Hanauma Bay: Reservations, Snorkeling Tips and What to Bring

Hanauma Bay is a protected marine life conservation district inside a collapsed volcanic crater in East Oʻahu. Its shallow inner reef makes it one of the easiest places in Hawaiʻi to see reef fish — and the reason it’s now carefully managed. Here’s how to plan a visit.

Reservations and entry

• Open Wednesday through Sunday; closed Mondays and Tuesdays, plus Christmas and New Year’s Day.
• Non-resident reservations open online two days in advance at 7 a.m. Hawaiʻi time and sell out quickly. A limited number of walk-in tickets may be available.
• Non-residents pay an entry fee (currently $25; children 12 and under free). Parking is a small cash fee.
• Every visitor watches a short education video about protecting the reef before heading down.

Getting there

Driving is easiest, but the lot fills quickly — arrive near your reservation time. City buses stop on Kalanianaʻole Highway at the top of the road but no longer drive down into the preserve. Some tour operators sell transport packages.

Snorkeling tips

• Stay inside the reef in the inner bay unless you’re experienced and conditions are calm.
• Don’t stand on or touch coral — it’s alive and damages easily.
• Give green sea turtles plenty of space.
• Mornings are typically calmer and less crowded.

Combine it with

After your snorkel, drive the coast: Hālona Blowhole lookout, Sandy Beach (watch only — it’s a dangerous shorebreak), Makapuʻu and Waimānalo.

While you’re nearby

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