And the rest of the time is ideal for snorkeling as waters are generally calm and you can take your time and explore. Its obvious that the winter months produce bigger waves and choppier water that may not always be perfect for beginning snorkelers, but with such a treasure trove of underwater life and experiences, youd be missing out if you dont include Oahu on your bucket list of snorkeling destinations. The islands are home to honu (green sea turtles), hee (octopus), naia (dolphins) and even majestic humpback whales during the winter months. Snorkeling for Non-Swimmers for First Time - Wailea Beach 149 Reviews Badge of Excellence Kihei, United States Share Save to Wishlist From $145.00 Lowest Price Guarantee Select Date and Travelers Check Availability Reserve Now & Pay Later Secure your spot while staying flexible Free cancellation Up to 24 hours in advance. Its possible to satisfy all of your underwater curiosities while doing something you love. Answer 1 of 21: Which place is best for snorkeling for a non swimmers and which floating device would be best? We will definitely be back! Overall, this was an amazing experience that my partner and I highly recommend!!! There is a marine life nature preserve that allows snorkelers to see up to 300 different Hawaiian fish species in the Hanauma Bay area. Turtles are the highlight here; you wont see much other wildlife (besides fish cleaning the sea turtles) from snorkeling as the reef is sandy and shallow. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. Learn about the best time to visit Oahu . I'll bet he'll be entranced by the underwater beautfy and be able to enjoy it. 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). 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! Glad to see this post because I have felt a little foolish about my fear of snorkeling. Plus, in a moment of panic a piece of coral could suffer an untimely death. I can unsubscribe any time using the unsubscribe link at the end of all emails. Aain, extremely happy with our experience, highlty recommend Im truly grateful for the gift of their talent and care. All instruction and personalized attention, 3894 Wailea Alanui Dr, Kihei, HI 96753, USA, Confirmation will be received at time of booking, Not recommended for travelers with back problems, No heart problems or other serious medical conditions, Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers. From calm bay areas perfect for beginners to more challenging spots for experienced snorkelers, here are some of the best spots for snorkeling in Oahu. If you can't swim, it could be disastrous, either to you or to any patch of coral you might try to stand on. Register and enjoy smoother booking, as well as being able to save your wish list and recently viewed activities. Lanikuhonuas Secret Beach isnt the easiest to get to but its a great option if youre looking for a turtle snorkeling adventure thats off the beaten path. People 70 years old and above can not participate in this activity. This top-rated tour quickly sells out two to three weeks in advance, so we suggest making reservations early! From all inclusive Oahu snorkeling cruises from Waikiki and Ko Olina that include a delicious lunch, to small group shore snorkeling tours, find the . Snorkeling for Non-Swimmers for First Time - Wailea Beach 138 Ratings Live Guide Instant Confirmation Group Tour E-Ticket 1.5 hr Learn about the culture as Triston paddle through the magnificent coral-sea garden of Wailea point. So put on your best snorkeling gear and dive right in! Trip itineraries for top destinations to visit around the world. Of course, if using a mask is no concern, then the suggestions above to stay in shallow water are good ones. Hanauma Bay is one of Oahu's top 3 places to visit and with around 1000 visitors per day it is one of the world's most popular snorkel destinations! Absolutely wonderful, best guides, great equipment, Very safe and comfortable for a non-swimmer. Sunsets are also phenomenal from this beach. If youre a first time snorkelers, you can trust them totally with your intro session. 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. Explore the waters of Hanauma Bay and see all the beauty that this protected nature preserve has to offer. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-32312097', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Maui once. I even find it near impossible to float! Some of the fish you might be lucky enough to see include the blue spine, unicornfish, parrotfish, and bullethead; and some snorkelers claimed to have seen rays, dolphins, and even turtles gathering here. It's also a stress reliever, taking you into an entirely different world far removed from your daily life. This helps support the website and allows us to provide free content. When are you going to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Why isn't the admission price to Hanauma Bay included in the tour cost? Oahu is one of the best places for snorkeling on all of the major Hawaiian islands and youll find some of the most pristine waters filled with fish just waiting to meet you. Suzzy Robinson on Maui can teach you how to snorkel but not swim. I want emails from Fodor's Travel with travel information and promotions. 