Try your hand at spotting colorful fish, turtles, and even Monk seals! My family are meseramized at my ability and love of snorkeling and yet being unable to swim. Have a wonderful time! As a general rule of thumb, the winter months see calm surf on the south shore but can get dangerously massive on the north shore. Would HIGHLY RECOMMEND this excursion for all qualities of snorkelers. Book an exclusive Hanauma Bay guided snorkeling tour with an expert local guide and explore the best snorkel locations at Oahu's number one snorkeling beach. Mahalo! Unique Experiences - Big Island of Hawaii, Kalaupapa National Historical Park Tours & Tickets, Iao Valley State Monument Tours & Tickets, Hana Lava Tube (Ka'eleku Caverns) Tours & Tickets, Puaa Kaa State Wayside Park Tours & Tickets. On Oahu, the ocean conditions can change at a moments notice, so its important to always listen to lifeguards and use common sense. Highly recommend, especially got kids who need a little extra patience! Then he guided us to the reefs where we saw beautiful reef and fishes. There is no safe place for non swimmers to snorkel and no floating device that can make it safe. I have not even said anything about this to him as I'm not sure of his reaction - wanted to get info first. Dan picked us up and we talked with him quite a bit. That does not come easily to some people even though they can swim well. Please. Equipment was top notch and safety was paramount. Its worth getting a video and also we saw different species of fish, reef and a turtle. Even with that, though, be aware that you don't want to go out too deep, and don't get in a spot where you have to stand on the coral. This activity is not wheelchair accessible. Thank you! If you are wearing fins and get into trouble with your mask or mouthpiece, you have to bring your feet under in order to stand up. . Because the bay is such a popular tourist destination, make sure you book your tickets at least a day in advance to avoid missing out! Get the vest, and get some fins to help not only to propel you but to keep your feet afloat. You have to have complete focus and awareness of your surroundings, if there's even a slightly strong current a wrong move could mean your life. Plus, in a moment of panic a piece f coral could suffer an untimely death. From all inclusive Oahu snorkeling cruises from Waikiki and Ko Olina that include a delicious lunch, to small group shore snorkeling tours, find the . ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-32341869', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Waikiki many times with my wife who is a very strong swimmer. If you are looking for the best snorkeling locations in Oahu, youre bound to find one from this list that appeals to your experience level and your tastes. Which is better Chiefs or Polynesian Cultural Center Luau? Thanks, Dan! During the tour, your guide will do their best to take professional photos throughout the tour, and if available, they will be posted on the company Facebook page for you to download. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase through these links at no extra cost to you. Even if you know what you're doing, it's a calculate risk. Plan on seeing plenty of fish, turtles, eels, and sea urchins here, but those with sensitive feet may need water shoes to get past the rocky area to access the shore (once youre in the water do not stand on the rocks or coral--this is the ocean life's home). Fun, safe, and amazing first time snorkeling experience. I've been a swimmer since I was 5, I participate in a summer swim league from ages 8-14, I grew up near Lake Michigan which can have some intense swells and current.The ocean, especially in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-88621911', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');the Big island), and the crew not only provided her with lots of flotation devices, they also got in the water with her. Guests who are pregnant are not permitted to participate in this activity. The activity schedule is subject to change or cancellation due to weather or traffic conditions. Advertising - For more information, please see our Do I need to be able to swim to participate? Even she enjoyed! I know how to tread water float and propel myself through the water and was able to learn how to snorkel. Learn to swim, it's never too late, take lessons at the Y, it's worth it! Check out the Holokai or Makani catamarans for a great deal on a Turtle Canyon snorkeling tour. Hanauma Bay is the perfect spot for first-time snorkelers or those who may need a refresher on reef etiquette and snorkel safety. It's a lot easier than I had thought, and I would add my voice to the folks who suggested a calm location where the water isn't too deep. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. I on the otherhand can't. Hanauma Bay is one of Oahu's top 3 places to visit and with around 1000 visitors per day it is one of the world's most popular snorkel destinations! Just a word of cautionmy Mom can swim and enjoys being in the water, but could NOT snorkel. I even find it near impossible to float! This is by far the best way to spot a variety of fish species, dolphins, and turtles. Its no secret that the ocean can be a dangerous place but this lagoon is encased by artificial breakwaters,keeping swimmers safe from rip tides. Lots of fish and even a sea turtle or two. Check availability When? Off shore snorkeling in an open ocean for non swimmers can make for a disaster. When are you going to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Look out for our newsletters with travel tips and special offers. Edward & Anette. Its obvious that the winter months produce bigger waves and choppier water that may not always be perfect for beginning snorkelers, but with such a treasure trove of underwater life and experiences, youd be missing out if you dont include Oahu on your bucket list of snorkeling destinations. Privacy Statement - The best experience ever! I almost chicken out but I am glad I didn't, I would have missed so much!!!!! Kahe Point Beach Park, often referred to as Electric Beach is a great place for the more adventurous snorkelers out there. We saw so much sea life and swam with 3 sea turtles! Suzzy Robinson on Maui can teach you how to snorkel but not swim. You'll enjoy a fun-filled day snorkeling in crystal-clear water, spotting sea turtles and colorful fish along the way. Thank you for your support! The reef at Wailea Beach is great. I'll see about getting a snorkel and mask and acclimate having my face underwater ;-}, This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Distance between North Shore and Honolulu, Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort And Spa. Located in Pupukea between Waimea Bay and the Banzai Pipeline, this spot has been a local north shore secret for years. What is the leeward side vs. the Windward side of Ohau? I can't imagine being in the ocean without knowing how to swim - dog paddle & float at least. Food concession stands are open from 8:30AM to 2:00PM, and feature a variety of delicious sandwiches, plate lunches, and other types of food. The best coral and breathtaking schools of fish often require swimming through strong currents, so having a snorkel buddy with you makes sense. Your guide will be right by your side as explore the many coral reefs that are home to a number of tropical Hawaiian fish and even green sea turtles. You can see a lot even just wading (being very careful near the reef, if you're near it) and putting your face in. Cookie Notice Went as a solo for the activity and theyre very welcoming and you can bring your own camera and I was very confident to get in the water with lessons with an instructor. I have seen many non-swimmers do this. Its not your average snorkel tour they take luxury and comfort to the next level aboard a 50-foot yacht. We are hooked. Whether youre enjoying the Pacific Ocean from the shore or jumping off a catamaran, the snorkeling on Oahu is some of the best in the world. We took our family of 4, parents and teens, 200+ pounds, novice level swimmers to learn/relearn how to snorkel. Tour schedules are subject to change without notice. Awesome!! This experience requires good weather. Guests staying outside of Waikiki will need to go to Waikiki for pick-up. We got to see turtles coral sea urchins and some colorful fish. NO ONE should be in the ocean if they can't swim, esp doing something like snorkeling. I am a non swimmer and she made me feel very comfortable in the water. The guide were phenomenal. A. All the proceeds for the admission price into Hanauma Bay goes back to the State of Hawaii for the upkeep of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Chinatown, Historic Honolulu and Aloha Tower self walking tours, Hawaii Down Memory Lane (Hawaii in the Past), The Official List of Legal Vacation Rentals on O`ahu, Hotel In Waikiki Outrigger Reef VS Outrigger Waikiki Beach. This was my partners first experience snorkeling; she felt safe and at ease with Dans and Chiekos instructions and guidance. Thanks so much for all the encouragement! The reef here is a favorite spot for the areas turtles to come clean, feed and relax. :). ;). Snorkeling for Non-Swimmers for First Time - Wailea Beach 149 Reviews Badge of Excellence Kihei, United States Share Save to Wishlist From $145.00 Lowest Price Guarantee Select Date and Travelers Check Availability Reserve Now & Pay Later Secure your spot while staying flexible Free cancellation Up to 24 hours in advance. Coral flats make up much of the bottom, with large rocks scattered around and a multitude of different fish species. This is the best experience for non-swimmers like me. After that, head to deeper water to search for turtles and other marine life. I've snorkeled twice now, and both times, this is what I did: I got a snorkel mask and tube. (She