Hawaii Islands
Scuba Diving Guide
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Hawaii scuba diving attractions evolve mainly around its rich and unique marine life. There are about 2000 different species in Hawaiian waters, 30% being endemic to Hawaii. Many are small and colourful reef fish that are as inquisitive as the divers. Hawaii's isolation has made it an attractive feeding ground for large marine life and the waters abound with sharks, manta rays and eagle rays, as well as turtles, dolphins and whales. There are no soft corals in Hawaii and although extensive coral reefs are present, scuba divers who have dived in Australia, Fiji or the Solomons will be disappointed. What Hawaii does offer are endless networks of submarine lava tubes. Most dive sites are accessible direct from the shore, making snorkelling a good alternative. Scuba diving in Hawaii is relatively expensive. An Open Water certification course typically coast US$500 whilst a simple one-tank reef dive will cost US$60.

The two best islands for scuba diving are Maui (including Lanai) and the Big Island. Scuba diving operators thrive at all tourist centres and offer everything from beginner courses in swimming pools to advanced night dives and photographic sessions. Head to the local marina to find the best deals.


Maui is renowned for its excellent scuba diving. There are excellent scuba diving sites along the entire west coast of Maui with the most popular destination being Molokini (see further down). However, serious divers should head for the very best sites on the neighbouring island of Lanai, a 40-minute ride from Lahaina Harbour. Lanai is famous for its lava formations, caves and arches with compelling sites named cathedrals and Secret Cove. Spinner dolphins are always a big attraction here. The tiny island of Molokini has excellent scuba diving off the deeper back side with dramatic wall dives to 300 feet and pelagic activity. Being a small island, snorkelling and scuba diving are good whichever way the wind blows.

Big Island scuba diving is amongst the best in Hawaii with the top locations off the Kona coastline along the west coast. This area is particularly good for its rich marine life and steep drop-off's. Protected from winds and with mostly clear skies, visibility is seldom less than 100 feet. Honokohau Marina a few miles north of Kailua Town on the west coast is the centre for scuba diving charters.

Oahu scuba diving is amongst the most assessable in Hawaii with numerous scuba diving operators offering every classification of dive from beginner courses and snuba to experienced night dives and even specialist photographic dives.

Kauai scuba diving is growing in interest although this is not the islands major attraction. Scuba diving operators are based at all major locations (Poipu, Lihue, Kapaa and Princeville) and will offer good marine life and interesting caves to explore.




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Last Updated
18 November 2008

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