Snorkeling is perhaps the most popular — and quintessential — Hawaiian activity. With warm water and islands surrounded by magnificent reef ecosystems, Hawaii is a snorkeler’s paradise, but not all beaches are created equal. And while we love Hanauma Bay, there is another Oahu destination we can’t get enough of. This unique underwater destination found along Oahu’s leeward coast is just begging for a visit, and we can’t wait to show you.

Before we dive in, we need to issue a short warning: please remember that you are a visitor in the vast Pacific Ocean; you should never disrupt the living coral, or bother sea life. Disturbing endangered animals like the Hawaiian monk seal and the honu is illegal and may result in massive fines. As always, we suggest you check out surf conditions before you make any decisions, and head warnings posted at these popular spots.

Just north of the popular Ko Olina resort area, Kahe Point Beach Park is perhaps one of the best snorkeling destinations on Oahu. While you won’t find postcard-perfect palms or a mile-long stretch of fine, white sand here, that’s not why you visit.
Chris Cooper/Flickr
The real beauty — and action — is found below the surface of the Pacific. Not only is the water at Kahe Point crystal clear, but you’re sure to find a variety of unique sea life.
sheraca/Flickr
Also known as Electric Beach because of the electric power plant located across the street, Kahe Point is certainly unique. Don't be scared off, though: the power plant is actually the reason this spot is so popular among snorkelers and scuba divers alike.
Chris Cooper/Flickr
The outflow of clean, warm water from the power plant through two large cooling pipes causes the water temperature at the opening to be several degrees warmer than normal, which attracts a variety of colorful, tropical fish, including angelfish, butterlfy fish, parrotfish, and eels...
Stephanie Batzer/Flickr

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...as well as Hawaiian green sea turtles. While you're sure to find honu across the islands, this is one of the best places to swim with them.
sheraca/Flickr
If you're lucky, you might even get to swim with a Hawaiian monk seal, Spinner dolphin, or hundreds of other species of sea creatures.
Klaus Stiefel/Flickr
Unfortunately, there are no lifeguards on duty, and this spot is best for intermediate and advanced snorkelers since there is a swim involved and the water can get pretty deep, but beginners can drive a little further north down Farrington Highway past the power plant.
urbanfoodie33/Flickr
While you won’t be right in front of the warm water outflow pipes, you will still see plenty of fish and sea life. You can also opt for a snorkeling tour in the area if that’s more your thing.
If you're looking for an intermediate snorkeling adventure, Kahe Point is absolutely perfect. Not only will you discover an abundance of sea life, but the water clarity is as good as it gets on Oahu. What more could you ask for?
sheraca/Flickr

Kahe Beach Park is located at 92-301 Farrington Hwy., Kapolei, HI 96707, and is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Have you ever been to this striking underwater destination? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below.

If you are a first-time snorkeler, you might want to check out “13 Awesome And Easy Snorkel Spots In Hawaii That Are Perfect For First-Timers.”

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