The 6 Best Oahu Snorkeling Spots For 2024 ✅✅

Last updated on January 30th, 2024 at 07:01 am

Discover the vibrant underwater wonders of Oahu snorkeling spots such as Hanauma Bay, Turtle Canyon, Electric Beach,

If you’re a first-time snorkeler or not a strong swimmer, go for safe and shallow spots like the Ko Olina Lagoons or Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve.

For an extensive coral reef experience, Hanauma Bay is among the best Oahu snorkeling spots and is renowned worldwide!

If you’re a confident swimmer and advanced snorkeler seeking vibrant marine life, Electric Beach or Shark’s Cove (preferably in summer to avoid rough winter waves) are your go-to spots.

In a group with varied snorkeling abilities? Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve and Shark’s Cove in summer offer the best options for everyone.

Staying in Waikiki and want convenience? Opt for Queen’s Beach or the adjacent Sans Souci Beach—quieter Waikiki beaches with fantastic snorkeling!

Check out our curated list of the best Oahu snorkeling spots, perfect for tourists with limited time but wanting an unforgettable snorkeling experience.

The Best Oahu Snorkeling

1. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Southeast Oahu

Undoubtedly, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve on the southeast shore of Oahu stands out as one of the world’s finest snorkeling spots. It boasts extensive coral reefs, although getting there can be a bit tricky due to reservations, limited parking, and crowds.

My strong recommendation: book a tour (preferably early) and let them handle all the hassles.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve holds a special place in my heart among Oahu’s snorkeling locations. The marine life here is not only abundant but also incredible, making it one of the best spots for families, kids, and beginners. The facilities are excellent, adding to the overall experience.

Witness a school of yellow convict tangs at Hanauma Bay – truly a spectacular sight, making it one of the best Oahu snorkeling spots year-round.

In my opinion, a visit to Hanauma Bay is a must when you’re in Hawaii!

2. Electric Beach, West Oahu (aka Kahe Point Beach Park)

For the thrill-seeking adventurer, snorkeling at Electric Beach is hands down one of the most rewarding experiences, especially when it comes to encountering a diverse array of tropical fish.

Situated on the west coast of Oahu, Electric Beach stands out for providing some of the best year-round snorkeling. Its location on the protected leeward side ensures a consistently fantastic experience.

However, it’s important to note that snorkeling here is best suited for the more experienced swimmers. I highly recommend using swim fins since you’ll need to cover about 200 feet, swimming along underwater pipes to reach their outlet. This spot is unique as the warm waters from the electric plant attract a fascinating variety of marine life.

Prepare for an adventure and dive into the rich marine life thriving in the warm waters of Electric Beach!

3. Ko Olina Lagoons, West Oahu

If dealing with reservations for snorkeling at Hanauma Bay feels a bit overwhelming, consider heading to Ko Olina Lagoons—a fantastic alternative, especially for families, kids, and beginners.

Situated in a luxurious rest area, the Ko Olina Lagoons are artificial, spacious, and sheltered. With family-friendly facilities and upscale resorts nearby, these lagoons provide an excellent year-round snorkeling experience. Plus, there are plenty of convenient food options for those hungry kids afterward!

Snorkeling at the lagoons ranks high on the list of the best things to do in Ko Olina. It’s a delightful and accessible option for a memorable underwater adventure.

4. Shark’s Cove, North Shore of Oahu

On the serene and secluded North Shore of Oahu, Shark’s Cove near Pupukea Beach Park stands out as one of the finest Oahu snorkeling spots, especially during the summer. Its location within the Pupukea Marine Life Conservation district ensures a thriving marine ecosystem.

Don’t let the name fool you—Shark’s Cove got its moniker from its aerial resemblance to a shark’s head, so there’s no need to hesitate before diving into its crystal-clear waters!

Experience a vibrant underwater world with teeming tropical fish as you snorkel in Shark’s Cove—one of the best Oahu snorkeling locations with rich coral reefs. The nearby Three Tables, featuring table-like underwater coral structures, also offers an excellent spot for a memorable snorkeling adventure on the North Shore.

5. Kuilima Cove, North Shore of Oahu

Right beside the luxurious Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore of Oahu, Kuilima Cove provides a serene haven with sheltered and shallow waters teeming with marine life.

Enjoy the picturesque beauty of Kuilima Cove, recognized as one of the best Oahu snorkeling spots on the North Shore.

This cove is not just about snorkeling; it’s an ideal spot for spotting Hawaiian green sea turtles. Keep your eyes peeled, as these turtles often come ashore to sunbathe and rest.

When snorkeling in the cove, be mindful of the winter season’s high surf and rough waves. Kuilima Cove offers a tranquil escape for a delightful snorkeling experience, surrounded by the natural beauty of the North Shore.

6. Queen’s Beach, Waikiki

If you find yourself anchored in Waikiki, don’t miss out on the good snorkeling at Queen’s Beach—it’s part of a restricted Marine Life Conservation District.

Delve into the vibrant underwater world of the coral reefs at Queen’s Beach, recognized as one of the best Oahu snorkeling spots in Waikiki. Explore the reefs along the beach walls, where you’ll often encounter a lively display of colorful tropical fish.

Besides the fantastic snorkeling, Queen’s Beach provides excellent facilities, and a lifeguard is typically on duty, making it a top choice among Oahu snorkeling beaches for families with kids. Enjoy the beauty of the underwater realm right in the heart of Waikiki!

Read More: Best Oahu Tours and Excursions Worth the Splurge!

Book a Guided Oahu Hiking Adventure!

Eager to explore Oahu through hiking but new to Hawaii’s trails? Joining a guided hiking adventure is an excellent starting point.

