Oahu - Hanauma Bay
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Hanauma Bay has long been considered Hawaii's best snorkeling spot. It has a great array of colourful sea life and coral. The bay's sheltered position ensures it is protected from strong currents and big waves, perfect conditions for swimmers and divers. Yet in 2004 another accolade was added to this prestigious site, Hanauma Bay was voted the best beach in the United States.
Hanauma Bay, meaning "curved bay", was created when a part of a volcano collapsed into the sea, forming a sheltered ring of volcanic rocks. The large sandy beach extends along the base of the bay and is a terrific spot for tanning or picnicking. A beautiful coral reef stretches across the width of the Bay teeming with bright tropical fish - a snorkeling dream!
Two paths lead along both sides of the bay. Walking about fifteen minutes east will take you to the Toilet Bowl . This is a small natural pool in the lava rock. It is connected to the sea through an underwater channel so enabling the water to surge into the bowl and then "flush" from beneath. Swimmers in the pool can get quite a rush as the water level suddenly drops 4ft. However, the rocks are very slippery and so swimming can be extremely dangerous and should not be attempted alone.
The Witches Brew cove is a ten minute walk to the west at the rocky point of the bay. The cove is so named for its treacherous waters that churn and tumble and create a whirlpool. There is also a beautiful view of Koko Crater from the west point. On all walks, be careful of walking on the ledges as waves occasionally wash over them. The paths are closed when the wind is too high.
Only 10 miles from Waikiki, Hanauma Bay is a must day trip for tourists. The earlier you get there the better. Over a million tourists visit Hanauma Bay a year and it does tend to get overcrowded. Unfortunately, the influx of tourists pose a constant threat to the fragile ecosystem of the bay to such an extent that organized tour parties have now been banned. However efforts are now in place to right the wrongs.
Since 1967, Hanauma Bay has been a Marine Life conservation site. Tourists are now educated about the effect they have on the environment on their arrival. Fish feeding is banned in order to sustain a more natural balance of fish in the ecosystem. Visitors are also reminded that coral takes hundreds of years to grow, but can be destroyed in a second. Staying off the reef ensures both its safety and visitors' safety, as a coral cut can cause a nasty infection.
With a little careful consideration we can all ensure that Hanauma Bay remains the spectacular site it is, and generations to come will enjoy 'the best beach in the USA '.Also see information on Hawaii Travel - Big Island Travel - Kauai Travel - Lanai Travel - Maui Travel - Molokai Travel - Hawaii Cruise Guide
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