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Panoramic shot of Makapuu beach

Snorkel and Dive Makapuu Beach

Oahu Beaches - Makapuu Beach - Hawaii's Natural Waterpark

View of right hand side of Makapuu

Snorkeling at Makapuu is rare due to conditions, but if you get lucky, you're in for a treat

 

Though I would not put Makpuu high on the list of best places to snorkel or dive primarily because of its usual rough water, if you do get lucky enough to catch a day with no wind and subsequently flat conditions, you’ll find this place has some fantastic diving and snorkeling. As you look out on the water, follow the shoreline cliffs on the right as far out as you dare and you’ll find a collection of shallow caves, and coves that can easily engage you for a half-day. Make sure the water is nearly flat as the rocky conditions will not be forgiving if there is even small surf present. You’ll find giant coral heads in water that gets “scary deep” if you swim far out.

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Oahu Weather Now

67°
19°
°F | °C
Mostly Cloudy
Humidity: 90%
Wind: N at 5 mph
Mon

65 | 77
18 | 25
Tue

65 | 77
18 | 25
Wed

65 | 76
18 | 24
Thu

67 | 76
19 | 24
  • Current Beach Information for Makapu'u Beach Park, Windward Shore (Oahu) 2/6/2012
    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: Moderate — Normal caution advised. Approach the ocean with caution. Be alert for choppy seas, currents, and breaking waves. Weak swimmers should not venture offshore as the seafloor drops off quickly and tidal currents and winds are strong on many island shores. Users of kayaks and other unpowered craft must be aware of strong wind and current conditions that can carry you offshore, and are capable of changing unexpectedly.

    Surf Report: SURF ALONG SOUTH FACING SHORES WILL BE 1 TO 3 FEET THROUGH MONDAY
    Surf Report Timestamp: 2/5/2012 7:00:00 PM HST
    Current Wind: Calm
    Current Weather: Partly 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)