Hawaii is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the country — and perhaps even the world. With approximately 750 miles of coastline, the Hawaiian Islands are home to countless incredible beaches, each of which offers something unique. And while we love Hawaii’s colored sand beaches as much as the next person, there’s something special about this one-of-a-kind beach with unusually warm waters.
Nestled on Oahu’s leeward coast is a stunning stretch of fine, white sand that looks pretty ordinary upon first glance. Once you dip your toes in the water, however, you might notice that the water feels unusually warm.
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That’s because this beach is located across the street from the Hawaiian Electric Power Plant, and the power plant outflows clean, warm water through two large cooling pipes. The pipes run out into the ocean, and the water temperature at the opening is several degrees warmer than normal, attracting a variety of sea life.
Stephanie Batzer/Flickr
For the purpose of this article, we are focusing our attention not just on Hawaiian Electric Beach Park, but the stretch of sand from Kahe Point Beach Park to Hawaiian Electric Beach Park, as this entire area is well-known for its warm waters and epic snorkeling.
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Snorkeling is perhaps the most popular —and quintessential — Hawaiian activity, and Electric Beach is perhaps one of the best snorkeling destinations in the Aloha State.
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With crystalline waters, impressive coral, and schools of tropical fish that are attracted to the warm water, Electric Beach is a snorkeler’s paradise.
Stephanie Batzer/Flickr
Hawaiian green sea turtles have been known to hang out here, as well as angelfish, butterlfy fish, parrotfish, eels, and hundreds of other species of sea creatures. If you’re lucky, you might even see a Spinner Dolphin or two!
Anderson R/TripAdvisor
Unfortunately, strong currents mean that the beach is not well-suited for beginners, so we suggest you only snorkel here if you have some experience under your belt. If you’re confident in your snorkeling and swimming abilities, what are you waiting for? An underwater adventure like no other is calling your name!
Ken Anderson/Flickr
Hawaiian Electric Beach Park is located at 92-301 Farrington Hwy, Kapolei, HI 96707, and is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Looking for snorkeling spots that are better suited to beginners? Click here to discover 13 of the best snorkeling destinations for first-timers.
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Stephanie Batzer/Flickr
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Anderson R/TripAdvisor
Ken Anderson/Flickr
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