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So put on your best snorkeling gear and dive right in! ;). Anyhow, I wanted to snorkel so bad!! In the summer, however, the beach completely transforms into calm waters perfect for swimming. The bay is protected on one side by a huge rock that extends into the ocean, making the waters very calm and clear. All Rights Reserved. I am a strong swimmer and more than once have been injured by waves pushing me into rocks, plus being not able to regain my footing. The ocean is a beautiful, but powerful and unforgiving environment. If its canceled due to poor weather, youll be offered a different date or a full refund. In fact, Turtle Canyon is known as the cleaning station where endangered Hawaiian green turtles come to have their shells cleaned by small fishes. Q. For more information about your privacy and protection, please review our full. On the Big Island, a good place for beginners is Kahalu'u Beach just south of Kona. http://www.civilbeat.org/projects/dying-for-vacation/. In addition to a stunning bay, theres a beautiful beach park behind Makaha Beach with astounding views of the landscape. Please submit your request upon booking. Get there EARLY or the place WILL be full as Hanauma Bay is VERY popular. Would highly recommend to anyone who is new to snorkeling and is looking to start in a guided manner. After registering, I can manage my newsletter subscriptions by visiting my Profile Settings page. If you can't swim, it could be disastrous, either to you or to any patch of coral you might try to stand on. After your guided snorkel tour, enjoy an hour of free time at Hanauma Bay. Transportation is provided from Waikiki hotels only. But trust us, its worth it. No, you do not need to know how to swim and flotation devices will be provided. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. That does not come easily to some people even though they can swim well. The reef here is a favorite spot for the areas turtles to come clean, feed and relax. Some of the rocks in the cove can be sharp, so wearing reef shoes or fins is recommended. Does anyone know of a shallow area for snorkeling in Maui? Your guide will remain with you the entire time to ensure your safety and comfort. The use of the inflatable life vest is ONLY for emergencies. Guests who are pregnant are not permitted to participate in this activity. Participants are required to sign a liability waiver at the time of check-in. Download your copy of our Swimming with sea turtles, beautiful fish, coral, and sea urchins was magical. For more information, please see our Also located in Pupukea not too far from Three Tables, Sharks Cove has been the North Shores best-kept secret for years. The entire Kailua Bay is a protected feeding ground for the endangered honu, so expect to see a turtle or two munching seaweed off the rocks dont forget to keep your distance! All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. Do I need to be able to swim to participate? Divers would submerge and look for the natural sponge in order to trade and make a living. The activity provider does not assume any responsibility for your valuables and/or personal belongings. A. Hanauma Bay is closed to the public on Wednesdays & Tuesdays. Experienced participants will be able to quickly enter the water explore the shallow areas. I didn't want the fins, as I didn't feel in control with them on. Q. Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. It is unfortunate, but if you can't swim don't snorkel. Just be sure his mask fits well. I know, it's kinda hard to snorkel without having your face in the water :), I have several non-swimmers in my family, so I understand where you're coming from. 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! As I did this over and over, it became easier, and then I tried taking a breath. Which is better Chiefs or Polynesian Cultural Center Luau? We had a wonderful experience as a Non swimmers. The reef at Wailea Beach is great. Sharks Cove is located on the northern coast of Oahu on the Kamehameha Highway. If you really want to try snorkeling, don't do it from a beach. Just a word of cautionmy Mom can swim and enjoys being in the water, but could NOT snorkel. If its canceled because the minimum isnt met, youll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. None of us know how to swim. I tried one of those once, while learning to snorkel and couldn't see a thing through it!! Great for both kids and adults, this tour includes transportation, snorkel gear, and more! To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. You can rent equipment there at the beach and it has a shallow entry and lots of fish and sea turtles. At first it was just for a second or two before I felt like I would hyperventilate. She was very patience with me and her singing makes you feel so calm and relax such a beautiful voice. document.write(new Date().getFullYear()); Made with by Wanderly, 11 Best Hotels in Waikiki for Couples That Won't Break the Bank, 17 Must Eat Places in Oahu: Where to Find the Best Food, Best Area to Stay in Oahu for First Timers, 17 Fun Things to Do in Oahu When It Rains. Choose from the best Oahu snorkeling with top rated Oahu snorkeling tours, and explore the ocean waters of Honolulu, Turtle Canyon in Waikiki, Sharks Cove on the Oahu's North Shore, Electric Beach on the west side of Oahu, and Magic Island Lagoon. I have not even said anything about this to him as I'm not sure of his reaction - wanted to get info first. In addition to a stunning bay, there's a beautiful beach park behind Makaha Beach with astounding views of the landscape. Any suggestions/comments on how to choose a mask would be appreciated. And the rest of the time is ideal for snorkeling as waters are generally calm and you can take your time and explore. 