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Drifting aquatic plantlife, delicate coral, vibrant fish, green sea turtles, and rays can be seen in Hanauma Bay. A visit to this center is worthwhile and compelling to better understand the area’s dangers and ecological fragility.

Though it remains a beautiful, palm-shaded beach, Hanauma’s popularity makes a visit worthwhile only if you also plan to experience the underwater park.

Waders, novice snorkelers, and more experienced divers can all enjoy this extraordinary preserve equally. The central area of the park is the safest; strong currents exist three quarters of the way to either side, ready to surprise non-attentive snorkelers.

A rocky pool, known for its exciting churning action as waves wash in and out. Folks love to bob up and down in the maelstrom, but be warned: there have been injuries.

This trail involves a ramble along a steep, paved road, followed by a scramble along the spine of Koko Head, then a downhill path for views of the shoreline and the sea.

Buffeted by wind and strewn with crumbly rocks, this exposed trail to the 1,200-ft crater is one you should approach with caution, good shoes, and a hat.

The magnificent scent of plumeria flowers (also known as frangipani,) is the lasting impression to take away from this dry-land garden right inside Koko Crater.

This lava tube sucks up water from below, then sends it shooting into the air. You can climb down to the blow hole, but it is very dangerous to go near the opening.

Locals love this beach, and on weekends it’s busy with body and boogie boarders. Just be aware that waves slam into the sloping sand beach with great force, resulting in many a broken bone.

These two beaches are fine for shoreline pleasures, such as sunbathing or flying a kite, but don’t even think of taking on the killing shore break and swift currents.