Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve in Oahu, Hawaii is a true tropical paradise offering golden sands, pure blue waters, and opportunities to get up close and personal to over 400 different species of fish.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve was formed inside a crater, more specifically a volcanic cone. Found on the southeast corner of the Island of O'ahu, the name "Hanuama" literally translated to mean "curved bay".
With over three million visitors every year, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is one of the most popular of all of Hawaii's beaches. As such, the parking lot tends to be full by mid-morning. When this occurs, no more cars are admitted to the beach and a sign is placed on the side of the road letting potential visitors no that no one else will be admitted to the beach for the day. Nonetheless, it is still possible to take a bus and then to walk to the park rather than drive.
Due to the popularity of the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, visitors are better off coming in the early morning before the park is full or in the mid-afternoon after the early morning visitors have left.
While waiting for spots to open at the park, there are other sites that visitors can see. One of these is Makapu'u, which offers panoramic views and a large aquarium. The Makapu'u lighthouse, which is believed to have the largest lighthouse lens in the United States, can also be found here.
Before entering the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, all visitors must watch an educational video. The primary purpose of this film is to instruct visitors to be respectful of the wildlife, particularly the green sea turtle. The video also discusses how the reef is sustained. After viewing the video, visitors are given a voucher that is valid for one year. The voucher excuses visitors from having to see the video again during that time period.
A cafeteria is located at the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Here, visitors can enjoy mainland-style food. There is also a tram service available to help transport visitors to the beach from the parking lot, as it is about a ten minute walk down a steep area to reach the beach.
One of the biggest draws to the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve in Hawaii is the sea turtles, although it is illegal to bother the turtles while visiting. Other popular activities include diving, snorkeling, and SCUBA diving. Gear is available for rent and will be certain to help make an unforgettable beach vacation.
