Not to mention, its an incredibly fun and relaxing experience! It's the kind of life skill that everyone should try to acquire. Technically, snorkeling is just like floating horizontally on the surface of the water and requires little actual swimming, so even non-swimmers can do it. snorkeling for non-swimmers? - Honolulu Forum - Tripadvisor Overall, this was an amazing experience that my partner and I highly recommend!!! Prior to leaving practice with a snorkel mask & snorkel in the shallow area of a pool, with someone close by to keep you safe. I found it hard to take a breath because, after all, my face was in the water! If you go Pennekamp Coral State Park and take the snorkeling tour, they require that you be able to swim. When the tide is low, the sandy area turns into a shallow spot where locals come to lounge, float around or play games. Hanauma Bay is prefect for this. Distance between North Shore and Honolulu, Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort And Spa. Ben was a great teacher (who actually is a teacher). The waves and currents are strong in winter from November to February, so the best snorkeling is during the summer months. Hanauma Bay is closed to the public on Wednesdays & Tuesdays. In addition to a stunning bay, theres a beautiful beach park behind Makaha Beach with astounding views of the landscape. Any insight to sway on Waikiki accommodations? Check out the Holokai or Makani catamarans for a great deal on a Turtle Canyon snorkeling tour. When are you going to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? I couldnt believe myself that I did it!! Equipment was top notch and safety was paramount. All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. But thanks to our super skilled instructor Triston who made me feel safe and comfortable. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Also known as Sans Souci Beach, it boasts gorgeous white sand and clear blue water with a stunning backdrop of San Souci Recreational Park. Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews. Bring your own snorkel gear or rent from one of the hotel kiosks on the beach. (I feel as if I am going to panic if my face goes in the water, or if I am over my head, especially somewhere besides a pool where there are no sides!) It's really hard for anyone to understand who doesn't have the same phobia. If you are wearing fins and get into trouble with your mask or mouthpiece, you have to bring your feet under in order to stand up. (it injures the coral and can give you a nasty cut, too), Otherwise, an aquarium might be more suitable for you - my family loves those! Thank you! I am a strong swimmer and more than once have been injured by waves pushing me into rocks, plus being not able to regain my footing. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-88621788', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Oahu? Learn to swim, it's never too late, take lessons at the Y, it's worth it! Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. When are you going to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? I'll bet he'll be entranced by the underwater beautfy and be able to enjoy it. Its not your average snorkel tour they take luxury and comfort to the next level aboard a 50-foot yacht. The sand is white, and the water is clear, which makes Kuilima Cove ideal for both beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. There is a marine life nature preserve that allows snorkelers to see up to 300 different Hawaiian fish species in the Hanauma Bay area. Besides, it would be frightening for you. Guests with heart and cardiovascular issues are not permitted to participate in this activity. snorkeling for non-swimmers - Island of Hawaii Forum Plus, theres no lifeguard. Thanks, Dan! The instructor was great, made us feel safe and overall had a very good experience. Tip: You can use a little petrolium jelly along the edges of the mask to make a better seal and help prevent leaks. bart, wherever you buy or rent the mask should be able to help you get a good fit (as long as you're not buying it on ebay!). I am not a strong swimmer at all, and because of a scary experience when I was younger, still have trouble putting my face in water. Thank you to everyone for making this the best family vacation ever! Since it is a protected lagoon, youre pretty much limited to tropical fish here, but sometimes you can spot a turtle. Snorkeling for non-swimmers - Oahu Forum - Tripadvisor Oahu's Top Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Oahu's Best Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. Hanauma Bay is the number one spot in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? That way you will be familiar with the whole breathing through the snorkel thing and can focus your attention on the cool fishies below you. Plan on seeing plenty of fish, turtles, eels, and sea urchins here, but those with sensitive feet may need water shoes to get past the rocky area to access the shore (once youre in the water do not stand on the rocks or coral--this is the ocean life's home). And it's not just drowning. Would try again, I cant say enough about this team of guides. It was frightening for her to have her face in the water while breathingshe panicked and couldn't get over that feeling. Snorkeling for non-swimmers? - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums Its a beautiful beach for lounging, which makes it a perfect options if not everyone in your group wants to get in the water. The best coral and breathtaking schools of fish often require swimming through strong currents, so having a snorkel buddy with you makes sense. