There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy all that Hawaii has to offer. Whether you choose to take a helicopter ride over the islands’ volcanoes or indulge in tropical cocktails on the beach, it’s hard to be disappointed in a Hawaiian vacation.
If there’s one way to enjoy Hawaii’s famed natural beauty, though, it’s through a pair of snorkeling goggles along some of the islands’ calmest beaches. These four beaches offer some of Hawaii’s best bets for checking out the local fish, coral and sea life that call the islands home.
Kee Beach Park
If you’re staying in Kauai, you won’t want to miss a chance to peer into the waters of Kee Beach Park. Beyond the views of the Na Pali coast and the stunning sunsets, Kee Beach offers calm summer waters, thanks to the reefs that keep the waves at bay. Calm waters mean smooth sailing for snorkelers, and you’ll see plenty of stunning fish and sea life as you float along.
Hulopoe
Is the island of Lanai calling your name? If so, you’ll find the isle’s best snorkeling along Hulopoe Bay, which once even earned the title of America’s best beach. Clear warm waters set the scene for superb snorkeling conditions nearly all year long (though the waters can get rough in the winter months), and the bay’s rich marine life makes for plenty to see during an afternoon of snorkeling. After your snorkeling session, stop by the beach’s tide pools to check out local critters like sea stars and hermit crabs.
Pupukea Beach Park
On the island of Oahu, Pupukea Beach Park’s swimming area known as Shark’s Cove is one of the most scenic spots to dip into the waters and see the flurry of fish that live along the coast. During low tide, the waters reveal tide pools where you can get a nice look at sea urchins, crabs and other local critters.
Papohaku Beach Park
Head to the island of Molokai for Hawaiian snorkeling without the crowds at Papohaku Beach Park, one of the state’s longest beaches at three miles long. For the best snorkeling conditions, make your way to Papohaku in the early morning hours when the tides are at their calmest; then you can enjoy the idyllic sands in the afternoon.
(Main image: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA)/Tor Johnson)
