It should be to no surprise that we are defenders of Hawaii, supporters of Oahu and advocates of Hawaii Kai. We’re here to let the people know what’s happening because we want everyone to enjoy the things we love!
Every now and again Hawaii Kai Towne Center puts on a festival on the marina. At the end of the month Hawaii State Federal Credit Union is presenting an event called Mele on the Marina. On Saturday, August 25, Hawaii Kai Towne Center invites you to enjoy local entertainment and culture. This free community event will begin at 3pm on the marina docks.
Hālau Na Maka O Ka Lauaʻe starts us off with a performance, followed by musician Mike Tulba. The Makaha Sons will then take the stage at 6pm with a show you will not want to miss.
With more than 50 stores, restaurants and dining option, Hawaii Kai Towne Center has something for the entire family to enjoy. Follow them on Facebook to stay updated on community events and specials.
Here at Hanauma Bay Snorkeling we’re all about community. Whether that’s the Hanauma Bay community, the Hawaii Kai community or the community of Oahu. We want to see our island thrive and we have a platform to do it. Visit our Home page to learn more about how we contribute to our community. Aloha!
Sweet home Hawaii Kai! Yes, we spend a lot of time on the east end of Oahu. Truth is, when we’re not at the office (our office being Hanauma Bay) we’re probably never more than a few miles away. We encourage visitors to make a day of Hawaii Kai — below are five reasons why.
Are you even surprised? Hanauma Bay holds a special place in our hearts. Explore Hawaii’s underwater wonders — you won’t believe your eyes!
The Koko Crater Trail, known as “Koko Head” to locals, is your stair-master with a view. With over 1000 steps to the top, this hike with test your endurance and strength then proceed to reward you with a complete view of Hawaii Kai.
Halona Blowhole is one of Oahu’s many natural wonders. When currents are strong and the ocean is rough, big waves will send water through the blowhole creating geysers as high as 30 feet. If watching the blowhole isn’t something that interests you, take a spot on the sand at the cove adjacent. Halona is keiki (child) friendly and worth the visit.
This hike is among the most memorable on Oahu, and for good reason! Be prepared to over look Makapu’u Beach, the windward coast, and neighboring islands Moloka’i and Lana’i. If you take the trail at the right time of year, you may even be able to see some whales passing by too!
We could not leave out our favorite snack store in Hawaii Kai! Kokonuts is a great place to stop for a quick, refreshing treat after hours in the Hawaiian sun. Here you can find shave ice, ice cream, bubble drinks, candy, açaí bowls, snacks, beverages and more! Open daily at 10:30a, you can count on Kokonuts to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Hawaii Kai is not short on fun, that’s for sure. In fact, we could probably name ten more things to do while in the area, but we’ll spare you the read. We do suggest, however, getting out there and exploring the town for yourself. Let us know what you find, leave your HK discoveries in the comments below. And remember, if Hanauma Bay is on your list, give us a call to help make that happen.
School is out, Summer is here and we’re pumped for what the next couple of months have in store — BEACH DAYS GALORE! There are few essentials when it comes to the beach — sun screen, water and (our personal favorite) food! Rather than packing a bag of chips or roll of crackers, grab some of local snacks instead. Below is a list of our top 4 local beach snacks.
POKE
The Hawaiian word poke (poe•kay) translates to “slice” or “cut crosswise into pieces”. Today poke is a popular local dish of sliced and marinated fish, tako, or shellfish. You can buy poke by the bowl at most grocery stores in Hawaii, we love Foodland’s flavors. But be sure to bring a cooler with you, the meat should be kept on ice while at the beach (that is if you make it to the beach without eating all of it on the way there!).
MANAPUA
Manapua is Hawaii’s version of the Chinese char siu bao. The word manapua is actually short for mea ʻono puaʻa meaning “delicious pork thing”. And that’s exactly what they are, pork-filled buns packed with flavor. We suggest your manapua be eaten warm — let them bake by your side and enjoy!
SPAM MUSUBI
Spam musubi is a local take on the Japanese ongiri, rice balls wrapped in seaweed. Make your own with three simple ingredients: rice, spam and nori (seaweed wrap), or grab a handful at your nearest 7-11. The comfort of rice alongside the saltiness of spam makes the ultimate snack for a day at the beach.
MALASADA
A malasada is a Portuguese pastry, deep-fried and rolled in granulated sugar. The rich, fluffy inside and crispy outside never fails to hit the spot. Need we say more? Our go to bakery for the perfect malasada is Leonard’s. Give ‘em a try, we promise you will not be disappointed.