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. Besides, it would be frightening for you. It would be worth a try, and it also makes you feel good to say "I snorkeled". Want to be carefree and be one with the ocean? Snorkeling can be traced back thousands of years, with divers using hollow reeds as snorkels and little else in the early days. Once you arrive at the snorkeling spot, he will stop the board and gear you up for snorkeling. This tour is recommended for people 6 to 70 years old. Since this is a very popular tourist spot, its best to arrive right when they open at 6 a.m. to avoid the crowds. Im truly grateful for the gift of their talent and care. This beach is part of the Pupukea Marine Life Conservation District, which prohibits fishing around this area. Standard Package Adult/Child (Age 6-70) USD 90.00 Book a tour with Holokai Kayaks if you dont have access to a boat, proceeds go towards conservation, and you can choose to go with a guide or on your own. Just be sure you let the operators know you are a non-swimmer! By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. We took our family of 4, parents and teens, 200+ pounds, novice level swimmers to learn/relearn how to snorkel. Snorkeling is not safe if you don't know how to swim. The boogie boards are way lame, the way to really enjoy yourself is with a snorkel and mask. It's also a stress reliever, taking you into an entirely different world far removed from your daily life. All instruction and personalized attention, 3894 Wailea Alanui Dr, Kihei, HI 96753, USA, Confirmation will be received at time of booking, Not recommended for travelers with back problems, No heart problems or other serious medical conditions, Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers. Hop on one of the catamarans on the beach to check out the honu from the boat or jump in to snorkel. Has anyone on the forum who does not swim done snorkling on the islands? Professional Quailty. The use of the inflatable life vest is ONLY for emergencies. Hanauma Bay Snorkeling - The ULTIMATE Visitors Guide Its possible to satisfy all of your underwater curiosities while doing something you love. Guests with asthma or other respiratory problems are not permitted to participate in this activity. The water around Kahe Point is warm from a nearby power plant, which draws a plethora of exciting aquatic life to the area. It's a whole new world under there! Just speaking frankly, our size and ability is not always welcomed or accommodated well - especially in physical activities. The first was at Shark's Cove at Pupukea Beach. If anyone has suggestions regarding specific companies on any of these islands, I would appreciate the info. (She stayed in the boat while we snorkeled! The only entrance to Hanauma Bay is off Kalanianaole Highway on the east side, and parking is available for $1 per car or you can take a shuttle just dont try to go on a Tuesday when they close the whole park (to give the reef a break). A better choice would be to take a snorkeling (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Overall, this was an amazing experience that my partner and I highly recommend!!! Even she enjoyed! Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. http://community.webshots.com/user/lordbalfor, http://www.alohafriends.com/BI_by_ocean.html, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. I have never swam at all not even in a pool. I can unsubscribe any time using the unsubscribe link at the end of all emails. The instructors were patient and kind and helped both of my kids get comfortable in the ocean. Trip itineraries for top destinations to visit around the world. We used them for our kids when they were little, and they work better than nothing at all. We saw lots of beautiful fish and lovely coral! Located within the Ko Olina resort area (between Sacred Beach and Paradise Cove Beach) this natural cove is protected from the ocean and a great place for beginner snorkelers. If you can't swim, it could be disastrous, either to you or to any patch of coral you might try to stand on. Answer 1 of 13: Aloha . What are the issues about kayaking and swimming with dolphins? Sunsets are also phenomenal from this beach. Participants are required to sign a liability waiver at the time of check-in. All the proceeds for the admission price into Hanauma Bay goes back to the State of Hawaii for the upkeep of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. This beach gets its name from three giant flat-top, table-like coral reefs that are just 50 feet offshore and can sometimes be spotted from the bay at low tide. They really make an effort to respect the wildlife and keep a safe distance from the dolphins, while still giving you the opportunity to snorkel at several different spots along the coast. :). He was always besides us. Go with a company that participates in the Dolphin Smart Program like Ocean Joy Cruises. In the summer, north shore waves are more manageable and south shore can get larger swells. Youll mostly see tropical fish and turtles feeding off the reef here, though some people are lucky enough to spot an eel. Getting in and out of the water can be very tricky because there are lots of sharp lava rocks that can cause cuts, so be sure to wear water shoes. The sandy shores tend to be less populated with fish, and murky, too. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. Its obvious that the winter months produce bigger waves and choppier water that may not always be perfect for beginning snorkelers, but with such a treasure trove of underwater life and experiences, youd be missing out if you dont include Oahu on your bucket list of snorkeling destinations. :) My mom isn't a swimmer; she was a good sport when we took her out on a kayak/snorkel trip on (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Learn about the best time to visit Oahu . Never snorkel alone (its more fun with a buddy, anyways!). Many beaches do not have them. Any suggestions/comments on how to choose a mask would be appreciated.<. He thoroughly enjoyed the experience because of the thoughtful instructors. . ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-88621911', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');the Big island), and the crew not only provided her with lots of flotation devices, they also got in the water with her. There are lockers and snorkel equipment for rent at the beach. Get there EARLY or the place WILL be full as Hanauma Bay is VERY popular. We saw lots of fish! Please submit your request upon booking. With a maximum of four people, youll spend some time talking about snorkeling theory, then head to the shallows to practice with some flotation devices. After 10 minutes or so, we felt confident and ready. Then he guided us to the reefs where we saw beautiful reef and fishes. I think it would be cool to go snorkeling, but didn't know what the options would be for non-swimmers. It was just great! Hanauma Bay can be found on the southeast coast of Oahu in the East Honolulu neighborhood of Hawaii Kai on Hanauma Bay Road. This place is excellent for a family with kids as they can swim safely and wade about in this open-air aquarium. And to top it all off, this tour keeps you fueled up with food and drink throughout the day. You need to be aware of the ocean conditions, how they can change in an instant and what to do if you get caught in a rip tide or swift current. family looks forward to more snorkeling. You can less fish there in very shallow water, allowing non swimmers to see fish safely. Any other flotation device will not work. It is located on the famous North Shore of Oahu, and it is enclosed by a natural rock barrier that will protect you from the waves as you explore. Any cancellations made after 12:00 local time, 5 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. This is one of the most popular beaches and the best snorkeling locations in Oahu because of the amazing array of aquatic life beneath the surface. Answer 1 of 19: Hi all, My sisters and I are planning to visit Oahu for the first time. House/Condo in January, 7 days, 6 adults and two preschooler. If you go to Maui first, do that. Advertising - Since 1967, Hanauma Bay has been a protected marine life conservation area and a favorite spot for visitors to enjoy snorkeling off the shore. As I did this over and over, it became easier, and then I tried taking a breath. wading about about waist deep, just practiced putting my face in the water. We will be there for 5 days/5 nights. None of us know how to swim. It is also closed for commercial tours on weekends and state/federal holidays. No, you do not need to know how to swim and flotation devices will be provided. If its canceled because the minimum isnt met, youll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Privacy Statement - I am not a good swimmer and also claustrophobic so the whole breathing with my face in the water gives me the creeps. I almost chicken out but I am glad I didn't, I would have missed so much!!!!! Glad to see this post because I have felt a little foolish about my fear of snorkeling. She wasn't in for very long, but did get to experience some snorkeling in a very safe way. Beautiful beaches, the Dole Plantation, and various other sites had us all feeling giddy with excitement. Tour schedules are subject to change without notice. Went as a solo for the activity and theyre very welcoming and you can bring your own camera and I was very confident to get in the water with lessons with an instructor. The waters are warm, the visibility is impeccable and the number of fish and sea turtles is awe-striking especially if you go during high tide. Don't know about. Just off the coast of Waikiki, youll find the Turtle Canyon reef and if snorkeling with turtles is on your bucket list, this is the place to go. Snorkeling for Non-Swimmers for First Time - Wailea Beach 149 Reviews Badge of Excellence Kihei, United States Share Save to Wishlist From $145.00 Lowest Price Guarantee Select Date and Travelers Check Availability Reserve Now & Pay Later Secure your spot while staying flexible Free cancellation Up to 24 hours in advance. Kahe Point Beach Park is situated on the southwest corner of Farrington Highway on the west shore. Less than -10 days 50% refund I on the otherhand can't. Please submit your request upon booking. Now our Even with that, though, be aware that you don't want to go out too deep, and don't get in a spot where you have to stand on the coral. :). 