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). As a non-swimmer too, I can attest that Janis's suggestion is dead-on. 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. Guests with exhaustion are not permitted to participate in this activity. Hanauma Bay is a very special place. Of course, if using a mask is no concern, then the suggestions above to stay in shallow water are good ones. Your first. Today. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase through these links at no extra cost to you. Shark's Cove is known for diverse marine life and rock formations under the surface, which makes it one of the absolute best and most interesting snorkeling locations in Oahu. Oahu Tourism Oahu Accommodation Oahu Bed and Breakfast Oahu Holiday Rentals Oahu Holiday Packages Oahu Flights Oahu Restaurants Oahu Attractions Oahu Travel Forum Email: shorelinesnorkel@gmail.com Cancelation policy - 10 days or more before 100% refund. NO ONE should be in the ocean if they can't swim, esp doing something like snorkeling. Dolphins hang out here early in the mornings sometimes, as well as tropical fish, turtles and even monk seals. Excellent experience, we had such a great time. It'll help you get used to the claustraphobic feeling many get. What is the Manager's Reception at Embassy Suites? A. Ride-alongs are welcome, but must pay the same rate as regular snorkelers. Many beaches do not have them. http://community.webshots.com/user/lordbalfor, http://www.alohafriends.com/BI_by_ocean.html, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. The activity schedule is subject to change or cancellation due to weather or traffic conditions. We will be there for 5 days/5 nights. Chieko was energetic, caring, and knowledgeable. Use google maps on your phone and search for "Public Parking for Wailea beach access". Snorkeling can be traced back thousands of years, with divers using hollow reeds as snorkels and little else in the early days. Mahalo! If youre looking for a truly unique way to experience marine life, try booking a snorkeling cruise along the Waianae Coast. We did the non-swimmers snorkeling trip. I've snorkeled twice now, and both times, this is what I did: I got a snorkel mask and tube. If you are visiting for the very first time or have been here before, keep reading to discover the best snorkeling locations in Oahu. How many? Guides were excellent for our diverse family of swimmers. Snorkeling appeals to people from all walks of life, and since Hawaii is the dream vacation destination for so many of us, the combination is irresistible. Highly recommend, especially got kids who need a little extra patience! Located within the Ko Olina resort area (between Sacred Beach and Paradise Cove Beach) this natural cove is protected from the ocean and a great place for beginner snorkelers. Thanks everyone. Not to mention, its an incredibly fun and relaxing experience! ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-32311754', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Hawaii several times. I found a place where I wasn't around a lot of people or reef, and. This was our first time snorkeling and it was the best experience to learn and gain confidence. If you can't swim, it could be disastrous, either to you or to any patch of coral you might try to stand on. Answer 1 of 21: Which place is best for snorkeling for a non swimmers and which floating device would be best? The four protected lagoons that front the beach are perfect for a calm snorkel sesh for children and beginners. One thing to try to get your confidence up before venturing into the ocean is trying it out in a swimming pool. Also known as Electric Beach because of the electrical plant that shoots warm water into the sea that the ocean life loves, Kahe Point is best left for advanced swimmers. We will be visiting Oahu, BI, and Maui. Snorkeling in Oahu Hawaii with Kids "Can we go there! We got to see turtles coral sea urchins and some colorful fish. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experiences start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded. Getting in and out of the water can be very tricky because there are lots of sharp lava rocks that can cause cuts, so be sure to wear water shoes. Learn about the best time to visit Oahu . :) My mom isn't a swimmer; she was a good sport when we took her out on a kayak/snorkel trip on (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Youll also have to pay an admission fee of $7.50 that goes towards conservation and watch a short video on reef safety before heading down to the beach. A riptide or current could put you in harms way before anyone else really notices. I would still like to give it another try while I am in Maui in another 6 weeks:. The instructor was fantastic! Ko Olina Ocean Adventures - Catamaran Sail & Snorkel Tour Take an approximately three-hour sail around Oahu, enjoying the sights and stopping at two top snorkeling spots to swim with sea. All visitors will be required to watch an educational video in the theater before entering Hanauma Bay, but you will not have to wait in the entrance line. Give it a try, under supervision, and you never know, you might even enjoy it. Kuilima Cove is just over an hour drive from Honolulu airport, on the Kamehameha Highway. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Once you arrive at the snorkeling spot, he will stop the board and gear you up for snorkeling. Hanauma Bay is closed to the public on Wednesdays & Tuesdays. Hi Laura, I agree with what Billy jo says. A. This helps support the website and allows us to provide free content. We had a fantastic family first time snorkeling together. Dynamite was used to clear away parts of the reef in 1956 so telephone cables could be added to link Hawaii with the mainland. After your pick-up, head straight to Hanauma Bay and skip the long entry lines with your guide as you make your way down to the ocean. Besides, it would be frightening for you. It breaks the coral and gives you NASTY cuts on any unprotected surface. Rays and turtles frequent this area, as well as the usual suspects like tropical fish. ?" Driving up to the North Shore of Oahu towards our rental for the week, we heard this exclaimed from the backseat several times. Swimming with turtles in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. Standard Package Adult/Child (Age 6-70) USD 90.00 Privacy Statement - Privacy Policy. In the summer, north shore waves are more manageable and south shore can get larger swells. Want to be carefree and be one with the ocean? This place is excellent for a family with kids as they can swim safely and wade about in this open-air aquarium. wading about about waist deep, just practiced putting my face in the water. Learn more Thank you to everyone for making this the best family vacation ever! 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 ? But thanks to our super skilled instructor Triston who made me feel safe and comfortable. Snorkeling here was the only unpleasant part of my Oahu vacation, so much so that my husband rewarded me with a trip to the spa. This tour is recommended for people 6 to 70 years old. I'm not quite a non-swimmer, but it's certainly not one of my strong points. My family and i had a great time and had an amazing experience with Ali and Triston. 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. Are prescription snorkel masks available? Awesome!! Would HIGHLY RECOMMEND this excursion for all qualities of snorkelers. It was just great! The sand is white, and the water is clear, which makes Kuilima Cove ideal for both beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. Overall, this was an amazing experience that my partner and I highly recommend!!! It's really hard for anyone to understand who doesn't have the same phobia. The tour guide has full discretion to refuse service to customers based on attire, behavior, physical fitness and condition. With a maximum of four people, youll spend some time talking about snorkeling theory, then head to the shallows to practice with some flotation devices. Please click here for the Hawaii State Holiday Schedule. This top-rated tour quickly sells out two to three weeks in advance, so we suggest making reservations early! Off shore snorkeling in an open ocean for non swimmers can make for a disaster. A better choice would be to take a snorkeling (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Get our travel tips Delivered to your inbox. The instructor was great, made us feel safe and overall had a very good experience. Nicknamed Turtle Canyon by the Waikiki tour companies, this spot is a reef off the coast of Waikiki Beach only accessible by boat. We saw so much sea life and swam with 3 sea turtles! That said, its important to note that this spot is best left for avid swimmers and snorkelers as it involves a long swim through strong currents. It's a whole new world under there! Bring cash! Youll mostly see tropical fish and turtles feeding off the reef here, though some people are lucky enough to spot an eel. Thanks so much for all the encouragement! Just off the coast of Waikiki, youll find the Turtle Canyon reef and if snorkeling with turtles is on your bucket list, this is the place to go. This snorkel tour in Oahu might just be what the doctor ordered. Once you arrive at Hanauma Bay, skip the line and head straight into the theater to watch a brief video about the conservation efforts at Hanauma Bay. If youre a first time snorkelers, you can trust them totally with your intro session. Come experience the beauty of Hawaii's most popular snorkeling destination - Hanauma Bay Park! If anyone has suggestions regarding specific companies on any of these islands, I would appreciate the info. Our instructor Ben was amazing, he worked with our family including my son and daughter making them feel comfortable. It gets rough during the winter months here as well, and there is no lifeguard, so its best just to enjoy the view from outside the water when the waves are big. Note: youll need to wade your way through some rocks before getting to this beach so its not ideal for families with younger kids. Save your money. :). This beach is part of the Pupukea Marine Life Conservation District, which prohibits fishing around this area. They will keep you safe. I tried it in shallow water where I could stand first to get the breathing down and now I use a "noodle" just so I don't have to worry about