Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve History, Hotels, Area, Facts And More
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
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PERSONAL INFORMATION
NAME
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
COUNTRY
America
ADDRESS
100 Hanauma Bay Rd, Honolulu, HI 96825.
HANAUMA BAY NATURE PRESERVE PICTURE
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About Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Hanauma is a splendid situated bay on the southeastern side of Oahu near Hawaii Kai, approx. a half an hour ride from Honolulu. It is a scenic site surrounded by the lush green hills of Koko Head. It is considered the bay with the most diverse marine ecosystems in the world.
Some Lesser Known Facts About Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
- Formerly where there was a volcanic crater, over time the ocean eroded the south-eastern side and forced its way in. This created a sheltered bay rich in nutrients, which is an ideal environment for a thriving marine ecology. There are more than 400 marine species found here.
- The first stop on a visit to the Preserve is the Marine Education Centre. It is designed in a way to replicate the shape of a volcanic cave. It is useful in learning about the biology and habitat of the area. Short films are also a part of this education program.
- One of the most popular activities here is snorkeling. The gear is available for hire if one doesn't carry their own. It is a lovely opportunity to experience a wonderful array of natural beauty and exploring biodiversity.
- The name "Hanauma" comes from the Hawaiin language. Here, "hana" meaning bay and "uma" meaning either a curve, pointing to the curve of the shoreline or to the shape of the canoes that were launched here.
- The neighborhood was never inhabited due to its lack of freshwater. It was rather seen as a place for recreation. It is said that King Kamehameha and Queen Ka?ahumanu fished, entertained visitors, and sponsored games here.
- The site sees about 3000 visitors a day. At the Marine Education Centre, tourists are encouraged to stay away from touching any marine life and instructional videos explain the significance of preservation. It remains closed to visitors on Tuesdays as it is the day the fish are fed without any interruptions.
- If one is not up for snorkeling, there are beautiful trails for hiking, with wildflowers, and offers a great vantage point as well. The Hanauma Bay Ridge trail is a very popular trail. It runs about 4.2 miles and is quite trafficked during the day.
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