Plus, thanks to our sub-scooter tours, our snorkeling adventures are perfect for both swimmers and non-swimmers, and folks of every skill level in between! To get you excited about your underwater adventure, we’ve put together our ultimate list of creatures to see when snorkeling in Waikiki. We’ve included everything from the most common to the most elusive because you just never know what may make an appearance! Check it out and get ready to experience the thrill of a lifetime during your Hawaiian vacation.
Hawaiian Triggerfish
The state fish of Hawaii, the triggerfish, is often referred to by its native name: humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa. Its distinct markings make it easy to spot, often displaying bright yellow and black on its body and sometimes bright red and orange.
Moorish Idol
One of the most glamorous fish you can see when snorkeling in Waikiki, the Moorish Idol is often found in groups of four to six. It has a distinct bottlenose, and its long spines create a thin crest that flows from its back, gently trailing behind as it glides past reefs. Their vertical bands of black, white, and yellow make them easily visible underwater, so be sure to keep a look out!
Butterflyfish
Not to be confused with the Moorish Idol, Butterflyfish can be distinguished from them thanks to the shape of their rear fins. Though some still display black and white stripes and a pennant-style flowing fin trailing above their back, the Butterflyfish’s tail is rounded instead of triangular.
Parrotfish
Known as Uhu in Hawaiian, parrotfish can be found swimming in huge schools of hundreds of fish. Its colors resemble rainbow sherbet, with lovely green, orange, pink, and blue scales that shimmer against the penetrating sunlight. Fun fact: This species can change both its gender and its color! This is a helpful evolutionary feature that enables it to have the best chances of reproduction.
Green Damselfish
Known as the Hawaiian Sergeant Major, the green damselfish looks less green and more like a yellow and black-striped fish. Damselfish can also come in bright blue with yellow fins, purple with yellow fins, orange with white bands, speckled, or even solid gold, yellow, or black.
Tangs
You may know these as the “Dory” fish from Finding Nemo. Tangs come in a variety of colors, from blue and black, like Dory, to bright yellow, purple, and even rainbow iridescent.
Wrasses
The waters off Waikiki are full of these brightly colored reef fish. The Saddle Wrasse is easily spotted thanks to its bright green body and reddish-orange band. Look for them swimming alone, in pairs, or in small groups versus large schools.
Green Sea Turtle
Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, known as Hono in Hawaiian, are some of the most majestic creatures you can see while snorkeling in Waikiki’s warm waters. This specific type is also the most common of the seven different varieties found in Hawaii.
These marine wonders can grow to more than four feet long and can weigh over 300 pounds. Turtle snorkeling in Hawaii is unlike anywhere else in the world, thanks to the calm waters and excellent ocean conditions found in Maunalua Bay.
If you’re lucky enough to spot one during your sub-scooter tour, remember, do not try to touch them. As a vital part of our marine ecosystem, it’s important we admire them from a distance so they can continue to thrive in our waters. Learn more about the dos and don’ts of underwater etiquette as you prepare
Octopus
Did you know there are “day” and “night” octopi? During your sub-scooter Waikiki snorkeling tour with Island Water Sports Hawaii, you can often spot the brown and tan day octopus hanging around shallow reefs and reef slopes. Called he’e in Hawaiian, these shapeshifting, color-changing invertebrates are smart and incredibly fun to watch underwater.
Starfish
A favorite spotting for snorkelers in Waikiki is the bright orange cushion starfish. With an inflated appearance, it resembles a pin cushion or balloon. Its less-defined arms give it an almost cartoon appearance over varieties with longer, more spindly branches.
Book Your Snorkeling Tour Today
Experience snorkeling in Waikiki like never before when you book our sub-scooter tour with Island Water Sports Hawaii. Our eco-friendly scooters let you glide through the crystal clear waters, past colorful fish and one-of-a-kind marine ecosystems.
Unlike traditional snorkeling equipment, which often consists of leaky masks and reused breathing apparatuses, our diving bell technology lets you breathe freely inside your helmet while you ride up to eight feet below the surface. Enjoy a peaceful experience that’s sure to be the highlight of your vacation when you book your tour today!
