Where To Snorkel On Oahu In The Winter?

The top seven snorkeling spots on Oahu include Aweoweo Beach Park, Hanauma Bay, Sharks Cove, Kuilima Cove, and Turtle Beach. The waves and currents are strong in winter from November to February, making the best snorkeling during the summer months. Sharks Cove is located on the northern coast, and the best areas on Oahu are off limits during the winter due to rough surf.

The Waikiki Marine Life Conservation District starts at Queens Beach and offers snorkeling opportunities in various locations. Some popular spots for winter snorkeling include Electric Beach Snorkeling (West Oahu), Hanauma Bay: Oahus Famous Snorkel Spot, and Sharks Cove. In winter, the North Shore waves are rough, making it nearly impossible to snorkel up there. Instead, head to Hanauma Bay.

Kiona Beach Park and Kuilima are personal favorite spots for winter snorkeling on Oahu. The crystal clear waters of Kuilima Cove provide an opportunity to get up close and personal with Oahus natural beauty and unique wildlife. Lanikai Beach is a beautiful snorkeling spot that is generally calm in winter, but it’s important to avoid windy days.

Hanauma Bay is the best place to snorkel in January for visitors, as it is a nature preserve on the south shore. However, it gets crowded quickly, so it’s best to get there early. Electric Beach is also good, but if you go during the week, don’t worry about getting crowded.

In summary, the top seven snorkeling spots on Oahu include Aweoweo Beach Park, Hanauma Bay, Sharks Cove, Kuilima Cove, Sunset Beach Park, Three Tables Beach, Waimea Bay, and Turtle Beach. However, winter swells from the north Pacific can prevent snorkeling in the cove half of Sharks Cove.

Do you need a wetsuit to snorkel in Hawaii in winter?

For those who are paler and prone to sunburn, it does not matter how much sunblock you put on, snorkeling is a great recipe for turning into a lobster. Rashguards with SPF protection are highly recommended.

For those who get cold easily, a spring suit wetsuit is a great solution in the wintertime when the ocean averages around 77 degrees. Although that does not seem too cold to most it may feel colder after floating in the water for several minutes and if there is a persistent breeze. In the summer the temperatures average around 82 degrees making it much more comfortable for simple bathing suit wear.

Also make sure to consider colors and embellishments. There are wild animals swimming around you, some of which may be drawn to sequins or bright colors. Make sure to pack appropriately, with consideration of your circumstances.

Change of clothes. You won’t want to walk around in a soaking wet suit after you’re done having fun in the water. Therefore, bring a change of clothes. We recommend something lightweight and comfortable, with a jacket to protect against the wind. You’ll be thankful to have something dry to change into, trust us!

Where can I see sea turtles in Oahu in December?

Where Are the Best Places to See Turtles on Oahu?Laniakea Beach. Laniakea Beach on the North Shore is definitely the best beach to see turtles on Oahu, in terms of ease. … Haleiwa Harbor. … Ko Olina’s Secret Lagoon. … Electric Beach. … Turtle Bay. … Makaha Beach.

Looking for the ultimate guide to where to see turtles on Oahu, Hawaii? Look no further! This article from a Hawaii local has everything you need to know about spotting Hawaii’s treasured turtles.

Ask anyone what’s the one animal they’d like to see in Hawaii, odds are, their answer will either be 1) dolphins or 2) turtles (which locals call honu). Unfortunately, most visitors have no idea where to see either of these lovely sea creatures! So to help out with half of that situation, I’ve decided to write about where to see turtles on Oahu!

What Should I Know Before Seeing Turtles on Oahu?. There are actually five species of sea turtles in Hawaii (there are only seven species of sea turtles in the world!).The one that you are most likely to encounter is the green sea turtle. (This one is technically the one referred to as honu, but that term has kind of expanded to encapsulate all sea turtles.) However, the green sea turtle is actually an endangered species, so please keep that in mind! To help the sea turtles out, please make sure that you follow these rules:

Can you see sea turtles in Hawaii in December?

