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Snorkeling in Oahu Hawaii
- Snorkeling is a very popular activity in Oahu. Its a great value when you consider how much you can see for the cost/rental of a mask, snorkel and fins. Great snorkeling requires warm calm clear water and a protective reef. The clear water allows you to see well and the protective reef provides calm conditions and a place for the tropical fish to live. There many places to snorkel on Oahu, Kewalo Reef near Diamond Head and The Leeward Coast on the western side are two places that offer nice snorkeling opportunities, along with Waianae, Haleiwa, and Kailua. Waikiki beach does not have the protective reef required for optimal snorkeling, plus you have beginner surfers with their fiberglass boards sailing by.
The most well know snorkeling spot in all of Hawaii is on Oahu, it is Hanauma Bay. Hanauma Bay is the crater of a dormant volcano that flooded with water when the side closest to the sea slid into the ocean, leaving an incredible panorama view. A protective reef developed in this old volcano and snorkeling is great here because the old walls of the volcano help decrease the force of the ocean waves. There is a large nice sandy beach and its the best place to learn snorkeling. The only problem with Hanauma Bay is that everyone knows about it! But even if its crowded it worth seeing. Before going into Hanauma Bay visitors are required to watch a video on preserving the coral reef. There are entry and parking fees and it is closed every Tuesday. Hint: go early!
Some snorkeling tips: If you want a snorkel experience that is less crowded then Hanauma Bay try a snorkel boat tour. An Oahu Snorkel Tour operator knows all the little neat places to snorkel and can get you away from the crowds. A good idea is to combine a sailing tour with a snorkeling adventure. Disposable underwater camera are perfect for Hawaii snorkeling, and don't forget sunscreen. Also if you decide to drive and find your own Hawaii snorkeling adventure, check out water conditions and remember that snorkeling is a calm shallow water sport.
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