stayed in the boat while we snorkeled! Dolphins cant get enough of this side of the island, and they love the protected areas close to shore. Its truly a snorkelers paradise, and its no wonder that Sharks Cove is one of the most popular snorkel spots on Oahu. You don't need to be a great swimmer at Hanauma Bay, just confident in the water. He was always besides us. 8:00am (snorkel, snorkel 101, 3 beach) 11:00am (snorkel, snorkel 101, 3 beach) 7:20pm (Night Snorkel) (other times available upon request) Book Online, Call or Email to make a reservation Phone: 808-214-4743. We will be back.. Great experience they took such care of us specially my mom who is way afraid if water! On a reputable cataman excursion, for example you will be watched over and you will not have to worry about being knocked off your feet. In addition to a stunning bay, theres a beautiful beach park behind Makaha Beach with astounding views of the landscape. I would still like to give it another try while I am in Maui in another 6 weeks:. This curved bay and state park is known for its year-round snorkeling and convenient accessibility. You can only add up to 10 items in the list. I would recommend this experience to anyone. There are so many places to snorkel in Hawaii, where you can see many fish in waist deep water, it shouldn't be a problem. Kuilima Cove is just over an hour drive from Honolulu airport, on the Kamehameha Highway. Message: >I am planning on wearing my contacts with the mask - and am assuming that it is not too hard to get a mask that has a good seal - I don't want to be losing my contacts! Me and my youngest generally are nervous in the ocean but the guides made us feel comfortable and safe that we all ended up snorkeling without a vest. Get ready for the best Oahu snorkel tour! If you can't swim, it could be disastrous, either to you or to any patch of coral you might try to stand on. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-32312097', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Maui once. Use google maps on your phone and search for "Public Parking for Wailea beach access". Q. Learn how to enjoy your time at this protected beach, and also how to keep the marine life and the coral reef safe as you have fun snorkeling. Of course, if using a mask is no concern, then the suggestions above to stay in shallow water are good ones. If its canceled because the minimum isnt met, youll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Any suggestions/comments on how to choose a mask would be appreciated.<. Scuba Diving Magazine even gave it the distinction of being one of the twelve best shore dives in the world. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. Answer 1 of 13: Aloha . I want emails from Fodor's Travel with travel information and promotions. I'm having all sorts of problems w/ the site this morning but I'll try one more time. We used them for our kids when they were little, and they work better than nothing at all. Prior to leaving practice with a snorkel mask & snorkel in the shallow area of a pool, with someone close by to keep you safe. If youre looking for a truly unique way to experience marine life, try booking a snorkeling cruise along the Waianae Coast. I am not a strong swimmer and don't float well, but I love to snorkle. Overall, this was an amazing experience that my partner and I highly recommend!!! It's also a stress reliever, taking you into an entirely different world far removed from your daily life. Full guides on the top bucket list travel destinations to inspire your wanderlust! Just speaking frankly, our size and ability is not always welcomed or accommodated well - especially in physical activities. It can be really scary to get in the ocean without knowing how to swim but I felt safe with Tristn Ali Juca and Ryan. Professional Quailty. How many? And its no wonder why the snorkeling here is simply incredible. Divers would submerge and look for the natural sponge in order to trade and make a living. Is there anything like that on Oahu. Phone +1 808-677-1277. It is a scary feeling. There is a wide range of marine life to explore, including Hawaiis state fish, called the humuhumunukunukuapuaa. Also known as Sans Souci Beach, it boasts gorgeous white sand and clear blue water with a stunning backdrop of San Souci Recreational Park. Has anyone on the forum who does not swim done snorkling on the islands? Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experiences start time will not be accepted. Thanks everyone. This place is only accessible by boat, so youll need to book an excursion with one of the snorkeling tour companies in the area. We would love to go with them again on a different adventure when we return to Maui. This was so fun! We saw turtles and tons of fish. Hanauma Bay Park admission is. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. No, you do not need to know how to swim and flotation devices will be provided.