Okay, so this was one of the alternate things we were going to do. We had a few things that required getting up early and were taking previous reviews into consideration when we put this one in the alternate catergory. We got up early every morning because of the time difference and got there at about 9:30. The lot was still open. Having said that, they open around 6:00 am and people were already leaving when we arrived, giving up parking spots. We left at about 1:00 pm and there were still a lot of available parking. We were there Feb. 22nd a Thursday. We had a great time. It was fun to see all the fish, they come right up to you. It is amazing that this is all natural. I was disappointed that everyone had to sit through a 20 minute movie to learn the rules and then we watched people walking on the coral, and there was no one stopping them. Otherwise it was a great way to spend the day as a family, our kids really enjoyed it.

The best snorkelling I ever had! Do not miss this place on your trip to Oahu. Get there around 6:45 and it is free. Stay until noon then keep heading around the island away from Waikiki - stop a mile or so down the road at the blow hole, then keep going to Waimanalo. Stop at Kenekes for authentic plate lunch-amazing. Rent boogie boards at Point Break surf shop accross the street and then head to the Waimanalo Bay beach park. This is the beach just before Bellows. Enjoy an afternoon at one the finest boogie board beaches in the world! This is a perfect day in Hawaii!

I have been to Hanauma Bay twice........Both times were fun. I am going to skip the whole "get there early ect....." because you already know that. One thing I will say is that it is wise to bring some $ for the tram. Walking down is beautiful, but the walk up can be hard on you especially after all the snorkeling and sun.

Hanauma Bay is great for kids and first timers. Yes, it is murky at times, especially if it isn't sunny and the coral appears to be old, but I still think it is great fun! There are plenty of colorful fish and I think spending half a day here is great. Just be sure to drink lots of water (the bottled kind not the Bay :) and use some serious sun screen!

I went to Hanauma Bay alone for first time snorkeling trip. I rented my equipment at Snorkel Bob's because of the bad reviews about renting the equipment at the Bay. Well, first view of the bay from the top is very very nice. It's beautiful. The staff at the information desk was very helpful when I asked if there was anything that I should pay attention to. That day, we have a low tide, so it's not the best situation. After I finally get myself familiar with the equipment, I am so excited to see that many fishes. I agree that the coral doesn't look very alive, but for first time snorkeler who went there alone and is not a very good swimmer, I manage to see a lot and I think this Bay is perfect for beginners like me. The coral reef is very close to the bay so even if you can't swim, you can still see a lot of fishes. Should be great for family that has young kids. I'm sure there are many better snorkeling places in the world, but I totally satisfied with my trip.