Whether you’re looking for the perfect place to start your snorkeling adventure or you’re an experienced snorkeler, Oahu has many wonderful snorkeling spots to choose from. The most popular spots are located on the west side of Oahu. The east side is also home to some great snorkeling spots.
One of the most popular snorkeling spots on Oahu is Shark’s Cove. This area is home to a variety of tropical fish and crustaceans. The cove is not as crowded as other snorkeling spots on the island, making it an ideal snorkeling destination for both novice and advanced swimmers. The cove is also protected by a natural rock barrier, making the cove a safe place to swim.
Another popular snorkeling destination is the Turtle Reef. This reef is a regular haunt for rare green sea turtles. The reef also features strange coral formations. The reef is also home to Hawaiian spinner dolphins, which are acrobatic swimmers known for their long snouts. The reef is located near the Waikiki Strip. The reef is also known as a “cleaning station” for the green turtles.
There are also several artificial lagoons in the area. These lagoons provide good visibility year-round, making it easy to explore the reef. Unlike the natural lagoons on Oahu, these lagoons are completely protected from the elements, making them ideal for snorkeling.
Another popular snorkeling spot on Oahu is Shark’s Bay. This snorkeling spot is also located in a volcanic crater, and offers a lot of sea life. The area is also a great place to see sea urchins in their natural habitat. The bay also has crystal-clear waters. Despite its reputation, the area is not overrun with sharks.
Another great snorkeling spot on Oahu is Hanauma Bay. This area is protected by the State of Hawaii as a marine life conservation area. This area is home to a lot of sea life, including sturgeon, parrot fish, eels, and many others. The bay also has a video that shows what to expect at Hanauma Bay. The video plays every 15 minutes, and it provides important safety information. It also warns snorkelers to not feed the fish.
For a more secluded snorkeling experience, head to Ka’ena Point Park. This snorkeling site is located on the far western side of the island. The area is home to a mile-long secluded beach, making it a great place for snorkeling. The park also features a popular hiking trail.
Other great snorkeling spots on Oahu include the Keawaula Beach, Queen’s Beach, and Makaha Beach. These areas are popular with locals, but the beaches are also safe to snorkel during the winter. There are also four artificial lagoons on the island’s west side. These lagoons are protected from the elements, and are an excellent place to relax in calm, shallow waters.
The area around the north shore of Oahu can be a little rough in the winter, so if you plan to snorkel here, make sure you’re prepared for the conditions. It’s also important to keep an eye on the ocean currents, as these can be strong.