With over a thousand miles of coral reef surrounding the island, crystal clear waters, and excellent year-round weather, it’s no wonder snorkeling in Hawaii is one of the most popular vacation activities for visiting families. Whether you’re enjoying the shallow waters near the golden sand beaches or heading out on a boat tour, Oahu offers ample opportunities to discover the vibrant marine life waiting just under the surface.
As you prepare for your upcoming getaway and begin planning the excursions you’ll want to take, we at Island Water Sports Hawaii are here to give you all the info on how to fully enjoy yourself on your snorkeling adventures. Check out this guide to enjoying snorkeling in Hawaii and get the scoop on everything from what you’ll see and what to bring to the best tours and top snorkeling spots to visit.
Already know you want to book a Submarine Scooter Snorkel Tour? That’s great!
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What to Expect When Snorkeling in Hawaii
While the official details depend on whether you’re booking a tour or just heading to the beach near your hotel or vacation rental, some things are a given when it comes to what to expect when snorkeling in Hawaii. For example, you will certainly see plenty of unique fish, lava rocks, and creatures that dwell within the nooks and crannies of coral reefs.
In places like Waikiki Beach, you can also expect to see plenty of surfers, both beginner and pros, riding waves as you float along the surface closer to shore.
Lastly, since Oahu is the most populated island, snorkeling here will likely come with crowds. This is one reason many choose to book a snorkeling tour versus visiting the most popular tourist beaches. But regardless of where you find yourself, you’re guaranteed to have an incredible time enjoying this popular water activity.
What You’ll See While Snorkeling in Hawaii
Oahu’s waters are a popular snorkeling destination for good reason. Here, you’ll find so many varieties of tropical fish and sea creatures it’s hard to keep track of everything you’ve seen!
From the iconic Moorish Idol and a variety of colorful Tangs to Hawaii’s state fish, the humuhumunukunukuapua’a, green sea turtles, and more, you never know what may float past.
One of the reasons people love the submarine scooter tour at Island Water Sports Hawaii is the vantage point for viewing these mesmerizing creatures. Instead of through tiny goggles with your neck craned to keep your snorkel above water, our diving bell technology lets you freely breathe while being submersed up to 8 feet beneath the surface. Here you can really get up close and personal with the underwater world.
Get the full list of creatures you’ll see when snorkeling in Hawaii, and start familiarizing yourself with the most popular species before your trip.
Checklist of What to Bring When Snorkeling in Hawaii
Some items may vary depending on whether you’re on a tour or going out on your own, but these are a good starting point for any day at the beach on your Oahu vacation.
- Snorkel Gear – mask, snorkel, fins
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen – protect yourself and the ecosystem
- UV-Protective Rash Guard – extra sun protection
- Water Shoes – for rocky areas
- Towel and Dry Bag – keep your belongings dry
- Waterproof Phone Case – for underwater pictures
- Swimsuit and Change of Clothes– Quick-dry and comfortable
- Snacks – food and drinks to stay fueled for more fun
- First Aid Kit – bandages and antiseptic just in case
- Respect for Marine Life – something you should always have with you. Remember – no touching coral or disturbing sea creatures.
Get a full list of snorkeling safety tips, and make sure you’re ready for the day’s adventures!
Best Hawaiian Snorkeling Tours
Submarine Scooter and Snorkel Tour
Unlike scuba diving, which requires classes and certifications, Island Water Sports Hawaii’s Submarine Scooter and Snorkel Tour gives you all the benefits of being fully submersed like in scuba diving, but with zero hassle of air tanks and other gear. In fact, it’s so easy, you don’t even have to know how to swim to enjoy it!
Our two-hour tour begins with a boat ride out to Maunalua Bay. Along the way, your captain and staff will provide entertaining and informative commentary as you take in the beautiful Oahu scenery.
Once you arrive, our team will assist you with suiting up for your underwater tour, helping you get seated on our eco-friendly scooters. That’s right! You sit on them and ride like a personalized underwater moped! The diving bell helmet creates a perfect seal so you can breathe freely during your 20-minute ride.
While underwater, our staff will point out unique fish, and you may even get a surprise visit from sea stars, sea turtles, octopi, and rays!
During the entire adventure, you remain tethered to the boat, ensuring your safety. After your ride, you can relax on the sundeck of our power catamaran, enjoy provided refreshments, or hop in the water for traditional snorkeling as others in your group have their turn. We provide all snorkeling gear, so the only thing you need to bring is a towel, something to swim in, sunglasses, and sun protection.
Learn More About Submarine Scooter and Snorkeling Tours
SeaBob Super Dolphin and Snorkeling Tour
If you want to amp up the excitement, our SeaBob Super Dolphin and Snorkeling Tour may be just what you’re looking for. With all the amenities of the Submarine Scooter Tour: a boat ride, refreshments, and provided gear, this tour adds a layer of adrenaline to your trip by letting you rip through the water like a human dolphin.
The SeaBob is also eco-friendly and self-propelled, but at speeds of up to 12 miles per hour, you’ll feel the rush as you make banking turns and exciting dives.
After your ride, you’ll also have the chance to swim and snorkel as others take their turn. This is great for those looking for water activities that appeal to multiple types of people, as you can essentially choose the level of thrill!
Learn More About SeaBob Snorkeling Tours
Top Snorkeling Locations in Oahu
Oahu is one of the best snorkeling spots in the world, and there are interesting things to see on all sides of the island. Here are our top picks for the best places to visit:
- Waikiki – Queens Beach or Hanauma Bay, but remember to buy a ticket to the Bay before you go. They limit how many visitors can snorkel each day.
- East Shore – Lanikai Beach
- West Shore – Ko Olina Lagoons, Kahe Point, and Makaha Beach Park
- North Shore – Waimea Bay, Sharks Cove, Three Tables, Sunset Beach Park, and Turtle Bay Resort
Book Your Hawaiian Snorkeling Tour Today
If you still need to be convinced to try snorkeling in the Hawaiian Islands, check out our Top 10 Reasons right here. But, if you’re ready to enjoy one of the most beloved activities in Oahu, the only thing left to do is choose your adventure!
At Island Water Sports Hawaii, our Submarine Scooter and SeaBob tours not only provide you with excellent snorkeling opportunities, but they also let you experience the Pacific Ocean like no other tour will. From entertaining guides to unique excursions, we go above and beyond for every guest we meet.
Discover why our tours have been ranked as one of the best experiences in Oahu when you book with us today!
