Last Updated on July 7, 2024 by Tori’s VA
Yay, you’re going on vacation to Oahu! Now you need to plan the ultimate Oahu itinerary and, of course, there’s nothing better to do than to go snorkeling on Oahu. Okay there’s tons of other amazing things, and I’ll recommend some of them at the end, but snorkeling really is one of the best things to do while on the islands!
But now you need to know where to go to find the bright coral reef, colorful fish and those sweet sweet honu (that’s Hawaiian for turtles), because I’m sure you’ll want to spot one while snorkeling here, I know I always do!
So I’ve rounded up the best places around the island to snorkel to see the beautiful marine life. I’ll also include crucial tips and information for you to know before you hit the water and explore the best snorkeling spots on the island!
This post may contain affiliate links for activities, destinations and products that I love, and think you will too!
Why You Should Trust Me
I’ve visited the island of Oahu several times and always spend lots of time snorkeling and exploring the different beaches around Oahu. Plus, I’ve teamed up with some of Oahu’s other biggest fans who’ve spent lots of time exploring these snorkeling on Oahu destinations and can give you their biggest tips and experience! Together, we’ve got the best information for your upcoming Hawaii vacation!
Top Tips for Snorkeling on Oahu
Respect the Island
First and foremost, respect the island. We should be respectful of all of the places we travel to, but in Hawaii the locals take the respect of their island extremely seriously. And you need to also!
This means always leaving the beach the way you found it, never leaving trash, vandalizing, or taking anything with you (Yes, this means you cannot take sand, shells or anything else from the beach!).
Respect the Locals
Be respectful of the locals, and other tourists for that matter. Park where you’re allowed to park. If you ever have to park in a neighborhood, be quiet, don’t block driveways, that sort of thing!
Do not Touch the Coral Reef
Coral is a living organism that is extremely fragile, never touch or step on the coral under any circumstances. Especially if you want to have any chance of seeing it in years to come!
Only Wear Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Most sunscreens have chemicals that are super dangerous for the reef. Over time, all of the chemicals in the water kill off the precious reefs which are the home to all of the beautiful fish you want to spot! So in Hawaii, it is actually illegal to wear anything but reef-safe sunscreen while in the ocean.
There’s tons of companies now that sell reef-safe sunscreen so just be on the lookout for that when packing for your trip! Here’s some of my favorites!
Want a full packing guide for Hawaii? I have a detailed guide coming soon!
Always Put Safety First
No matter how great the snorkeling may be, safety should always be the top priority. If there are strong currents, stay out of the water. If the weather is bad, then the water is most likely going to be rough. And definitely do not snorkel on the north shore during the winter months! Beginner snorkelers should stick to the easier locations noted below, but even advanced snorkelers always need to be aware of the ocean conditions.
Bring Your Own Snorkel Gear
In order to snorkel, you’ll need to have snorkel gear. Well, you at minimum need goggles, but you’ll definitely want the snorkel tube and flippers for the best experience.
You can rent the gear at select locations around the island (which I’ll mention more about below) but I honestly think you need to bring your own gear. The cost to rent them once is basically the same as buying your own set before you leave home.
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And this way, you can take them with you all around the island, and can snorkel in all these amazing snorkeling on Oahu destinations that we’ve listed below. It’s a no-brainer to me!
I have this snorkel set and love it. Nothing fancy, but a good price and gets the job done! I will drop this link here with more information about a specific type of snorkel gear that is super dangerous and I highly recommend you avoid.
Map of the Best Places for Snorkeling on Oahu
Best Places for Snorkeling on Oahu
So now it’s time to get to the good stuff. Where exactly should you go snorkeling on Oahu?! Snorkeling is one of my favorite things to do on Oahu and there are so many great places to check out!
Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Recommended by Me!
Without a doubt, the most popular place for snorkeling on Oahu (and possibly all of the Hawaiian Islands) is at Hanauma Bay. Why is this spot so much more popular than the rest? Because it’s formed from a volcanic cone. The volcano walls created a reef where the waters are calm for fish and snorkelers to swim!
The bay is teeming with marine life and vibrant coral reefs. You’ll spot a huge variety of colorful fish and if you’re lucky, a sea turtle too! Plus it’s the perfect place to learn how to snorkel because there’s lifeguards and calm waters.
However, unlike most of the locations on this list of the best snorkeling on Oahu, Hanauma Bay requires lots of planning ahead and money. Reservations are required and will cost $25 per person plus $3 to park. Online reservations can be made 2 days in advance starting at 7:00am Hawaii Standard Time.
