Snorkeling is an easy way to combine a little bit of exercise with a lot of beauty on your Hawaii vacation. It tends to feel a lot more like relaxation than fitness pursuit, but you'll get in a workout while swimming through the waters of Kauai. You won't need lessons to get into snorkeling; just make sure you have proper gear and are aware of any dangerous conditions offshore before you head out.
Conditions
The waters of the Pacific Ocean that lap at Kauai's shores are relatively warm, and temperatures on the island rarely stray from the 70s throughout the year. Kauai's ocean waters are generally calmest at low tide and during the early mornings, before afternoon winds pick up. If there are lifeguards on duty, always ask about ocean conditions to learn about dangerous reefs and undertows before heading out. If there are no lifeguards on duty, heed any posted warning signs at the beach.
Gear
You'll need a mask and a snorkel so you can see and breathe under water for long period. To navigate around and over the coral reefs off Kauai's shores, it's a good idea to wear flippers. They will help propel you through the water and allow you to change direction quickly and easily if a wave pushes you too close to dangerous rock or coral formations. You can rent or buy snorkeling gear at most surf shops, and you'll also find it at small gift stores on the island.
Considerations
Your snorkeling options include heading out from the shore at one of the island's beaches or taking a charter boat for a day cruise beyond the reefs. Kauai has dozens of companies that offer snorkeling cruises, and getting farther from land gives you a better chance of seeing different marine animals. You can also look into tours that explore Kauai's Na Pali Coast, the gorgeous, cliff-lined western side of the island that is mostly inaccessible by automobile.
Beaches
No matter where you are on Kauai, you won't be far from a beach with ideal snorkeling conditions. Among the island's more popular beaches is Poipu Beach Park on the south shore, where people can often be seen snorkeling. The eastern shore's snorkeling options include Lydgate Beach Park, which features man-made ponds that are calm and shallow. On the north shore, Anini Beach has Hawaii's largest coral reef, which means hundreds of marine animals.
Marine Life
The marine animals that make their homes in the waters surrounding Kauai and spend their time feeding on the coral reefs just offshore include a large variety of tropical fish. These colorful fish, such as the triggerfish, parrotfish and angelfish, create a spectacular rainbow effect underwater. You might also bump into marine mammals while snorkeling, including dolphins, whales and monk eels, as well as green sea turtles. Keep an eye out for reef sharks, as well.
Member Comments