If you’re looking for an adventure that’s out of this world, you’ve found it. Snuba is an awesome mix of snorkeling and scuba diving, allowing you to explore the underwater world without having to learn how to swim or dive.
There are many places to try snuba in Hawaii, but these are the top destinations. Plus, I’ll let you know what to expect on each trip so you can pick the adventure that’s right for you.
In this post we'll cover:
- 1 Exploring Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park on the Big Island
- 2 Snorkeling in Oahu’s North Shore
- 3 Exploring the Fabulous Honolua Bay on Maui
- 4 Exploring Makua (Tunnels) Beach on Kauai
- 5 Exploring the Marine Life of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve on Oahu
- 6 Turtle Town – Maui
- 7 Exploring Poipu Beach Park on Kauai
- 8 Things to Consider Wit Snuba in Hawaii
- 9 Conclusion
Exploring Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park on the Big Island
The Perfect Spot for a snuba Adventure
- Take a boat ride on the calm waters of Kealakekua Bay and keep an eye out for Hawaiian spinner dolphins doing their thing.
- Hop out and snuba with turtles, eels, reef sharks, and rays.
- Pack a picnic lunch and sit near the monument of British explorer Captain James Cook.
Where to Find It
- Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park is located 12-miles south of Historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona) in south Kona.
Snorkeling in Oahu’s North Shore
Where to Find It
Head to Haleiwa Boat Harbor for some of the best snuba in Hawaii!
What You’ll See
Get ready to explore the underwater world and hang out with some of the coolest creatures in the sea:
- Galapagos sharks
- Tiger sharks
- Sandbar sharks
- Hammerheads
- And sometimes even whale sharks
No need to worry about becoming lunch, these creatures won’t be chomping on you!
Exploring the Fabulous Honolua Bay on Maui
Where Is It?
It’s 10 miles north of Lahaina along Hwy 30, so you can’t miss it!
What’s the Scene?
This marine conservation area is a must-see for any ocean lover. You’ll find:
- Butterflyfish
- Snapper
- Puffer fish
- Unicorn fish
- Sea urchins
- Epic surf breaks
Exploring Makua (Tunnels) Beach on Kauai
Weird Rock Formations and Coral Heads
If you’re looking for a snorkeling spot that’s out of this world, Makua (Tunnels) Beach on Kauai is the place to be. You’ll find all sorts of weird rock formations, coral heads, and tunnels that’ll keep you entertained for hours. Look out for goat fish, hogfish, filefish, green sea turtles, moray eels, trumpet fish, and wrasse. Just make sure to avoid winter when the waves can get a bit wild.
Where to Find It
Makua (Tunnels) Beach is located on Kauai’s north shore, just off Highway 560, about a mile west of Hanalei Colony Resort. It’s also near Haena Beach Park.
Who Is It Suitable For?
Makua (Tunnels) Beach is suitable for all levels of experience. Just remember to not step on the coral!
Also read: these are the best snuba spots in Kauai
Exploring the Marine Life of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve on Oahu
Where is it?
Oahu’s east side is home to the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, a volcanic crater filled with a variety of fishy friends. To get there, take the H1 Freeway until it becomes Kalanianaole Highway, then drive 10 miles until you reach the entrance at the top of the hill.
What to Expect
- Get there early for good parking – it’s a popular spot!
- Explore the crevices and caves and make friends with damsel fish, squirrel fish, porcupine fish, and trumpet fish.
- Be prepared for crowds – it’s a wildy popular spot!
Turtle Town – Maui
What’s the Deal?
It’s no surprise why they call it Turtle Town! Just off the coast of Maui’s southern shore lies a series of underwater lava formations created by submarine volcanoes, providing a safe haven for the endangered sea turtles. But that’s not all – you’ll also find angel fish, moray eels, and octopuses!
Where is it?
You’ll find Turtle Town at Maluaka Beach, south of Kihei, near the Makena Beach and Golf Club.
How to Experience it?
If you’re looking for a unique way to start your day, why not check out Turtle Town with Maui Snuba?
Exploring Poipu Beach Park on Kauai
What You’ll Find
- A sandy spot to rest and relax, plus an awesome lagoon with shallow water for the kiddos.
- Monk seals chillin’ on the shore and humpback whales during whale season.
- Snuba opportunities with blue parrotfish, sea cucumbers, and the state fish of Hawaii, the humuhumunukunukuapuaa.
Where to Find it
It’s located 25 minutes west of Lihue on Kauai’s south shore.
Things to Consider Wit Snuba in Hawaii
Don’t Go Alone
- It’s always best to bring a buddy when you’re snuba’ing in Hawaii. Even if the weather and water conditions look perfect, you never know when a rogue wave or undercurrent might hit.
- Plus, it’s always more fun to explore the ocean with a friend.
The Marine Population Loves Structures
- Fish, turtles, and other aquatic life love to hang around structures like coral, lava rocks, and manmade items. So if you want to see a lot of marine life, make sure to snuba around these structures.
Timing is Everything
- Make sure you time your snuba adventure right. You don’t want to miss out on the best marine life because you showed up too late or too early.
Bring the Essentials
- Don’t forget to bring bottled water, food, and snacks with you. Concession stands are rare on most beaches and they’re usually pretty expensive.
Stay Calm
- Remember, snuba isn’t about swimming, it’s about floating. So just kick when you need to and save your energy.
Respect the Ocean and its Inhabitants
- Don’t stand on coral reefs – they’re not rocks, they’re living creatures! Corals, fish, and turtles are all part of Hawaii’s reef habitat, so make sure to show them some respect.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Hawaii, snuba diving is the way to go! With its combination of snorkeling and scuba diving, it’s the perfect activity for those who want to explore the depths of the ocean without having to be a certified diver. Plus, you get to see some of the most beautiful marine life Hawaii has to offer. So, don’t be SHY and take the plunge! Just remember to bring your underwater camera and a smile, and you’ll be sure to have a SPLASHing good time!
