When you’re visiting the island of Oahu, make time to go snorkeling. Hawaii’s third-biggest island is home to hundreds of tourist attractions for underwater adventures. Explore the Pacific Ocean and marine life at some of these top snorkeling spots.

Where to Go Snorkeling on Oahu

1. Hanauma Bay

Located at the south shore of Oahu, Hanauma Bay is the most popular snorkeling spot on the island. After it was declared a Nature Preserve, the number of visitors at the tourist attraction is limited to protect the bay’s ecosystem. The area’s calm waters make it ideal for exploration. Look out for exotic reef creatures like the porcupine fish, trumpet fish, and cardinal fish, to name a few. 

2. Sans Souci & Queens Beach

In Waikiki, Queens and Sans Souci Beach are adjacent to each other. The former is a marine conservation area where snorkelers can encounter plentiful marine life, particularly in the offshore reef. During winter, both spots produce big waves and strong currents, so snorkel in the shallow part of the reef for safety.

3. Shark’s Cove (Pupukea Beach)

At the North Shore of Oahu is Shark’s Cove, a favorite snorkeling spot. It’s known for pristine, calm waters, vibrant marine life, and majestic underwater rock formations. Go in the summer to avoid the surfing season that runs from fall to spring—strong swells bring large waves into the bay.

4. Kuilima Cove (Turtle Bay)

Another North Shore tourist attraction, Kuilima Cove is one of the few spots with calm waters because of its rocky barriers. This bay is perfect for beginner snorkelers. In addition to a wide range of fish species, you might also encounter sea turtles like the green and hawksbill species.

5. Three Tables

Another gem up north, Three Tables is famed for the three flat reefs exposed during low tides. Although it has a sandy beach, corals quickly fill the area as you go farther into the waters. It’s not recommended for newbie snorkelers because of the strong currents and big swells. However, many still explore the bay for its abundant marine reef life and the likelihood of swimming with the sea turtles.

 

Ready to go snorkeling at one of these tourist attractions on Oahu? Let the professionals at AM Tours Hawaii take you there. Headquartered in Honolulu, they’ve provided a range of transportation services, from bus charters to airport transfers, throughout the island for nearly three decades. Call (808) 845-5050 to request a quote, or check out their extensive fleet online.