Exactly how early to get to Hanauma Bay?

We will be going there in late July with our kids. I have read from the many TA reviews that it is best to get there early (as by 10 AM it can be crowded and visability reduced), but how early exactly?

I know that the reserve opens at 6 AM and given we will have jet lag we will likely be up and about even before that so could be there that early! I am thinking though that there may be little point getting there at opening as I know from experience snorkeling elsewhere that decent to good sunlight is benificial while snorkeling.

Is 7:00 AM perhaps a better choice or is that even too early?

Any feedback would be appreciated.

Exactly how early to get to Hanauma Bay?

7:00am would be plenty early. Hanauma Bay is on the east side of the island so will have sunlight early. I%26#39;m an experienced snorkeler and really don%26#39;t have too many good things to say about Hanauma Bay. It is a good place for those who have little to no experience. If you are looking for places where you will have a better snorkeling experience, check out Shark%26#39;s cove on the north shore.

Exactly how early to get to Hanauma Bay?

The big advantage of getting there between 6am %26amp; 6:50 or so is that there is no one there at the ticket office. You can walk right in without having to pay or watch the mandatory film. The disadvantage is that the equipment rental is not open until after 7am.

The ticket office opens at 7am.

In the summer months, you probably need to get there before 9am to ensure you get a parking spot.