Best Waterproof & Underwater Cameras for Hawaii
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.
However, not all cameras are made for underwater. Even with all the new technologies, it might be difficult to make it work or get damaged if you take them in the water. Waterproof cameras are well-protected, so it is perfect to capture your underwater memories from Hawaii.
Years ago, a good waterproof camera was expensive, but now, a lot of waterproof cameras are available in the market that can take exceptional photos and can be purchased for a reasonable price.
If you’re planning for a vacation and looking for the best waterproof camera for Hawaii, you came to the right place. We’ve reviewed some of the best waterproof cameras in the market that may suit your picture-taking needs.
Let’s get started…
Featured Recommendations
At a glance…
Our Best Rated waterproof cameras for Hawaii
That was our top 3 waterproof cameras for Hawaii, now let’s take a look at all of them in more detail. Whatever your preferred spec or brand, you’re sure to find your ideal camera from the list below:
1 Olympus Tough TG-6
Best Overall:
The ‘Tough’ line of Olympus has established an outstanding reputation because these cameras can withstand all weather.
The Olympus Tough TG-6 waterproof camera carries on the reputation of this line having everything “proof” such as crushproof, freezeproof, dustproof, and shockproof.
Aside from being recognized as one of the best waterproof cameras, it is also regarded as one of the best cameras for children because of its durability.
You’ll be able to take this camera down to 15 meters, which is perfect for swimming with dolphins. The Ultra 4K HD video will ensure you get some incredible quality footage, it also includes 5 underwater shooting modes
Features
- Weight (inc. batteries): 253 g
- Body type: Compact
- Dimensions: 113 x 66 x 32 mm
- Screen size: 3″
- Pixels: 12 megapixels
- Resolution: 4000 x 3000
What I Love
I admire the dual-pane and anti-fog glass found on the lens of this camera. It gives ample protection to the lens and at the same time takes detailed and clear photos. I’m also impressed with its macro focus especially when the full optical zoom is used. Thus, you can expect intricate and impressive pictures when you use this feature.
Pro’s
- Excellent reproduction of colors
- High-definition videos
- Bright lenses that take great pictures even in the dark
Con’s
- Can’t completely adjust manual controls
Verdict
If you have the TG-5 model, you may want to reconsider getting TG-6. Nevertheless, this is the best waterproof camera if you have an older model of this line, or you want a camera that can withstand extreme conditions.
2 Nikon W300
Best dive depth:
The Nikon W300 is the best waterproof camera for those who enjoy exploring deep into the water since it has a barometer to measure underwater depth and altitude and 30m depths.
Its Bluetooth function transfers photos fast because of the SnapBridge technology. Its shockproof feature provides added protection. Though the images supported are limited, it is great for your underwater trips.
This awesome camera is waterproof, freezeproof, shockproof and dustproof, making it an ideal choice for exploring Hawaii. It captures 4K Ultra HD video and 16MP photos ensuring the highest quality video and photo.
The Nikon W300 is perfect for diving, snorkeling, hiking, surfing, biking and much more.!
Features
- Weight (inc. batteries): 231 g
- Body type: Compact
- Dimensions: 112 x 66 x 29 mmScreen size: 3″
- Pixels: 16 megapixels
- Resolution: 4608 x 3456
What I Love
I think the best features of this camera are the optical zoom lens and vibration reduction. The optical zoom lens has a wide-angle and an equal range for taking photos of various subjects. Its vibration reduction feature also benefits this lens. When you hold the camera while taking a photo, it lessens the shakiness. Therefore, you save time re-taking a photo. It also has an electronic vibration reduction that gives more quality videos by steadying the footage while recording.
Pro’s
- Detailed high-quality pictures
- LCD screen that gives a good glimpse of the subject
- No staggering due to continuous shooting feature
- Specialized body to protect from extreme weather conditions
Con’s
- Doesn’t take far-reaching photos due to its small sensor
Verdict
All in all, with its 100 ft underwater capacity, this is no doubt a perfect waterproof camera. Installing the SnapBridge app from the App Store or Play Store. This is worth the money because it can connect to Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth.
3 Panasonic DMC-TS25D
Best for beginners:
The new underwater Panasonic Lumix (Amazon) is the new luxury camera in the Panasonic range. In the past 5 years, this is the first time Panasonic released a waterproof premium camera. This is probably since competitors like GoPros continue to rise.
Also, many more people especially millennials enjoy traveling, so the demand for waterproof cameras continues to grow. Panasonic hopes to get back in the game with this model since it has numerous features that aren’t present in most waterproof cameras.
If features, 8x intelligent zoom, and state of the art imaging performance. It’s waterproof to 7 meters, making it ideal for snorkeling and trekking through waterfalls. This camera is built to withstand harsh weather conditions, so it will have no problems surviving a trip to Hawaii.
