Half Day Customized Private Oahu Adventure

Hawai’i has a very fragile ecosystem here in Hawaii. It is important that you don’t walk on the reefs, wear reef safe sunscreen (read our blog about sunscreens), keep a good distance from turtles and monk seals, and make sure you leave every place cleaner than you found it. You may notice your guide picking up trash at beaches and hikes. That is to ensure that rubbish doesn’t end up in our oceans, and to leave the area cleaner for the next people to enjoy. We encourage you to do the same while you are here in Hawai’i. Mahalo nui loa.

Yes, our tours are designed to be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. We keep our tours private, that way we can custom tailor the day to what you want to see and do, and what you can handle.

Oahu’s reefs are home to a wide variety of marine life. While snorkeling, you can see Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), colorful reef fish such as butterflyfish, parrotfish, tangs, and wrasse, as well as eels, rays, and occasional reef sharks. Many reefs also host cleaning stations where small fish interact with turtles. During certain times of year, you may spot dolphins or humpback whales from the surface. The diversity and abundance of life make Oahu’s reefs ideal for both first-time snorkelers and experienced divers.

No, touching turtles or other marine life is not allowed. Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) and other reef animals are protected by law, and it’s important to respect their space. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to observe and photograph them up close without disturbing their natural behavior.

Yes, participants should have basic swimming skills to safely snorkel. This tour takes place in the open ocean, and while we provide masks, snorkels, fins, and flotation devices, and your guide will give instruction and supervision, you are responsible for your own safety in the water.

You can snorkel with a beard or mustache but it can prevent a tight seal between the mask and your face, which may cause water to leak in. It is often recommended to shave at least your mustache before diving. If you’d prefer not to shave your mustache, please bring petroleum jelly or chapstick with you. If you coat your mustache in that chapstick or jelly, it may be able to seal and prevent water from getting in.

Glasses cannot be worn while snorkeling, but contacts are perfectly fine and recommended for the best experience. Prescription masks are not available for rent, but you are welcome to bring your own.

Additionally, there is an automatic correction effect that occurs underwater due to light refraction, making things appear clearer, but contacts or a personal prescription mask will provide the best visibility.

TripOutside recommends knowing how to swim before snorkeling, but participation is ultimately up to you and the tour operator's discretion.

• Check ocean conditions and only snorkel at lifeguarded beaches. The chance of rescue is much higher with trained lifeguards present.
• Never snorkel alone. Always bring a buddy. Beginners should consider booking a guided tour.
• Rest after flying. Flying can dehydrate and exhaust you—give your body at least a day to acclimate before snorkeling.
• Test your gear on land or in a pool first. Make sure your mask fits snugly, you can breathe through the snorkel, and you know how to clear water if needed.
• Practice with fins. You should be able to scissor kick while swimming. Avoid doggie paddling—it won’t get you far.
• Don’t wear fins on land. Walk into the water, get past the waves, then put your fins on. Remove them before exiting.
• Take it slow. Breathe calmly, relax, and avoid overexertion to keep your heart rate low.
• Know your limits. If you’re feeling tired, anxious, or unsure about conditions, skip the snorkel session. Panic in the water is dangerous.
• Stay aware of currents and tides. Even experienced swimmers can get pulled out. Know how to identify rip currents and how to escape them (swim parallel to shore).

Common sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm coral reefs, as the particles are small enough to be absorbed by corals, causing toxicity and coral bleaching. Reef-friendly sunscreens are formulated without these harmful chemicals. Reef-SAFE sunscreens go a step further by using non-nano particles, which are too large for corals to ingest, helping to preserve marine ecosystems. 

Please avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens. Consider wearing sun-protective clothing, like long-sleeve rash guards, as an alternative to sunscreen. If you choose a mineral-based sunscreen, ensure it is labeled ‘non-nano.’