10 Spots for the Best Snorkeling in Oahu (2023) - Wanderly After 10 minutes or so, we felt confident and ready. I have not even said anything about this to him as I'm not sure of his reaction - wanted to get info first. Then he guided us to the reefs where we saw beautiful reef and fishes. This beach has some of the best waves during the winter season (were talking 40+ foot waves) and houses some pretty famous big-surfing competitions. As a non-swimmer too, I can attest that Janis's suggestion is dead-on. Do I need to be able to swim to participate? I know how to tread water float and propel myself through the water and was able to learn how to snorkel. Spam Jam: Entertainment, food, street closures, etc. On a reputable cataman excursion, for example you will be watched over and you will not have to worry about being knocked off your feet. This curved bay and state park is known for its year-round snorkeling and convenient accessibility. ), There are places you can rent those boards with a clear bubble to see thru (Snorkel Bob's, with a location a few blocks away from Waikiki Beach, rents them for ~$25/week; other places may have them, too). Try your hand at spotting colorful fish, turtles, and even Monk seals! Minors are required to have a parent or guardian sign their liability waiver. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase through these links at no extra cost to you. 2001-2023, VELTRA Inc. All Rights Reserved. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. Your guide will remain with you the entire time to ensure your safety and comfort. Message: >I am planning on wearing my contacts with the mask - and am assuming that it is not too hard to get a mask that has a good seal - I don't want to be losing my contacts! Cannot be used on the same activity on the same date and time as the first activity, or applied to activities that have already been booked. Sharks Cove is located on the northern coast of Oahu on the Kamehameha Highway. Best Snorkeling Locations on Oahu - Hawaii Guide 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. Which place is best for snorkeling for a non swimmers and which floating device would be best? You need to be aware of the ocean conditions, how they can change in an instant and what to do if you get caught in a rip tide or swift current. Thank you for everything! Privacy Statement - At the opening of these pipes, the water is several degrees warmer than the rest of the ocean and this warmth attracts shoals of marine life. I really like to thank Ali for the quality one on one time with me due to my fear of being in the ocean because i dont know how to swim. Thank you for your support! These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. Otherwise water will seep into it and likely induce a sense of anxiety if not panic. The use of the inflatable life vest is ONLY for emergencies. 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. Any suggestions/comments on how to choose a mask would be appreciated. Would HIGHLY RECOMMEND this excursion for all qualities of snorkelers. Download your copy of our You can take this opportunity to continue snorkeling, buy a delicious lunch for the concession stand, purchase souvenirs from the gift shop, or simply relax on the beach and soak in the warm Hawaiian sun and island breezes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. I couldnt believe myself that I did it!! 12 Top Free and Cheap Things to Do on Oahu, One Week in Hawaii: The Ultimate Itinerary. We do not know how to swim. Located on the west side of Oahu and about 5 minutes drive north of Ko Olina Resort, this beach should top your itinerary if you want an exceptional snorkeling experience. None of us know how to swim. On our trip in 2009 a couple of us actually got into the little manmade area by Waikiki Beach. I am not a strong swimmer and don't float well, but I love to snorkle. This place is only accessible by boat, so youll need to book an excursion with one of the snorkeling tour companies in the area. The guide were phenomenal. (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! Advanced Reservations For USS Arizona Memorial. Experience snorkeling for the first time Swim with Hawaiian green sea turtles and tropical fish Explore the beautiful reef at Wailea Beach Full description Discover the marine biodiversity of Hawaii without knowing how to swim with this snorkeling tour that is designed for beginners. Underwater visibility may be affected in the winter months when the waves are more prevalent, but the rest of the year should feature ideal conditions. 