It’s also important to note that Hanauma Bay is closed Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan your Oahu itinerary accordingly! It’s located fairly close to Waikiki, just passed Diamond Head!
We really enjoyed snorkeling at Hanauma Bay because the water was protected on three sides, and we felt so safe with all of the lifeguards there. We spotted tons of different bright and beautiful fish swimming around the coral reef just steps from the sand! It’s a great place for any level swimmer or snorkeler!
Snorkeling on Waikiki Beach
Recommended by Me!
One of the most convenient places for most people to go snorkeling on Oahu is at Waikiki Beach. This is because most visitors to the island will be staying here in Waikiki so you’ll have easy access to spot some marine life! It’s a great way for someone who doesn’t rent a car to still get to snorkel on Oahu.
While there’s no coral reef directly off the beach, you’ll often spot turtles around this area as well as plenty of fish! We would even spot turtles’ heads bobbing above the water from the pool at the Sheraton Waikiki (more on that later!).
So grab your snorkel gear and head to the beach because this is one of the best things to do in Waikiki!
Snorkeling at Ko Olina
Recommended by Me!
Another great and easily accessible location for snorkeling on Oahu is at the Ko Olina Lagoons. Ko Olina is located on the west side of the island and is the second most popular place for tourists to stay while on the island. This snorkel spot is home to some of the most luxurious resorts on Oahu including Disney’s Aulani and the Four Seasons.
There are four man-made lagoons here that are so perfect for snorkeling, especially if you’re just learning how. Since they are man-made you won’t find any coral here, but swimming around the edges of the lagoons where the rock walls are can reward you with spotting some awesome fish and even turtles if you’re lucky!
Plus, the lagoons are incredibly calm, and is a great spot for learners or kids in these shallow waters. Plus, the water temperature is always warm since it’s so shallow! So head here first to get your feet wet (literally!).
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Snorkeling at Turtle Beach (Laniakea Beach)
Recommended by Me!
If your main goal when snorkeling on Oahu is to spot some of the beautiful and gentle sea turtles that call Oahu home, then look no further than Laniakea Beach on Oahu’s North Shore. Most people refer to this as Turtle Beach for obvious reasons; there are many turtles here!
If you’re here during summer months, you can snorkel and look for the turtles. And if you visit in the winter months the water on this side of the island is likely too rough for snorkeling even for strong swimmers, but it’s super common to find them sunbathing on the sand.
But wherever you go, always be sure to keep your distance. You legally are required to stay at least 10 feet away to keep them safe. They are an endangered species and need to be protected.
If you keep driving north you’ll eventually hit Waimea Bay, another nice spot for snorkeling since the beach curves in and creates an alcove where the Waimea River meets the ocean. Stop here while you’re on the north shore!
Another great option on the North Shore of Oahu is Shark’s Cove. It’s just a few minutes down the road and is close to The Sunrise Shack, one of my absolute favorite places to eat on the island that serves the absolute best and most fresh acai bowls. Ugh they’re so so good! So plan this stop before or after Sharks Cove!
Snorkeling at Electric Beach
Recommended by Griff from The Runaway Family
Electric Beach, also known as ‘Electrics’, is one of the best and most unique snorkeling beaches on Oahu. The name comes from the power plant adjacent to the beach, which pumps warm water into the ocean.
From the beach, two long pipes run along the seafloor about 20 feet below the surface and extend out about 200 yards. These pipes discharge clean, warm water into the ocean, creating a unique environment where marine life thrives.
Some species found at Electric Beach include schools of colorful fish, eels, octopus, sea turtles, and even dolphins. The water is also home to numerous coral reefs, making it a perfect spot for underwater photography.
The beach is relatively small and not very sandy, making it less popular for traditional beach activities such as sunbathing or swimming. However, snorkeling and diving activities are phenomenal.
Electric Beach is located on the west side of Oahu at Kahe Point Beach Park. To access this and most Oahu snorkel spots, it’s best to rent a car.
Limited parking is available at the park as well as alongside the road. Restrooms and showers and a covered pavilion for shade are onsite.
Snorkeling on Lanikai Beach
Recommended by Annie of Your Friend the Nomad
For postcard-worthy views of the Mokulua Islands, golden sand, and incredible snorkeling a few steps from the beach, be sure to add Lanikai Beach to your Oahu itinerary.
This long sandy beach is about thirty minutes from Waikiki and is located in the Lanikai neighborhood of Kailua on Oahu’s windward side. This breathtaking beach is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. You’ll find crystal clear waters, coral, rock formations, and a diversity of tropical fish about twenty feet from the shore as well as one of the most beautiful clear water beaches in the world!
