Diving in Hawaii
Quick Facts
- • Entry types: Mostly shore entries
- • Expect: Varies by conditions visibility
- • Highlights: Discover Hawaii's dive spots
Explore the underwater wonders of Hawaii, province. This region features 100 documented dive spots, each offering unique underwater experiences. Whether you're seeking calm snorkeling bays, challenging freediving depths, or exciting scuba adventures, Hawaii has something for every underwater explorer. Browse detailed spot information, check current conditions from recent dive logs, and connect with the local diving community to make the most of your visit.
Regional Context
🌍 Associated Countries
Countries in Hawaii (2)
Sub-regions in Hawaii (1)
Popular Spots in Hawaii (100+ spots)
1St Cathedral
First Cathedral is a popular dive site located southeast of Hulopoe Bay. It features a large lava tube with multiple tunnels and passageways, reaching a maximum depth of 50 feet (15 meters) and a depth of 25 feet (8 meters) at the cavern's top. Marine life includes various species of fish, and the site has good visibility for underwater photography.
1St Cathedral
First Cathedral is a popular dive site located southeast of Hulopoe Bay. It features a large lava tube with multiple tunnels and passageways, reaching a maximum depth of 50 feet (15 meters) and a depth of 25 feet (8 meters) at the cavern's top. Marine life includes various species of fish, and the site has good visibility for underwater photography.
5 Caves
Five Caves is an advanced dive site located off Maui Island, requiring careful shore entry and exit. Divers can expect to see whitetip reef sharks, sea turtles, and pufferfish among the cave structures at depths ranging from 30 to 60 feet.
5 Caves
Five Caves is an advanced dive site located off Maui Island, requiring careful shore entry and exit. Divers can expect to see whitetip reef sharks, sea turtles, and pufferfish among the cave structures at depths ranging from 30 to 60 feet.
Airplane Canyon
Airplane Canyon is located approximately 15 minutes by boat from Waianae Small Boat Harbor. The site features the remains of a crashed passenger aircraft at a depth of 95 feet. Surrounding the wreck are deep water reef canyons and a diverse coral ecosystem. Divers can observe schools of snappers near the airplane remains, along with various fingers and ledges that are rich in coral and reef life.
Airplane Canyon
Airplane Canyon is located approximately 15 minutes by boat from Waianae Small Boat Harbor. The site features the remains of a crashed passenger aircraft at a depth of 95 feet. Surrounding the wreck are deep water reef canyons and a diverse coral ecosystem. Divers can observe schools of snappers near the airplane remains, along with various fingers and ledges that are rich in coral and reef life.
Airport Beach
Airport Beach is situated off the coast of Ka’anapali, adjacent to the Westin Resort Villas. This site is ideal for introductory and beginner divers, featuring a shore entry that is easily accessible with just a 2-minute walk from the parking area. The dive site consists of a gently sloping sandy bottom, with depths ranging from 8 to 25 feet. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including the common green sea turtle and the less frequently seen hawksbill turtle.
Airport Beach
Airport Beach is situated off the coast of Ka’anapali, adjacent to the Westin Resort Villas. This site is ideal for introductory and beginner divers, featuring a shore entry that is easily accessible with just a 2-minute walk from the parking area. The dive site consists of a gently sloping sandy bottom, with depths ranging from 8 to 25 feet. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including the common green sea turtle and the less frequently seen hawksbill turtle.
Ambers Arches
Ambers Arches is a dive site characterized by large underwater boulders that create expansive caverns. Divers can expect to encounter various species of fish in large schools, as well as whitetip reef sharks navigating through the caverns. Turtles may also be spotted in this area. Access to this site is exclusively by boat.
Ambers Arches
Ambers Arches is a dive site characterized by large underwater boulders that create expansive caverns. Divers can expect to encounter various species of fish in large schools, as well as whitetip reef sharks navigating through the caverns. Turtles may also be spotted in this area. Access to this site is exclusively by boat.
Aquarium - Hawaii
Aquarium in Hawaii is a shore entry dive site known for its abundant marine life. Divers can expect to see a variety of Hawaiian reef fish, numerous sea turtles, and occasionally manta rays and eagle rays. The reef also provides habitat for eels, which can often be spotted among the coral formations. This site offers a vibrant underwater experience, resembling a natural aquarium due to the active marine ecosystem present.
Aquarium - Hawaii
Aquarium in Hawaii is a shore entry dive site known for its abundant marine life. Divers can expect to see a variety of Hawaiian reef fish, numerous sea turtles, and occasionally manta rays and eagle rays. The reef also provides habitat for eels, which can often be spotted among the coral formations. This site offers a vibrant underwater experience, resembling a natural aquarium due to the active marine ecosystem present.
