can hire equipment on the beach, but it’s quite pricey at around US$20 for a standard set—taking your own snorkel gear will save you money and time. Plus, it’s likely to fit you better.

Ways to explore

If you are traveling independently to Hanauma Bay State Park, you must make reservations—and pay admission fees—ahead of time. Tickets are available to purchase two days in advance of your planned visit, with the reservation window opening at 7am HST. Be forewarned: Tickets sell out quickly. Luckily, it is possible to avoid scrambling for these limited slots by booking a snorkeling tour, which includes transportation from Waikiki and guarantees entry. Alternatively, you can book a circle-island boat tour, during which you’ll pass by Hanouma Bay on your way around Oahu.

Accessibility

Hanauma Bay is wheelchair accessible, and beach wheelchairs are available free of charge.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Towel, reef-safe sunscreen, umbrella for shade, credit card (the snack bar doesn’t accept cash)

What to wear

Swimsuit, sunglasses, sun hat

Not allowed

To protect marine life, visitors are not allowed to touch or walk on the coral reefs. Alcohol and large coolers are not permitted in the park.

Amenities

Snorkeling gear rental, lockers, snack bar

Address

Hanauma Bay State Park is located on the Kalanianaʻole Highway (Route 72), about 10 miles (15 kilometers) east of Waikiki. It is accessible by both car and public transportation, and guided tours typically include transit.

Driving

If you’re coming from Waikiki, the drive to Hanauma Bay via Route 72 takes around 25 minutes. Parking is available at the state park for a small fee, which is discounted for Hawaii residents with a state ID.

Public transportation

From Waikiki, Route 22 on TheBus (familiarly known as the “Beach Bus”) travels to the Hanauma Bay Parking Lot stop, right by the entrance. The bus journey typically takes 30 to 40 minutes.

Best times to visit

If you’re planning to get into the water, visit early in the morning when it’s at its calmest. Although the park closes late afternoon, you cannot enter after 1:30pm.

Best days to visit

For a more relaxing experience, visit on a weekday. Hanauma Bay is closed to visitors on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.

Best months to visit

Visit in the spring or fall for the most comfortable temperatures. Summers can get hot, while winters can be rainy.