Of all the great outdoor activities the Hawaiian island of Kauai has to offer, snorkeling is certainly at the top of the "must-do" list for any active visitor. The shores off Hawaii have more than 400 species of colorful tropical fish, the vast majority of which can be seen in the warm, sparkling blue waters off "the Garden Isle."
When to Go
Given the comfortable water temperature, snorkeling is a viable activity on Kauai almost any day of the year, depending on weather conditions. The island does tend to be rainier from November to March. While it's possible to snorkel during a misty sprinkle, you should always stay out of the water during thunderstorms.
Reef Snorkeling
The coral reefs off Kauai act as a protective barrier from the ocean and a viable hunting ground for tropical fish, making these areas ideal for snorkeling. Some of the island's best reef snorkeling spots include Ke'e Beach, known colloquially as the "End of the Road." These waters are well-populated with moorish idols, convict tang and reef triggerfish.
Protected Snorkeling
Kauai has several snorkeling areas that are protected from the open ocean. These beaches allow beginner snorkelers and young children to grow accustomed to using a mask and snorkel with less apprehension. Protected snorkeling spots include the boulder protected tide pools at Salt Pond Beach Park, as well as those at Lydgate Beach Park. These clear waters are inhabited by fantails and unicornfish.
Napali
Kauai's Napali Coast has some of the best snorkeling in the world. Advanced outdoors enthusiasts can take steep hiking trails to reach the barren cliffs, so the most common way to access these waters is by boat. Dozens of tour operators offer trips from the island's south shore. Snorkeling in the waters off Napali can often yield sights of large sea turtles, dolphins and schools of all kinds of tropical fish.
Considerations
Novice snorkelers should take precautions before exploring the waters off Kauai. Learn some information on local currents and swimming locations before venturing out, and never snorkel in remote areas or where prohibited access signs are in place. Also, adults and young children should wear lots of waterproof sunscreen and a T-shirt when snorkeling, because your back gets exposed to the sun's rays while you're face down in the water.
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