My oldest daughter recently visited the tidepools at Makapu’u with her school and they sent home tips on how to be a good tidepool visitor. Since most of my clients are visiting Oahu, I figured I would share them with you all as well!

When visiting tidepools on Oahu, it’s important to be mindful of the fragile ecosystem and to ensure the safety of both yourself and the marine life. Here are some tips to be a good tidepool visitor:

1. Step Lightly

Walk carefully and watch your step. Many creatures are fragile and you could crush them.

2. Look Closely

Sit quietly and watch for a few minutes. You’ll see and learn more this way.

3. Do not turn rocks over

Don’t turn rocks over to see what is underneath or try to pry animals off of rocks–animals often use seaweed and rocks as protection from predators and the hot sun.

4. Touch gently

If you touch an animal or plant touch gently. Use just one or two fingers and always keep animals in the water.

If you place an animal in a bucket to observe, cover the animal with sea water and return the animal to the tidepool after 5 or 10 minutes.

5. Leave everything as you found it

Leave animals and plants where you found them and return rocks to their original positions.

6. Collect trash

Leave the area cleaner than you arrived

7. Be safe

Move slowly and keep an eye out for waves don’t turn your back to the ocean.

Oahu has beautiful tidepools. Some of my favorites are on the west side including the tidepools to the right of Aulani Resort where I photograph many families. There are also some great tidepools on the east side in Waimanalo including Makapu’u.

Need a photographer?

Are you looking for a photographer to capture you on Oahu? Whether you live here or you’re traveling from afar, I’d love to help document your special occasion for you! Please CLICK HERE or email marissa.hbphoto@gmail.com

Are you looking for a photographer to capture you on Oahu? Whether you live here or you’re traveling from afar, I’d love to help document your special occasion for you! Please CLICK HERE or email marissa.hbphoto@gmail.com