Hanauma Bay Conservation
Table of Contents
Hanauma Bay (HBAY) is not just a breathtaking, world-class snorkeling destination. It is a nature preserve dedicated to safeguarding the fragile marine life in the bay. As the first Marine Life Conservation District in the State of Hawai‘i, several organizations work together to chronicle the environment, educate the public, and conserve the natural resources for future generations! On this website you’ll find resources regarding scientific research done at HBAY, visitor attendance, the education program, and the many organizations who help to preserve Hanauma Bay. To get your started, here is a link to the Hanauma Bay Strategic Action Plan!
Hanauma Bay Education Program
A new provider will be guiding the educational programming for the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve beginning May 2026. The Hui Mālama O Ke Kai Foundation is tasked with implementing and guiding the preserve’s educational program, which will now be referred to as “Papahana Hanauma.” This new coastal and marine interpretive program aims to support and broaden Hanauma Bay’s education and conservation goals by further teaching the natural, historic, and cultural significance of Hanauma Bay to visitors and locals alike. Click here for more information.
Carrying Capacity Surveys
Conducted each quarter by the Hawai‘i Institute of Marine Biology at the University of Hawai‘i, these reports focus on the environmental conditions and marine life at Hanauma Bay. Because HBAY is protected physically and legally, it is ideal for charting human impact on our ocean resources. Click on the report name below to access the document:
Previously, the report was conducted annually. For the individual yearly reports click on the list below.
In order to continue striving for a balance between the recreational enjoyment and environmental preservation of HBAY, the Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation posts monthly updates of the visitor attendance log showing a breakdown of who is visiting HBAY and at what days. In 2024 Hanauma Bay saw 400,776 visitors, with 170,928 (43%) walk-ins and 228,848 (57%) reservations. Click the years below for the detailed logs: