Amazing Water Activities in Hawaii
Hawaii is surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean, making it a paradise for water enthusiasts. From snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs to surfing on some of the world’s best waves, the islands offer a vast array of water activities for everyone. Whether you want to relax on a sunset cruise or dive deep into the ocean to explore shipwrecks and marine life, Hawaii has something for every water lover. In this section, we’ll explore some of the best water activities available in Hawaii.
Family Water Activities in Hawaii
From Ma'alaea Afternoon Snorkel to Molokini or Coral Gardens
Maximize your stay in Honolulu by experiencing 5 exciting water sports in 1 trip. Embark on a thrilling catamaran cruise and indulge in the fun of a water trampoline, waterslide, kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.
Honolulu: 5 in 1 Turtle Snorkeling Tour with Transfers
Enjoy a thrilling ATV adventure tour and explore Oahu's oceanfront views at a private North Shore estate with your expert guide.
Maui: Eco-Friendly Molokini and Turtle Town Tour with Lunch
Experience the ultimate snorkeling adventure with certified Marine Naturalists at the world-renowned Molokini reef & a snorkeling spot famous for green sea turtles and underwater lava arches.
Oahu: Afternoon Glass Bottom Boat Tour in Waikiki
Take the Haleiwa Queen glass-bottom boat cruise from Oahu to explore live tropical reefs and a sunken shipwreck.
What Water Activities Can You do in Hawaii
Hawaii is a paradise for water enthusiasts with an abundance of activities to choose from. With its crystal-clear waters, lush marine life, and stunning coastline, Hawaii offers endless possibilities for water-based activities.Â
Some of the most popular water activities in Hawaii include surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, whale watching, and dolphin encounters. These activities can be enjoyed by all ages and skill levels, from beginners to experts. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or an opportunity to explore Hawaii’s natural beauty, there’s a water activity in Hawaii that’s sure to meet your needs.
Oahu: Kids Surfing Lesson in Waikiki Beach (up to 12)
Take a break while your kids have a blast learning to surf with friendly and experienced instructors. With personalized 1-on-1 instruction, your children will build confidence in a safe and fun environment.
Hawaii's Water Temperature
Hawaii’s water temperature is warm and pleasant year-round, making it an ideal destination for water activities. The average water temperature ranges from around 74-80 degrees Fahrenheit (23-27 degrees Celsius), with the warmest temperatures occurring in the summer months.
During the winter months, the water temperature may drop slightly, but it still remains comfortable for swimming and other water activities. The temperature can vary depending on the location, with some areas being cooler than others due to ocean currents and other factors.
Regardless of the time of year, visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities in Hawaii, from surfing and snorkeling to stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced water enthusiast, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beautiful waters of Hawaii.
West Oahu: Swim with Dolphins Catamaran Cruise
Hop on a 40-passenger catamaran and embark on a journey along the West Coast of O’ahu to catch a glimpse of wild dolphins. As you scan the horizon for these majestic sea creatures, take in the breathtaking views of the mountains and the ocean.
Most Popular Water Adventures in Hawaii
Big Island, Hawaii: Night Manta Ray Snorkel Experience
Witness the mesmerizing sight of giant manta rays feeding and interacting with other ocean creatures up close on a must-do Manta Ray night snorkel in Hawaii.
Oahu: Diamond Head Sunrise and Parasailing Tour
Start your day off with an exhilarating sunrise hike up Diamond Head and then take to the skies for a thrilling parasailing adventure over the ocean.
Oahu: Shark Cage Dive on the North Shore
Embark on an exciting shark cruise on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. Whether you prefer to observe from the safety of the boat's deck or dive into the water and enter the shark cage.
Kailua-Kona: Snorkel with Manta Ray
Experience the magic of swimming with manta rays on a snorkeling adventure off the coast of Kailua-Kona in Hawaii. Take your pick from the sunset snorkel tour or the moonlight snorkeling experience with a later departure.
Popular Water Activities in Hawaii for Couples
Hawaii offers a plethora of water activities that couples can enjoy together. Here are some of the most popular water activities in Hawaii for couples:
- Sunset Catamaran Cruise: Watch the sunset with your loved one while sailing on a luxurious catamaran. Many sunset catamaran cruises offer an open bar and light appetizers, making it the perfect setting for a romantic evening.
- Stand-up Paddleboarding: Explore Hawaii’s beautiful coastline and calm bays with stand-up paddleboarding. It’s a great way to spend a relaxing afternoon with your partner.