Baby Barge
Baby Barge is located at a depth of approximately 20 to 23 meters. The wreck is in a deteriorated state, with limited structure remaining. Divers should be cautious of potentially strong currents in the area. To the south and slightly east of the wreck, there is a significant accumulation of concrete blocks that often attract sharks. Marine life commonly observed includes sharks and turtles, while eels and octopuses can be found hiding within the wreck's remnants. It is important to avoid touching the wreck due to its fragile condition.
Baby Barge
Baby Barge is located at a depth of approximately 20 to 23 meters. The wreck is in a deteriorated state, with limited structure remaining. Divers should be cautious of potentially strong currents in the area. To the south and slightly east of the wreck, there is a significant accumulation of concrete blocks that often attract sharks. Marine life commonly observed includes sharks and turtles, while eels and octopuses can be found hiding within the wreck's remnants. It is important to avoid touching the wreck due to its fragile condition.
Black Rock - Hawaii
Black Rock is located off the beach of the Black Rock Sheraton Resort and is known for its population of green sea turtles. Divers can expect to see around 5-10 resident turtles during their dive. The maximum depth at this site is approximately 35 feet, making it accessible for divers of various experience levels. The area is characterized by notable coral growth along the rocks, providing a habitat for the turtles and other marine life.
Black Rock - Hawaii
Black Rock is located off the beach of the Black Rock Sheraton Resort and is known for its population of green sea turtles. Divers can expect to see around 5-10 resident turtles during their dive. The maximum depth at this site is approximately 35 feet, making it accessible for divers of various experience levels. The area is characterized by notable coral growth along the rocks, providing a habitat for the turtles and other marine life.
Brenneckes Ledge
Brenneckes Ledge is situated at the eastern end of the southern dive sites. The site features a ledge that begins at approximately 18 meters and descends into an overhang about 4.5 meters deeper. This area is known for strong currents, making drift diving a common practice here. The overhang provides shelter for various marine life, including eagle rays, sharks, and trevally. Divers can also observe black coral and tiger cowries throughout the site.
Brenneckes Ledge
Brenneckes Ledge is situated at the eastern end of the southern dive sites. The site features a ledge that begins at approximately 18 meters and descends into an overhang about 4.5 meters deeper. This area is known for strong currents, making drift diving a common practice here. The overhang provides shelter for various marine life, including eagle rays, sharks, and trevally. Divers can also observe black coral and tiger cowries throughout the site.
Cathedral II
Cathedral II is situated off the coast of Lanai and is accessible via boat. The site is approximately an hour's boat ride across the channel. Divers can explore the largest of the two cathedrals, where they may encounter Black Coral. It is advisable to bring a flashlight for this dive to enhance visibility in the unique underwater formations.
Cathedral II
Cathedral II is situated off the coast of Lanai and is accessible via boat. The site is approximately an hour's boat ride across the channel. Divers can explore the largest of the two cathedrals, where they may encounter Black Coral. It is advisable to bring a flashlight for this dive to enhance visibility in the unique underwater formations.
Cherry Pipe
Cherry Pipe features an outflow pipe with four moorings, of which the third one is the farthest from the shore. This site is known for its macro diving opportunities, as it hosts a variety of small marine life, including numerous shrimp species and small fish that inhabit the pipe and the adjacent reef. The area provides a rich environment for observing these critters in their natural habitat.
Cherry Pipe
Cherry Pipe features an outflow pipe with four moorings, of which the third one is the farthest from the shore. This site is known for its macro diving opportunities, as it hosts a variety of small marine life, including numerous shrimp species and small fish that inhabit the pipe and the adjacent reef. The area provides a rich environment for observing these critters in their natural habitat.
Corsair
The Corsair plane wreck is located at a depth of about 35 meters (115 feet). It is recommended for advanced divers due to strong currents. Marine life around the wreck includes squirrel fish, anglerfish, green sea turtles, garden eels, stingrays, and sharks.
Corsair
The Corsair plane wreck is located at a depth of about 35 meters (115 feet). It is recommended for advanced divers due to strong currents. Marine life around the wreck includes squirrel fish, anglerfish, green sea turtles, garden eels, stingrays, and sharks.
Dominique'S Wall
Dominique's Wall is a drift dive site located outside of Hanauma Bay, Oahu, recommended for advanced divers due to strong currents. Divers will explore a vertical wall at depths of approximately 18-30 meters, encountering marine life such as lobsters, eels, spotted eagle rays, octopuses, sea turtles, and various game fish. Visibility reaches about 25 meters, with water temperatures ranging from 21°C in winter to 27°C in summer.
Dominique'S Wall
Dominique's Wall is a drift dive site located outside of Hanauma Bay, Oahu, recommended for advanced divers due to strong currents. Divers will explore a vertical wall at depths of approximately 18-30 meters, encountering marine life such as lobsters, eels, spotted eagle rays, octopuses, sea turtles, and various game fish. Visibility reaches about 25 meters, with water temperatures ranging from 21°C in winter to 27°C in summer.
