Located on the southeast coast of Oahu (about 10 miles east of Waikiki), Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is one of Hawaii’s most popular natural attractions. Some 3,000 people visit this beautiful preserve each day for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing and picnicking. An admission fee is charged and you will also be shown a short video to educate you about the Preserve.

 This "Curved" bay was declared a protected marine life conservation area and underwater park in 1967. This is THE BEST protected cove if you are new to scuba diving or snorkeling with a diverse population of marine life and a large, rich coral reef. Advanced snorkelers and divers can also enjoy the beauty of this bay as the reef extends throughout the cove into deeper water. The bay floor is actually the crater of an ancient volcano that flooded when the exterior wall collapsed and the ocean rushed in.

 There is a large sandy beach perfect for sunbathing, relaxing and picnicking. Several hiking trails extend along coastline and along the ridge overlooking the bay providing breathtaking lookouts. 

 The curvature of the bay usually provides protection from large ocean waves and allows swimmers a terrific opportunity to view the marine and reef life in a safer, protected environment. Always monitor the ocean conditions at all times and obey lifeguard warnings and postings.

http://www.hawaiiweb.com/hanauma-bay-nature-preserve.html#detaileddescription

http://www.aloha-hawaii.com/oahu/beaches/hanauma-bay/

360-degree panorama photography by yunzeng liu.