Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Oahu's best easy snorkeling — a marine preserve in a flooded volcanic crater teeming with reef fish and turtles. It's managed hard for good reason: $25/person for non-resident adults, reservations open just 2 days ahead at 7am HST and sell out in minutes, and it's closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Worth the hassle once.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

How do I get Hanauma Bay reservations?

Online slots open exactly 2 days before your visit at 7am Hawaii time and roughly 400 daily online tickets go fast — be logged in and ready at 6:59. Non-resident entry is $25 for ages 13+, kids 12 and under free, Hawaii residents and US military free with ID.

Can I get into Hanauma Bay without a reservation?

A limited number of walk-in spots go to early arrivals, but it's a gamble — lines form before dawn and there's no guarantee. Hawaii residents don't need reservations. If you strike out, Sandy Beach and the Halona Blowhole are minutes away.

What days is Hanauma Bay closed?

Every Monday and Tuesday, plus Christmas and New Year's Day — the reef gets rest days. Open Wednesday through Sunday, entry 6:45am to 1:30pm, everyone out by 4pm.

Is there snorkel rental at Hanauma Bay?

Yes, rentals are available on-site, plus lockers and a food concession. Cheaper option: buy a basic set at any ABC Store in Waikiki for about the cost of one rental and keep it for your whole trip.

Do I need to watch a video before entering Hanauma Bay?

Yes — every visitor watches a short conservation video before walking down. It covers reef-safe rules: no touching coral, no feeding fish, reef-safe sunscreen only (it's the law in Hawaii).

Will I see turtles at Hanauma Bay?

Very likely — green sea turtles (honu) cruise the reef regularly, along with parrotfish, tangs, butterflyfish, and the occasional octopus. Remember it's illegal to touch or approach turtles closely; give them 10 feet.

How do I get to Hanauma Bay from Waikiki?

Driving takes 25-35 minutes east on the Kalanianaole Hwy; parking is $3 but the lot fills, another reason to book the earliest slot. Rideshare works well; bus service is limited enough that I wouldn't rely on it with gear.

Is Hanauma Bay worth $25?

For first-timers or families who want safe, easy, fish-everywhere snorkeling — yes, it's the best beginner reef on Oahu. Confident snorkelers who've seen good reef elsewhere might prefer free spots like Electric Beach or Sharks Cove (summer only) and skip the booking stress.

Nearby in Ask Honolulu

• Koko Head Crater TrailAttraction1.33 km · 17 min walk
• Koko Crater Railway TrailPark1.35 km · 17 min walk
• Spitting CaveAttraction1.78 km · 22 min walk
• Kapono's at The Lounge / The Velvet Monkey SpeakeasyBar2.26 km · 28 min walk
• Halona Blowhole LookoutAttraction2.29 km · 29 min walk