Ewa Pinnacles Reef
Ewa Pinnacles Reef is located on the island of Oahu, characterized by its unique lava formations and significant overhangs. This site serves as a cleaning station, attracting a variety of marine life. Divers can expect to see numerous Hawaiian reef fish species, along with whitetip reef sharks, sea turtles, and manta rays. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore its underwater features.
Ewa Pinnacles Reef
Ewa Pinnacles Reef is located on the island of Oahu, characterized by its unique lava formations and significant overhangs. This site serves as a cleaning station, attracting a variety of marine life. Divers can expect to see numerous Hawaiian reef fish species, along with whitetip reef sharks, sea turtles, and manta rays. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore its underwater features.
First Cathedral
First Cathedral is located off the coast of Lanai, accessible via shore entry. This dive site features a two-story underwater cavern characterized by impressive lava tube openings. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including turtles, sharks, lobsters, and the endemic Bandit Angel fish. The site is popular among divers for its unique geological formations and diverse aquatic species.
First Cathedral
First Cathedral is located off the coast of Lanai, accessible via shore entry. This dive site features a two-story underwater cavern characterized by impressive lava tube openings. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including turtles, sharks, lobsters, and the endemic Bandit Angel fish. The site is popular among divers for its unique geological formations and diverse aquatic species.
Fish Bowl - Hawaii
Fish Bowl is characterized by its unique rock formations that provide numerous hiding spots for various fish species, making it a notable dive site in Kauai. The area showcases remnants of ancient lava flows, contributing to its geological interest. Divers can expect to encounter a diverse array of Hawaiian reef fish, including triggerfish, sturgeons, grunts, Moorish idols, and butterfly fish. Additionally, sightings of sea turtles and sharks are possible, enhancing the underwater experience.
Fish Bowl - Hawaii
Fish Bowl is characterized by its unique rock formations that provide numerous hiding spots for various fish species, making it a notable dive site in Kauai. The area showcases remnants of ancient lava flows, contributing to its geological interest. Divers can expect to encounter a diverse array of Hawaiian reef fish, including triggerfish, sturgeons, grunts, Moorish idols, and butterfly fish. Additionally, sightings of sea turtles and sharks are possible, enhancing the underwater experience.
Fish Garden
Fish Garden is characterized by a steep wall dive situated between Spitting Cave and Sea Cave. The underwater topography features a significant drop-off from the sea cliffs, with depths ranging from 60 to 90 feet. Divers can encounter large boulder fields along the dive. Marine life commonly observed in this area includes green sea turtles and monk seals. Additionally, white tip sharks can often be seen resting on the bottom, while moray eels inhabit the walls and rubble.
Fish Garden
Fish Garden is characterized by a steep wall dive situated between Spitting Cave and Sea Cave. The underwater topography features a significant drop-off from the sea cliffs, with depths ranging from 60 to 90 feet. Divers can encounter large boulder fields along the dive. Marine life commonly observed in this area includes green sea turtles and monk seals. Additionally, white tip sharks can often be seen resting on the bottom, while moray eels inhabit the walls and rubble.
Garden Eel Cove
Garden Eel Cove is known for its night diving opportunities, particularly for observing manta rays. Divers can expect to kneel at a depth of approximately 35 feet during night dives, where a light source is used to attract phytoplankton and krill, drawing manta rays close for feeding. In addition to manta rays, eagle rays may also be spotted in this area. The site features a mix of coral and marine life, making it an engaging dive experience.
Garden Eel Cove
Garden Eel Cove is a popular dive site off Kona Island, Hawaii, with a maximum depth of 18 meters (60 feet) and visibility up to 20 meters (66 feet). Divers can see a variety of marine life including manta rays, eagle rays, sea turtles, hawkfish, garden eels, and dolphins. The site is best accessed via boat and is suitable for all levels of divers.
Garden Eel Cove
Garden Eel Cove is known for its night diving opportunities, particularly for observing manta rays. Divers can expect to kneel at a depth of approximately 35 feet during night dives, where a light source is used to attract phytoplankton and krill, drawing manta rays close for feeding. In addition to manta rays, eagle rays may also be spotted in this area. The site features a mix of coral and marine life, making it an engaging dive experience.
Garden Eel Cove
Garden Eel Cove is a popular dive site off Kona Island, Hawaii, with a maximum depth of 18 meters (60 feet) and visibility up to 20 meters (66 feet). Divers can see a variety of marine life including manta rays, eagle rays, sea turtles, hawkfish, garden eels, and dolphins. The site is best accessed via boat and is suitable for all levels of divers.
Golden Arches
Golden Arches is a reef dive located off the Kona coast of Hawaii. The visibility improves as divers descend deeper and move away from the surf zone. It is important to check the conditions prior to diving, as currents can become strong in this area. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of typical Hawaiian reef fish, including triggerfish, angelfish, moorish idols, eels, and surgeonfish. Additionally, manta rays are known to visit this site occasionally.
