Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Hanauma Bay Information

Since becoming a major attraction in the 1980s, Hanauma Bay has faced challenges related to overuse. Visitors, often unaware of the fragile marine ecosystem, inadvertently damaged reefs by trampling them and leaving litter. To address this, the Marine Education Center was opened in 2002 at the bay's entrance. All visitors must watch a short educational video on conservation before accessing the beach, emphasizing the importance of not touching marine life or coral.

Hanauma Bay Advisory - Plan Accordingly

Hanauma Bay rates for non-residents have increased; see below. Advanced reservations are highly recommended.

A steep, paved path leads to the beach, taking about 10 minutes to walk. For those who prefer not to walk, a shuttle service is available at 75 cents down and $1 back. Snorkeling equipment can be rented on the beach, and lessons are available. Amenities at the entrance include food options, a gift shop, and shower facilities. To secure a parking spot and avoid crowds, it's best to arrive early or mid to late afternoon, as the area becomes very crowded after 9:30 am.

Fees and Operating Hours

• Admission Fee: $25.00 per person for visitors (increased from $12/person as of July 1, 2021). Children under 12, active military personnel, and Hawaii residents with valid ID are exempt.
• Parking Fee: $3.00 per vehicle. Parking is limited and fills up quickly. 
• Operating Hours: Wednesday through Sunday, 6:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The last entry is at 1:30 p.m., and the beach is cleared at 3:30 p.m. The park is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays to allow the fish a day of feeding without interruption by swimmers.

All visitors, regardless of previous viewings, are required to watch an educational video in the theater upon each visit to Hanauma Bay.

Directions

Take Kalanianaole Highway (H1/72) from Honolulu east of the city. Look for signs to Hanauma Bay and turn sharply right onto Hanauma Bay Road.

Contact Information

• Address: 7455 Kalanianaole Hwy, Honolulu, Hawaii
• Phone: (808) 396-4229 
• County Website: https://www8.honolulu.gov/dpr/hanauma-bay-nature-preserve/

Geological and Cultural History

Hanauma Bay was formed approximately 32,000 years ago during the Honolulu volcanic series, resulting in a tuff ring crater that later flooded to create the bay. The area lacks a freshwater supply, so it wasn't inhabited by ancient Hawaiians. However, archaeological findings, such as fishing tools, indicate that the bay was used as a recreational area by Hawaiian royalty (aliʻi) for fishing and games. It also served as a navigational lookout point for safe passage between Oahu and Molokai.

Over the years, Hanauma Bay has been featured in various films and television shows, including "Blue Hawaii," "Paradise, Hawaiian Style," "Tora! Tora! Tora!," "Hawaii Five-O," and "Magnum, P.I."

Today, Hanauma Bay stands as a testament to successful conservation efforts, offering visitors a chance to experience Hawaii's vibrant marine life in a protected and educational setting.