Our web site is about Oahu Beaches, Hiking Trails, and other free activities

Hanauma Bay, crater, and reef

Hanauma Bay - the aquarium you get to swim in

Hanuama Bay Reef and Crater view

Although Hanauma Bay is technically not free in that only children get in for free, its close enough that we're going to list it as a free thing to do on Oahu.    Hanauma Bay on the Island of Oahu is one of the most fantastic snorkeling spots on the island, if not the world.

Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay

Oahu Beaches - Hanauma Bay - the aquarium you get to swim in

 

Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay

This is absolutely a don’t-miss free attraction on Oahu. The combination of relatively safe conditions, clear water, tame fish, and beautiful reefs make snorkeling at Hanauma Bay one of the best water experiences you’ll ever have. Here’s a collection of tips to make the most out of your visit.

 

Read more: Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay -

 

Swimming at Hanauma Bay

Oahu Beaches - Hanauma Bay - the aquarium you get to swim in

Center beach of Hanauma Bay

While Hanauma Bay might be known for it’s outstanding snorkeling, it’s also the best swimming beach on this side of the island. Besides its outstanding facilities including food, lifeguards, snorkel rentals, and a shuttle service, this beach is a great place for swimmming.

 

Read more: Swimming at Hanauma Bay

   

Picnic at Hanauma Bay

Oahu Beaches - Hanauma Bay - the aquarium you get to swim in

 

Picnic area at Hanauma

Of course nearly everyone goes to Hanauma for the fantastic snorkeling, but did you know the place features an awesome, free picnic area? All you have to pay is $1 for parking, but you get a big, rarely used, shady picnic area.

Read more: Picnic at Hanauma Bay - Picnic at Hanauma Ba...

   

Hanauma Bay Wallpaper

Oahu Beaches - Hanauma Bay - the aquarium you get to swim in

Nothing beats having Hanauma Bay as your computer desktop wallpaper. Enjoy Hawaii all day long!

Read more: Hanauma Bay Wallpaper - Hanauma Bay Wallpape...

   

Oahu Weather Now

83°
28°
°F | °C
Mostly Cloudy
Humidity: 54%
Wind: E at 14 mph
Thu

75 | 87
23 | 30
Fri

75 | 87
23 | 30
Sat

74 | 86
23 | 30
Sun

74 | 85
23 | 29
  • Current Beach Information for Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, South Shore (Oahu) 7/29/2010
    Beach Condition: Moderate — Normal caution advised. Be vigilant of changing conditions especially at beaches known for strong shore breaks and on exposed rocks or cliffs near the ocean. Avoid exposed rocks that are wet from surf. Watch for holes and channels in shallow water.

    Offshore Condition: Danger — Offshore conditions are very hazardous. Swimmers are advised to not enter the water. Kayakers are advised to not enter the water.

    Surf Report: SURF ALONG SOUTH FACING SHORES WILL RISE TO 5 TO 7 FEET WITH OCCASIONAL HIGHER SETS TODAY
    Surf Report Timestamp: 7/29/2010 9:00:00 AM HST
    Current Wind: East at 13.8 MPH (12 KT)
    Current Weather: Mostly Cloudy

Beach Gear Guide

Here’s what we tend to bring when planning a full day at the beach:

• Collapsable beach chairs

• Collapsable tent

• Large mat to place on sand, enough for 4-6 people to sit and eat.

• Water, food, and coolers. We love tuna sandwiches so we’ll typically mix up a bunch of tuna and mayo, store it in a container, and bring along a loaf of bread.

• Juice drinks (try Hawaiian Sun brand).

• Chips, nuts, trail mixes.

• Candy bars/nut bars.

• Big hats to shade the sun.

• UV rash guard shirts

• Sunglasses

• Waterproof sunscreen

• Snorkel gear

• Swimming goggles

• Bodyboards

• Fins

• Two beach towels per person

• Change of dry clothes

• Plastic grocery bags (to store wet clothes)