Golden Arches
Golden Arches is a reef dive site off the Kona coast, featuring a maximum depth of 18 meters (60 feet) and visibility of up to 20 meters (66 feet). Expect to see typical marine life such as Moorish idols, surgeonfish, triggerfish, angelfish, and eels, with a chance to spot manta rays. Current conditions can vary from mild to strong, and this site is accessible by boat.
Golden Arches
Golden Arches is a reef dive located off the Kona coast of Hawaii. The visibility improves as divers descend deeper and move away from the surf zone. It is important to check the conditions prior to diving, as currents can become strong in this area. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of typical Hawaiian reef fish, including triggerfish, angelfish, moorish idols, eels, and surgeonfish. Additionally, manta rays are known to visit this site occasionally.
Golden Arches
Golden Arches is a reef dive site off the Kona coast, featuring a maximum depth of 18 meters (60 feet) and visibility of up to 20 meters (66 feet). Expect to see typical marine life such as Moorish idols, surgeonfish, triggerfish, angelfish, and eels, with a chance to spot manta rays. Current conditions can vary from mild to strong, and this site is accessible by boat.
Hale O Honu
Hale O Honu, translating to 'House of Turtle' in Hawaiian, is a dive site accessible by boat. This location is known for its active turtle cleaning station, where divers can observe numerous green sea turtles. The site features a variety of coral formations and offers opportunities to see lionfish and white tip reef sharks. It is suitable for both beginner and advanced divers due to its manageable conditions.
Hale O Honu
Hale O Honu, translating to 'House of Turtle' in Hawaiian, is a dive site accessible by boat. This location is known for its active turtle cleaning station, where divers can observe numerous green sea turtles. The site features a variety of coral formations and offers opportunities to see lionfish and white tip reef sharks. It is suitable for both beginner and advanced divers due to its manageable conditions.
Halona Blowhole
Halona Blowhole offers a steep descent from the adjacent parking area, making access challenging, especially during large east swells. The beach entry can pose risks, and divers should begin their dive against the current. The site features large boulders and slabs, with generally good visibility. The maximum depth near the shore is approximately 45 feet, and divers can observe a variety of reef fish, with populations changing as they move into deeper waters. This dive site is considered to be challenging due to its conditions.
Halona Blowhole
Halona Blowhole offers a steep descent from the adjacent parking area, making access challenging, especially during large east swells. The beach entry can pose risks, and divers should begin their dive against the current. The site features large boulders and slabs, with generally good visibility. The maximum depth near the shore is approximately 45 feet, and divers can observe a variety of reef fish, with populations changing as they move into deeper waters. This dive site is considered to be challenging due to its conditions.
Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay is a nature preserve located on Oahu, known for its calm and protected waters due to the prohibition of boats. The site is accessible from the shore and is suitable for snorkelers and divers of all experience levels. The most notable part of the reef is found at a depth of approximately 30 feet, where divers can encounter a variety of marine life including Spotted Eagle Rays, Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, and schools of Convict Tangs, Sergeant Majors, Parrot Fish, and Moray Eels.
Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay is a nature preserve located on Oahu, known for its calm and protected waters due to the prohibition of boats. The site is accessible from the shore and is suitable for snorkelers and divers of all experience levels. The most notable part of the reef is found at a depth of approximately 30 feet, where divers can encounter a variety of marine life including Spotted Eagle Rays, Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, and schools of Convict Tangs, Sergeant Majors, Parrot Fish, and Moray Eels.
Horseshoe Reef - Hawaii
Horseshoe Reef is situated off the southern coast of Oahu, characterized by its high boat traffic, making it ideal for boat diving. The reef is rich in marine biodiversity, with notable sightings of larger species such as tiger sharks, manta rays, stingrays, moray eels, and sea turtles. This site offers divers a chance to explore a vibrant underwater ecosystem.
Horseshoe Reef - Hawaii
Horseshoe Reef is situated off the southern coast of Oahu, characterized by its high boat traffic, making it ideal for boat diving. The reef is rich in marine biodiversity, with notable sightings of larger species such as tiger sharks, manta rays, stingrays, moray eels, and sea turtles. This site offers divers a chance to explore a vibrant underwater ecosystem.
Kahala Barge
Kahala Barge is an advanced dive site located at a depth of 80 to 90 feet. The wreck is in a deteriorated state, and penetration is not advised due to safety concerns. Divers may encounter strong currents in the area. Surrounding the wreck, divers can observe typical tropical marine life, including schools of butterflyfish, surgeonfish, triggerfish, and wrasse. The site is situated in a sandy environment, where sightings of rays and sharks are possible.
