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

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.

Find your favorite pool at Hanauma Bay

As you look down on the bay, you’ll notice several natural pool areas which have shallow sandy bottoms, surrounded by explorable coral reefs. As you make your way down, target which areas you want to camp near. We usually pick the pool on the left side which is highlighted in our map.

Explore the edge

These natural pools make it easy to enjoy the water. Take your snorkel gear with you and after you’ve frolicked enough, dive down and explore the surrounding reef where you’ll see tons of fish. We enjoy doing it this way as the edge where reef meets sandy bottom pool has lots of interesting crevices to explore. You’ll have a blast.

Hanauma Bay gives free admission and that qualifies it as a free thing to do on Oahu. Don't miss it!