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. You have to have complete focus and awareness of your surroundings, if there's even a slightly strong current a wrong move could mean your life. Hanauma Bay is a very special place. snorkeling for non-swimmer - Honolulu Forum - Tripadvisor We snorkeled til we were too tired to go on! But now that the word is out, this secluded little cove is getting more popular by the day. Today. Perhaps you could take a few swimming lessons at your local Y? A pristine section of Kailua Beach on Oahus east side, Lanikai is widely known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Where do I Find the Legal Vacation Rentals? With a maximum of six guests, you will be sure to have a safe and memorable snorkeling experience as you explore the calm and protected waters of Hanauma Bay, and your guide will take you to the best locations to see tropical fish, Hawaiian green sea turtles and other marine creatures. Great coaching for first time. We will be back.. Great experience they took such care of us specially my mom who is way afraid if water! This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. 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. House/Condo in January, 7 days, 6 adults and two preschooler. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-88621911', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');the Big island), and the crew not only provided her with lots of flotation devices, they also got in the water with her. family looks forward to more snorkeling. I'm willing to take it because of my years and years of swimming experience in all kinds of waters, but not knowing how to swim would increase those risks exponentially. that being said, snorkeling is literally my favorite activity on earth, take some classes, log plenty of swim hours at local pools and you'll be much more prepared. 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. Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. Thanks, Dan! Book one activity and receive a coupon for {{string_target}} off your second activity. Kaena means the heat in Hawaiian, and the beach is located on the northwestern tip of Oahu, in Ka'ena Point State Park. There are also people all around you who could help if you became nervous. It'll help you get used to the claustraphobic feeling many get. Snorkeling for Non-Swimmers for First Time - Wailea Beach - Viator There is public parking available for all four lagoons from sunrise to sunset that is first come-first served, or you can pay for valet parking at one of the resorts (like the Disney Aulani Resort). For first time snorkelers I would recommend Hanauma Bay on Oahu. Advertising - 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. Located in Pupukea between Waimea Bay and the Banzai Pipeline, this spot has been a local north shore secret for years. All the proceeds for the admission price into Hanauma Bay goes back to the State of Hawaii for the upkeep of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Generally shallow, protected coves. Snorkeling in Oahu Hawaii with Kids "Can we go there! We saw two turtles, a moray eel, a tuna tornado, And more fish than you can imagine. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. A. Check out our great reviews and join us for a bucket list manta adventure. This was so fun! We've been to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? A snorkel tour will be your best option. You can only add up to 10 items in the list. Try practicing in the pool where you are staying to learn the breathing. Summer Vacation in Hawaii - Fun Things to Do on Oahu! This is by far the best way to spot a variety of fish species, dolphins, and turtles. Maybe he'd get the bug and feel braver about trying a mask and snorkel. A riptide or current could put you in harms way before anyone else really notices. Hanauma Bay is closed to the public on Wednesdays & Tuesdays. Note: youll need to wade your way through some rocks before getting to this beach so its not ideal for families with younger kids. Mahalo! Book an exclusive Hanauma Bay guided snorkeling tour with an expert local guide and explore the best snorkel locations at Oahu's number one snorkeling beach. 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. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-32313812', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');cruise with a reputable company. snorkeling for non-swimmers? - Honolulu Forum - Tripadvisor Learn more My family are meseramized at my ability and love of snorkeling and yet being unable to swim. Your guide will be right by your side as explore the many coral reefs that are home to a number of tropical Hawaiian fish and even green sea turtles. One of the most unique spots on the island, Kaneohe Sandbar is best accessed by boat or kayak (you can even SUP there on a calm day). Is there anything like that on Oahu. 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. A vest and fins will also help the urge to put your feet down, stand, and bend over to look. Especially during the summer months, Oahus waters are warm and inviting for snorkelers that means you won't need a wetsuit, and dont forget the reef-safe sunscreen! I really enjoy it and am amazed at what can be found under the water - a whole new world. Professional Quailty. 