Features
- Weight (inc. batteries): 319 g
- Body type: Compact
- Dimensions: 117 x 76 x 37 mm
- Screen size: 3″
- Pixels: 20 megapixels
- Resolution: 5184 x 3888
What I Love
The Lumix TS7/FT7’s size is perfect for its control layout. Because it’s large, the buttons of the cameras are arranged to provide comfort. It is a challenge to make a waterproof camera that can be easily used underwater or with gloves on. It sometimes results in cameras looking like a toy. However, this Panasonic camera was able to get the perfect balance for the controls. The big shutter button makes taking photos without a hassle.
Pro’s
- Numerous external controls
- Waterproof in the deep waters
- Outstanding quality photo and video
- Electronic viewfinder
Con’s
- Battery life could be better
- LED light functions only when a video is recorded
Verdict
There are many things to enjoy with this camera on top of its durable exterior and viewfinder. However, the small sensor’s pixels are too much. If quality photos are not your priority, this is the best choice because of its design.
4 Fujifilm FinePix XP130
Best budget:
The 4. Fujifilm FinePix XP130 (Amazon) is great for water activities like snorkeling, diving and surfing. It can resist bumps and knocks with its specially-designed shockproof feature. Most of its functions are similar to the XP120.
You’ll be able to give to an impressive 20 meters and still use this waterproof camera with no issues and shoot in full HD video. The image quality is an impressive 16.4 MP, ensuring you get the highest quality media.
Other features include an underwater Marco filter which ensures colors are reproduced exactly as they are seen by the human eye. This camera is also shockproof, dustproof and freezeproof.
The wide-angle x5 optical zoom will ensure you capture all the marine life on offer in Hawaii!
Features
- Weight (inc. batteries): 207 g
- Body type: Ultracompact
- Dimensions: 110 x 71 x 28 mm
- Screen Size: 3″
- Pixels: 16 megapixels
- Resolution: 4608 x 3456
What I Love
What I love about this camera are vivid and bold photos. You can zoom the photos 5 times producing detailed images. I also like its portability. You can fit it inside your pocket. It also has a loop to attach a strap and a durable bar that provide ease in gripping.
Pro’s
- Good for novice users
- Reasonably priced
- Easy transfer of files
- Sturdy design
Con’s
- LCD screen at the back is not a touchscreen
Verdict
This camera by Fujifilm is indeed waterproof. Aside from being inexpensive, you can bring it with you anywhere. It is recommended if you are not particular about controls and advanced functions.
5 GoPro Hero 8
Best for action and adventure:
This is the latest camera from GoPro, and it has lots of amazing features. There is a built-in mount for the camera that you can fold easily. You can also personalize it with accessories called “Mods.”
You can attach a Display Mod which is an additional screen. There are many other Mods you can choose from.
The GoPro Hero 8 (Amazon) camera offers so many brilliant features from its full HD live streaming to capturing super-stabilized time-lapse videos while you’re on the move. There’s also its live burst feature where you can choose the best picture from a single frame.
These are brilliant cameras offering 4k video and super high-quality images all from something that will fit in your back pocket. So, if you’re looking for something lightweight and portable which packs a bunch then this is has everything you need.
Perfect for bloggers, vloggers and anyone who is all about adventure and expiring, from activities such as diving, hiking, biking, snowboarding and much more.
Features
- Weight (inc. batteries): 126 g
- Body type: VR/Action camera
- Dimensions: 66 x 49 x 28 mm
- Screen size: 2″
- Pixels: 12 megapixels
What I Love
The best thing about this camera is that it has a 2-inch screen display at the back. It is a very sensitive touchscreen that produces detailed and vivid photos. You can take clear photos at any angle, and access the lens setting from the screen.
Pro’s
- High-quality video
- Small portable size
- Lots of built-in accessories
- A lot of options for frame rate
- Excellent image stabilization
Con’s
- Small screen size
Verdict
To sum up, this camera is good for recording extreme adventures and other travels because of the image stabilization. Because it can connect to Wi-fi, you can upload and share your photos and videos quickly.
Criteria for Evaluation
Here are the different factors you should consider in finding the best waterproof camera for traveling and exploring Hawaii:
Picture quality
Nowadays most cameras have a reliable picture quality, but make sure you choose a camera with 12MP and above. However, it’s not all about the megapixel resolution but also the sensor quality.
Check the lens and filters they use too, some of the cameras have macro filters that colors you see with the naked eye are captured in the picture you take. Be sure to check the reviews and people’s examples they upload too. The last thing you want is blurry pixelated images from such an amazing trip.
Video quality
Check the video specification of your underwater camera, I would personally accept nothing less than Ultra-HD 4K video. After all, you’re in Hawaii, you want to capture all those spectacular moments in the highest quality possible. From swimming with dolphins, snorkeling with Nemo to hiking and biking.
Memory capacity
You’re in Hawaii, you’re going to be taking so many pictures and videos, you’re going to need a lot of space to hold all that. Therefore, I would check the internal memory and also what external memory cards fit your camera.
