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.
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.
Itʻs not often that weʻre dishing event details on our blog, but when we do itʻs because weʻre excited for whatʻs coming. 2019 is in full effect and we want to get things off to a solid start here at Hanauma Bay Snorkel Adventures. As mentioned in this post from August 2017, “we are defenders of Hawaii, supporters of Oahu and advocates of Hawaii Kai.” Another event is coming up right here in our hometown and we want you all to be in the know!
This month the Hawaii Kai Towne Center is putting together a community spotlight called 96825 Live and we’re excited about it. On Friday January 25th bring the entire ohana to enjoy performances from Ka Hale I O Kahala Hula School and the Hawaii Kai Dance Academy. Performances will take place on the marina docks at 5 and 6:30pm.
96825 Live is an event that will bring the talent of the community into the spotlight. Be prepared to witness Hawaii Kai’s very own artists, musicians, dance groups, school groups and more. Grab some food, pop up a couple of chairs and discover what makes Hawaii Kai so special at this free and family-friendly event at the Hawaii Kai Towne Center.
From nationwide brands to local businesses, Hawaii Kai Towne Center is East Oahu’s leading retail destination and community gathering place, guaranteed to have something for the whole family.
Follow Hawaii Kai Towne Center on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HawaiiKaiTowneCenter and Instagram @hawaiikaitownecenter for more event listings and updates.
Do you know of any other events coming up in the community? Let us know in the comments below. We’re always up for supporting this beautiful place and it’s people. And for any of you wanting to explore Hanauma Bay’s underwater community, give us a call — we’re experts when it comes to snorkeling and adventuring the bay!
Christmas is right around the corner, and with it comes gift giving to the people you love most. If you are in the market for a present for the beach goer in your life, stay tuned. We’ve got 6 gift ideas just for you!
SAND AND WATER RESISTANT BEACH MAT
No body likes a wet, sandy butt. Enter this sand-free, dual layer mesh technology, waterproof beach mat. This mat is easy to clean and dries instantly, we call it absolutely necessary for families with small children. It folds small and is easily transferable, making it the perfect gift for the especially spontaneous beach goer.
Rather than piling on the slippers, beach totes and random rocks, gift these anchor clips to someone who’s towel is always blowing away. Simply clip them to the corners of your towel, stake them into the sand and enjoy the beach without worrying about your towel folding over. We highly suggest these cute and affordable clips from Amazon.
No matter how much you love the beach, no one wants to take it home! This mesh beach tote is a must for any beach lover. Carry everything you need to the beach and leave with nothing more. Keep the sand where it belongs!
This waterproof case fits all phones up to 6.0” diagonally. This case may also provide protection for your ID, credit cards, cash money, keys and other small essentials. Allow your beach lover to maintain full screen functionality while out in the water. This case even comes with a neck strap for convenient carrying.
This bamboo pair of sunglasses is lightweight, polarized, durable and stylish — a beach goers dream. And because these glasses float in the water, he or she will never have to worry about losing them! We often talk about the importance of protecting our skin from the sun that we sometimes forget that our eyes need protection as well.
This portable safe is made to withstand everything that comes with a day at the beach. Its water resistant design and durability keeps your belongings, including your phone, jewelry, car keys and wallet, all in one place and safe to ensure maximum beach fun.
We hope our list of gifts for the beach goer in your life will help you out during the Christmas crunch time. We are so grateful for all of you, and would like to wish you all a Mele Kalikimaka and Hau’oli Makahiki Hou!
Like anywhere else you visit, Hawaii has its own group of unwritten rules. Such rules are a guide to local behaviors as well as ways of respect and safety. Below is a condensed list of rules we live by here in Hawaii. Enjoy!
• There’s no need to use your car horn unless you’re trying to alert someone of an emergency. Blasting your horn out of road rage and frustration will not endear you to the locals.
• Give authentic Hawaiian food a shot. Before adding salt, pepper and sugar to your Hawaiian cuisine, let your tastebuds do the judging. Trust us on this one.
• We use two directions here on the islands — mauka (to the mountains) and makai (to the sea).
• Please remove your shoes before entering someone’s home. This is a sign of respect here in Hawaii.
• It is a great gift to receive a lei. Please accept your gift with a hug and honi (kiss).
• Never go to a dinner party empty handed. Your gift need not be huge, it truly is the thought that counts.
• Please do not touch the sea turtles. Sea turtles are an endangered species and your touching could result in a hefty fine or worse, jeopardizing their safety. Instead, appreciate their beauty from a few feet away.
• Pick up your trash. We locals take great pride in the beauty of our home and do all that we can to keep it clean.
• Acknowledge acts of kindness, both big and small. Whether you’re on the road or at the mall. A smile and “mahalo” go a long way!
There you have it, friends — a small list of rules to study before visiting Hawaii, this beautiful paradise we’re lucky enough to call home. If you haven’t payed the state a visit yet, we highly recommend it. (Yes, we’re biased.) Contact us to make the most of your vacation.
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!
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.