There it is — 4 drool-worthy snacks for your next beach day! We hope you enjoy these treats as much as we do. We’re obsessed with everything about the ocean and love that these snacks make our days spent on the beach that much sweeter! So what are you waiting for? Get to planning!
Sun exposure is important. Ultraviolet rays activate our body’s natural production of Vitamin D. Here at Hanauma Bay Snorkeling Adventures, weʻre all about soaking in the sun. It should not go unsaid, however, that too much unprotected exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause skin damage, eye damage, immune system suppression, and skin cancer. It is also very important to make sure that weʻre taking the necessary steps to remain protected from over exposure. Below are 4 everyday sun protection tips.
First, coat your body in sunscreen before you put on your clothes. Dermatologist Jeannette Graf says that “working around your clothes [while slathering on sunscreen] will make you more likely to miss a spot”. Graf is specific in using the word slather when describing the style in which to apply sunscreen of SPF 30 or more. She recommends applying a shot glass’s worth of sunscreen to our bodies and another teaspoon of sunscreen to our faces.
Next, shy away from using old bottles of sunscreen. Here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel Adventures we try to keep it fresh. With each new summer comes a new bottle of sunscreen. There are active ingredients in sunscreens which lose their vigor as time passes, so be sure to check your expiration dates regularly.
Third, always have sunscreen on hand. Dermatologists offer samples of sunscreens which are great for sticking in your purse or keeping in your car. You never know when you or someone else is going to need a squirt.
Lastly, don’t leave your scalp out of the sunscreening process. You can buy a scalp-specific tube at your local drugstore or you can grab a spray-on sunscreen that’ll do the job just the same. Whenever in doubt of this last step, wear a hat.
We are committed to keeping our customers satisfied and safe here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel Adventures. Protection from the sun is as important as being able to explore the world underneath it. Call us to book an underwater excursion complete with snorkeling gear, transportation and lots of sunscreen!
Hawaii is a magical paradise filled with nature and unparalleled views. It’s surreal to think that we get to call this place home. Below are our top seven natural wonders of Hawaii — we’ve been to some and we’re hoping to visit others.
1. OHELO GULCH, MAUI
These fresh water pools sit on the lower slopes of Haleakala. The 7+ pools, which are powered by small waterfalls, are located about ten miles south of Hana in Haleakala National Park. It’s a two-mile hike to the pools, and an even further trek to the 400-foot Waimoku Falls.
2. HANAUMA BAY, OAHU
Of course Hanauma Bay made the list! Our very own Hanauma is both a marine life conservation property as well as a nature preserve. Visitors to the bay are expected to see over 100 different kind of species in just one visit alone. The abundance of sea life makes it a popular snorkeling destination, but also a chance to educate both visitors and kama’aina (locals).
3. HALEAKALA, MAUI
Haleakala, translated from Hawaiian to English as ‘house of the sun’, stands 10,023 feet about sea level and is unsurprisingly Maui’s highest peak. It is said that one is able to see up to three neighboring islands when the skies are clear.
4. DIAMOND HEAD, OAHU
This volcanic crater is, arguably, Hawaii’s most recognized wonder. Pictured on almost all Hawaii postcards, this 150,000-year old monument was given the name ‘Diamond Head’ by sailors who believed the calcite crystals in the slopes of the mountain to be diamonds.
5. WAIMEA CANYON, KAUAI
Known as the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’, this iron-rich, 14-mile long wonder, owes its beauty to a massive land collapse off of Mount Waialeale about four million years ago. Over time the rainwater from the Waimea River gradually turned the black lava rock to an assortment of reds. This is one of the wonders we have yet to see.
6. NAPALI COAST, KAUAI
The breathtaking views, endless ocean, deep valleys and luscious green mountain cliffs make this 17-mile stretch of coast one of our favorite places in the state. Off-limits to any vehicles, one is able to hike the 11-mile trail that ends at the hallowed Kalalau Beach. While those that choose to abdicate hiking cannot get to the coast by car, all are welcome to enjoy the wonder by boat or up in the air.
7. VOLCANOES, HAWAII ISLAND
We’d be out of our minds not to include the Volcanoes National Park as part of our list. What’s there to say about a fiery display of Pele (goddess of fire). Her volcanoes are fierce and beautiful while at the same time leaving you all-fearing to the power of Hawaii. We can’t help but feel in awe each time we visit.
