Honolulu is the biggest city in Hawaii with skyscrappers, traffic and everything else that comes along with a big city.  If one is looking for a more relaxed vibe, it can be found at other areas of Oahu. Hanauma Bay in Oahu with it’s white sand beaches and lush vegetation, is a great escape from the city.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is not far from Honolulu and one of the best places on the island to go snorkeling. The aim of the Nature Preserve is to protect the bay which includes the beautiful coral and fish of its ecosystem.

Everyone who visits is required to watch a 10 min video about the bay before entering. And one thing you will learn is to protect the coral by NOT STEPPING ON THE CORAL. When people insist on standing on the coral, it is harmful to these beautiful living organisms. Sadly, I still see people standing on the coral despite the fact that they are contributing to harming the habitat that they travel the world to enjoy.

Snorkeling at Hanauma bay is amazing! There are fish swimming all around, even in the shallow water (just make sure not to step on the coral!).  This is a great place for beginner snorkelers because you can swim in the shallow water and experience a whole new world underwater. Hanauma Bay was the first place I went snorkeling for the first time many years ago. I remember the clear shallow waters helped me overcome my initial fears of being underwater. Now, I can’t get enough of it! I love snorkeling all over the world!

For more information on visiting Hanauma Bay including hours, see http://www.hanaumabay.info

Watch this video to see life underwater at Hanauma Bay!