Hanauma Bay Beach - Oahu, Hawaii

Address:Oahu, Hawaii

If there is an aquatic version of paradise, it is likely Hanauma Bay. Located on the Hawaiian island of Oahu, not far from Waikiki, Hanauma Bay Beach is as breathtaking as a picture postcard. A 2,000-foot horseshoe of white coral sand sweeps a wide semi-circle around crystal-clear emerald waters. An ocean-breached, flooded volcano, Hanauma Bay Beach has become a protected beach "park" with one of the world's most colorful spectacles of tropical coral life. Visitors agree that whether you swim, snorkel or scuba dive in Hanauma Bay, it is a life-changing experience. More than 450 species of multicolored fish, octopus, crabs, and Honu sea turtles live in Hanauma Bay's coral forest. Accustomed to the human presence, the marine life at Hanauma Bay is friendly, responsive, even welcoming. Snorkelers of all levels need only wade into the waist-high waters of the near-shore reefs to literally rub fins with the sea turtles, trumpet fish, parrotfish and angelfish.

The coral formations and underwater landscapes at Hanauma Bay are some of the most beautiful in the world. The soft-sand floor the bay is littered with lobe, rice finger and cauliflower coral formations. More advanced snorkelers and divers can ply the deeper (70-foot), tumultuous waters of Hanauma Bay's Witches Brew cove by "shooting the slot," a narrow passage through the reef wall where sharks lurk. You can either bring your own snorkeling and diving gear or rent it on-site.

Named America's Best Beach in 2004 by Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman (Dr. Beach), the nation's leading beach expert, a sojourn to Hanauma Bay Beach means sampling the world's finest sand, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

When you need a break from the reef check out the short-but-sweet tram ride for exquisite views of Hanauma Bay. If you'd rather stay on your feet,hike the trails that trace the ridge of the coastline for wide panoramas of the shore.

Because Hanauma Bay Beach is of environmental importance, the bay is officially protected as an underwater marine life sanctuary. Touching the fish and turtles is illegal and feeding the marine animals is prohibited. Visitors to Hanauma Bay are required to watch a seven-minute orientation video at the local Marine Education Center, so factor that into your schedule. Hanauma Bay Beach is well developed when it comes to facilities and amenities. You can count on public restrooms, a snack bar, picnic and barbeque areas, and lifeguards on duty. To get to Hanauma Bay Beach you will either need to drive (take Kalanianaole Highway to Koko Head Regional Park) or take the Hanauma Bay Shuttle from Waikiki at any city bus stop or any major Waikiki hotel. Hanauma Bay Beach is busy and bustling year-round, so get there as early as possible, but take into consideration that the beach park is closed on Tuesdays.

Whether you are a snorkeling or diving expert or just starting to get your feet wet, whether you gaze into the great, underwater deep or prefer to sun-gaze, Hanauma Bay Beach is a must for anyone believing the beauty of the beach.