Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
mixed
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
required
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
610 m
Frequently asked questions
Hanauma Bay: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity crystal, average temperature +26.0°C, warms up to +28.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Hanauma Bay: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.1 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Hanauma Bay: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 metres from the shore. Bottom — mixed. Special water shoes (aqua shoes) are required — the bottom has rocks, corals or sea urchins. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Hanauma Bay: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — coarse. Beach length — 610 metres.
Hanauma Bay: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in January, February, March, April. It ends in May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December. The best month for a holiday is June. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Hanauma Bay: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Hanauma Bay: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: sea urchins. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Hanauma Bay: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Hanauma Bay: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Hanauma Bay: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Beach Restaurant. Cuisines available: Local. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Hanauma Bay: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Water shoes, Towel, Swimsuit, Cash, Snorkel mask.
Hanauma Bay: when is the best time to swim?
Morning has calmer water and fewer people. Evening — beautiful sunsets.
Hanauma Bay: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Do not touch corals or marine life. Keep the beach clean.
Hanauma Bay: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, diving. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Hanauma Bay: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for snorkelling and marine life enthusiasts. Not suitable for those seeking seclusion due to high visitor numbers.
Hanauma Bay: what makes this beach unique?
Hanauma Bay is the only beach on Oahu located in a volcanic crater and is a marine reserve. The beach is known for its green olivine sand and rich marine life.
Hanauma Bay: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Crystal-clear water, Rich marine life, Protected from waves by reef, Suitable for snorkelling, Educational video for visitors, Tram from parking lot. Cons: Paid parking ($1) and entry ($25), Very crowded, Advance reservation required, Limited space for seclusion, Rocky bottom, water shoes needed, No sunbeds or umbrellas.
Hanauma Bay: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Koko Head Crater, Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay Education Center. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Hanauma Bay: how do I get to the city of Oahu?
The beach is located near the city of Oahu. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Oahu.