If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experiences start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded. 3 Chi's you'd be surprised how many non swimmers are taken on snorkel boats and tours. What is the leeward side vs. the Windward side of Ohau? Waimea has full facilities with a lifeguard, bathrooms, showers, parking and changing areas (if the parking is full, try across the street at Waimea Valley). What are the issues about kayaking and swimming with dolphins? Book an exclusive Hanauma Bay guided snorkeling tour with an expert local guide and explore the best snorkel locations at Oahu's number one snorkeling beach. He encouraged us and told us we had all day if needed. Thanks guys. Kuilima Cove is just over an hour drive from Honolulu airport, on the Kamehameha Highway. We saw lots of beautiful fish and lovely coral! Would HIGHLY RECOMMEND this excursion for all qualities of snorkelers. Get our travel tips Delivered to your inbox. Nevertheless, when we were on the BI a few years ago I really wanted to try it. Snorkeling for Non-Swimmers for First Time - Wailea Beach 149 Reviews Badge of Excellence Kihei, United States Share Save to Wishlist From $145.00 Lowest Price Guarantee Select Date and Travelers Check Availability Reserve Now & Pay Later Secure your spot while staying flexible Free cancellation Up to 24 hours in advance. Answer 1 of 13: Aloha . Besides, it would be frightening for you. Check out the Holokai or Makani catamarans for a great deal on a Turtle Canyon snorkeling tour. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-32313812', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');cruise with a reputable company. With a maximum of six guests, you will be sure to have a safe and memorable snorkeling experience as you explore the calm and protected waters of Hanauma Bay, and your guide will take you to the best locations to see tropical fish, Hawaiian green sea turtles and other marine creatures. Meeting point is at the bench tables near the shower and restroom area at Wailea beach public parking entrance. Get there EARLY or the place WILL be full as Hanauma Bay is VERY popular. Does anyone know of a shallow area for snorkeling in Maui? whilst i would think i'm a good swimmer, i get mini panic attacks if i get caught in a rip or get scared so when we went to hanauma bay, we got life jackets and we didn't mind and we found it safe when we were snorkelling. He was always besides us. It doesn't matter how shallow the water is or how near the shore, shallow water can actually increase the chance of drowning if you are a non swimmer. Off shore snorkeling in an open ocean for non swimmers can make for a disaster. What to wear: Swimming suit, towel, reef-safe sunscreen, change of clothes. Do Not Sell My Personal Information -, Fodor's may use your email address to send you relevant information on site updates, account changes, and offers. The four protected lagoons that front the beach are perfect for a calm snorkel sesh for children and beginners. This is one of the most popular beaches and the best snorkeling locations in Oahu because of the amazing array of aquatic life beneath the surface. Sunsets are also phenomenal from this beach. Dan picked us up and we talked with him quite a bit. Shark's Cove is known for diverse marine life and rock formations under the surface, which makes it one of the absolute best and most interesting snorkeling locations in Oahu. The hosts were very kind with working through any fears in the water and also pointed out and brought up cool sea creatures. While you can absolutely experience the Waianae Coast by snorkeling off the beach in Makaha (check the surf report first, it can get choppy), the best way to see wildlife in this area is by boat. (She stayed in the boat while we snorkeled! Advertising - The beach is not usually crowded, but surfers do come from around the world in winter to experience some massive waves. All visitors will be required to watch an educational video in the theater before entering Hanauma Bay, but you will not have to wait in the entrance line. Just be sure you let the operators know you are a non-swimmer! The use of the inflatable life vest is ONLY for emergencies. Sorry let me clarified, I meant a place where there is like a tour or an assistance that will swim with a non swimmer while floating. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Archive - Please submit your request upon booking. Would HIGHLY RECOMMEND this excursion for all qualities of snorkelers. Children 6 years old and above can participate in this activity. I kept doing this until pretty soon I was more aware of what was going on under the water - I could see, and even breathe! I even find it near impossible to float! Ride-alongs are welcome, but must pay the same rate as regular snorkelers. Not referring into going to the ocean solo when I don't even do that in a pool haha. Highly recommend, especially got kids who need a little extra patience! The reef is teeming with colorful fish of all shapes and sizes. Q. If you are wearing fins and get into trouble with your mask or mouthpiece, you have to bring your feet under in order to stand up. Don't go to the beach. Is there anything like that on Oahu. Cyndi was a first-timer; in fact, can not swim. I have never swam at all not even in a pool. Tigger - Of course. I know how to tread water float and propel myself through the water and was able to learn how to snorkel. It is also closed for commercial tours on weekends and state/federal holidays. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. Thanks, Dan! Good luck, and let us know how it turned out for you! A. From calm bay areas perfect for beginners to more challenging spots for experienced snorkelers, here are some of the best spots for snorkeling in Oahu. I can unsubscribe any time using the unsubscribe link at the end of all emails. Highly recommend them. On Oahu, the ocean conditions can change at a moments notice, so its important to always listen to lifeguards and use common sense. I went on the guided snorkeling tour with my 11 year old daughter, both of us have limited swimming experience. I couldnt believe myself that I did it!! After 10 minutes or so, we felt confident and ready. The first was at Shark's Cove at Pupukea Beach. 3) Practice in a pool, tub or wherever w/snorkel gear before arrival. The only entrance to Hanauma Bay is off Kalanianaole Highway on the east side, and parking is available for $1 per car or you can take a shuttle just dont try to go on a Tuesday when they close the whole park (to give the reef a break). Oahu's Top Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Oahu's Best Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. Answer 1 of 21: Which place is best for snorkeling for a non swimmers and which floating device would be best? This snorkel tour in Oahu might just be what the doctor ordered. If youre lucky, you might even spot the Hawaii state fish, humuhumunukunukuapua'a (reef triggerfish). With so much aquatic life in one of the most pristine settings in the world, it's easy to see why so many people continue to flock to Oahu each year to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Oahu Tourism Oahu Accommodation Oahu Bed and Breakfast Oahu Holiday Rentals Oahu Holiday Packages Oahu Flights Oahu Restaurants Oahu Attractions Oahu Travel Forum There is parking and public restrooms available, but make sure not to leave any valuables in your car. For more information about your privacy and protection, please review our full. Scan this QR code to download the app now. I'm not quite a non-swimmer, but it's certainly not one of my strong points. Don't know about. This top-rated tour quickly sells out two to three weeks in advance, so we suggest making reservations early! I tried it and was amazed and delighted. Has anyone on the forum who does not swim done snorkling on the islands? One of the most unique spots on the island, Kaneohe Sandbar is best accessed by boat or kayak (you can even SUP there on a calm day). This power plant is what makes Kahe Point Beach one of the most unique snorkeling spots on the island.It outpours water inshore through huge cooling underwater pipes. Drinks and meals are available for purchase. We got to see turtles coral sea urchins and some colorful fish. Snorkeling here was the only unpleasant part of my Oahu vacation, so much so that my husband rewarded me with a trip to the spa. If you go to Maui first, do that. This is our first time snorkeling and they gave us individualized attention depending on each persons skill and comfort level. Parking Fees Hotels & Resorts & Resort Fees All Islands, Alternative Parking Waikiki, Free Travel Planners for Hawaii & each island. The guide were phenomenal. Any suggestions/comments on how to choose a mask would be appreciated.<. I thought I won't have much fun coming to Maui not knowing how to swim but the team makes sure my friends and I feel as comfortable as possible. Cookie Notice ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. more. Restrooms and showers are both available at the Hanauma Bay State Park. All the proceeds for the admission price into Hanauma Bay goes back to the State of Hawaii for the upkeep of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Never a good idea to stand on coral. Prior to leaving practice with a snorkel mask & snorkel in the shallow area of a pool, with someone close by to keep you safe. (it injures the coral and can give you a nasty cut, too), Otherwise, an aquarium might be more suitable for you - my family loves those! There is a marine life nature preserve that allows snorkelers to see up to 300 different Hawaiian fish species in the Hanauma Bay area. The instructor was fantastic! A. Ride-alongs are welcome, but must pay the same rate as regular snorkelers. I have to agree with the poster who said to go out on a boat snorkel