Hanauma Bay - History, Popular Activities, Reservations, Packing List, Park Information, and Rules

Hanauma Bay is one of the most beautiful and a must go tourist destinations in Oahu, Hawaii!!! Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Hanauma Bay had nearly 3000 daily visitors (around one million visitors per year), and many years of neglect and over-tourism enabled pollution that impacted the overall marine life. However, due to pandemic state shutdown allowed Hanauma Bay’s coral reefs and marine life to slowly recover.

History. Hanauma Bay is believed to have formed 30,000 years ago on the southeast coast of Oahu when two low-lying volcanic craters were flooded by the sea. Native Hawaiians have been enjoying life on the bay for thousands of years. The Hawaiian words: “hana” means bay and “uma” means curved. The bay was historically an excellent area for relaxing and recreational activities. Historical records indicated that the Hawaiian royalty in the 1800s often visited Hanauma bay for entertainment and fishing. Today Hanauma Bay is a pristine marine ecosystem, home to many marine animals and colorful fishes.

Popular Activities. Hanauma Bay is a popular family friendly destination for snorkeling, swimming, sun bathing, and more. Ensure you use/bring Reef-safe sunscreen per Hawaii State Law. I highly recommend taking lots of photos of the beautiful beach, waters, and underwater (Reef fishes, sea turtles, corals) - to take great pictures of marine life, bring an an Underwater Camera or GoPro Waterproof Camera.

Reservations. Since April 2021, Hanauma Bay requires tickets reserved in advance for the mandatory 9-minute orientation video. Reservations can be made for up to 10 people (5 Adults and/or 5 kids). A 9 minute video (at Hanauma Bay) is mandatory for all visitors.

Sunscreen Law. Ensure you use/bring Reef-safe sunscreen. On January 1, 2021, Hawaii governor signed SB 2571, Act 104 — bans the sale, offer of sale, or distribution in the State of any sunscreen that contains oxybenzone or octinoxate, or both, without a prescription issued by a licensed healthcare provider to preserve marine ecosystems . The bill was the result of more than a decade of scientific studies looking at the impacts of these personal care products on the delicate marine habitats. The Hanuma Bay State Park states visitors avoid oxybenzone (the most common compound), octinoxate (which is more toxic), and octocrylene which can kill coral and damage coral reefs.

Recommended Packing List:

• Beach Towels

• Bathing / Swimsuit

• Sunglasses - Provide UV Protection for your eyes and its stylish

• Reef-safe sunscreen - First line of defense against UV rays from the Sun

• Lip Balm - Similar to your face, lips should also be protected from the sun

• Beach Bag or Backpack - To carry your items easily (along with your other essentials) and keep it cool for a long time

• Hats - Second line of defense against UV rays from the Sun

• Goggles

• Snorkel Gear - Rental gear is also available at Hanauma Bay

• Umbrella - Provides shade and UV Protection

• Beach chairs - For sunbathing, relaxing, and comfort

• Life vests - For Safety

• Cell phone - For Pictures and for emergency calls

• Waterproof Phone Case - Protect your phone from water and physical damage

• Portable Solar Power Bank - Charge your phone and other electronics

• Underwater Camera or GoPro Waterproof Camera - Take pictures snorkeling

• Sand Toys (Kids) - Additional activity for kids to stay active

• Cooler Bag - Bring Water/Snacks and save money

More information on Hanauma Bay:

• OPEN: Wednesday through Sunday from 6:45 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• CLOSED: Mondays & Tuesdays, Christmas and New Years Day

• Address: 5 Kalanianaole Hwy, Honolulu, Hawaii

• Entry Fee: $25 for Non-Residents.

• Free Entry: Hawaii Residents, Kids 12 Years & Under, and Active Duty Military

• Parking Fee: $3 to park / $1 for locals - Cash Only

• Limited Parking: 300 parking stalls, no guaranteed parking even with reservations

• Snorkel Rental: Open at 7:00 am - $20 for a standard set

• Capacity: Only 1000 guests will be allowed each day / 30 guests every 10 min

• Basic facilities: Showers & Bathrooms are operational

• Face Mask: All face mask mandates must be followed within Hanauma Bay

• Lockers: Available on the beach level to secure your personal items

• Wheelchair: Accessible, Tram service between the upper & lower levels is now included with entry fee. Beach wheelchairs are available for free.

• Snack Bar: Located on the upper level of the park and you may bring a small cooler with food, snacks, water or non alcoholic beverages.

Sunscreen Law. On January 1, 2021, Hawaii governor signed SB 2571, Act 104 — bans the sale, offer of sale, or distribution in the State of any sunscreen that contains oxybenzone or octinoxate, or both, without a prescription issued by a licensed healthcare provider to preserve marine ecosystems . The bill was the result of more than a decade of scientific studies looking at the impacts of these personal care products on the delicate marine habitats. The Hanuma Bay State Park states visitors avoid oxybenzone (the most common compound), octinoxate (which is more toxic), and octocrylene which can kill coral and damage coral reefs.

Rules & Regulations

• Amended Rules and Regulations Relating to Visitor Use Levels and Controls

• Amended Rules and Regulations Governing Commercial Scuba Diving (To Include Snuba) and Snorkeling Activities

• Amended Rules and Regulations Governing Commercial Filming (TV, Movies, Stills)

• Rules and Regulations Governing Commercial Hiking Tours at Hanauma Bay and the Adjacent Areas Within the Conservation District | Rules, Regulations, Charges and Fees For Public Parks and Recreation Facilities

Map of Hanauma Bay Reef

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