Newbie - first snorkel attempt: Hawaii Dec 2010-Jan 2011 - Advice?

[Canadian99999]

Hi Scottitheduck, Hi Smellzlikefish!

Yes, you guessed it, Scottitheduck. I am a water enthusiast!
I am thinking about doing the Open Water Course and getting certified - I just have to see how my course goes on Thursday. It's more a question of affordability at the moment, because I have to save up for my upcoming vacation... But, I am definitely thinking about it.

Smellzlikefish, I am very glad that you posted your perspective about Molokini Crater. Yes, obviously, having never been there, I would not notice the difference in lack of fishies, and I do like sharks! It would be neat to see a few, if they were swimming around the area. Yes, the pelagic fish would be interesting. I think you make very valid points.
So, Molokini is back in the running.

My other possibilities are the following (I will only have one day to snorkel on Maui, as I want to see the Haleakala crater on the second day): I was also thinking about the Lanai day-trip to Hulopoe Beach to snorkel over there, but I just read a travel Hawaii magazine that said the winter currents on that beach are too rough... Is that the case? Is Molokini better? I know that winter currents are probably an issue everywhere...
The other option is to go rent a car and go snorkeling on my own at one of Maui's beaches - one person recommended Black Rock, but once again, I don't know if I could manage that with the winter currents. Our ship docks at Kahului, rather than Lahaina, but we are there overnight, so I basically have the first day to go snorkeling, etc. I imagine the more southerly beaches are a better option than the northerly ones, but I am leery of snorkeling by myself, without a lifeguard present. Do you have any recommendations about "do it yourself" options in January, bearing in mind that I am a novice? How would it measure up to Molokini?
The other factor is whales, as you mentioned. Do you think the odds are good that I would get to see some whales if I snorkeled at Molokini? I would kind of like to kill 2 birds with one stone. (originally I was planning to snorkel Molokini, then do a sunset whale watch...long day, but I really want to see some whales! However, if I got to see some on the way to Molokini and back, then I might go to the Old Lahaina Luau, instead, that evening, which I have been reading is considered to be one of the best on the islands).
Thanks again for your input!

I appreciate your info on Hanauma Bay, too, Smellzlikefish. I think that one might be the best option for me, since I am a beginner, and it will be the wintertime. Currents are going to be a factor in wherever I go. As I said, I don't really think it's wise for me to go somewhere without lifeguards, since it is going to be my first time snorkeling, etc... If I did Electric Beach, I would have to go with a tour, but as you implied, I don't know if it's wise in the winter time... I understand the winter currents are also bad at Shark's Beach? Let me know what you think. I am going to be there the first week of January.
Thanks again!
Claire.

 

[tarponchik]

On Big Island, there is excellent snorkeling in Cook's Bay and Place of Refuge. There is also very good snorkeling in the shallow bay a mile south of Magic Sands condos...I forgot what it is called.

On Maui, you can snorkel by Sheraton but better go to the Laperouse Bay area...ask the locals, they'll show you.

 

[tarponchik]

Also, if you snorkel on your own on Maui, be careful. Currents can be strong, and they'll drag you along the shore.

 

[smellzlikefish]

For reference, I've never heard it called "Cook's Bay." You'll find it on the maps as Kealakekua Bay or Captain Cook's Monument. The snorkeling on Kona is spectacular almost anywhere you go. I would also recommend Place of Refuge.

I imagine Molokini is your best bet for your criteria. People regularly see whales there in the winter, the boat operators will hopefully watch and make sure you don't drown yourself, and I expect you'll see more life at Molokini than on any of the main islands (but I expect someone will disagree with me on this point). Kahului is a good 45 minutes to an hour away from Lahaina, while Kihe is right across the connecting spit of land.

As for doing it yourself, Black Rock wouldn't be a terrible choice, but you could easily get into trouble out of sight of the lifeguards since that's where the best snorkeling is.

As far as Oahu in the winter, it isn't the currents you have to worry about; it is the surf! Expect northern swells up to or even exceeding 20 feet! This will put Shark's Cove and even Electric Beach out of order for your stay. Head to Hanauma Bay.

 

[Canadian99999]

Hi Tarponchik and Smellzlikefish!
Thanks for the info once again!
Yeah, based on what you have both told me, I think I will probaly try to do the Molokini snorkel, after all - I don't think I am advanced enough to identify the dangerous currents offshore, etc. and this may be an instance of better safe than sorry.
For Kona, I think that settles it - I will either do Kealakekua Bay if I can book it on my own through Fair Winds, or I will snorkel Place of Refuge on my own. Wish I had time to do both!!!
On Oahu, I will try Hanauma Bay.
Thanks again!!! I really appreciate all of your advice.
Claire.

 

[tarponchik]

For reference, I've never heard it called "Cook's Bay." You'll find it on the maps as Kealakekua Bay or Captain Cook's Monument.

Right, thanks for correction. The best snorkeling there is by the monument itself. But if you rent a kayak and paddle to the monument you can also do some snorkeling with dolphins on your way.