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. Save your money. She was very patience with me and her singing makes you feel so calm and relax such a beautiful voice. We did the non-swimmers snorkeling trip. Can I come along even if I don't want to snorkel? My daughter-in-law uses a boogie board. The ocean is a living thing and ocean related incidents are the greatest cause of deaths for tourists. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Dolphins hang out here early in the mornings sometimes, as well as tropical fish, turtles and even monk seals. Hawaii Activities is a registered trademark of VELTRA, Inc. [EN_50112_183602, EN_50112_160160, EN_50112_192279, EN_50112_184473, EN_50112_200488]. Which is better Chiefs or Polynesian Cultural Center Luau? Never snorkel alone (its more fun with a buddy, anyways!). Great for both kids and adults, this tour includes transportation, snorkel gear, and more! Instructors / guides are all friendly and patient. We took our family of 4, parents and teens, 200+ pounds, novice level swimmers to learn/relearn how to snorkel. 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. Participants are required to sign a liability waiver at the time of check-in. I can't imagine being in the ocean without knowing how to swim - dog paddle & float at least. As I did this over and over, it became easier, and then I tried taking a breath. I found a place where I wasn't around a lot of people or reef, and. Plus, in a moment of panic a piece f coral could suffer an untimely death. Unique Experiences - Big Island of Hawaii, Kalaupapa National Historical Park Tours & Tickets, Iao Valley State Monument Tours & Tickets, Hana Lava Tube (Ka'eleku Caverns) Tours & Tickets, Puaa Kaa State Wayside Park Tours & Tickets. Look out for our newsletters with travel tips and special offers. During the tour, your guide will do their best to take professional photos throughout the tour, and if available, they will be posted on the company Facebook page for you to download. If you really want to try snorkeling, don't do it from a beach. Shoot for a weekday because weekends get super busy and parking can be impossible. Our instructor Alleys guidance , singing was outstanding during the tour. It was frightening for her to have her face in the water while breathingshe panicked and couldn't get over that feeling. The beach is not usually crowded, but surfers do come from around the world in winter to experience some massive waves. Everyone was so nice. We saw lots of beautiful fish and lovely coral! This is our first time snorkeling and they gave us individualized attention depending on each persons skill and comfort level. Youll mostly see tropical fish and turtles feeding off the reef here, though some people are lucky enough to spot an eel. Snorkeling in Oahu is a great form of exercise, boosting your cardio health, flexibility and overall fitness level. Bring cash! This snorkel tour in Oahu might just be what the doctor ordered. Ko Olina Marina, 92-100 Waipahe Pl, Kapolei, HI 96707-4293, USA. The beaches are beautiful, and the water is clear and calling you. http://community.webshots.com/user/lordbalfor, http://www.alohafriends.com/BI_by_ocean.html, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Hanauma Bay Park admission is. Ocean conditions change with the seasons. Plus, theres no lifeguard. In fact, youll probably have trouble keeping track of all the different kinds of fish you see! If you are wearing fins and get into trouble with your mask or mouthpiece, you have to bring your feet under in order to stand up. A protected marine conservation area since 1967, Hanauma Bay is one of the most popular snorkeling destinations in Oahu and its easy to see why. They are super friendly very knowledgeable. Chinatown, Historic Honolulu and Aloha Tower self walking tours, Hawaii Down Memory Lane (Hawaii in the Past), The Official List of Legal Vacation Rentals on O`ahu, Hotel In Waikiki Outrigger Reef VS Outrigger Waikiki Beach. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. Chieko was energetic, caring, and knowledgeable. Just be sure you let the operators know you are a non-swimmer! Cookie Notice Awesome!! Maui: Snorkeling Tour for Non-Swimmers in Kihei | GetYourGuide Contact Us - We also optioned for the personal video, it came out great. This is one of the most popular beaches and the best snorkeling locations in Oahu because of the amazing array of aquatic life beneath the surface. Guests with heart and cardiovascular issues are not permitted to participate in this activity. I almost chicken out but I am glad I didn't, I would have missed so much!!!!! I would recommend this experience to anyone. But trust us, its worth it. The instructor was fantastic! In the summer, however, the beach completely transforms into calm waters perfect for swimming. Go with a company that participates in the Dolphin Smart Program like Ocean Joy Cruises. My Splash was fantastic. Snorkeling Maui | Shoreline Snorkel | Lahaina, Hawaii 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. There are lots of fish (even in very, very shallow water). Web Visit website. You don't need to be a great swimmer at Hanauma Bay, just confident in the water. If anyone has suggestions regarding specific companies on any of these islands, I would appreciate the info. You can also spot tons of fish, whales during season, turtles, eels, and rays in these waters. I just wanted to add an option. Don't know about. It was just great! New boat designed for great night time manta adventure snorkel. 