The beauty of Hanauma and the residents that live within are the reasons we snorkel. We haven’t had a fish spotlight in a while, but this month we’re going back to the basics and highlighting one of our favorite Hanauma Bay locals – the surgeonfish!
When it comes to the worldwide surgeonfish population, there are over 80 different species, 25 of which live within Hawaiian waters. While these gorgeous fish are found in a variation of colors, they all have the same basic anatomy. They have two spines, one on each side of their bodies that normally lay flat in tight grooves. When the fish is provoked, or in a time of danger, it will flip its tail to reveal its spines that pop out like tiny knives. Those knives resemble a surgeons’ scalpel, therefore giving them the name “surgeonfish”.
Surgeonfish feed on algae and can usually be found near rocks that receive a lot of filter sunlight. You typically find them in shallow waters of the coral reef, grazing either in small groups or alone. You will rarely fine them in large schools.
Depending on their specific specie, they can grow to be as large as 22 inches, making them some of the easiest fish to spot in the bay. The largest surgeonfish found in the local area is the Yellowfin Surgeonfish. These fish will eat most types of algae available and average a length of 21 inches. They have a light tan body with yellow pectoral fins and markings around the eyes. While their size is substantial, they are more challenging to spot because of their light color and nominal markings.
Another resident of the bay that may be a little easier to see is the Whitespotted Surgeonfish. As their name suggests, they are white and black with white spots that cover nearly two-thirds of their bodies. They are typically found where the surf is crashing, grazing on seaweed. Sometimes their spots act as a type of camouflage to resemble the surrounding bubbling water.It should be to no surprise that we are in love with Hanauma Bay and all that it has to offer. These are just a couple of the many varieties of surgeonfish that can be found at our favorite place in the world. We hope you all get the chance to experience the magic of Hawaii’s underwater paradise, and count on you to come to us to make it happen! Give us a call or book an excursion right here on the site. Aloha!
When considering snorkeling equipment, fins are usually not the first things that come to mind; however, here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel we highly recommend having a pair when exploring Hawaii’s underwater paradise. This month on the blog we’re dishing all things fin-related — keep reading to get the 411.
BENEFITS OF FINS
In most cases, fins make snorkeling easier and safer. Fins are meant to increase locomotion, and move you faster and smoother through the water. Spend less time swimming and more time exploring. They also act as a safety advantage, especially when ocean conditions turn less favorable — fins make it possible to return to a safe place quickly.
FINDING YOUR FIT
Snorkeling fins are generally flexible and light. Whether you choose adjustable or full-foot fins, both should fit snuggly without any pinching. No matter what style you decide on, we suggest giving it a quick shake test. Slip on both fins and, in all directions, shake your foot. Your fins should feel secure but not uncomfortable. If your feet feel pinched, try sizing up. Vice versa, if your fins move around when you shake your feet, size down and try the shake test again.
TECHNIQUE
Fins work their best when your kicks engage the entire leg. You should not be chopping through the water, but rather gliding. Be sure that your hips, thighs and glutes are doing most of the work, not your knees. Your body will also feel less aches and pains post-snorkel if you engage the proper muscles.
FIN ETIQUETTE
Many snorkelers tend to forget that fins add a substantial amount of length to your legs. Be aware of where you choose to stop to take a breather, adjust your gear or talk to a snorkel buddy. Chances are if you are in an upright position above any body of coral, your fins are slapping the reef. We suggest trying to stay as horizontal as possible when taking a quick snorkel break. If you have difficulty doing this, try using a flotation device (life vest, snorkel belt, etc.). Here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel we try our best to be good stewards of the reef.
Fins are designed to propel you through the water easier and quicker. And while snorkeling may always require energy, fins ensure that you expend that energy wisely. Our snorkel packages include transportation, gear and memories to last a lifetime. Give us a call today or schedule a session at the tab above.
The holidays are right around the corner, and we could not be any more excited for them. We have a lot to be grateful for here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel. We’ve got the most beautiful work place in the world and get to help others experience the magic of the bay too. We believe that snorkeling is an activity for the entire family, enjoyable for both young and old. Below are five snorkeling tips to keep your chance of accidents at a low, and your level of enjoyment at an all time high.