Oahu is home to some of the most popular, picturesque lookouts in the state. Below are a just a few to add to your ‘go-see’ list.
NUʻUANU PALI LOOKOUT
If the windward coast of Oahu is what you’re longing to view, then the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout should stand as your first go-see. Its 1200-foot pali (Hawaiian word for “cliff”) makes the view of the Ko’olaus surrounded by the warm blue Pacific Ocean breathtakingly unforgettable.
DIAMOND HEAD LOOKOUT
Diamond Head, also known as Kaimanahila, is easily the most popular lookout in all of Oahu. Though the hike to the summit lacks shade, the view — which includes all of the south shore, Pearl Harbor to Kahala — is absolutely insane, and so worth it.
MAKAPU’U LOOKOUT
Makapu’u is one of the few roadside vista points on the island. Next time you’re driving through Hawaii Kai and into Waimanalo cast your eyes across the beautiful east shore of Oahu.
HANAUMA BAY LOOKOUT
Sure, we’re suckers for anything Hanauma. We consider ourselves extra lucky to be able to call Hanauma Bay our work office. But we have to admit that as beautiful as the views are under water, so are the sights from the ridge.
TANTALUS LOOKOUT
Mt. Tantalus, also known as Pu’u Ualaka’a, gifts a perspective unlike any other. Visit during the day for a picnic with a view, or unwind with a front row seat to the sunset and Honolulu City Lights.
We know this list holds just a fraction of the vista points on the island, but, if you haven’t been to any and you’re an Oahu first-timer — this list is a great place to start. Don’t forget to give us a call when you’re ready to complete your trip with an adventure at Hanauma Bay. Hanauma Bay Snorkel is here to help you create a memorable visit to our beautiful islands.
Hawaii basically has one season all year long – summer. With summer comes sunshine and full days spent at the beach. And if we’re being honest, there are a few issues that come the beach that we could gladly do without: getting sand everywhere, dropping your phone in the water, and losing your keys in the sand are just a few. Below are thirteen beach gadgets that are sure to keep your beach days cool, calm and collected.
CGEAR SAND-FREE TOTE
First on our list is CGear’s Sand-Free Tote. This tote is a total pro at keeping your things in and letting the sand out through the bottom and sides. At just $28 on Amazon, this purchase really is a no-brainer.
ITZY RITZY WET BAG
Next up is the leakproof wet bag from Itzy Ritzy. Sitting in a wet suit on the way home from the beach is equally as bothersome as having no place to put your soaking suit after taking it off. With sealed seams and a lead-free zipper, carrying your wet suit home is made simple with this $14 wet bag.
JOTO WATERPROOF CASE
This JOTO waterproof case prevents water damage to your phone while allowing you to maintain full touch screen functionality. This Amazon best seller fits most phones up to 6 inches diagonally and can be yours for just $7.99.
HYDROFLASK 32OZ WATER BOTTLE
Hydroflask water bottles keep your icy drinks cold for up to 24 hours, perfect for a sweltering day in and out of the water. Trust us when we say this water bottle is worth the splurge of $44.95!
SPORT-BRELLA UMBRELLA
One of our biggest beach-peeves is when our beach umbrella topples over on us after twenty minutes of anchoring it into the sand. Enter Sport-Brella Umbrella, $48 on Amazon. This genius invention is one part umbrella, one part tent and one part canopy, anchored to the ground in six different points and stands 8-feet around for maximum coverage.
We hope this little list of gadgets make your next beach day a greater success. Remember that not all beach days should be spent on the shore. Give us a call to book your next underwater adventure, complete with snorkel gear and transportation to Oahu’s premier snorkeling location, Hanauma Bay!
Here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel Adventures we are complete snorkel enthusiast, snorkel nerds really. And it’s easy for us to assume that you all love snorkeling as much as we do. But if we’re totally honest, most of the world hasn’t even give two thoughts to giving snorkeling a try. If you’re on the fence on whether you’d even want to try snorkeling, let these six reasons convince you that snorkeling is always a good idea. Who knows – by the time you’re done reading the post, you may have your bags packed and your snorkel face on.
IT’S AN UNDERWATER EXPERIENCE
Ever wondered what it feels like to be underwater? Let us tell you – it feels as if you were flying. Sure, we’ve never flown before, but, being underwater has you feeling as weightless as weightless gets. Once you’ve mastered your breathing and your buoyancy control, you will feel as if your body is levitating.