Kahala Barge
Kahala Barge is an advanced dive site located at a depth of 80 to 90 feet. The wreck is in a deteriorated state, and penetration is not advised due to safety concerns. Divers may encounter strong currents in the area. Surrounding the wreck, divers can observe typical tropical marine life, including schools of butterflyfish, surgeonfish, triggerfish, and wrasse. The site is situated in a sandy environment, where sightings of rays and sharks are possible.
Kahala Barge
Kahala Barge is a wreck dive site located in Manalua Bay, Oahu, at a depth of approximately 28 meters (90 feet). The 60-meter (200-foot) long retired barge is upright and fully intact, offering multiple entry points for certified divers. Marine life includes schooling fish, sea turtles, and whitetip reef sharks, with good visibility due to currents.
Kahala Barge
Kahala Barge is a wreck dive site located in Manalua Bay, Oahu, at a depth of approximately 28 meters (90 feet). The 60-meter (200-foot) long retired barge is upright and fully intact, offering multiple entry points for certified divers. Marine life includes schooling fish, sea turtles, and whitetip reef sharks, with good visibility due to currents.
Kahekili Beach Park
Kahekili Beach Park features a vast coral reef that extends for miles, providing a customizable diving experience suitable for divers of all levels. The depths range from 20 to 80 feet, making it accessible for various skill sets. The site is home to a variety of marine life, including common sightings of eels, colorful reef fish, nudibranchs, slugs, and green turtles. Occasionally, divers may encounter hawksbill turtles, barracuda, octopus, spotted eagle rays, and flying gurnards. Rare sightings include dolphins and monk seals. This dive site is accessible via shore entry and is ideal for year-round diving.
Kahekili Beach Park
Kahekili Beach Park features a vast coral reef that extends for miles, providing a customizable diving experience suitable for divers of all levels. The depths range from 20 to 80 feet, making it accessible for various skill sets. The site is home to a variety of marine life, including common sightings of eels, colorful reef fish, nudibranchs, slugs, and green turtles. Occasionally, divers may encounter hawksbill turtles, barracuda, octopus, spotted eagle rays, and flying gurnards. Rare sightings include dolphins and monk seals. This dive site is accessible via shore entry and is ideal for year-round diving.
Kapalua Beach
Kapalua Beach is characterized by a substantial coral reef that supports a diverse array of marine life. The site features rocky overhangs and valleys that can be explored further out. Common species include Green Turtles, Moray Eels, and various Reef Fish, while occasional sightings may include Octopus, Barracuda, and Hawksbill Turtles. Rare encounters may involve Spotted Eagle Rays, White Tip Reef Sharks, and Dolphins. The optimal times for diving here are late spring, summer, and early fall.
Kapalua Beach
Kapalua Beach is characterized by a substantial coral reef that supports a diverse array of marine life. The site features rocky overhangs and valleys that can be explored further out. Common species include Green Turtles, Moray Eels, and various Reef Fish, while occasional sightings may include Octopus, Barracuda, and Hawksbill Turtles. Rare encounters may involve Spotted Eagle Rays, White Tip Reef Sharks, and Dolphins. The optimal times for diving here are late spring, summer, and early fall.
Keauhou Bay
Keauhou Bay is a shore dive with a maximum depth of 30 feet, offering clear water conditions. The entry point is conveniently located near the Keauhou Sheraton Hotel. Divers should be cautious of boat traffic in the central area of the bay. Night dives here provide opportunities to observe manta rays, while daytime dives may reveal octopus, dolphins, whitetip reef sharks, and eagle rays, alongside various reef fish species.
Keauhou Bay
Keauhou Bay is a shore dive with a maximum depth of 30 feet, offering clear water conditions. The entry point is conveniently located near the Keauhou Sheraton Hotel. Divers should be cautious of boat traffic in the central area of the bay. Night dives here provide opportunities to observe manta rays, while daytime dives may reveal octopus, dolphins, whitetip reef sharks, and eagle rays, alongside various reef fish species.
Kewalo Pipe
Kewalo Pipe is a dive site characterized by an old waterline pipe that appears barren but is home to a variety of marine life. Divers can encounter several species of moray eels, crabs, turtles, and various Hawaiian reef fish. The site is known for its high boat and ocean sports traffic, making it advisable to dive from a boat rather than from shore. Underwater, divers may also hear the sounds of whales, adding to the unique experience of this location.
Kewalo Pipe
Kewalo Pipe is a dive site characterized by an old waterline pipe that appears barren but is home to a variety of marine life. Divers can encounter several species of moray eels, crabs, turtles, and various Hawaiian reef fish. The site is known for its high boat and ocean sports traffic, making it advisable to dive from a boat rather than from shore. Underwater, divers may also hear the sounds of whales, adding to the unique experience of this location.
Koko Craters
Koko Craters is a shore dive site located at coordinates 21.269500, -157.724000. While it is not particularly known for coral formations, it is renowned for the presence of sea turtles. Divers can also expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including sea stars, urchins, pufferfish, and crabs. The site offers scenic views of Koko Head mountain from the shore, making it an appealing location for beginner divers.