Battery life
Try not to get a camera that only has a 1-hour battery life, especially on those long day-trips. With so many amazing things to see, get a camera that has long battery life. If not, then take some spare batteries out with you or a power bank so you can recharge on the go.
Camera depth
Depending on your activities in Hawaii, check your camera depth. For example, if you have your PADI certificate and plan on doing some diving then the Nikon W300 underwater camera would be perfect as it has a depth of 30 meters.
User interface
Some cameras can be very complicated to use and often over technical. It depends on your experience really, if you’re after a basic waterproof camera then I’d probably opt for one without all the bells and whistles, like having additional filters, etc to choose from. That said, I always opt for whatever is the best camera within my budget.
No filter
When you take photos or videos, you want the details to be as real as possible especially when you do it underwater. For the cameras mentioned, you can take a raw photo or video. This gives you more control over the details you want to tinker.
WiFi and bluetooth
At this age, many people consider the internet vital. When you take photos or videos, you want to share your moment with your family friends right away. Therefore, a Wi-Fi connectivity feature is considered important when buying a waterproof camera. You can just directly post your pictures and videos without the need to transfer them onto your computer first.
Accessory pack
You can get lots of accessories for cameras these days, from floating tripods, body straps to selfie-sticks. Depending on your activity, you might want to consider getting some accessories. For example, if your snorkeling you might want to get a floatable tripod so you can capture yourself with the marine life.
Item weight
Consider the weight of your waterproof camera, you don’t want something bulky and hard to carry with you. The most portable waterproof camera is the GoPro, you can literally fit it in your back pocket. All the cameras in this list are lightweight, so you’ll have no problems carrying them around on snorkeling trips or hiking trails.
Zoom
If you’re thinking of swimming with dolphins in Hawaii, then to get a great picture, you might need a zoom lens with your underwater camera. Most of the cameras on our list have an x4 or x8 digital optical zoom lens.
Shock, freeze and dustproof
Whatever your planned activity in Hawaii, whether it’s diving, snorkeling, kayaking, biking or snowboarding these cameras are built to last and withstand the harshest weather conditions. You can bury them in snow or throw them around the desert and they will still work as if they were straight out the box.
Value for money
Cheapest isn’t always best, don’t go for what’s on special offer. Make sure you compare the specifications between cameras. Chances are the cheapest waterproof cameras that are not as high quality as the others and probably won’t last. Don’t make the mistake of buying an inferior quality camera and it leaking.
Always read the reviews, compare the specifications and check the picture quality before making that purchase. Luckily for you guys, we’ve done all that hard work for you with this list. The waterproof cameras here are the best on the market.
Final Thoughts
To summarize, having a waterproof camera for Hawaii would allow you to capture memories you wouldn’t be able to with a normal camera.
Traveling to Hawaii is a once in a lifetime experience for most, so why not do it in style with a waterproof camera.
You’ll be able to get 4K footage and high-quality images of you swimming with dolphins, snorkeling the reefs or relaxing under a waterfall.
There is a camera for everyone on this list, no matter your activity or budget, just remember to think what activities you’ll be doing then you can get the right camera for your trip.
For example, if you’re planning on mountain biking then the GoPro might be best as you can attach it to your helmet. However, the GoPro is fully waterproof and will also do a great job for deep-sea diving and snorkeling.
The Nikon W300 has a dive depth of a whopping 30 meters, so this underwater camera is perfect for scuba-diving.
Here are my personal things I look for when choosing a tent: –
- Waterproof (obviously)
- Dive Depth
- Video and image quality
- Durability and shockproof
I’ve touched on this previously, but my last bit of advice would be, get a good quality camera. They’re not cheap, so you don’t want to pay a lot of money for something that isn’t up to standard.
You may find cheaper alternatives, however, there’s usually a reason for this! Get a camera that will last you for years and one that’s reputable.
I hope you have enjoyed this post on our best waterproof and underwater cameras for Hawaii. If you have please share it with your friends and family.
You My Also Like…
More Great Reads…
- Best Tent for Desert Camping
- Best Diaper Bag Backpack With USB Charging Port
- Best Camping Tents for Beginners
- Best Backpacking Tent for a Tall Person
- Best Tents for Wild Camping
- Best Family Tents For Camping With Toddlers
- 5 Best Backpacking Tents for the Appalachian Trail
- Best 6 Person Tent With Screened Porch
- Best Lightweight Rain Jacket for Hawaii
- Best waterproof & underwater cameras for Hawaii
- Best Lightweight Hiking Shoes for Hawaii
- 6 Best Backpacking Tents for Hawaii
- 6 Best Diaper Bags for Airplane Travel
- The 5 Best Hiking Backpacks for Hawaii
- Choosing the Best Bike Trailer for Infants
Read more
- Our Stay at The Marriott Regents Park London - December 1, 2020
- Marriott County Hall London Review - November 2, 2020
- Road Trip to the Cotswolds With Collins Books - July 24, 2020