Toilet bowls are not generally pleasant topics. Talking about the Toilet Bowl on Oahu's east shore however, conjures up terms like "quirky," "unusual," and "fun."
The Toilet Bowl is a naturally occurring pool formed from the constant pounding of waves crashing against the lava rock at Hanauma Bay. As water rushes in and out of the pool, it creates a scene reminiscent of a flushing toilet, hence the moniker.
When conditions are just right, the Toilet Bowl's water level will rise and fall several feet as waves roll into the area. Meanwhile, anyone sitting in the pool is sent bobbing up and down in a wet version of a roller coaster ride.
To get to the Toilet Bowl, visitors must follow the rocky, coastal path located on the left side of Hanauma Bay. The trail is slippery, and waves do slam onto the path with enough force to knock anyone not paying attention off balance.
Although the Toilet Bowl can be innocent fun, it can also turn dangerous very quickly. When conditions are too rough, bystanders can be quickly swept out to the ocean by the powerful current. The path to the Toilet Bowl is also very slippery, so take extra caution when walking.
To avoid hazardous situations, simply follow the signs at the lifeguard stations. When conditions get too rough, lifeguards will close off the area to the public. In addition, because the only way to reach the Toilet Bowl is through Hanauma Bay, access is available only when the Bay is open.
