Hawaii and especially the Big Island, has tons of fun activities that anyone can do. But one of the best things you must experience is snorkeling in its beautiful waters. Of course, it also helps that the big island has a rich marine life that makes exploring the seas worthwhile. But if you want a new snorkeling experience, why not try clothing-optional snorkeling on the big island? Here are some things you should know about it.
Know the best season to snorkel in Hawaii
You probably already have a list of places to go snorkeling in Hawaii, preferable places that are also clothing optional. But you might also want to research the best times for clothing optional snorkeling on the Big Island. That's because you can only get good snorkeling conditions at certain times of the year. For example, strong waves are not viable for snorkeling. Plus, you wouldn't want to be met with a downpour when sailing out to the best snorkeling spots. So timing your trip is also a factor you should consider.
Watch out for jellyfish invasions
While there are best times to go snorkeling, there are also terrible times to go snorkeling in your birthday suit. For example, some beaches in Hawaii are known to have jellyfish invasions that keep many people avoiding the waters. And you wouldn't want to get stung while snorkeling nude. Fortunately, these invasions are predictable based on the tides and the moon. So make sure to check out if your snorkeling spot is prone to jellyfish swarms at certain times. Or you can also check with your guides and ask them.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Did you know that Hawaii is the first state to ban the sale of sunscreen with coral-harming ingredients? This new law took effect in January 2021. And since then, many people have switched their sunscreen to reef-safe ones. Sunscreen helps protect your skin from harmful UV rays. But if you want a full-body tan, you can forgo putting it on. Otherwise, make sure that your sunscreen has environmentally friendly ingredients.
Don't touch coral reefs
This is one of the most common mistakes people make on their first trip to Hawaii.
If you're wading in the water and see a coral reef, you might be tempted to step on it, especially if you're wearing snorkeling fins. However, they are fragile and will be damaged if you do that. And if you're barefoot, stepping on corals will hurt! They can be sharp and will cut you. So it's better if you wear water shoes so as not to accidentally hit corals while swimming.
Turtles are protected in Hawaii
In Hawaii, touching turtles are also a big no-no besides the coral reefs. In fact, it's illegal as the endangered species act protects them. The law also states it's illegal to chase, scare, hinder their movement or swim within 20 feet of them. So if you see one, don't be tempted to touch them and try to avoid getting too close.
Shark attacks are rare
You won't need to worry much if you're scared of being attacked by a shark while snorkeling. That's because that happening is relatively rare, and according to National Geographic, you only have a one in 3.7 million chance of being attacked by one. Additionally, if you're going on a tour, guides will usually let tourists know if a spot is unsafe for snorkeling.
Clothing optional snorkeling on the Big Island with Swim Free Hawaii
Liven up your Hawaiian adventure with a twist! If you're interested in trying out clothing optional snorkeling on the Big Island, Swim Free Hawaii is more than happy to help! Go on a chartered boat trip where you can snorkel, go whale watching, or just enjoy the sunshine in your birthday suit.
Check out what our guest saw while snorkeling in Hawaii waters:
Want to experience that too? Get in touch with us today!