- Snorkeling: Hawaii has some of the world’s most beautiful snorkeling spots, and exploring the underwater world together is a perfect bonding experience. You can even take a guided snorkeling tour to learn about the unique marine life in Hawaii.
- Parasailing: Take to the skies with your partner and parasail over the crystal-clear waters of Hawaii. It’s a thrilling adventure that you’ll both never forget.
- Surfing Lessons: Hawaii is known for its surf culture, and taking surfing lessons with your significant other is a fun and unique experience. You’ll learn how to catch waves and enjoy some quality time together in the water.
Overall, Hawaii’s water activities offer the perfect backdrop for couples to enjoy each other’s company while creating unforgettable memories.
Most Popular Couples Activities in Oahu
Maui: Beginner Discovery Scuba Dive Excursion from Lahaina
Discover the underwater world of Hawaii with your significant other through a fun and educational scuba diving adventure that doesn't require any diving certification.
Maui: Self Guided Clear Bottom Kayak Tour
Join a unique adventure with Maui's only glass-bottom kayaks and explore Turtle Town on a boat tour. Get a glimpse of the diverse marine life from a different perspective through the clear bottom of your kayak.
Big Island: Captain Cook Sightseeing & Snorkel Expedition
Join a half-day excursion to the stunning marine sanctuary of Kealakekua Bay and discover the rich underwater world of Hawaii.
Oahu: Waikiki Sunset and Cocktail Cruise
Savor a drink and marvel at the stunning sunset and city lights from Majestic, the only full-service bar and lounge on the sea in Hawaii.
Water Activities in Honolulu
Honolulu offers a wide range of exciting water activities for all interests and skill levels. From snorkeling and scuba diving to surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, sunset cruises, and simply enjoying the beautiful beaches, there’s something for everyone. Explore vibrant marine life while snorkeling or diving at Hanauma Bay, catch thrilling waves at Waikiki Beach or the North Shore, glide along the coast on a stand-up paddleboard, take in the scenic views on a sunset cruise, and relax on the pristine beaches. With Honolulu’s abundant water activities, you’re guaranteed to have a fantastic time in the water.
Oahu: Diamond Head Cruise with Drinks & Appetizers
Enjoy a stunning sunset while cruising on a catamaran from Honolulu to Diamond Head. Savor some delectable local cuisine and sip on your favorite cocktail while taking in the breathtaking views.
Sporty Water Activities in Hawaii
Hawaii offers a wide range of sporty water activities for adventurous travelers. From surfing to windsurfing, kayaking to stand-up paddleboarding, there’s no shortage of ways to get your adrenaline pumping in the water.
One of the most popular sporty water activities in Hawaii is surfing. The islands are home to some of the world’s best waves, with breaks that are suitable for all skill levels. Beginners can take lessons at beaches like Waikiki, while more experienced surfers can head to spots like the North Shore of Oahu or Honolua Bay on Maui.
Windsurfing is another popular sporty water activity in Hawaii. Maui is particularly famous for its strong trade winds and challenging waves, making it a top destination for windsurfers from around the world.
Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are also great ways to explore Hawaii’s waters while getting a workout at the same time. Many tour companies offer guided kayaking and paddleboarding trips, taking you to some of the islands’ most beautiful and remote spots.
For those looking for a more extreme water activity, there’s also kitesurfing. This sport combines elements of surfing, windsurfing, and wakeboarding and is popular on the islands of Maui and Oahu.
Overall, Hawaii’s sporty water activities offer an exciting way to experience the islands’ natural beauty while getting your heart rate up. Just be sure to follow all safety guidelines and use proper equipment to ensure a fun and safe experience.
Kauai: Personalized Standup Paddle and Yoga Session
Indulge in a customized stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) adventure with an expert guide in serene and transparent waters. Revel in the stunning scenery as you paddle, then unwind with a tranquil yoga flow and meditation session on the water.
Most Popular Outdoor Activities in Oahu
Oahu: Twin Islands Guided Kailua Kayak Tour
Join the original Kailua eco-tour and enjoy a day of kayaking, surfing, tide pool exploration, and island sightseeing at the Mokulua Islands. This family-friendly adventure includes lunch and free parking, making it a perfect way to spend your day.
Kauai: Personalized Surf Lessons with World Class Instructor
Join a personalized surf lesson led by a renowned surf instructor of all levels of experience at the famous Poipu Beach in Kauai.
Maui: Makena Bay Stand-Up Paddle Tour
Begin your day by discovering the stunning Maui coastline while gliding on a stand-up paddle (SUP) board. Your guide will tailor your adventure to your liking, showcasing the top spots for paddling and observing marine life throughout Makena Bay.
