The Best Snorkeling Sites of Hawaii Surrounded by miles of crystal blue green and emerald waters with matchless diversity of aquatic life, the Hawaiian Islands just beg to be explored. If you have seen the pictures you will be amazed. If you have been there you will still be amazed. How much amazement you will get if you haven’t been there or even saw those stunning pictures bought by friends who’ve been there? The best Hawaiian snorkeling sites can be found on the island chain of Hawaii. Comprised of the six islands, the main island, Maui, Lanai, Molokai, Oahu and Kauai, has unquestionably some of the most diverse and spectacular underwater experiences for the visitor to the Islands, making it the best Hawaiian snorkeling experience this maritime oasis's oceanic wonders can offer. Some of the most endangered species are found on the seas and beaches of Hawaii, that’s why the government placed effective measures to protect these species and their habitat. And the result? The best marine ecosystem you can see, unparalleled anywhere. The Hawaiian sea turtle, some of the rare coral species, dolphins, angel fishes and a myriad of exquisitely colored tropical fishes makes these waters the best Hawaiian snorkeling destinations ever. Oahu and the Hanauma Bay Many reefs off Oahu are teeming with fish and have elaborate coral formations. Examples of such reefs would be on the North Shore at Haleiwa. In addition to beautiful reefs, one can almost always find schools of dolphins off the leeward coast at Waianae. What makes Oahu spectacular is the Hanauma Bay where 450 diverse marine species made their home. For this reason, Hanauma Bay is a protected marine sanctuary. As long as you respect this fragile but breathtaking ecosystem, Oahu and the Hanauma Bay could be your best Hawaiian snorkeling experience yet. The Garden Island of Kauai The oldest of Hawaii’s major islands, this north-westernmost island is also called the "Garden Island" for its lush and vibrant vegetation. The Garden Island is also the home to more sandy beaches than any major island in the chain. The best Hawaiian snorkeling could also be found on Kauai and its many protected lagoons and coral reefs are home to hundreds of species of fish, one third of which are found nowhere else in the world. Since Kauai is millions of years older than the other inhabited islands in the Hawaiian island chain, Kauai has by far the most protective reef lagoons and therefore some of Hawaii's best snorkel spots. The vast labyrinths of pathways that intersect its wide fringing reef are the most probable reasons for you to visit Kauai. Sea caves and half submerged waterfalls are natural water wonders even casual snorkelers will be amazed. This shallow reef is interspersed with narrow, sometimes cavernous canyons. The variation in undersea terrain makes for exciting explorations and an ideal home for a wide array of reef life. The best Hawaiian snorkeling in Maui Maui is the activity spot of Hawaii. Majority of charters and snorkeling packages can be found here. Natural formation, ancient shipwrecks, and the Olowalu Turtle Reef teeming with abundant marine life makes Maui an old time favorite for best Hawaiian snorkeling activities. The Molokoni Crater Natural Reserve is a popular site for snorkeling expeditions around Maui. This is a shallow geological formation, circular in shape, as its name implies. While some of the crater’s teeth are jutting out of water, the rest of the volcano’s crater is completely submerged, making the interior crater a complete haven of multitudes of sea life from the tide and other predators. The Molokini Crater Natural Preserve is alive with schools of tame angelfish, touch-me-not puffer fish, butterfly fish, octopuses and even those giant fearful looking manta rays. The Molokini Crater Natural Preserve can get crowded with boats, snorkelers and divers especially during the summer months so its best to get there early. But there are enough fishes and sight in the crater for everyone to see. Some are so used to people that they can be fed by hand, though this is not advisable. The Molokini Crater Natural Preserve is protected by the government so some restrictions are enforced there. Molokini is divided into three separate areas that appeal to the beginner, intermediate, and expert divers. Molokini's crater basin affords protected waters and an abundance of sea life, is only 35 feet deep,and is ideal for beginning divers and snorkelers. An underwater wall on the inner area goes to depths of 70 feet for intermediates, and the back side of the crater whose depths of 350 feet call to the intrepid expert divers. Olowalu Turtle Reef Olowalu Turtle Reef is very accessible from Maui and also one of the best Maui snorkeling spot frequented by most snorkelers. These protected waters overflow with those gentle and graceful green sea turtles. Here you can see and be amazed at the calm and gentle ecosystem these wayward creatures have made for themselves. These turtles are protected by the law so it is advised to observe them at some distance. The beauty of Olowalu Turtle Reef is taking part of this calm and serene Shangri-La.