About Our Local Sea Turtles. The two types of sea turtles most spotted at The Ritz Carlton O’ahu, Turtle Bay are green sea turtles (honu) and Hawksbill sea turtles (honuʻea). Turtle nesting season in Hawaii is typically mid-April through early October, but can sometimes extend into December. And you’re probably wondering when the sea turtles hatch? After about two months in their nests, hatchlings will emerge.

Sea Turtle Etiquette. Before we share where to see sea turtles in Hawaiʻi,make sure to review these guidelines on how to act around our friendly endangered species.

• Keep your distance.Stay at least 15 feet away from honu andhonuʻea,and don’t block their accessto or from the ocean.
• No touching!It is illegal to touch sea turtles.
• Don’t harassthe sea turtles.Don’t chase them, swim directly at them,make loud noises in their presence, or feed them.
• Do not use flash photography. When snapping photos, make sure flash is off. We recommend using aGoPro – which you can rent here at Turtle Bay’s Surf House for free.

Is there whale watching in Oahu in December?

Q: What is the best month for whale watching on Oahu? A: Whale watching season is between November and April on Oahu, and December, January and February are the best months to see humpback whales in Hawaii.

Q: Which island is best for whale watching in Hawaii? A: While the areas designated as the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary are primarily located between the islands of Maui, Molokai and Lanai, humpback whales can be seen off the coasts of Oahu, the Big Island and Kauai as well.

Q: Where is the best place for whale watching on Oahu? A: The north and southeast shores of Oahu are a part of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, but humpback whales can also be found off the west or Waianae coast of Oahu.

Is it too cold to snorkel in Hawaii in December?

Air TemperatureThe air temperatures at sea level range from 79°F – 83°F in the winter and 85°F – 90°F in the summer. These temperatures are fine for snorkeling all year. The summer can feel hot and humid and if this is an issue for you plan your trip for another time.

Hurricane SeasonFrom June to November there is a chance of tropical depressions, storms, and hurricanes affecting the Hawaiian Islands. There has been an increase in this activity since 2013. Most of the storms recently have happened in July, August and September. They cause more rainfall, swell, and winds, so definitely will affect when to snorkel Hawaii.

In choosing when to snorkel Hawaii, you will also want to consider the cost of your trip and the sizes of the crowds you will encounter. High seasons for crowds and prices are mid-December through mid-April and mid-June through August. Expect everything to cost more; flights, car rentals, and hotels. But if you only have certain dates you can go, take your chances.

What Beach in Oahu has the most turtles?

Located on Oahu’s North Shore, Laniakea Beach is aptly nicknamed ‘Turtle Beach.’ This is one of the most popular places on the island to catch a glimpse of turtles in the wild, especially at sunset. Here, you’re most likely to find turtles basking in the sand or swimming nearby in the bay.

Because of its popularity, Laniakea Beach can get crowded. If you’re wary of swarms of tourists, try to go on a weeknight. It’s about an hour’s drive to Laniakea Beach from Waikiki, so it’s a great way to spend an afternoon during your stay on Oahu. While you’re there, rent a Biki bike nearby, grab a snack from a food truck, or go snorkeling at Shark’s Cove.

Electric Beach. Electric Beach, also known as Kahe Point, is closer to Waikiki – about 30-40 minutes driving. This is on the west side of Oahu and is known for its especially warm water (all thanks to the electric plant nearby). The warm temperature attracts all kinds of marine life, including schools of fish, sea birds, dolphins, and, of course, turtles. Expect to wade in about waist-deep to catch a glimpse of sea turtles in action.

Where not to swim in Oahu?

Sandy Beach Near Oahu’s southeastern tip is Sandy’s, as the locals like to call it, a beach with year-round crushing shore break. It’s a favorite spot for surfers, but many tourists and wanna-be bodysurfers have walked away with sprains, neck compressions, and broken bones.

Megan Shute for Only In Hawaii on 10 beautiful beaches that she considers too dangerous for swimming. Guess people didn’t get the memo on Magic Sands on the Big Island. Join us in the water for an enjoyable and safe snorkel or manta ray tour that you won’t forget!