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 ? If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. I would still like to give it another try while I am in Maui in another 6 weeks:. Its worth getting a video and also we saw different species of fish, reef and a turtle. With beautiful scenery and plenty of fun in the sun, visiting Hanauma Bay is a must-do activity on . Any changes 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. Hanauma Bay Snorkeling - The ULTIMATE Visitors Guide The hosts were very kind with working through any fears in the water and also pointed out and brought up cool sea creatures. Get ready for the best Oahu snorkel tour! If its canceled because the minimum isnt met, youll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. She wasn't in for very long, but did get to experience some snorkeling in a very safe way. Despite its small size, this cove boasts an impressive amount of coral and all of it is incredibly vibrant and healthy. 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. Snorkeling for non swimmer - Oahu Forum - Tripadvisor Coral flats make up much of the bottom, with large rocks scattered around and a multitude of different fish species. Divers would submerge and look for the natural sponge in order to trade and make a living. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. Please submit your request upon booking. On the Big Island, a good place for beginners is Kahalu'u Beach just south of Kona. Hanauma Bay is prefect for this. Our first true snorkeling experience and it was absolutely amazing. Youll be swimming with more sea turtles than you can count! Hanauma Bay is a very special place. I know how to tread water float and propel myself through the water and was able to learn how to snorkel. The current is strong, so getting in and out can be a workout even if the surf looks small. How about taking swim lessons at the Y? This beach gets its name from three giant flat-top, table-like coral reefs that are just 50 feet offshore and can sometimes be spotted from the bay at low tide. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-88621788', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Oahu? 3 Chi's you'd be surprised how many non swimmers are taken on snorkel boats and tours. Hanauma Bay Beginner Snorkel Tour with Expert Guide & Waikiki Transportation, Please click here for the Hawaii State Holiday Schedule. Can't you take swim lessons at a local YMCA or community center? Just like most beaches on the north shore, Waimea Bay is best explored during the summer months when ocean conditions are less rough. All the proceeds for the admission price into Hanauma Bay goes back to the State of Hawaii for the upkeep of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. . Dan and Chieko were great hosts and guides. A. Hanauma Bay is closed to the public on Wednesdays & Tuesdays. I went on the guided snorkeling tour with my 11 year old daughter, both of us have limited swimming experience. Kahe Point Beach Park is situated on the southwest corner of Farrington Highway on the west shore. Good luck, and let us know how it turned out for you! This was our first time snorkeling and it was the best experience to learn and gain confidence. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Full guides on the top bucket list travel destinations to inspire your wanderlust! Legend has it that the lava shoreline on the western tip is where the souls of Hawaiians would jump off into the spirit world to go meet their ancestors. I always have to do this because of my moustache. I have seen many non-swimmers go in the water safely from the boat, always with a board and flotation vests. She was on a snorkel boat trip ((ta && ta.queueForLoad ? So in addition to the beautiful reef, youll see lots of tropical fish, eels, and even turtles! The water around Kahe Point is warm from a nearby power plant, which draws a plethora of exciting aquatic life to the area. Oahu's Top Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Oahu's Best Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. The bay is protected on one side by a huge rock that extends into the ocean, making the waters very calm and clear. Life jackets can save your life but they aren't good for snorkeling because they keep your face out of the water. We saw turtles and tons of fish. 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. The staff were professional, enthusiastic, with great energy overall.
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