8:00am (snorkel, snorkel 101, 3 beach) 11:00am (snorkel, snorkel 101, 3 beach) 7:20pm (Night Snorkel) (other times available upon request) Book Online, Call or Email to make a reservation Phone: 808-214-4743. In fact, Turtle Canyon is known as the cleaning station where endangered Hawaiian green turtles come to have their shells cleaned by small fishes. I tried it in shallow water where I could stand first to get the breathing down and now I use a "noodle" just so I don't have to worry about floating, I can just relax and look down at the wonderworld under the water. Drinks and meals are available for purchase. Archive - The key to safe, enjoyable snorkeling for a non-swimmer is to find a fairly shallow, reef-protected location that will offer calm, clear water where you can put your feet down and stand up anytime you feel the need. Would HIGHLY RECOMMEND this excursion for all qualities of snorkelers. This is the best experience for non-swimmers like me. She loved it, sparked us on to additional snorkel trips on this vacation. Guests who are pregnant are not permitted to participate in this activity. Good luck, and let us know how it turned out for you! It'll help you get used to the claustraphobic feeling many get. It can be really scary to get in the ocean without knowing how to swim but I felt safe with Tristn Ali Juca and Ryan. You can even take surf lessons without knowing how to swim. I have been to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? During our recent trip to Oahu, I had two different snorkeling experiences. I have a friend that is a non-swimmer, but wanted to try snorkeling. Many provide the boogie boards or noodles to give you something to hold onto. I am not a strong swimmer and don't float well, but I love to snorkle. So, if your husband really hates the water, just know that this could happen to him before you spend a bunch of money on equipment or an excursion. This nature preserve is home to a wide variety of marine life, making it a great spot for snorkeling. No trip to Honolulu would be complete without visiting this vibrant and spectacular treasure. It is located next to the Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore of Oahu. Snorkeling in Oahu Hawaii with Kids - Bambini Travel ), There are places you can rent those boards with a clear bubble to see thru (Snorkel Bob's, with a location a few blocks away from Waikiki Beach, rents them for ~$25/week; other places may have them, too). Ko Olina Marina, 92-100 Waipahe Pl, Kapolei, HI 96707-4293, USA. There you don't have to worry about being knocked off your feet by an incoming wave. Your guide will do their best to take professional photos throughout the tour, and if available, they will be posted on the company Facebook page for you to download. The main area on the right is for more intermediate swimmers, but there is a calm tide pool area that is great for kids on the left side. Allie not only got me out in the water in my life jacket but even out of it!!! From all inclusive Oahu snorkeling cruises from Waikiki and Ko Olina that include a delicious lunch, to small group shore snorkeling tours, find the . ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-32341869', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Waikiki many times with my wife who is a very strong swimmer. Shark's Cove is known for diverse marine life and rock formations under the surface, which makes it one of the absolute best and most interesting snorkeling locations in Oahu. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. Plus, in a moment of panic a piece f coral could suffer an untimely death. Experience snorkeling for the first time Swim with Hawaiian green sea turtles and tropical fish Explore the beautiful reef at Wailea Beach Full description Discover the marine biodiversity of Hawaii without knowing how to swim with this snorkeling tour that is designed for beginners. Dynamite was used to clear away parts of the reef in 1956 so telephone cables could be added to link Hawaii with the mainland. Plus, I also wear glasses and Shark's Cove is pretty much surrounded by a lava grotto, so I had to walk over that to get to my glasses on the sand. Spam Jam: Entertainment, food, street closures, etc. Where do I Find the Legal Vacation Rentals? We do not know how to swim. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-88622766', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Hawaii, is still a VERY intense experience every time I get in. Hanauma Bay is a very special place. They will keep you safe. He gave a tutorial at first and gave me time to learn some basic techniques. What is the Manager's Reception at Embassy Suites? Also known as Electric Beach because of the electrical plant that shoots warm water into the sea that the ocean life loves, Kahe Point is best left for advanced swimmers. They are super friendly very knowledgeable. Follow the H1-West until it turns into Hi-93 and take the Koolina exit, it will bring you directly into the resort area. We were totally new to snorkeling and a bit intimidated! We are hooked. Nicknamed Turtle Canyon by the Waikiki tour companies, this spot is a reef off the coast of Waikiki Beach only accessible by boat. Its no secret that the ocean can be a dangerous place but this lagoon is encased by artificial breakwaters,keeping swimmers safe from rip tides. Ocean conditions change with the seasons. It breaks the coral and gives you NASTY cuts on any unprotected surface. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. It gets rough during the winter months here as well, and there is no lifeguard, so its best just to enjoy the view from outside the water when the waves are big. Don't go to the beach. This curved bay and state park is known for its year-round snorkeling and convenient accessibility. Phone +1 808-677-1277. The ocean is a beautiful, but powerful and unforgiving environment. The reason I recommend this is that you can really get into trouble on the beach. Tigger - Of course. Ko Olina Ocean Adventures - Catamaran Sail & Snorkel Tour Take an approximately three-hour sail around Oahu, enjoying the sights and stopping at two top snorkeling spots to swim with sea. Great for non-swimmers. Snorkeling for Non-Swimmers for First Time - Wailea Beach - Viator Great for both kids and adults, this tour includes transportation, snorkel gear, and more! Children 6 years old and above can participate in this activity. This was our first time snorkeling and it was the best experience to learn and gain confidence. That does not come easily to some people even though they can swim well. Once you arrive at Hanauma Bay, skip the line and head straight into the theater to watch a brief video about the conservation efforts at Hanauma Bay. Sharks Cove is located on the northern coast of Oahu on the Kamehameha Highway. With a maximum of six guests, you will be sure to have a safe and memorable snorkeling experience as you explore the calm and protected waters of Hanauma Bay, and your guide will take you to the best locations to see tropical fish, Hawaiian green sea turtles and other marine creatures. Cyndi was a first-timer; in fact, can not swim. You can lose your footing easily, waves can knock you off your feet and there is nothing to hold onto. ;). Its a relaxing experience for them and an incredible one for us humans to witness. Off shore snorkeling in an open ocean for non swimmers can make for a disaster. Cookie Policy - You need to be aware of the ocean conditions, how they can change in an instant and what to do if you get caught in a rip tide or swift current. I can unsubscribe any time using the unsubscribe link at the end of all emails. Otherwise water will seep into it and likely induce a sense of anxiety if not panic. For more information about your privacy and protection, please review our full. The beaches are beautiful, and the water is clear and calling you. And its no wonder why the snorkeling here is simply incredible. The beach is not usually crowded, but surfers do come from around the world in winter to experience some massive waves. I want emails from Fodor's Travel with travel information and promotions. This place is only accessible by boat, so youll need to book an excursion with one of the snorkeling tour companies in the area. A riptide or current could put you in harms way before anyone else really notices. The key to safe, enjoyable snorkeling for a non-swimmer is to find a fairly shallow, reef-protected location that will offer calm, clear water where you can put your feet down and stand up. The tour guides were patient and conscientious to assist him until he was comfortable in the water and relaxed. Can I come along even if I don't want to snorkel? How many? Especially during the summer months, Oahus waters are warm and inviting for snorkelers that means you won't need a wetsuit, and dont forget the reef-safe sunscreen! We saw so much sea life and swam with 3 sea turtles! Oahu Tourism Oahu Accommodation Oahu Bed and Breakfast Oahu Holiday Rentals Oahu Holiday Packages Oahu Flights Oahu Restaurants Oahu Attractions Oahu Travel Forum I'm having all sorts of problems w/ the site this morning but I'll try one more time. Our first true snorkeling experience and it was absolutely amazing. Instructors / guides are all friendly and patient. I'm another person who is pretty much like your husband in regards to swimming. While you can absolutely experience the Waianae Coast by snorkeling off the beach in Makaha (check the surf report first, it can get choppy), the best way to see wildlife in this area is by boat. Parking Fees Hotels & Resorts & Resort Fees All Islands, Alternative Parking Waikiki, Free Travel Planners for Hawaii & each island. The Koolina area on the west side of the island encompasses several resorts with public beach access. A vest and fins will also help the urge to put your feet down, stand, and bend over to look. There is parking and public restrooms available, but make sure not to leave any valuables in your car. Snorkeling for non swimmer - Oahu Forum - Tripadvisor We saw turtles and tons of fish. You can see a lot even just wading (being very careful near the reef, if you're near it) and putting your face in. I've always been afraid of getting in at the various beaches. Check availability When? Hi Laura, I agree with what Billy jo says. All the proceeds for the admission price into Hanauma Bay goes back to the State of Hawaii for the upkeep of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Try your hand at spotting colorful fish, turtles, and even Monk seals! Rays and turtles frequent this area, as well as the usual suspects like tropical fish.
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