THE CORAL REEFS ARE BREATHTAKING
Brain-like coral, mushroom coral, noodle coral, fan coral, the list goes on and on. Coral reefs are some of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, housing thousands of marine species! Be prepared to be amazed by the many shapes, colors and textures of coral reefs.
ALL THE FISH
At Hanauma Bay alone you are guaranteed to see more than one hundred different fish species. Some travel in schools and others alone. You will be familiar to some fish while others will complete take you by surprise.
IT’S GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH
Yes, snorkeling is a lot of fun, but it also helps to improve breathing patterns and serves as a decent cardio exercise.
NO EXPENSIVE EQUIPMENT REQUIRED
At the very minimum, a face mask and a snorkel are the only two pieces of gear required to adventure underwater. We recommend fins if you plan to snorkel in an area where the currents are strong.
CONNECT WITH NATURE
By the end of your snorkeling adventure, you will have realized how beautiful and peaceful the ocean truly is. We’re convinced that you will fall in love with the ocean and leave with a better understanding of why it’s so important that we take care of it.
There you have it – six reasons to give snorkeling a try. Here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel Adventures, we offer transportation and gear rentals to make your experience that more enjoyable! May the new year bring you a new hobby – SNORKELING! Mele Kalikimaka and Hau`oli Makahiki Hou, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Its calm, blue water, white sands and cocktail of sea life make Hanauma Bay the prime Oahu spot for snorkeling. Although you can expect to see about 110 varied species on your underwater excursion, below are four fish that are guaranteed to make an appearance.
The Kikakapu, known as the Threadfin Butterflyfish, is first on our list. With a black and white body and bright yellow fins, it’s hard to miss in the ocean’s light blue backdrop. Most Kikakapu run about 9 inches long and are seen in ocean depths that run from 1 to 115 feet.
The Na`ena`e comes in a close second. The Na`ena`e, or Orangeband Surgeonfish, is an oval-shaped and brightly colored fish that tends to linger near tropical reefs like our very own Hanauma. These surgeonfish reach lengths from 6 inches to 15.
Kihikihi or Moorish Idol is another brightly colored fish that you are sure to spot. The distinctive appearance, similar to that of an angel fish, has a protruding snout and small fins. Kihikihi prefer shallow waters and flat reefs.
Lastly we have the Ta`ape, otherwise known as the Blueline Snapper. The color of this fish is its most diagnostic feature. Especially when spotted in the ocean, the back and sides of the fish are a bright, almost fluorescent, yellow. They tend to travel in large schools and in shallow waters.
The list of underwater life you are sure to see at Hanauma Bay goes on and on. It’s just another reason why we have the best job in the world. We get to help people discover and experience the beauty that lies under the sea. Give us a call to book your excursion, complete with gear and transportation today!
Snorkeling is a sure way for travelers to experience the best of all worlds. The relaxing hobby offers beautiful, vibrant seascapes without the costly gear and training that scuba diving requires. Naturally, we are huge snorkel enthusiasts and want to ensure everyone’s snorkeling experience goes as smooth as possible. Below are six tips we find are helpful to both beginner and advanced snorkelers.
- Lather up: Sunburns can be very damaging to our bodies and deliver both immediate and long-term effects. We recommend applying an SPF 30+ before starting your underwater adventure.
- Floating around:If you don’t have the stamina to stay in the water for a long time, consider using a float jacket. They’re also very helpful in snorkeling spots where currents can be swift.
- Hydrate:Most snorkeling adventures take route in places where the sun is strong and dehydration is common. Even if you’re immersed in water, its salt content will drain your skin of its moisture. Be sure to bring a water bottle on your excursion.
- Keep your distance: Give marine life their space, remember you are in their home. Maintain a safe distance from both the animals and the coral reef and do not touch.
- Steamy moments: Snorkeling masks fog up because there is (usually) more heat on the inside of the mask as compared to the outside. To prevent some degree of fogginess, rub saliva onto the inside of your mask before rinsing and proceed to positioning it on your face.
- Don’t be touchy:Resist the temptation to pocket a pretty souvenir shell or seemingly dead sea star—it’s not ecologically sound, and it could even be illegal.
We hope these tips help to create a more memorable snorkeling excursion. Here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel we’re advocates for experiencing the underwater world at least once in your life. Be sure to give us a call or schedule a reservation right here on the website to book an adventure with us!