For those who crave ocean adventures, Hawaii is the ideal oasis. The islands are recognized worldwide for their white sand beaches and sparkling, crystal clear ocean, perfect for water activities like snorkeling and swimming. You might wonder why your local waters aren’t quite so serene. Here is a quick guide to the science behind Hawaii’s seawater clarity.

Ocean Cycles

If your local coastal waters appear gray, it isn’t because of pollution. Oceans have naturally occurring cycles. As the Earth rotates, water travels eastward. What was near the shoreline moves out to sea and vice versa, bringing in water from the deep cloudy with sediment and nutrients.

While other coastlines experience a constant upheaval of murky waves, Hawaii does not because its surrounding ocean is full of coral reefs. These sturdy habitats withstand and disperse the energy of approaching waves, so they don’t drag up as much sediment and come in to shore clear blue.

Sediment Levels

Because of the Hawaiian islands’ substantial volcanic rock content, their sediment tends to be heavier than other minerals that appear on different coastlines. Therefore, a higher degree of separation occurs between the water and mineral sediment, which makes the ocean appear clearer. Hawaii also has fewer organic particles, like phytoplankton and zooplankton, floating in the water. Whether you’re watching the sunset from the beach or participating in water activities, Hawaii ocean’s opalescent beauty will enchant you.

If you’re seeking the ocean adventure of a lifetime, Honolulu’s H2O Sports Hawaii is your go-to destination. Providing tourists and locals alike with a variety of water activities, this family-friendly company will get you off the beach and into Hawaii’s sparkling ocean for a day packed with excitement. Make a splash in their banana boats and bumper tubes, soar above the waves with a jet pack, or try scuba diving in the ocean depths. Visit their website to learn more about their available water activities, or call 808-396-0100 to book your adventure today!