The Best Snorkeling In O'ahu: What You Can Expect To See
O’ahu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hawaii, and for good reason. The island boasts pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant coral reefs. Those looking for the best snorkeling in O’ahu will find the island to be an underwater paradise. From gigantic manta rays to endemic fish species, you’ll see it all in the waters surrounding the isle.
In this post, we’ll be exploring the exotic life forms that thrive in the waters around O’ahu and pointing out the snorkeling spots that will wow you!
What You Can See When Snorkeling In O'ahu
You don't need to look too far to be greeted by a friendly face in the waters of O'ahu. Here are several sea creatures that you may see roaming the ocean while snorkeling:
Spinner Dolphins
Spinner dolphins are found in tropical and subtropical waters across the world, from Hawaii to the Red Sea. They get their name from their impressive acrobatic displays, spinning up to seven times in the air before diving back into the water.
While they are commonly seen offshore, they can also be found close to the beach, making them a popular sight for snorkelers and divers. On O'ahu, spinner dolphins can often be spotted near Ka'ena Point and Haleiwa Beach Park.
However, due to their close association with human activity, they are at risk of being caught in fishing nets and becoming victims of pollution. If you're lucky enough to see a spinner dolphin while snorkeling in O'ahu, respect their habitat and admire them from afar.
Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles
For the best snorkeling in O’ahu, you’ll want to tick the Hawaiian green sea turtle off your list. This sea turtle is also known as the honu and is a cherished and iconic part of Hawaiian culture. These gentle creatures have been swimming in the waters around the islands for centuries, and they are an important part of the marine ecosystem.
While green sea turtles can be found throughout the Hawaiian Islands, they are most commonly seen on the island of O'ahu where they grow over 1.5 meters / 5 feet long and weigh over 180 kilograms / 400 pounds. Visitors to the isle can often spot these turtles while snorkeling at popular beaches like Hanauma Bay and Turtle Bay.
They are known for their long migrations, and some travel almost 2,000 kilometers / 1,200 miles between their breeding grounds and their feeding areas.
Humuhumunukunukuapuaa
The Hawaiian Islands are home to a wide variety of marine life, including the colorful humuhumunukunukuapuaa. Also known as the reef triggerfish, this species is endemic to Hawaii and can be found in a variety of habitats, from shallow reefs to deep waters.
Its name might be difficult to say, but the humuhumunukunukuapuaa is easily recognized by its bright blue body and yellow fins. It can grow up to 30 centimeters / 12 inches in length, making it effortless to spot.
Are you an avid snorkeler? Learn more about tours that encompass water activities in our community, and share your discovery of the humuhumunukunukuapuaa with other sea life enthusiasts.
Manta Rays
Manta rays are large, beautiful fish that are often found in tropical waters. They are graceful swimmers, and their slow, gentle movements make them easy to spot for snorkelers and divers. Manta rays can grow to be up to 7 meters / 23 feet in width, and they can weigh up to a whopping 1,360 kilograms / 3,000 pounds.
Most manta rays are dark in color, with white spots on their underside, which are thought to help camouflage themselves from predators.
Manta rays can be found in many oceans across the globe, including in the waters surrounding O'ahu. Rays are curious and friendly and are commonly seen on snorkeling tours.
Galapagos Sharks
Galapagos sharks are one of the most common shark species in Hawaiian waters. As their name suggests, they are often found near the Galapagos Islands, but they can also be seen in other tropical and subtropical areas around the world.
Due to their shy nature, a sighting of a Galapagos shark is rare, but there are many lurking in the waters around O'ahu. They pose little threat to humans and have only been known to attack when provoked. If you come face to face with a Galapagos shark, don't envisage a "Jaws" moment. Instead, stay calm, avoid making sudden movements, and soak in the memorable moment until the timid beast has moved on.
Hawaiian Monk Seals
The Hawaiian monk seal is one of the most endangered marine mammals in the world. Found only in the Hawaiian Islands, this species is critically endangered, with an estimated population of just 1,500 animals.
The population has declined drastically for a number of reasons including net entanglement, habitat loss, and disease.
The Hawaiian monk seal is the only tropical seal species left in the entire world after others were driven to extinction many years ago.
These seals are typically found on remote beaches or in shallow coastal waters. Due to their decreased population, it is rare to catch a glimpse of a Hawaiian monk seal while snorkeling in O'ahu, so count yourself lucky if you do!
More Marine Species In O'ahu
Those were just a few of the most exciting species that live in the waters surrounding the island. Some more common fish found in the ocean include:
Mahi-mahi
Skipjack tuna
Yellowfin tuna
Trevally
Barracuda
Hawaiian salmon
Sailfish
The Best Spots For Snorkeling In O'ahu
There are a plethora of swimming and snorkeling spots in O'ahu where marine life is abundant and colorful. Here are several sites where you'll have a good chance of seeing larger sea creatures, interesting coral, and gigantic shoals of fish:
Aweoweo Beach Park
Hanauma Bay
Makaha Bay
Kuilima Cove
Shark's Cove
Turtle Canyon
Lanikai Beach
Waimea Bay
FAQ’s On Snorkeling In O’ahu
Do you need to take a snorkeling tour in order to see marine life?
Absolutely not. You can snorkel from many of O’ahu’s beaches and discover its underwater havens alone. However, you stand more chance of seeing some of the larger creatures found in Hawaiian waters on a snorkeling tour, due to the knowledge of the guides. If you want to see an abundance of sea life by yourself, do your research before donning your snorkel.
Do you need to be a good swimmer to snorkel in O’ahu?
As snorkeling is an ocean-based activity, you need to be a competent swimmer in order to take part. While snorkeling, it’s easy to lose track of how far you’ve swum, and find yourself further out than you realize. If you’re not a strong swimmer, stay in the shallows where your feet can touch the ground.
Which side of O’ahu is the best for snorkeling?
There are terrific snorkeling spots all around the coastline of O’ahu. However, some of the best snorkeling in O’ahu happens just off the North Shore. There is plenty of marine magic to be found at spots such as Kuilima Cove, Aweoweo Beach Park, and Shark’s Cove.
Final Thoughts On Snorkeling In O'ahu
The clear and tropical waters of Hawaii create some of the most vibrant snorkeling conditions in the world. If one thing's for sure, it's that you won't be disappointed by the vibrant marine life thriving beneath the waves, on a snorkeling trip around the island.