Waikiki's Secret Snorkeling Spot
See Lots of Fish Without Going to Hanauma Bay
It doesn't appear to be much on the surface, but it's good once in the water.
Within walking distance of the all the hotels, shops, restaurants and ABC Stores is a great little snorkeling spot that seems to be largely ignored by tourists who are getting burnt on the beach just a few yards down the shore.
It's against a seawall at the beach in front of Kapiolani Park on the far end of Waikiki toward Diamond Head. The water is calm, it's shallow (in fact, so shallow in some parts that it takes a bit of navigating to avoid running into the coral) and the fish are busy and abundant.
The quiet, calm spot is in front of Kapiolani Park in Waikiki.
There is no dive boat required, no bus needed to get to the location, no entry fee to pay (it's $5 at Hanauma Bay) and it's always open (Hanauma Bay is closed on Tuesdays).
There are coral fish, puffer fish and a few other species – some quite large – that make their meals by grinding the coral. The best spot is near the seawall about halfway out; this seems to be consistently the spot with the most fish. Of course, SurfsideSam.com recommends exploring the entire area out to the end of the seawall and away from the seawall, as well.
This good snorkel just that close to the main – and busy – part of Waikiki.
The bottom is soft sand mixed with coral – be careful where you step when stopping to get your bearings during the snorkel – and one does not have to be an expert to enjoy this location. To be sure, it's not like jumping into an aquarium, but it's an easy-to-reach,, easy, no-hassle spot that's perfect for a short snorkel.
There is a tent that rents equipment for $7 in front of the concrete seawall a couple hundred yards "Ewa" (away from Diamond Head) from this spot.
The snorkeling location is across the from Honolulu Zoo just past lifeguard station 22 and before the gay beach. There is a short, soft-sand beach directly in front of the calm entry point.
Go here, then and a half-hour later be seated at a beachside bar or restaurant for lunch, dinner or drinks.
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