Koko Craters
Koko Craters is a shore dive site located at coordinates 21.269500, -157.724000. While it is not particularly known for coral formations, it is renowned for the presence of sea turtles. Divers can also expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including sea stars, urchins, pufferfish, and crabs. The site offers scenic views of Koko Head mountain from the shore, making it an appealing location for beginner divers.
Koloa Landing
Koloa Landing is situated in Hanaka’ape Bay on the island of Kauai. This dive site is known for its easy shore entry, making it accessible for divers. The underwater environment features a variety of marine life, including numerous Hawaiian reef fish, schooling fish, and a significant presence of sea turtles. Divers may also encounter eagle rays during their dives. The site offers diverse exploration opportunities both to the left and right of the entry point.
Koloa Landing
Koloa Landing is situated in Hanaka’ape Bay on the island of Kauai. This dive site is known for its easy shore entry, making it accessible for divers. The underwater environment features a variety of marine life, including numerous Hawaiian reef fish, schooling fish, and a significant presence of sea turtles. Divers may also encounter eagle rays during their dives. The site offers diverse exploration opportunities both to the left and right of the entry point.
Kona
Kona, situated on the western side of the Big Island of Hawaii, offers diverse diving opportunities suitable for all experience levels. The site features vibrant reefs and unique lava tubes, providing habitats for a variety of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter an array of macro species, including nudibranchs, crabs, and small reef fish, alongside larger wildlife such as green sea turtles, manta rays, eagle rays, dolphins, and occasionally, whales. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore the underwater ecosystem.
Kona
Kona, situated on the western side of the Big Island of Hawaii, offers diverse diving opportunities suitable for all experience levels. The site features vibrant reefs and unique lava tubes, providing habitats for a variety of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter an array of macro species, including nudibranchs, crabs, and small reef fish, alongside larger wildlife such as green sea turtles, manta rays, eagle rays, dolphins, and occasionally, whales. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore the underwater ecosystem.
Lehau
Lehua Crater is a shore dive site characterized by underwater erosional sea caves and arches. Divers may encounter the endangered Hawaiian monk seal, which is unique to this location in U.S. waters. The site also hosts typical Hawaiian reef fish and whitetip reef sharks that can often be found among the rocky formations.
Lehau
Lehua Crater is a shore dive site characterized by underwater erosional sea caves and arches. Divers may encounter the endangered Hawaiian monk seal, which is unique to this location in U.S. waters. The site also hosts typical Hawaiian reef fish and whitetip reef sharks that can often be found among the rocky formations.
Makena Landing
Makena Landing provides divers with access to a variety of unique underwater features, including ledges and grottos. This site includes several distinct dive areas known as 5 caves/5 graves, turtle town, and turtle arch. The marine life here is diverse, ranging from small organisms like nudibranchs and crabs to larger species such as manta rays, eagle rays, white tip reef sharks, and sea turtles. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore these rich underwater environments.
Makena Landing
Makena Landing provides divers with access to a variety of unique underwater features, including ledges and grottos. This site includes several distinct dive areas known as 5 caves/5 graves, turtle town, and turtle arch. The marine life here is diverse, ranging from small organisms like nudibranchs and crabs to larger species such as manta rays, eagle rays, white tip reef sharks, and sea turtles. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore these rich underwater environments.
Mala Wharf
Mala Wharf is located near Lahaina and is accessible via shore entry. This site features an old wharf that serves as an artificial reef, promoting coral growth. Divers can expect to see a variety of typical Hawaiian reef fish, including turtles and eels. Caution is advised due to potential boat traffic and variable sea conditions.
Mala Wharf
Mala Wharf is located near Lahaina and is accessible via shore entry. This site features an old wharf that serves as an artificial reef, promoting coral growth. Divers can expect to see a variety of typical Hawaiian reef fish, including turtles and eels. Caution is advised due to potential boat traffic and variable sea conditions.
Mana Crack
Mana Crack is an offshore dive site located 11 miles from the coast, characterized by its sunken barrier reef. The site features multiple drop points and is known for strong currents, making it suitable only for advanced divers. Entry is conducted via boat as there are no moorings available. Divers can expect excellent visibility and may encounter a variety of marine life including large barracuda, spotted eagle rays, white tip reef sharks, java moray eels, rainbow runners, grey reef sharks, stripe belly puffers, and black surgeonfish.
Mana Crack
Mana Crack is an offshore dive site located 11 miles from the coast, characterized by its sunken barrier reef. The site features multiple drop points and is known for strong currents, making it suitable only for advanced divers. Entry is conducted via boat as there are no moorings available. Divers can expect excellent visibility and may encounter a variety of marine life including large barracuda, spotted eagle rays, white tip reef sharks, java moray eels, rainbow runners, grey reef sharks, stripe belly puffers, and black surgeonfish.