BE CONFIDENT
Learn to swim before heading on your snorkel adventure. Being comfortable in the water makes all the difference when snorkeling. The idea is to spend less time worrying about staying afloat and more energy towards enjoying the underwater paradise in front of you. We also believe that there should be no shame in wearing a safety vest — a safe snorkeler is a happy snorkeler.
FIND A BUDDY
We suggest finding someone with whom to snorkel. It’s always nice to have someone near by if you ever find yourself in a water emergency. Should you have to go out alone, stay close to shore. Find something on the beach to stay near to, preferably a lifeguard tower.
STAY HYDRATED
Snorkeling under the sun will quickly drain your energy, as well as your body’s storage of water. It’s always a good idea to load up on water before heading into the ocean. We also highly suggest bringing a large bottle of water to replenish anything lost while on your excursion.
SUN PROTECTION
Nothing ruins your vacation quite like a nasty sunburn. UV rays are no joke, and unfortunately many people skip the step of sun protection. You can purchase a protective rash guard for as little as $20 on Amazon, which is well worth the price, if sunscreen is not your thing. For those of you who prefer sunscreen, might we suggest using lotions that do not contain chemicals that will harm the coral reef or marine life.
LOOK DON’T TOUCH
Last but definitely not least, respect the ocean and its inhabitants. Try to remember that we are in their home. We ask that you neither touch the reef nor the creatures. While some animals prefer their privacy, others are flat out toxic. Contact with such animals could result in an emergency trip to the hospital. We hope you remember to keep a safe distance when in the ocean.
Snorkeling is a prime family activity that can be enjoyed by all — especially during this holiday season. We hope you keep these snorkeling safety tips in mind when heading out on your underwater excursion. Let us know if we can help you get your snorkel on.
For the most part, snorkeling is a very freeing activity for the whole family. Here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel Adventures we have some simple guidelines to guarantee a great time had by all. Keep reading for our short list of the do’s and don’t’s of snorkeling.
DON’T touch the coral. It may not look like it, but coral reef is a living organism that both houses and feeds thousands of underwater creatures. As snorkel enthusiasts and defenders of the bay, we ask that you try not to stand on or kick the reef.
DO use biodegradable sunscreen. Studies have shown that sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate are harmful to the reef and can contribute to coral bleaching. In general, it’s safe to stay away from sunscreens with excess oil and harmful chemicals.
DON’T interfere with the marine life. We understand that the point of snorkeling is to observe Hawaii’s underwater paradise; however, we need to remember that observe does not mean interfere. Messing with the motion of the ocean could be hazardous to both you and the animals.
DO respect other snorkeler’s personal space. Snorkeling is a rush, it’s an opportunity to see marine life first hand; but most people do not want you grabbing their arm or pulling their leg to make sure they see the parrotfish that’s two feet away from you. Everyone snorkels at their own pace, and most people need to concentrate in order to be able to enjoy their snorkeling experience.
DON’T feed the fish. Feeding the marine life can throw off the natural flow of the bay. While sharing is usually caring, we advise otherwise when snorkeling — the fish have plenty of food.
DON’T take anything with you. Aside from the belongings you brought to the beach — all starfish, rocks, pieces of coral, fish, urchins and shells should remain where they were found.
While snorkeling is a family friendly activity, there are some DO’S AND DON’T’S that ensure an incredible experience. Here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel, we are all about making memories with the people you love. Go over these guidelines with your ohana, then head to the beach. We’ll be waiting for your call!
While summer may be at itʻs tail end, the fun in Hawaii truly never stops, and lucky for us snorkeling is a year-around activity perfect for the entire family. Some parents are quick to regard it as too advanced for keiki (children), but we’re here to prove otherwise. This month on the blog we’re dishing 3 ways children benefit from snorkeling.
