The oldest Hawaiian Island, Kauai, is known as "The Garden Isle." Kauai's origin came from a volcanic eruption resulting in a diverse land of plants and species. Because of this, the underwater life is just as colorful and breathtaking as it is on land. Not only is snorkeling an effective way to discover life in the ocean, but it also allows people to stay active and fit on vacation while enjoying the outdoors. Kauai's waters are open to beginner or experienced snorkelers, with the opportunity to rent equipment from a recommended rental facility, Snorkel Bob's.
Poipu Beach Park
Poipu Beach, located in Kauai's south shore, is one of Kauai's most popular beaches. This safe, clear-water beach contains a shallow, sheltered pool friendly to young children and beginner snorkelers. The not-so-scenic pool provides an effective setting to learn the necessary snorkeling skills. You can do some scenic snorkeling right off of the Nukumoi Point at the tombolo, or the sand split, where marine life can be viewed. "Frommer's Travel Guide" recommends that if the tombolo is too crowded, snorkelers can view marine life in front of the Waiohai resort area, but only if conditions are clear.
Anini Beach
Anini Beach, featuring safe and shallow waters, is ideal for snorkelers of all levels. Located on the north shore, Anini Beach contains Kauai's largest reef, which appears "to go on forever." You can explore underwater canyons surrounding the reef's edge as well as view deep-sea fish. Beginners should be cautious of outgoing tides with strong currents.
Tunnels Beach
Makua or Tunnels Beach is located in Kauai's north shore, featuring a quiet and remote atmosphere with stunning mountain scenery. Tunnels Beach is open to all levels of snorkelers. Beginner snorkelers and children can utilize the shallow inner reefs whereas more skilled snorkeler can explore the outer reefs. This wide reef area provides exciting discoveries of cavernous canyons and exotic marine life. Snorkelers are recommended to experience the reef with calm waters.
Ke'e Beach
Ke'e Beach located in the north shore features a stunning view of the Napali Coast. This crowded beach is best experienced during the summer months with calm ocean waters. This shoreline lagoon features schools of tropical fish, along with possible sightings of endangered Pacific sea green turtles. The lush vegetation of coconut palm and guava trees gives Ke'e Beach a tropical atmosphere that is worth photographing.
Lydgate Beach
Lydgate Beach, located on Kauai's east side, features man-made pools recommended for beginners. An ideal spot for you to learn how to snorkel and swim, this protected lagoon provides frequently calm water conditions. With a mixed reef and sandy ocean floor, Lydgate features a variety of fish, including schools of colorful parrotfish.
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