Oahu: Honolulu Turtle Canyon Snorkeling Tour
Join a guided cruise from Honolulu to experience snorkeling in Turtle Canyon on the south shore of Oahu. Swim alongside green sea turtles and admire the coastal views of Waikiki.
Hawaii Water Sports
Hawaii offers a range of thrilling water sports for all skill levels. Surfing at famous spots like Waikiki Beach is a must for wave enthusiasts. Snorkeling and scuba diving provide opportunities to explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter marine life. Paddleboarding and kayaking offer a more tranquil experience, allowing you to enjoy scenic coastlines and hidden spots. For adrenaline junkies, jet skiing, parasailing, and flyboarding provide exciting adventures. Safety should always be a priority when participating in water sports. Hawaii’s natural beauty and perfect conditions make it an ideal destination for water sports lovers seeking unforgettable experiences.
Find Your Hawaii Island
Where is the Clearest Water in Hawaii?
Hawaii is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, and visitors to the islands are often on the lookout for the clearest spots to swim, snorkel, and dive. While the waters surrounding Hawaii are generally very clear and vibrant, there are some spots that are particularly renowned for their clarity.
One of the clearest spots in Hawaii is Hanauma Bay on the island of Oahu. This bay is a protected marine life conservation area, and its sheltered location makes for very calm waters and excellent visibility. Visitors to Hanauma Bay can expect to see a wide range of marine life, including sea turtles, reef sharks, and a vast array of colorful fish.
Another spot known for its clarity is Molokini Crater, a volcanic atoll off the coast of Maui. The waters around Molokini are protected, and the lack of fishing and boating activity means that the waters are exceptionally clear. Snorkelers and divers can expect to see an abundance of marine life, including tropical fish, manta rays, and even reef sharks.
Other spots known for their clear waters include Kapalua Bay on Maui, which is sheltered by two rocky points and is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling, and Lanikai Beach on Oahu, which is renowned for its turquoise waters and pristine white sand. Visitors to Hawaii can rest assured that wherever they choose to swim or snorkel, the waters will be clear and vibrant, offering a glimpse into the stunning underwater world that surrounds these beautiful islands.
What is Volcanic Water in Hawaii?
Hawaii is home to several active volcanoes, and their eruptions have created a unique feature of the Hawaiian Islands – volcanic water. Volcanic water is water that has been naturally filtered through layers of volcanic rock and soil, giving it a unique composition and mineral content.
One of the most popular ways to experience volcanic water in Hawaii is through hot springs. These natural hot springs are heated by geothermal activity and can be found on several of the islands. They are known for their therapeutic benefits, as the mineral-rich water can help relax muscles and soothe aches and pains.
Another way to experience volcanic water in Hawaii is through bottled water. Many companies on the islands bottle and sell volcanic water, which is marketed for its unique taste and health benefits. The water is sourced from natural springs and wells that are located in areas with high volcanic activity, such as the slopes of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea on the Big Island.
Overall, volcanic water is a unique and special feature of Hawaii’s natural environment, and experiencing it through hot springs or bottled water is a must for anyone interested in exploring the island’s geology and natural history.
Water Activities in Hawaii FAQs
The best time for water activities in Hawaii is during the summer months from May to September when the water is warm and the weather is generally sunny and clear.
The gear required for water activities in Hawaii varies depending on the activity you choose, but some common items include a swimsuit, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and water shoes. For snorkeling and scuba diving, you will need a mask, snorkel, fins, and wetsuit.
Yes, it is safe to participate in water activities in Hawaii as long as you follow all safety guidelines and instructions from your guides. Always wear a life jacket, be aware of ocean conditions and currents, and never swim alone.
Yes, you can bring your own equipment for some water activities in Hawaii, such as snorkeling or surfing. However, for scuba diving, you will need to rent equipment from a certified dive shop.
Yes, there are age restrictions for some water activities in Hawaii. For example, children under 8 years old may not be allowed to participate in certain activities like snorkeling or scuba diving. It’s important to check with the tour company beforehand to confirm age restrictions.
Yes, you can cancel your water activity reservation in Hawaii, but cancellation policies vary depending on the tour company and activity. It’s important to review cancellation policies before booking to avoid any surprises.
If you encounter a marine animal, such as a turtle or dolphin, while participating in a water activity, maintain a respectful distance and never touch or chase the animal. It’s important to remember that these animals are wild and should be treated with caution and respect.