- SNORKELING IS EDUCATIONAL
We’d argue that children will never receive a better lesson on marine life than taking a front row seat in the actual underwater environment. Snorkeling allows you to to observe the ocean in close range. On top of the close-up education, keiki become familiar with undersea etiquette. It’s vital for snorkelers, both adult and children, to understand that while the marine life may be within reach, one shouldn’t mess with the natural motion of the ocean. Snorkeling allows children to learn to keep their distance, and respect the ocean and its many residents. - SNORKELING IS HEALTHY
Snorkeling is great for strengthening heart muscle and increasing both blood circulation and heart rate — all factors that have proven to benefit cardiovascular health. Snorkeling has also been known to lower your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and high cholesterol. We strongly believe that encouraging outdoor, physical activity — where a child is free to observe at his or her own free will — leads to a lasting healthy lifestyle. - SNORKELING DEVELOPS STRONGER SWIMMERS
Similarly to swimming, snorkeling requires you to use your entire body. While we do suggest wearing a life vest if you feel it necessary for your safety and enjoyment —floaty or not— snorkeling demands total body strength and loads of energy. As a business who cares deeply about families, snorkeling helps to strengthen and develop the same muscles your keiki use while swimming, and we consider that a massive win! Here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel safety comes first, and we believe that strong swimmers equal safe swimmers. In addition, snorkel gear eliminates the worry of not being able to breathe, and instead forces children to redirect that same energy to increase water awareness. Your body begins asking questions that focus on becoming a better swimmer— is the weight of my body evenly distributed? Am I kicking consistently? Is my body aligned?— rather than wondering when your next breath will come.
We hope this month’s blog post has convinced you that snorkeling is an activity for the entire ohana (family). Grab your keiki and head to the ocean, snorkels included. If Hanauma Bay is on your list of family snorkeling destinations, give us a call, we’d love to help you explore Hawaii’s underwater paradise.
Happy August everybody! The beauty of Hanauma Bay and the marine life that live in it are the whole reason we snorkel. This month on the blog weʻre going back to the basics with a spotlight on one of our favorite park residents— the parrotfish!
One of Hawaii’s most loved fish is in fact the parrot fish. Well known for their vibrant colors, you may also see them featured as entrees in popular meals of several restaurants in the state. Easily recognized by their unique mouth shapes, parrot fish have teeth protruding from their jaw, giving them a beak-like mouth resembling the tropical fowl that they’re named after.
Though they’re technically considered herbivores, parrotfish can be found in Hanauma Bay with diverse diets including many polyps found on the reef. Utilizing their beaks, parrotfish easily collect the organisms from the reef’s rock-like surface.
Like many species of fish the parrotfish travel in schools of varying sizes (7” to 24”). They are diurnal creatures that spend their days eating off the coral and then sleep in the security of the small cracks and crevices formed between the reef and rocks. Some parrot fish can be found secreting a mucus to deter any would-be predators.
In Hawaii you may find seven different types of parrotfish roaming the waters— stareye, yellowbar, spectacled, bullet head, regal, pale nose, and redlip.
It’s safe to say we are obsessed with the bay and all of the beauty it has to offer. We absolutely love being able to call Hawaii home and Hanauma Bay work (though it feels more like play!). We find it essential that everyone experience the underwater magic at least once in their lifetime, and hope you’ll come to us to make it happen. Book yourself a snorkeling excursion right here on the website, or give us a call to learn more about our services. Aloha!
Duke Kahanamoku was more than just the first native Hawaiian to bring he’enalu (surfing) to the United States mainland — he was the first native Hawaiian to swim competitively at an international level and will forever be Hawaii’s first Ambassador of Aloha. This month we’re shedding light on another Hawaiian Hero.
Duke Paoa Kahinu Mokoe Hulikohola Kahanamoku was born on August 24, 1890 at the home of Bernice Pauahi Bishop in Honolulu. His parents, Duke Halapu Kahanamoku and Julia Pa’akonia Paoa, were lower-level nobles whose duty was to serve the monarchy. His family moved to Kālia, Waikiki three years after he was born to be closer to extended family. Duke ended up being raised alongside his three sisters, five brothers and thirty-one Paoa cousins with the Pacific Ocean as their backyard. Little Duke attended Waikiki Grammar, Kaahumanu and Kamehameha schools before dropping out of school early to help financially support his family.
Duke’s obsession with the ocean began at a very early age. As a young child, he would swim in search of silver coins through shark-infested waters at the Honolulu Harbor. He also devoted a lot of time to Waikiki beach perfecting his swim strokes and surfing skills. His swimming abilities continued to blossom, and at the raw age of twenty-two Duke earned a spot on his first American Olympic Swimming team. He would be the first-ever native Hawaiian to compete at such a level. Duke won his first gold medal in the 100-meter freestyle and a first silver medal with the 4×200-meter U.S. men’s freestyle relay team in the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm. He also won gold medals in the 1920 Antwerp Olympics and silver medals in the 1924 Paris Olympics (alongside fellow Hawaiians Pua Kealoha and Samuel Kahanamoku).
