Scuba & Snorkeling

Colorful coral heads. Bright yellow tang. Rainbow runners. And of course, the state fish of Hawaiʻi, the humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa. With 1,200 miles of coral reef fringing the Hawaiian Islands, snorkeling and scuba diving are two of our most popular water activities. On Oʻahu, a dip beneath the waves reveals a whole new world.

Don’t let the name scare you away from Shark’s Cove on the North Shore—this rocky bay with clear, shallow waters is one of the top snorkeling and shore-diving spots in the world (and no, sharks aren’t common here). Shark's Cove is best explored during the summer months, as winter brings massive swells for big wave season.

Oʻahu also has a variety of other beautiful beaches with calm waters to explore, including Sans Souci near Waikīkī and the Kō Olina lagoons on the island's Leeward Coast, a perfect place for keiki (kids) just starting out. You can also hop on a snorkel tour or boat charter and let guides help you discover what lies beneath the waters offshore.