floating, I can just relax and look down at the wonderworld under the water. I have to agree with the poster who said to go out on a boat snorkel trip. Hanauma Bay Beginner Snorkel Tour with Expert Guide & Waikiki Transportation, Please click here for the Hawaii State Holiday Schedule. Oahu Tourism Oahu Hotels Oahu Guest House Oahu Holiday Homes Oahu Holiday Packages . :). She wasn't in for very long, but did get to experience some snorkeling in a very safe way. Here is everything you need to know when it comes to snorkeling at Hanauma Bay! I have never swam at all not even in a pool. Try practicing in the pool where you are staying to learn the breathing. Waimea has full facilities with a lifeguard, bathrooms, showers, parking and changing areas (if the parking is full, try across the street at Waimea Valley). Hawaii Activities is a registered trademark of VELTRA, Inc. [EN_50112_183602, EN_50112_160160, EN_50112_192279, EN_50112_184473, EN_50112_200488]. Its not your average snorkel tour they take luxury and comfort to the next level aboard a 50-foot yacht. (it injures the coral and can give you a nasty cut, too), Otherwise, an aquarium might be more suitable for you - my family loves those! Kahe Point Beach Park, often referred to as Electric Beach is a great place for the more adventurous snorkelers out there. In 40+ years of marriage, I have only been able to get him into the water at Sanibel island, where he could walk waaaay out Conlet, now that I have an idea about your age, let me ask you if your husband wears glasses. Tip: You can use a little petrolium jelly along the edges of the mask to make a better seal and help prevent leaks. We've updated both travel guides with a lot of new great information for potential visitors (and those who've been a time or two as well). I always have to do this because of my moustache. None of us know how to swim. Thank you for everything! Ko Olina Marina, 92-100 Waipahe Pl, Kapolei, HI 96707-4293, USA. Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews. You'll enjoy a fun-filled day snorkeling in crystal-clear water, spotting sea turtles and colorful fish along the way. No trip to Honolulu would be complete without visiting this vibrant and spectacular treasure. A. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Dont let the name fool you Sharks Cove isnt known to contain sharks (except for perhaps a couple of tiny white-tipped reef sharks). Maybe he'd get the bug and feel braver about trying a mask and snorkel. Don't know about. My husband isnt a swimmer. I've never snorkled before but plan to on my visit to Oahu in March. Mahalo! Allie not only got me out in the water in my life jacket but even out of it!!! A vest and fins will also help the urge to put your feet down, stand, and bend over to look. It's also possible to snorkel wearing a lifejacket; a friend of mine who was even more nervous than I am did this, with some success. We spent some time in the shallows and then went to deeper parts of the bay. "Hanauma bay is very shallow - I could stand up almost everywhere". Good luck, and let us know how it turned out for you! The park offers lovely space for relaxing on a grassy area lined by palm trees. Its a beautiful beach for lounging, which makes it a perfect options if not everyone in your group wants to get in the water. This nature preserve is home to a wide variety of marine life, making it a great spot for snorkeling. I thought I won't have much fun coming to Maui not knowing how to swim but the team makes sure my friends and I feel as comfortable as possible. Any cancellations made after 12:00 local time, 5 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. Going to Hawaii on vacation when you are a non-swimmer seems like going to Vail and you don't ski or Hershey PA and you don't like chocolate. Just like most beaches on the north shore, Waimea Bay is best explored during the summer months when ocean conditions are less rough. Hanauma Bay is the number one spot in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? How about taking swim lessons at the Y? We would love to go with them again on a different adventure when we return to Maui. Im truly grateful for the gift of their talent and care. Answer 1 of 19: Hi all, My sisters and I are planning to visit Oahu for the first time. While you can absolutely experience the Waianae Coast by snorkeling off the beach in Makaha (check the surf report first, it can get choppy), the best way to see wildlife in this area is by boat. I wear contacts (the hard type - since I have severe astigmatism). Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. Try your hand at spotting colorful fish, turtles, and even Monk seals! John, the manmade part I talked about is I think what you're referring to. The key to safe, enjoyable snorkeling for a non-swimmer is to find a fairly shallow, reef-protected location that will offer calm, clear water where you can put your feet down and stand up anytime you feel the need. There is parking and public restrooms available, but make sure not to leave any valuables in your car. This site contains affiliate links. Plus, I also wear glasses and Shark's Cove is pretty much surrounded by a lava grotto, so I had to walk over that to get to my glasses on the sand. Turtles, fish, small sharks and dolphins enjoying hanging out by the warm water coming out of the pipe, which you check out to on the right side if youre a strong swimmer.