Mainland sportswriters quickly took notice of Kahanamoku’s athletic abilities and noticeably positive demeanor, and nicknamed him “The Duke.” He decided that he would then use his athletic notoriety to bring Hawaii and its aloha-based culture into the national spotlight. Duke is best remembered for introducing the ancient Hawaiian art of surfing — a sport unheard of outside of the islands — to the United States mainland. While Duke was a swimming champion, his true passion was always surfing.
He would provide surfing demonstrations on his 16-foot koa wood, finless surfboard to both the east and west coast of the United States with the hopes of bringing popularity to the activity. In his autobiography, Duke says that surfing “leaves you rewarded with a feeling of freedom and independence while rocketing across the face of a wave.” While Duke Kahanamoku never reached his goal of making surfing an Olympic event in his lifetime, he did popularize the sport enough to have it become an important and regular part of everyday American life. Films like “Beach Blanket Bingo”, “Gidget” and musics groups like The Beach Boys were all made possible because of Duke’s cultural contribution.
While Duke was never dominated by fortune or fame, he was a natural born businessman and lent his name for a generous profit to Hawaiian and American surfing teams, gear and competition. King Kamehameha, the native Hawaiian king responsible for uniting all eight Hawaiian Islands, prophesied that “before the native Hawaiian race died out, one man would bring it fame”. Most natives believe that Duke Kahanamoku fulfilled that prophecy. Since his passing in 1968, Duke was named Surfer of the Century by Surfer Magazine.
Throughout his life Duke Kahanamoku was beloved for his sportsmanship, humble attitude, positivity and amazing skill in the water. Next year in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, surfing will make its debut as an olympic sport. We can’t help but feel emotional knowing that one native Hawaiian’s seemingly tiny cultural contribution will soon be recognized by the entire world. Today Duke Kahanamoku remains a legendary waterman, remembered by all, and an inspiration to live life with aloha.
Here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel we strive to live and share aloha, like Duke, every day. We hope that our snorkeling tours bring you memories to last a life time and leave you feeling #luckytovisithawaii.
When Hawaii Kai puts on an event that we plan to attend, we can’t help but share it with our Hanauma Bay ‘ohana. We love our community and those that make it such a special place to live. There’s a certain kind of pride that comes with living in HK, and this month we’re here to spread a little of that aloha to you!
First things first, Farmer’s Market season is fully-fledged and we think it’d be selfish to keep Hawaii Kai Towne Center’s to ourselves. Stop by the Marina Courtyard every Wednesday and Saturday, beginning at 7:30a for some local produce and goods.
In addition to the Farmer’s Market twice a week, be sure to mark your calendars for Saturday, June 29th. Mele on the Marina returns to the HKTC stage with a bang. Bring the entire family and a few foldable chairs to this free event. The magic begins at 3pm with hula performances by Ka Pā Nani ‘O Lilinoe, followed by Hālau Kawaihoa at 4pm. The Hawaiian entertainment doesnʻt stop there — catch local boy, singer/songwriter Kalaʻe Camarillo on at 5pm and Nā Hōkū Hanohano award winner Led Kaapana at 6pm. The master slack key guitarist and Grammy award nominee, best known for his unique voice and layback local style, will close the night with a Hawaiian-style performance that will surely leave you in awe and inspired. There’s a reason he entertains all over the world!
While we consider ourselves the masters of Hanauma Bay snorkeling, Hawaii Kai Towne Center is East Oahu’s number one spot for retail and dining, and is known as the all-around community gathering place. We spend quite a bit of time there and love that Mele on the Marina allows us to shop, eat and witness a little bit of aloha all in one place! Follow Hawaii Kai Towne Center on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HawaiiKaiTowneCenter and Instagram @hawaiikaitownecenter for more event listings, special promos and updates.
Know of any other upcoming community events? Shoot us a comment below, we’re honored to call Hawaii Kai home and are always up to support local.
Summer is quickly approaching, that sweet Hawaiian sun will soon be shining harder than ever, and with endless outdoor adventure comes the need to hydrate. Our bodies are primarily made of water. The human anatomy uses water in its cells, organs and tissues, in which it helps to regulate temperature and maintain bodily functions. As we breath, sweat, and digest our food, it’s important to replace the fluids in our bodies by drinking and eating foods that contain water. We’ve all been guilty of ending the day without being able to remember the last time we took a sip of water. We get it— trying to drink more water can sometimes seem..tortuous! This month we’re dishing 3 tips to drink more water this summer.
