For snorkeling in Waikiki or anywhere else on the island, we always recommend a good Oahu snorkeling tour if possible. Tours are the best way to know you’re going to a great snorkeling location, and they are the safest way to explore the unknown waters of Hawaii.
Before snorkeling in Hawaii, please check out our snorkeling safety tips and always check local conditions. Please do not underestimate the ocean. Make sure you’re snorkeling in calm waters without strong currents, and if you have any doubts, don’t go out!
In This Article:
- Best Snorkeling Tours on Oahu
- Where to Snorkel in Waikiki
- What You’ll See Snorkeling in Waikiki
- Is It Safe to Snorkel in Waikiki?
- Why Snorkeling in Maunalua Bay is Better than Waikiki
- More Maunalua Bay Guided Water Tours
- Why You Should Go Snorkeling on Oahu
Best Snorkeling Tours on Oahu
While we may be biased, our unique snorkeling tours are the absolute best way to see the vibrant marine life of Hawaii. Unlike traditional snorkeling tours that just arm you with goggles and a snorkel, ours fully immerse you in the underwater world.
On our Submarine Scooter and Snorkeling Tour, you’ll ride a self-propelled, eco-friendly scooter through the water, gently floating along with schools of tangs and parrot fish. Majestic sea turtles lazily pass by, as well as rays, octopi, and even playful dolphins sometimes make an appearance. By getting down beneath the surface, you, as The Little Mermaid once said, can truly be “part of that world.”
Plus, there are no swimming skills required. Our special diving helmet keeps your upper body completely dry while you’re underwater, so you breathe freely the entire time. And our skilled staff is swimming with you, pointing out unique species along the way.
After your subscooter tour, you can relax on the sundeck of our power catamaran, or enjoy traditional surface snorkeling while others take their turn on the scooters. It’s a 2-hour immersive experience that’s guaranteed to create a lasting memory of your time on Ohau.
Where to Snorkel in Waikiki
Waikiki Beach is longer than many first-time visitors think, so knowing where to snorkel can save you a lot of time. If you have snorkeling gear, it’s probably worth jumping in anywhere that the waters are calm. You could get lucky. If you’re renting gear for the day, you’ll want to head directly to the best spots to make the most of your rental.
Snorkeling in Waikiki’s Marine Life Conservation District
Just south of the hotels is our pick for the best snorkeling in Waikiki. The Marine Life Conservation District runs along the Sans Souci State Recreational Park (often considered to be part of Kapiolani Park). Most snorkelers leave their beach towels around the area marked at Queen’s Beach (directly across from the area marked “Honolulu Zoo”) or Kapiolani Park Beach. Look for lifeguard stand 2F to know you’re in the right area. Then, find a sandy spot to enter the ocean, and take your time to navigate around the reef.
What You’ll See Snorkeling in Waikiki
Although it’s not one of the best spots for snorkeling with turtles on Oahu, it is possible to spot some in the area. The variety of fish, however, can be quite impressive.
Hawaii’s waters are full of beautiful species from the Hawaiian Triggerfish (the state fish) to Moorish Idols with their long top fin that dances in the water. As you snorkel, don’t forget to scan the bottom of the ocean floor for things like sea stars, sea cucumbers, anemones, and more.
Is It Safe to Snorkel in Waikiki?
Yes, it’s usually safe to snorkel in Waikiki, but there are times when the surf and currents are strong, especially with the summer swells. Not only are those times dangerous, but they also have poor visibility, so it’s not worth snorkeling when the waters aren’t calm.
Always snorkel with a buddy. Keep an eye on each other and have a general plan when entering the water.
Why Snorkeling in Maunalua Bay is Better than Waikiki
Beyond the popular shores of Waikiki Beach, there are quieter expanses that level up your snorkeling trip. Maunalua Bay is one of the best spots, and it’s only about 25 minutes from Waikiki.
Those 25 minutes make a world of difference. Getting past the hotel-lined shores and heavy foot traffic in Waikiki for the peaceful waters of Maunalua Bay delivers a much more robust snorkeling experience. Without all the crowds, there are more fish and greater varieties. While you may see a turtle in Waikiki, it’s almost a guarantee in Maunalua Bay. Other, more elusive species like octopi and dolphins also more likely to make an appearance. If you want variety and fewer people, this is the spot to visit.
More Maunalua Bay Guided Water Tours
Island Water Sports Hawaii operates our tours out of Maunalua Bay for the reasons we just mentioned. The water is more fertile, there are fewer crowds, and it creates a more memorable snorkeling experience. Beyond our Submarine Scooter tours, families and groups love our SeaBob rides and Banana Boat or Bumper Tube add-ons.
The SeaBob lets you dip and dive like a dolphin as you cut through the water. Instead of gently floating past a sea turtle, you can swim right alongside them! After your tour, add a thrilling banana boat or bumper tube ride for a burst of adrenaline and big laughs as you bounce along the wake and try to hang on. It’s the perfect cap to a wonderful guided snorkeling experience.
Why You Should Go Snorkeling on Oahu
Snorkeling on Oahu is a must for many visitors. We’re blessed with some of the clearest waters and most thriving sea life in the world. If you’re going to snorkel on your own, please always think “safety first.” If you’d like to book a tour, we’re happy to show you an unforgettable experience if you’d like to join us. Just book on our website or give us a call!
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