Snorkel Cruises
Hawaii Snorkeling on Oahu and Snorkel Cruises
Snorkeling in Hawaii is exciting and easy. If you have never snorkeled before it is recommended to go on a snorkeling tour where you will learn the basics, have the equipment provided for you and get to snorkel at some of the prime Hawaii snorkeling spots. These inclusive Hawaii snorkeling tours on Oahu allow you to get away from the crowds, increasing your chances of swimming with turtles and dolphins. Below are a few favorite Hawaii snorkeling spots on Oahu.
Leeward Coast -- Snorkel tours abound on the West side of Oahu where the water clarity is excellent and sunny days are practically guaranteed. You can find eco friendly Hawaii snorkeling tours also led by marine biologists, such as Dolphin Excursions. In the areas of Honolulu and Waikiki there's no reef and it's very crowded with surfers, boats and other water sports enthusiasts, which is why we recommend a snorkel cruise to a secluded area.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, one of Dr. Beach’s top picks and where Elvis and Joan Blackman took their moonlit swim in Blue Hawaii is a Hawaiian snorkeler’s paradise. This picture perfect bay with its calm, clear waters and shallow reef has more tropical fish than you are likely see anywhere else on Oahu.
The reef begins just a few feet from shore, and the bay is formed inside a crater in the shape of a crescent. The best way to experience this reef is on a guided tour, where you will learn many interesting facts about the reef and about reef preservation. There's also a Marine Education Center, concession stands and all terrain wheelchairs (rented free of charge by Honolulu county).
Remember to book your snorkeling tours in advance, especially if you're snorkeling in Hawaii during high tourism season. Hawaii snorkeling tours sell out fast so book ahead and enjoy your time in the water with the turtles and dolphins. If visiting other Hawaiian islands, check out the snorkeling on them as well because each island has its own unique snorkeling attractions.
- Kauai Snorkeling – Snorkel on the oldest and most protected reef ecosystems of all the major Hawaiian Islands.
- Maui Snorkeling – The top snorkeling attraction here is Molokini Crater, a beautiful underwater sanctuary inside a partially sunken volcanic crater.
- Hawaii Snorkeling (BI) – Snorkel in Kealakekua Bay's marine sanctuary, secluded Pawai Bay or many other optimal spots.
- Lanai Snorkeling – Click here to see why Lanai has been rated one of the planet's top 10 snorkel destinations.
- Molokai Snorkeling - This small island near Maui offers some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii.