This adventure is tailored to suit your interests and abilities, with a local guide who knows the terrain accompanying you. What’s more, round-trip transportation is included for your convenience.

Choose between two short hikes or opt for a longer trek—whatever suits your preference. If you’re unsure about which hikes to try, your guide can recommend specific ones. It’s a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Oahu’s stunning landscapes with the guidance of a knowledgeable local.

Best Oahu Tours

Have you booked these popular Oahu tours and excursions yet?

Love snorkeling? This Turtle Canyon snorkeling excursion from Waikiki lets you frolic with colorful fish and Hawaiian green sea turtles. Hands down the MOST BOOKED Oahu snorkeling tour: turtle sightings are guaranteed!

The most popular luau in Oahu, Paradise Cove Luau, has a 4.5 rating on Viator with over 3.5K reviews. The tour includes pick-up from your Waikiki hotel, pre-dinner games, arts, and crafts, a delicious meal, and an award-winning show.

Based in Waikiki but want to see more of the island? This full-day Oahu Circle Island Tour includes Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, Haleiwa, the Dole Plantation, and more!

Pay your respects at the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor! This popular Pearl Harbor tour includes boat tickets and round-trip transport from Waikiki.

A super popular Oahu North Shore excursion, this Oahu shark cage dive allows you to observe wild sharks in the open ocean from the safety of a cage! It’s a THRILLING Oahu adventure for your bucket list.

We have a detailed guide to the top Oahu tours and excursions if you are in the midst of planning your itinerary for the island.

Renting a Car in Oahu

If you want to explore more of the island of Oahu on your vacation, you should get a rental car.

Oahu’s popular attractions are spread over the island: the windward coast, the North Shore, and Ko Olina are great places to explore beyond Waikiki (or the greater Honolulu area).

While Oahu does have public transport options that are better than the other islands, a car offers a lot more flexibility and time savings.

We always use Discover Cars to book Oahu car rentals. They search across a variety of rental car companies, both budget and brand, to offer you the best deals, AND they offer free cancellations. Plus, there are no hidden fees.

Read More: Maluaka Beach, Maui (Turtle Town): Complete Visitor Guide

Honolulu Airport-Hotel Shuttle

If you are not planning to get a rental car at Honolulu Airport, consider booking shuttle transport in advance!

This shared shuttle can be canceled up to 24 hours from the date of service. It serves hotels in Waikiki and Honolulu and then back again to the airport the day you leave. It’s convenient and inexpensive, saving you time and hassle!

Where to Stay in Oahu

Honolulu, particularly Waikiki, boasts a plethora of hotels and resorts, accompanied by a diverse range of shopping and dining options. Most visitors to Oahu opt to stay in Honolulu, at least for a portion of their trip.

While many large chains are available, providing options for those utilizing memberships, Honolulu also features several unique boutiques worth considering.

Our favorites include Halekulani for a luxurious stay, the Lotus Honolulu for stunning views of Diamond Head, and The Laylow for its fantastic location.

If you prefer more space or wish to stay elsewhere on Oahu, explore the various listings on VRBO (Vacation Rentals by Owner) scattered across the island!

On our past journeys to Oahu, we’ve chosen VRBO rentals in Waikiki, on the North Shore, and the east coast, and we’ve consistently encountered excellent choices and quality accommodations.

More Oahu Travel Inspiration

Planning a trip to Oahu? Check out our in-depth Oahu travel guides to help finalize your itinerary!

Begin by exploring the best things to do in Oahu. Dive into our detailed guide to Oahu’s North Shore, discover activities on the east side of Oahu, and explore the highlights of Ko Olina on the west coast.

Learn about all the exciting things to do in Discover the vibrant underwater wonders of Oahu snorkeling spots such as Hanauma Bay, Turtle Canyon, Electric Beach,, Hawaii’s capital, and in Waikiki, the touristic core of Oahu.

Don’t miss our guide to the best beaches in Oahu and a round-up of must-visit Oahu waterfalls.

Oahu is home to many must-visit landmarks! Check out our in-depth article on how to visit Pearl Harbor, and explore the beautiful Waimea Valley and the spectacular Byodo-In Temple.

For an adrenaline rush, read our article on shark cage diving on Oahu’s North Shore!

Kaneohe Sandbar

Discover top places to go snorkeling in west Oahu, with its long coastline and lovely beaches, and get tips for snorkeling at Kaneohe Sandbar on the island’s east coast.

If you love marine life, explore our complete guide to (respectfully!) see and swim with dolphins in Oahu, and find the best spots to snorkel with turtles in Oahu.

For hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, check out the best Oahu hikes, and if you prefer easier trails, a guide to the best easy Oahu hikes.

Learn how to conquer the iconic (and VERY popular) Diamond Head Hike near Waikiki for exceptional views. Our guide to the popular Manoa Falls Trail in Honolulu is another must-read.

More advanced hikers can delve into the Koko Head Hike, a challenging set of stairs leading to expansive views.

Discover where to find the best sunsets in Oahu, whether you prefer hiking or simply watching a colorful Hawaiian sunset without breaking a sweat.

Explore our guide to the best sunrise hikes in Oahu, including the spectacular Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail in the southeastern part of the island. The Lanikai Pillbox Hike is another fantastic sunrise hike on Oahu!

Conclusion

In 2024, Oahu continues to be a snorkeler’s paradise, boasting a myriad of vibrant underwater ecosystems. The 6 best Oahu snorkeling spots stand out as premier destinations, offering enthusiasts unparalleled experiences. From the renowned Hanauma Bay to the captivating Waimea Bay, these spots showcase the island’s rich marine life, pristine waters, and stunning coral reefs, making Oahu a top choice for snorkeling enthusiasts in 2024.