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Water activity

Realizing one would be surrounded by water, but what island has the better water activities going on? Not to mention what island has the swimming with sharks???

Hawaii offers a wide range of water activities on all its islands, but the type and accessibility vary depending on which island you choose. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

1. Oahu:

Oahu is great for a mix of water sports, with a strong infrastructure and many operators.

  • Surfing, paddleboarding, and snorkeling at Waikiki, Hanauma Bay, and Shark’s Cove.
  • Boat tours including snorkeling trips to nearby reefs.
  • Shark cage diving and swimming with sharks tours are popular on the North Shore.
  • Scuba diving for beginners and advanced divers along the North Shore and West Coast.

2. Maui:

Maui is known for calm waters, snorkeling, and whale watching.

  • Snorkeling at Molokini Crater and Turtle Town.
  • Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding along the coastline.
  • Whale watching tours (best in January–March).
  • Some shark snorkeling experiences in the West Maui area, although less commercial than Oahu.

3. Kauai:

Kauai has more remote, scenic beaches and river-based activities.

  • Snorkeling and diving in calm south shore areas like Poipu.
  • Kayaking the Wailua River.
  • Limited commercial shark swimming tours; Kauai tends to focus more on natural snorkeling and marine life observation.
  • More secluded beaches for swimming and exploring tide pools.

4. Big Island:

The Big Island offers diverse experiences, including lava viewing from the coast in some areas.

  • Snorkeling at Kona’s Kealakekua Bay and Honaunau Bay.
  • Scuba diving with manta rays at night (unique experience).
  • Fewer shark swimming tours; mostly recreational snorkeling and diving.
  • Surfing and kayaking along the Kohala Coast.

Summary: If your main interest is swimming with sharks, Oahu (especially the North Shore) is the best choice. For a broad range of water activities including snorkeling, whale watching, and calmer waters, Maui is excellent. Kauai is ideal for scenic, less crowded water experiences and river activities, while the Big Island is best for diving adventures like manta ray night dives.

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