It is important to note that low visibility can sometimes be an issue at Lanikai Beach, but on a good day you’ll be able to see an abundance of marine life, such as butterflyfish, parrotfish, turtles, and more.
Although Lanikai Beach is one of the most iconic beaches on Oahu, parking can be very tricky. There is no public parking lot and the beach is located off of a crowded residential neighborhood with minimal street parking.
Plan to either arrive early before the street parking fills up, or park at the nearby Kailua Beach Park and walk 15 minutes along the road to reach Lanikai. Since there are no facilities, be sure to use the bathroom beforehand and bring all the supplies you’ll need, such as snorkel gear, water, towels, snacks, chairs, an umbrella, and sunscreen.
And while you’re here, plan to hike one of the best sunrise hikes on Oahu, the Lanikai Pillbox Trail.
Snorkeling at Turtle Canyon
Recommended by Trysta of This Travel Dream
Located off the coast of Waikiki, Turtle Canyon is one of the most popular snorkeling spots on Oahu. It is home to diverse marine life and offers perfect clear waters for snorkelers to explore.
Turtle Canyon is named after the large population of Hawaiian green sea turtles that call this area home. These gentle creatures can often be seen swimming gracefully through the water, making for a spectacular snorkeling experience.
Despite its name, turtles are not the only marine life you will encounter at Turtle Canyon. You may also spot colorful fish, eels, and even octopuses. If you are lucky, you might even see some dolphins or humpback whales during their migration season.
Unlike other snorkeling places on the island, you will need to book a snorkeling tour to get to Turtle Canyon. Many companies offer guided boat tours in Waikiki and provide all the necessary gear, including fins, masks, and snorkel. These tours are not only convenient, but they also ensure the safety of both visitors and the delicate ecosystem.
We recommend taking an Uber or Lyft to the boat dock, as parking in Waikiki can be challenging. If you prefer to drive, plan to arrive early and allow extra time for parking. Tour companies will send you information on where to park and where to meet.
We did our tour with Living Ocean Tours and had a fantastic experience. Our guides were highly knowledgeable and passionate about marine life, which made the tour even more enjoyable.
Snorkeling at Malaekahana
Recommended by Gabi of Nomads With A Purpose
Malaekahana is a little-known beach, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the North Shore, offering a secluded haven for relaxing, surfing, swimming, and snorkeling. This mile-long beach has a sandy shore that turns into a reef bed.
Summer is the best time for snorkeling, as usual in Hawaii, but here’s the inside scoop: When the surf is too gnarly on the north and west shores, the east-facing aspect keeps Malaekahana sheltered, providing the ideal conditions for underwater explorations.
Here you’ll find a variety of tropical fish and the occasional chill sea turtle. Bonus, if you visit at a mid-low tide, you can wade across the ocean on a sandy straight to explore Mokuauia Islet Seabird Sanctuary, a mini island accessed from Malaekahana.
To get to Malaekahana, you’ll park at the dirt lot inside the gated Malaekahana State Recreation area. Unless it’s a crowded holiday weekend, you won’t have to worry about getting parking here. Bring your beach day essentials or make it even more memorable by packing a tent and staying the night at Hawaii’s most beautiful campground. Either way, it’s one of the best adventures on Oahu!
Snorkeling at Kailua Beach
Recommended by Jess of Uprooted Traveler
Kailua Beach, located on the windward side of Oahu in the town of Kailua, offers soft white sand, electric waters, and stunning views of the Mokulua Islands in the distance.
Most of Kailua Beach has a sandy bottom, so it doesn’t offer a ton of coral or tropical fish. However, its clear waters and calm waves make this an excellent place for beginners to learn how to snorkel. There’s even lifeguards here to help keep a watchful eye on any newbie snorkelers.
For the best snorkeling at the beach, though, head to the end of the beach, against the rocks by the boat ramp. Here, you’ll find vibrantly colored tropical fish, eels, octopus, and even sea turtles!
One of the best things about Kailua Beach is that it also is one of the best beaches to include in your Oahu itinerary for kayaking and paddle boarding, so it’s great for those traveling in groups who are looking for a variety of activities. In fact, if you’re up for a real adventure, consider kayaking from Kailua Beach to the Mokulua Islands, which offer some of the very best snorkeling on the island.
Kailua Beach has several large parking lots, as well as restrooms, outdoor showers, and picnic tables.