trip. Turtles are the highlight here; you wont see much other wildlife (besides fish cleaning the sea turtles) from snorkeling as the reef is sandy and shallow. Just off the coast of Waikiki, youll find the Turtle Canyon reef and if snorkeling with turtles is on your bucket list, this is the place to go. Phone +1 808-677-1277. My daughter-in-law uses a boogie board. I'm having all sorts of problems w/ the site this morning but I'll try one more time. There you don't have to worry about being knocked off your feet by an incoming wave. But trust us, its worth it. Its truly a snorkelers paradise, and its no wonder that Sharks Cove is one of the most popular snorkel spots on Oahu. Dolphins hang out here early in the mornings sometimes, as well as tropical fish, turtles and even monk seals. If youre looking for a truly unique way to experience marine life, try booking a snorkeling cruise along the Waianae Coast. Instructors / guides are all friendly and patient. Bring cash! There's really no way for a non-swimmer to snorkel. Ko Olina Marina, 92-100 Waipahe Pl, Kapolei, HI 96707-4293, USA. I've been a swimmer since I was 5, I participate in a summer swim league from ages 8-14, I grew up near Lake Michigan which can have some intense swells and current.The ocean, especially in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? They are super friendly very knowledgeable. But at the end i was able to swim, in the oceanwith no life jacket! All instruction and personalized attention, 3894 Wailea Alanui Dr, Kihei, HI 96753, USA, Confirmation will be received at time of booking, Not recommended for travelers with back problems, No heart problems or other serious medical conditions, Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers. Great for non-swimmers. I didn't want the fins, as I didn't feel in control with them on. My Splash was fantastic. Check Out the Newest Tours & Activities on Oahu, Top Waikiki Booze Cruises, Sunset Sails & Daytime Fun Boats, Oahu Hidden Gems Tours & Top Hawaii Unique Experiences, Top 5 Best Polynesian Luau Dinner Show in Oahu, Snorkel Tours from Ko Olina & Waianae Harbor, Explore Oahu's Best Water Activities & Honolulu Watersports, Explore Kualoa Ranch - Jurassic Valley Adventure Park, Oahu Bestseller Tours - Likely to Sell Out Attractions. A riptide or current could put you in harms way before anyone else really notices. On a reputable cataman excursion, for example you will be watchd over and you will not have to worry about being knocked off your feet. You can even take surf lessons without knowing how to swim. If its canceled due to poor weather, youll be offered a different date or a full refund. Would try again, I cant say enough about this team of guides. This nature preserve is home to a wide variety of marine life, making it a great spot for snorkeling. Dan taught her how to be comfortable in the water, took her hand, guided her around the Bay. We will be back.. Great experience they took such care of us specially my mom who is way afraid if water! (I feel as if I am going to panic if my face goes in the water, or if I am over my head, especially somewhere besides a pool where there are no sides!) I always have to do this because of my moustache. Once you arrive at Hanauma Bay, skip the line and head straight into the theater to watch a brief video about the conservation efforts at Hanauma Bay. We were totally new to snorkeling and a bit intimidated! Im truly grateful for the gift of their talent and care. We even saw some turtle. Mahalo! Otherwise water will seep into it and likely induce a sense of anxiety if not panic. The reef at Wailea Beach is great. Oahu. Maybe a last resort for your husband to try would be one of those styrofoam boards with a viewing glass built right into it. Fun, safe, and amazing first time snorkeling experience. Of course, if using a mask is no concern, then the suggestions above to stay in shallow water are good ones. A better choice would be to take a snorkeling (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? However, this activity is done in bodies of open water and therefore has some potential hazards ever for those who are good swimmers, but the risk level is significantly higher for those who . He gave a tutorial at first and gave me time to learn some basic techniques. Its best to snorkel here when the water is calm, as the fine sand can make the visibility a bit cloudy. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. Check availability When? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-88622766', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Hawaii, is still a VERY intense experience every time I get in. Save your money. Cannot be used on the same activity on the same date and time as the first activity, or applied to activities that have already been booked. If you dont have snorkeling gear, theres a shop nearby stocked with everything you might need for your snorkeling adventure. Just a word of cautionmy Mom can swim and enjoys being in the water, but could NOT snorkel. Great coaching for first time. However, the comment about glasses and magnifying masks made me think. For more information, please see our I want emails from Fodor's Travel with travel information and promotions. The staff were professional, enthusiastic, with great energy overall. I am not a good swimmer and also claustrophobic so the whole breathing with my face in the water gives me the creeps. It is located next to the Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore of Oahu. A. No, you do not need to know how to swim and flotation devices will be provided. We would love to go with them again on a different adventure when we return to Maui. Sharks Cove is a family-friendly site; there are decent restrooms and showers, plus youll find food trucks lined up on the road. We've been to Hawaii several times. I have seen many non-swimmers do this. Some of the rocks in the cove can be sharp, so wearing reef shoes or fins is recommended. There are so many places to snorkel in Hawaii, where you can see many fish in waist deep water, it shouldn't be a problem. Hanauma Bay can be found on the southeast coast of Oahu in the East Honolulu neighborhood of Hawaii Kai on Hanauma Bay Road. A snorkel tour will be your best option. Why isn't the admission price to Hanauma Bay included in the tour cost? While these photos are not guaranteed, every effort will be made to make them available. Then he guided us to the reefs where we saw beautiful reef and fishes. This was our first time in Hawaii and our first time snorkeling. Advanced Reservations For USS Arizona Memorial. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-88621788', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Oahu? While you can absolutely experience the Waianae Coast by snorkeling off the beach in Makaha (check the surf report first, it can get choppy), the best way to see wildlife in this area is by boat. Hanauma Bay is a very special place. Equipment was top notch and safety was paramount. It's really hard for anyone to understand who doesn't have the same phobia. . I tried one of those once, while learning to snorkel and couldn't see a thing through it!! I found it hard to take a breath because, after all, my face was in the water! :). But the main attraction here is definitely the underwater world. I wear contacts (the hard type - since I have severe astigmatism). Thank you to everyone for making this the best family vacation ever! We saw two turtles, a moray eel, a tuna tornado. Many provide the boogie boards or noodles to give you something to hold onto. You will also want to wear a life vest (not just a belt). In 40+ years of marriage, I have only been able to get him into the water at Sanibel island, where he could walk waaaay out Conlet, now that I have an idea about your age, let me ask you if your husband wears glasses. Web Visit website. The ocean is a beautiful, but powerful and unforgiving environment. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. The calm waters make it a great spot for novice snorkelers, but even experienced swimmers will be impressed by the sheer number of fish swimming around. Getting in and out of the water can be very tricky because there are lots of sharp lava rocks that can cause cuts, so be sure to wear water shoes. No, you do not need to know how to swim and flotation devices will be provided. For a serene and sheltered kind of snorkeling experience in Oahu, Kuilima Cove may be the ideal spot. This is the best experience for non-swimmers like me. Your guide will be right by your side as explore the many coral reefs that are home to a number of tropical Hawaiian fish and even green sea turtles. If you can't swim, don't try to snorkel. Thank you for your support! You'll enjoy a fun-filled day snorkeling in crystal-clear water, spotting sea turtles and colorful fish along the way. This experience requires good weather. Sharks Cove is located on the northern coast of Oahu on the Kamehameha Highway. Hawaii's Bucket List - Top 20 Things You MUST Do on Oahu! The tour guide has full discretion to refuse service to customers based on attire, behavior, physical fitness and condition. Experienced participants will be able to quickly enter the water explore the shallow areas. If you are looking for the best snorkeling locations in Oahu, youre bound to find one from this list that appeals to your experience level and your tastes. This was my partners first experience snorkeling; she felt safe and at ease with Dans and Chiekos instructions and guidance. If you take a lesson from Hawaii residents and maintain respect for the ocean and its wildlife, your chances of having a good time go way up no matter which side of the island youre on. One really needs to have at least basic swimming skills in order to master snorkeling, which involves learning to breathe through a snorkel while swimming. Beginner snorkelers will feel safe and comfortable learning about the sport during this small-group class. We had a wonderful experience as a Non swimmers. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-32341869', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Waikiki many times with my wife who is a very strong swimmer. This beach is part of the Pupukea Marine Life Conservation District, which prohibits fishing around this area. You can lose your footing easily, waves can knock you off your feet and there is nothing to hold onto. Kailua Beach Adventures offers options to rent snorkel equipment to explore yourself or book a tour that combines snorkeling with kayaking for an extra epic day. Me and my youngest generally are nervous in the ocean but the guides made us feel comfortable and safe that we all ended up snorkeling without a vest. I think this is the biggest mistake made by beginners, and will make a huge difference in his experience being positive. This includes, but not limited to, change of the activity date/time, package, the number of participants, etc. If anyone has suggestions regarding specific companies on any of these islands, I would appreciate the info. I want emails from Fodor's Travel with travel information and promotions. And judging by the number of people in the water with snorkels and fins, it seems like word has gotten out about this little snorkeling spot! Q. Hanauma Bay is one of Oahu's top 3 places to visit and with around 1000 visitors per day it is one of the world's most popular snorkel destinations! ady. You don't need to be a great swimmer at Hanauma Bay, just confident in the water. I am not a strong swimmer and don't float well, but I love to snorkle. I would still like to give it another try while I am in Maui in another 6 weeks:. We spent some time in the shallows and then went to deeper parts of the bay. He thoroughly enjoyed the experience because of the thoughtful instructors. Try practicing in the pool where you are staying to learn the breathing. The best coral and breathtaking schools of fish often require swimming through strong currents, so having a snorkel buddy with you makes sense. The water around Kahe Point is warm from a nearby power plant, which draws a plethora of exciting aquatic life to the area. Privacy Statement - My husband isnt a swimmer. I know how to tread water float and propel myself through the water and was able to learn how to snorkel. You have to have complete focus and awareness of your surroundings, if there's even a slightly strong current a wrong move could mean your life. This is by far the best way to spot a variety of fish species, dolphins, and turtles. Snorkeling is not safe if you don't know how to swim. Since 1967, Hanauma Bay has been a protected marine life conservation area and a favorite spot for visitors to enjoy snorkeling off the shore. If you're visiting Oahu soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Oahu Visitor Guides. Learn about the best time to visit Oahu . The boards with the see through are pretty lame. Oahu. There are prescription snorkel masks provided, however, selection is limited. Many provide the boogie boards or noodles to give you something to hold onto. If its canceled because the minimum isnt met, youll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Valid for one (1) booking per account during the designated promotional period. I can't imagine being in the ocean without knowing how to swim - dog paddle & float at least. We snorkeled til we were too tired to go on! Professional Quailty. From all inclusive Oahu snorkeling cruises from Waikiki and Ko Olina that include a delicious lunch, to small group shore snorkeling tours, find the . 12 Top Free and Cheap Things to Do on Oahu, One Week in Hawaii: The Ultimate Itinerary. Despite its small size, this cove boasts an impressive amount of coral and all of it is incredibly vibrant and healthy. Featuring a series of four crescent-shaped coves that are just a short stroll between each other, Ko Olina Lagoons is the best-kept secret in Oahu. A pristine section of Kailua Beach on Oahus east side, Lanikai is widely known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Whether youre a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, Kuilima Cove is sure to delight. Privacy Policy. Being a non-swimmer (who's almost drowned a couple of times), I'm weird about having my head underwater. So put on your best snorkeling gear and dive right in! While this part of North Shore is frequented by people for its legendary surf spots, Kuilima Cove is fantastic for snorkeling all year round too! ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-32311754', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Hawaii several times. Allie not only got me out in the water in my life jacket but even out of it!!! Thank you for everything! All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures.

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