Snorkeling Honolulu
The Best Spots Are Nearby

Oahu, Hawaii

Snorkeling Honolulu is disappointing. But don't despair. It is not difficult to get to some good snorkeling from the city. This page will help you get there.

Snorkeling in Honolulu is unwise and not very interesting because the waterways are full of boats and there isn't much sea life. There are a couple of Honolulu beaches, but the snorkeling from them is sandy which lowers visibility and does not provide a good place for fish to live.

Your closest snorkeling option to Honolulu is on the far south end of Waikiki Beach. Most of Wakiki Beach is better for surfing because of it's waves. But on the far south end you might see some interesting fish at Queens Beach. It is designated a marine life conservation district where fishing is restricted, so the populations are better here. There is a dredged out channel in the rocky reef providing habitat for the fish. Read this page to see where to snorkel at Queens Beach.

Suggestions & Questions
From Other Snorkelers

Saw An Interesting Fish At Waikiki Beach
Turtles Canyon Boat Tour - Waikiki Beach

Besides Queens Beach, snorkeling Honolulu can be done by boat tour. The snorkeling from these boats is not great compared to other snorkeling you can find on the island but you may see some fish and turtles. It is best to ask your hotel activities desk about booking these boat tours. A site visitor shared a story about her experience on one of the boat tours. There is a link to her story in the box above.

Probably the most popular snorkeling done from Honolulu is at Hanauma Bay, which requires a drive or bus ride from the city. You can also organize a tour or bus trip to the bay with your hotel concierge. Read this page to find out what Hanauma Bay snorkeling is like.

If you rent a car there are a number more Oahu snorkeling spots to explore outside Honolulu.