- ADD FLAVOR
There are lots of ways to add flavor to your hydration. We suggest filling a pitcher with water and steeping it with fresh fruit, vegetable slices and herbs. Play around with different combinations, we really love cucumber mint or lemon lavender. Remember: The longer you steep, the taster each sip will be. - DILUTE SWEET DRINKS
Drinks like lemonade and fruit flavored iced teas often come mouth-puckeringly sweet. In these circumstances we recommend adding an extra scoop of ice or diluting your glass with an extra cup of water. This will both satisfy your sweet-tooth and increase your water intake. - REWARD YOURSELF
I think we can all agree that being rewarded for meeting a goal is awesome. We recommend setting hydration goals and rewarding yourself after each week of completion. As you continuously fulfill your goals, increase the significance of your reward. Drink your Yes, the health benefits that come from staying hydrated should be enough of a benefit, but let’s be honest, we all deserve a little something extra every once in a while.
Water keeps our bodies in check and it’s up to us to make sure we’re getting the right amounts of it. We hope these three simple tips will help you increase your water intake this summer. We need to do what’s best for our bodies to allow ourselves the opportunity to make the most out of life. Whether that opportunity is exploring Hawaii’s underwater paradise or spending quality time with family and friends — give yourself that choice! Stay hydrated and give us a call to book your next Hawaiian snorkel adventure.
Sustainability has become a topic of conversation in America over the past decade. People are looking for ways in which they can take care of the planet, and we could not be more on board. Here in Hawaii, we call the concept of respecting the land mālama ʻāina. What better way to celebrate Earth Day on April 22 than by showing your aloha for the world to which billions of human beings call home.
Native Hawaiians have always considered sustainability best, and lived in ahupua’a to execute that approach. As director and founder of Hoʻokipa Network, Puanani Rogers best explains ahupuaʻa as “an ancient [Hawaiian] concept of resource use and management based on families living in a division of land that connects the mountains to the reefs and the sea.” While we don’t live by ahupuaʻa in this modern day, we still greatly benefit from the land. Mālama ʻāina means to nurture the land always so it may continuously sustain life for us now and in the future. Below are 3 ways to mālama ʻāina today!
- REDUCE REUSE RECYCLE
We can minimize our carbon footprint and care for the land by reducing the amount of waste we create. We suggest examining what you are using, and what you use it for. In other words— purchase with purpose. At all costs, try to create multi-uses for one item. Rather than buying a coffee maker and a cappuccino maker, purchase a coffee pot that gives you the option to do both. This eliminates both the amount of production as well as the amount of packing material. Instead of buying paper napkins, invest in reusable ones. Remove your name from paper mailing lists that disinterest you, or opt for a paper-free version. Avoid using “disposable” anything, because while we immediately rid such trash from our homes, it is still waste to the environment. Repurpose old mason jars to store loose items or pens. Donate old clothes to charity and check second-hand stores before purchasing new. We are believers in the recycling process, we support transforming old things into raw material to shape new items. - SUPORT LOCAL BUSINESS
Locally owned businesses usually require less transportation for goods. These shops are typically set up in a town or city center near you as opposed to requiring major development. This generally results in less city congestion, less natural habitat loss and less pollution. Studies also show that local businesses help to strengthen the economy of that same community. All in all, shopping local leads to a healthy
‘āina, and healthy ‘āina results in happy people. - TEACH THE KEIKI
If we can instill an ‘āina-based mindset into our keiki (children), that is to care for people and our planet, we can assure a happy and healthy future. Teach your children about recycling, teach them of the responsibilities we have as human beings, teach them about how our decisions affect nature. By encouraging mālama (care) towards land, ocean and air, we will strengthen the relationship between the earth and its inhabitants. It’s as simple as the Golden Rule itself— treat others the way you would want to be treated— with love and respect.
Native Hawaiians have known it all along— if we care for the land it will continuously provide. Reduce, reuse and recycle to keep your carbon footprint at a minimal. Support local business for community and economical longevity. Teach your children about the earthly responsibility we have as human beings. We hope you remember to mālama ʻāina today and everyday. We only have one planet earth, and it’s up to us to take care of it.