Put on a mask, snorkel and fins, and jump into the crystal clear waters of Hanauma Bay to watch a colorful school of butterfly fish glide beneath you. Dive down to say aloha to the graceful green sea turtles and stop to examine the intricate formations of the living coral as you explore Oahu’s accessible marine ecosystem. You will not only have the chance to encounter creatures up-close, but can also learn about their biology and habitat in the Marine Education Center.The perfect curve of Hanauma Bay is part of an eroded volcanic crater into which the ocean has eventually forced its way. The calm, nutrient-rich waters make it the perfect place for an abundance of marine life to flourish, and few places in the world can boast such a diversity of species so close to shore. The preserve’s function is to protect this unique ecosystem, and when you enter Hanauma Bay, you first come to the Marine Education Center. The structure resembles the natural shape of a volcanic cave. As well as colorful murals depicting the marine life of the bay, you’ll see exhibits explaining the geography of the bay and the formation of coral reefs. There are also a number of interactive stations where you can try your hand at fish identification. A short film in the theater further explains the biodiversity of the area. Pick up a laminated fish identification chart from the reception and walk to the beach or, for a small charge, ride the tram. After this, it’s all about floating and swimming in the water and seeing how many fish you can spot and name.Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is located 10 miles (16 kilometers) east of Waikiki, just off Kalanianaole Highway. It’s closed on Tuesdays. If you don’t have your own snorkeling gear, visit the rental shop near the Marine Education Center. You are permitted to bring your own food and drinks, and can also purchase refreshements from the snack bar.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Visit Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Shows & concerts
See all 15 activitiesOpens in new tabParadise Cove Luau
Cruises & boat tours
See all 43 activitiesOpens in new tabSunset Dinner Cruise with Polynesian Show
Tours & day trips
See all 158 activitiesOpens in new tabOahu Grand Circle Island Tour with stop at Hanauma Bay Lookout
Adventure & outdoor
See all 30 activitiesOpens in new tabJungle Expedition Tour at Kualoa Ranch
Classes & workshops
See all 27 activitiesOpens in new tabTry Scuba Diving for Beginners
Popular places to visit
Kalopa State Recreation Area
Explore the great outdoors at Kalopa State Recreation Area, a lovely green space in Honolulu. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.
Hanauma Bay Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Hanauma Bay Beach during your trip to Honolulu? Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Hanauma Bay
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Hanauma Bay during your travels in Honolulu. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Koko Head
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Koko Head during your travels in Honolulu. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.
Marshalls Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Marshalls Beach during your trip to Honolulu? Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.
Lanaʻi Lookout
You can find out about the history of Honolulu with a trip to Lanaʻi Lookout. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or seek out the surfing spots.
Top Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve Hotel Deals
Check prices on hotels near Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
- Holidays and getaways similar to Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
- Hotels Near Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
- Hotels near other Attractions
- Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve Theme Hotels
- Hotels near Waikiki Beach
- Hotels near Waikiki Beach Walk
- Hotels near Ala Moana Center
- Hotels near International Market Place
- Hotels near Honolulu Harbor
- Hotels near Royal Hawaiian Center
- Hotels near Honolulu Zoo
- Hotels near Lanikai Beach
- Hotels near Diamond Head
- Hotels near University of Hawaii at Manoa
- Hotels near Kailua Beach
- Hotels near Hawaii Convention Center
- Hotels near Kaimana Beach
- Hotels near Iolani Palace
- Hotels near Ala Moana Beach Park
- Hotels near Aloha Tower Marketplace
- Hotels near Kuhio Beach Park
- Hotels near Queen Kapiʻolani Regional Park
- Hotels near Magic Island
- Hotels near Kaneohe Bay