Hanauma Bay is believed to be 35.000 years old and literally means curved bay.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve used to receive over 10.000 visitors daily, now visitors have been limited to 3.000 people. This site is also the third most popular dive site in Oahu and its attraction centers around the protected swimming, snorkeling and other amenities offered here. Originally formed as the cone of a volcano, it was eventually breached by the ocean and formed a natural cove protecting the area from high winds and rough seas.

The area was declared a State Marine Life Conservation District in 1967 since the protected waters host over 100 species of fish. Depths can reach 70 feet at the outer point, with bottom reefs and wall formations offering fantastic and varied exploration points. Rip currents can build seaward, which requires the judgment of a professional guide. If you plan to dive here, make sure that you bring proof of certification or you will be restricted to a sand patch inside the barrier in depths of less than 15 feet of water. The entry to the deeper stuff is off the right side of the beach, and swim through a channel in the reef. Sea Life: Large resident eels, Spotted Eagle Rays, Octopus, Green Sea Turtles and Ulua (Jack Fish).

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