With approximately 750 miles of coastline, the Hawaiian Islands are ultimately home to some of the greatest beaches in the country – and perhaps even the world. But not all beaches are created equal – in fact, there are some beaches so dangerous, swimming should be avoided. From strong undertows and massive waves to unprotected shoreline and dangerous currents, these 10 dangerous beaches in Hawaii might be pretty enough to stop for a few photographs, but we certainly wouldn’t suggest swimming while you’re there.

Located on the secluded Na Pali Coast, Hanakapi’ai Beach has been called the most dangerous beach in Hawaii. It’s also one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii! The water often looks fine, but a dangerous rip current has swept several people out to sea.

Can you snorkel in Honolulu in December?

Hawaii Water Conditions – Temperature and Waves. Hawaii has warm water all year long. Averaging 77 degrees Fahrenheit, Hawaii is ideal for snorkeling without a wetsuit year-round.

During the winter, the ocean temperature gets to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and the air temperature hits an average high of 80 degrees Fahrenheit. For Erica and me, that is still plenty warm to go snorkeling in our bikini and shorts, respectfully. We can be in the water for an hour or so before feeling cold.

During the summer months of July and August, the water temperature hits 80. It is almost too hot but who can complain? I love the tropics.

Waves are an important consideration when snorkeling. Waves not only mean tough snorkeling and swimming conditions but also poor visibility.

Can you swim in Oahu in the winter?

Ocean Conditions. Even though January is one of Hawaii’s cooler months, the ocean temperatures are still warm enough to allow you to swim comfortably.

You can expect the ocean temperatures to reach around 72 to 76 degrees F, making the water just slightly cooler than the outside temperatures at the peak of the day.

Additionally, the ocean tends to be choppier in January compared to the summer months. The winter months tend to experience rougher water conditions, often creating giant waves along the west and north shores.

Is it too cold to swim in Hawaii in December?

The water temperature in Hawaii averages in the 70s, depending on the shore and time of year. Pacific Ocean temperatures on Honolulu shores are warmer than those of Hilo, but both are still swim-worthy at 77 and 73 degrees, respectively.

Ocean temperatures in December all around the Hawaiian islands rest comfortably at about 77 degrees. You will notice slight changes depending on which side of the island you choose for dipping your toes in the water. Take the island itself and your location on the island into consideration when planning a time to visit Hawaii.

Rainfall. The beauty of the weather in Hawaii in December is subjective. December is the wettest month of the year for all of Hawaii’s islands. However, in Hawaii’s case, this means just 1.3 inches of rain that month to take the title.

While other states in the U.S. might see this rainfall total in the course of a few hours, in Hawaii, it will likely come in short bursts of rain over many days. December is the rainiest month on the beautiful island of Maui; however, most of the precipitation is confined to the northern areas with drier times in West Maui.

What month is best to snorkel in Hawaii?

May to September, where you’ll find perfect conditions in snorkeling sites all over the islands.

Protip: If you want to see Humpback Whale migrations while snorkeling in Hawaii, try to plan your trip between November and May (the best months are January and February).

Where is the best place to snorkel in Oahu in winter?

The best time to snorkel in Oahu depends on the beach you wish to snorkel at. During the winter months (November through April) it’s generally a better idea to stick to coves and lagoons that are protected from the waves. This would include Hanauma Bay and Ko’Olina Lagoons.

In the summer months, the north shore is snorkeling heaven. Three Tables and Shark’s Cove are the most incredible snorkeling spots from June through September. Kahe Point and Makaha could potentially be snorkeled all year round, however be sure to check the wave forecast beforehand as these two locations are open water.

In addition, when planning your trip to Oahu, I would highly recommend booking based around the jellyfish influx calendar. Wait…Oahu has a jellyfish influx?! Yep! Monthly! Mostly, this influx affects the southern shores of Oahu. However, it can sometimes wrap around to the sides of the island. Check out the Waikiki Aquarium Box Jellyfish Calendar when choosing the dates for your Oahu trip and snorkel locations.