Manana Island
Manana Island, recognizable for its rabbit-like shape, offers a dive site located on the steep vertical wall on its eastern side, descending to a depth of 90 feet. The bottom consists primarily of a large rubble field, which is suitable for shell collecting. Divers may encounter live coral along the wall and can look for unique marine life such as frogfish and blue dragon nudibranchs.
Manana Island
Manana Island, recognizable for its rabbit-like shape, offers a dive site located on the steep vertical wall on its eastern side, descending to a depth of 90 feet. The bottom consists primarily of a large rubble field, which is suitable for shell collecting. Divers may encounter live coral along the wall and can look for unique marine life such as frogfish and blue dragon nudibranchs.
Manta Ray Heaven, Garden Eel Cove
Manta Ray Heaven, located at Garden Eel Cove, is renowned for its manta ray night dives. Divers can expect to encounter large manta rays as they visit cleaning stations, often seen gliding overhead. The site also offers opportunities to spot eagle rays and features a variety of coral formations. The entry to this dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to experience these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Manta Ray Heaven, Garden Eel Cove
Manta Ray Heaven, located at Garden Eel Cove, is renowned for its manta ray night dives. Divers can expect to encounter large manta rays as they visit cleaning stations, often seen gliding overhead. The site also offers opportunities to spot eagle rays and features a variety of coral formations. The entry to this dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to experience these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Maui
Maui is known for its diverse marine life and offers excellent diving primarily on its northern and western coasts, where conditions are generally calmer. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of species, including turtles, numerous reef fish, manta rays, eagle rays, and various eels. Additionally, shark sightings are common, making it a rich environment for underwater exploration. The site is accessible via shore entry, allowing for convenient access to the water.
Maui
Maui is known for its diverse marine life and offers excellent diving primarily on its northern and western coasts, where conditions are generally calmer. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of species, including turtles, numerous reef fish, manta rays, eagle rays, and various eels. Additionally, shark sightings are common, making it a rich environment for underwater exploration. The site is accessible via shore entry, allowing for convenient access to the water.
Molokini Crater
Molokini Crater, located off the coast of Maui, is a well-known dive site accessible exclusively by boat. The site features a unique crescent shape and offers multiple diving areas. Divers can observe a variety of Hawaiian reef fish on both the inner and outer sides of the crater. In the shallower regions, garden eels can be seen swaying in the sandy substrate, while the deeper areas are home to manta rays, eagle rays, and sharks. The site is characterized by its clear waters and diverse marine life, making it a popular destination for divers.
Molokini Crater
Molokini Crater, located off the coast of Maui, is a well-known dive site accessible exclusively by boat. The site features a unique crescent shape and offers multiple diving areas. Divers can observe a variety of Hawaiian reef fish on both the inner and outer sides of the crater. In the shallower regions, garden eels can be seen swaying in the sandy substrate, while the deeper areas are home to manta rays, eagle rays, and sharks. The site is characterized by its clear waters and diverse marine life, making it a popular destination for divers.
Nashua Navy Tug (Wreck)
The Nashua Navy Tug is a wreck intentionally submerged in 2012, resting at a depth of approximately 65 feet. This site serves as an artificial reef, attracting a variety of marine life. Divers can observe large pufferfish, reef sharks that inhabit the wreck, as well as octopuses and moray eels. The area is also home to numerous species of Hawaiian reef fish. Entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore this unique underwater environment.
Nashua Navy Tug (Wreck)
The Nashua Navy Tug is a wreck intentionally submerged in 2012, resting at a depth of approximately 65 feet. This site serves as an artificial reef, attracting a variety of marine life. Divers can observe large pufferfish, reef sharks that inhabit the wreck, as well as octopuses and moray eels. The area is also home to numerous species of Hawaiian reef fish. Entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore this unique underwater environment.
Nautilus Reef
Nautilus Reef is situated just offshore from Ala Moana Beach on Oahu and is accessible via boat. The reef is characterized by an ancient lava field, with the northwest section being shallower before it descends to approximately 100 feet on the southern side. The site is home to a variety of marine life, including triggerfish, butterflyfish, and Moorish idols, along with numerous urchins. Divers may also encounter white tip reef sharks resting in the overhangs of the reef.
Nautilus Reef
Nautilus Reef is situated just offshore from Ala Moana Beach on Oahu and is accessible via boat. The reef is characterized by an ancient lava field, with the northwest section being shallower before it descends to approximately 100 feet on the southern side. The site is home to a variety of marine life, including triggerfish, butterflyfish, and Moorish idols, along with numerous urchins. Divers may also encounter white tip reef sharks resting in the overhangs of the reef.
