Snorkeling Turtle Bay (Kuilima Cove), Oahu

by Don E.
(Ashburn, VA)

We just returned from two weeks in Hawaii, during which we made a snorkeling trip to Turtle Bay. We found the water pretty clear and the beach was great. It is very easy to get into and out of the water here. There are trees at the rear of the beach and some umbrellas for shade. We saw quite a few fish, but mostly small in size. No turtles, unfortunately, but lots of large sea slugs. The best coral is straight out to the breakwater and to the right of the beach near the protruding shoreline.

There are 40 parking spaces reserved for beach users who are not staying at the resort. When arriving at the gatehouse, tell them you are going to the beach. They will give you a numbered pass (assuming they aren't all taken) and you are supposed to park in the corresponding numbered space. All visitor spaces are located in the row closest to the beach and are marked with yellow lines and signs. There is no charge to use these spaces.