Snorkeling at Sea Life Park
Recommended by Karen of Forever Karen
While Oahu has many great snorkeling spots, head to Sea Life Park if you prefer a controlled snorkel experience. From Waikiki, expect the drive to take 30 minutes on the Kalaniana’ole Hwy.
Reservations are required for the Reef Encounter, which includes park admission. Those participating in the snorkeling need a towel, bathing suit, and biodegradable sunscreen.
Sea Life Park staff supervise the snorkeling event, suitable for ages four and up. Those under eight must swim with an adult.
With a snorkel mask, fins, and floatation vest, you enter a tank filled with tropical fish, small reef sharks, and stingrays. Staff give you lettuce to feed the marine life, and you can touch a stingray if you dare.
If you purchase a three-day or longer Go City Oahu Card, you can do the Hawaiian Reef Encounter along with the Dolphin Aloha excursion (a USD 188 value) for free.
After your snorkel, you can enjoy feeding love birds in an aviary, see some Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, and visit a rare monk seal named ‘Lambchop.’
If you stop by the gift shop near the turtle enclosure, you can buy broccoli and celery, sea turtles’ favorite food, in a souvenir cup. Get there early because only a limited quantity is available to prevent overfeeding.
Go on a Snorkel Tour!
While you can certainly snorkel plenty on your own, it might be fun to take a snorkeling boat tour on Oahu tour as well! This way they provide the snorkel gear and even life jackets and then boat to take you off shore to new destinations! Here’s a few great options to consider.
Morning Snorkel with Lunch
Swim with Dolphins, Turtle Snorkel Tour and Waterslide
Snorkel & Sailing Adventure along Ko Olina Coast
And while you’re in Hawaii, you might be hopping over to the other islands (which I strongly recommend!!) and we looooved snorkeling on Maui too! So you can certainly book some fun tours there.
Packing List for Snorkeling on Oahu
You won’t need much but what you will need is pretty crucial! Here’s my must-haves!
Snorkel Gear
First and foremost, snorkel gear of course! Here’s a great budget-friendly option for adults (I have these!) and one for kiddos!
Teema Towel
This is the single item that I add to my suitcase every single trip I take! The Teema towel is a Turkish towel that is perfect for traveling. Need a towel for the beach? Perfect. Want to have a picnic lunch during the trip, use this as your blanket. Cold on the plane? Not anymore!
The Teema towel folds up so small in your luggage, is incredibly soft and the patterns are so cute! Plus, when on the beach the sand doesn’t stick to it and it dries so super fast. This is a must when snorkeling on Oahu.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
As I mentioned above, reef-safe sunscreen is legally the only thing you can wear in the ocean when in Hawaii! Be sure to pack a bottle in your luggage because you WILL need it. Apply it often even when it’s not super sunny out or you will look like a lobster. Not like I know from experience or anything…
Rash Guard
This is not a must-have but definitely nice to have! Rash guards are not only good for protecting yourself in the water, but they also help protect you from getting sunburned!
And don’t worry, they’re not all as ugly as they once were. I found the one I have from the Calia line at Dick’s, but I found some other super cute ones on Amazon too!
Where to Stay on Oahu
If you’re snorkeling on Oahu, you’ll likely be needing a place to stay here too!
Waikiki
If you want to stay in Waikiki, the tourist center, then I cannot recommend the Sheraton Waikiki enough. The location is perfect, the rooms are beautiful and modern and the views are incredible. Plus did I mention they have an infinity pool that looks out over the ocean?! It’s the best place to stay when snorkeling on Oahu.
Looking for another option? We stayed at the Marriott Waikiki during our recent babymoon in Hawaii and loved this property too! It was a little further out of the center of Waikiki which was kind of nice honestly! But still within a 10 minute walk to most of the action.
Ko Olina
This is the resort area on the western side of the island that is perfect for families with little kids. Hence why Disney’s Aulani Resort is located here, which is amazing!!! But I also highly recommend Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club too!
North Shore
And if you’d rather stay on the North Shore, then you should consider the Turtle Bay Resort, right on the beach and with stunning views over the water. There’s tons of great places for snorkeling on Oahu nearby! And if you do stay at Turtle Bay, you can snorkel at the nearby Kuilima Cove which is a great place for snorkeling on Oahu!
Other Things to do on Oahu
- 23 Fun Things to do in Waikiki Beach, Hawaii
- 20 Things to do on Oahu, Hawaii
- Diamond Head Sunrise Hike
- Oahu in February: Things you can only do this month!
- Babymoon In Hawaii
- 6 Best Oahu Sunrise Hikes