New Barge
New Barge is located at the end of a ledge extending from Baby Barge, with the deck situated at a depth of 27 meters and the bottom reaching depths exceeding 30 meters. Nearby, there is an artificial reef pile that rises to 16 meters. This site is known for the presence of green sea turtles, which are often found resting. Additionally, divers can observe large schools of surgeonfish and goatfish in the vicinity.
New Barge
New Barge is located at the end of a ledge extending from Baby Barge, with the deck situated at a depth of 27 meters and the bottom reaching depths exceeding 30 meters. Nearby, there is an artificial reef pile that rises to 16 meters. This site is known for the presence of green sea turtles, which are often found resting. Additionally, divers can observe large schools of surgeonfish and goatfish in the vicinity.
Olowalu Reef
Olowalu Reef, located at 20.811700, -156.626200, offers a straightforward shore entry for divers. The site features extensive coral canyons that extend from the beach, providing an inviting environment for exploration. It is known for its population of green turtles and a variety of colorful reef fish. Divers may also encounter octopus and moray eels, while sightings of spotted eagle rays are less common. The best times to dive here are during the spring, fall, and winter seasons.
Olowalu Reef
Olowalu Reef, located at 20.811700, -156.626200, offers a straightforward shore entry for divers. The site features extensive coral canyons that extend from the beach, providing an inviting environment for exploration. It is known for its population of green turtles and a variety of colorful reef fish. Divers may also encounter octopus and moray eels, while sightings of spotted eagle rays are less common. The best times to dive here are during the spring, fall, and winter seasons.
Olowalu Reef / Turtle Reef
Olowalu Reef, also known as Turtle Reef, is located off the coast of Maui, a few miles south of Lahaina. The site features diverse coral with approximately 24 species and a significant population of Hawaiian Green turtles, which can often be found at a cleaning station. Divers can expect to see a variety of fish while exploring the reef at depths ranging from the surface to about 30 feet.
Olowalu Reef / Turtle Reef
Olowalu Reef, also known as Turtle Reef, is located off the coast of Maui, a few miles south of Lahaina. The site features diverse coral with approximately 24 species and a significant population of Hawaiian Green turtles, which can often be found at a cleaning station. Divers can expect to see a variety of fish while exploring the reef at depths ranging from the surface to about 30 feet.
Palea Point
Palea Point offers a drift dive along a significant wall that reaches depths of 30 meters, complemented by a 12-meter reef section. This site is best accessed during low east winds and minimal south swell conditions, making it a less frequented dive location. Visibility typically exceeds 30 meters, with minimal nearby runoff affecting water clarity. Divers can expect to encounter green sea turtles and white tip reef sharks, along with large schools of red night time reef fish that often take refuge in the area's caves. Additionally, expansive fields of sponge can be observed covering the rocky substrate.
Palea Point
Palea Point offers a drift dive along a significant wall that reaches depths of 30 meters, complemented by a 12-meter reef section. This site is best accessed during low east winds and minimal south swell conditions, making it a less frequented dive location. Visibility typically exceeds 30 meters, with minimal nearby runoff affecting water clarity. Divers can expect to encounter green sea turtles and white tip reef sharks, along with large schools of red night time reef fish that often take refuge in the area's caves. Additionally, expansive fields of sponge can be observed covering the rocky substrate.
Puako
Puako is a shore dive site known for its accessible beach entry. It is less frequented by tourists, making it a preferred location for local divers. The site is best visited early in the day, as winds typically increase around 11 am, which can lead to rougher water conditions and reduced visibility. Underwater, divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including schools of fish, pufferfish, garden eels, and moray eels. Additionally, divers may hear the sounds of whales while submerged, adding to the unique experience of this dive site.
Puako
Puako is a shore dive site known for its accessible beach entry. It is less frequented by tourists, making it a preferred location for local divers. The site is best visited early in the day, as winds typically increase around 11 am, which can lead to rougher water conditions and reduced visibility. Underwater, divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including schools of fish, pufferfish, garden eels, and moray eels. Additionally, divers may hear the sounds of whales while submerged, adding to the unique experience of this dive site.
Pyramid Pinnacle
Pyramid Pinnacle is an intermediate dive site located off the Kona coast of Hawaii. The site features submerged lava formations, including arches, caverns, and pinnacles, which create diverse underwater landscapes. The area is known for its schooling pyramid butterflyfish, which lend the site its name. Marine life is abundant, with sightings of resident conger eels, various reef fish, green sea turtles, cleaner shrimp, and lobsters. This site provides ample opportunities for exploration and wildlife encounters.
Pyramid Pinnacle
Pyramid Pinnacle is an intermediate dive site located off the Kona coast of Hawaii. The site features submerged lava formations, including arches, caverns, and pinnacles, which create diverse underwater landscapes. The area is known for its schooling pyramid butterflyfish, which lend the site its name. Marine life is abundant, with sightings of resident conger eels, various reef fish, green sea turtles, cleaner shrimp, and lobsters. This site provides ample opportunities for exploration and wildlife encounters.