The Hawaiian Islands, isolated over 2,000 miles from the nearest major land mass, combine some of the most beautiful and varied landscapes to be found anywhere in the world (above and below water!). Hawaii’s marine world is replete with luminous coral reefs as well as numerous endemic species of reef fish and invertebrates. In these pages, we have documented over 70 shore-accessible reef sites; truly premier locations for dive enthusiasts of all levels!

Hawaii

The ‘Gathering Place’ is the most developed and populous island of Hawai’i. Aside from world-renowned landmarks such as Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach, and Pearl Harbor, Oahu offers magnificent beaches affording a multitude of snorkeling and diving opportunities.

You can also find <a href="https://loveoahu.org/activities-things-to-do/snorkeling/">a good curated list with beginner-friendly snorkeling spots for Oahu</a> or <a href="https://tridentadventures.com">Scuba diving adventures in Oahu</a>

Oahu

Divers will travel far and wide to find the best diving. But those who live in the United States have plenty of great diving on their doorstep as well, with plentiful access to the Atlantic Ocean, the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. From warm-water reefs to temperate seas, here are some of the top places to scuba dive in the United States.

United States

Nai'a is a 0-star rated scuba dive and snorkel destination in USA, Hawaii, Big Island which is accessible from shore based on 0 ratings.

Kapolei

Nai'a

Ko'Olina is a series of four protected coves that are really only suited for snorkeling.  The currents are too strong just outside the breakers.  The sites include well-groomed parks with all the facilities -- a great place to take the family!

On the South West corner of the Farrington Highway on the West Shore.  Turn off on the exit for Ko'Olina Resort.

Ko' Olina Resort

This is a great dive site, much more to see under than above ;-) Summer months bring snorkeling tours out to site. Be careful of boats and bring a dive flag! Watch for turtles catch the updraft from the pipe. They look like they are really flying. DO NOT GO IN THE EXIT SURGE FROM THE PIPE YOURSELF! Its like a washing machine.
There are a couple rather small swim thrus to the east of the pipe, but watch for fish line that has snagged on the coral and been left to pollute the water. Excellent Night Dive or Daytime.
Lite wet suit or rash guards need along with booties for shore entry and exit.
WARNING: Watch out for the water coming out of the electric pipes. It can be strong!
WARNING: Watch out for all the homeless.  Leave all valueables at home. Dong Jacob or Aunty Momi w/ a valuemeal to watch your car.  Take booties w/ all the thornbushes over the entry point.

SW corner of the Farrington Highway on the W Shore. The entrance of the dive site is across the road from the large electric plant (between the shelter and the cooling water outlet of the electric plant).

Electric Beach is also known as Kahe Point Beach Park.

Electric Beach

Makaha Beach Park offers shore access to a site regularly visited by dive boats: Makaha Caverns.  Be prepared to kick out about 150 yards, but the sights are worth it!  Facilities are located across the road.

On the Farrington Highway on the West Shore.

Makaha Beach Park (Caverns)

Makaha Caverns are usually accessed by boat, but you can swim by the beach (about 150 yards).

Shore diving is a serious surface swim, if there are surfers present then I would advise against the dive.  Following the reef line from the shore there will be a mooring buoy and just in on the reef from there is a large cleaning station which can hold up to 6 turtles.  The caverns are at the end of the reef as mentioned about 150 yards out. There is also a mooring buoy from there shoot back toward shore and you should run across the caverns.  The caverns are spacious and you can see without a light, though a light is clearly recommended on any dive.  Dive flags are mandatory, people have been fined for not using one and the lifeguards will often stop you before you enter.  Do not leave any valuables in your car, animosity towards military and tourists runs high in the area as does vehicle break ins.    

Makaha Caverns can be accessed by the Farrington Highway on the W Shore. Parking off the main road, close to the lifeguard stand.

Makaha Caverns is also known as Makaha Beach Park.

Makaha Caverns



Site placement is not accurate. Any local help?

Seaplane Wreck is also known as Airplane Canyons, Airplane Ledge.

Seaplane Wreck

Kea'au Beach is for advanced divers only because of the difficult entry along the lava ledge.  This dive should only be attempted in the calmest seas.  Consult your local dive shop to get the current conditions.

On the Farrington Highway on the West Shore.

Kea'au Beach

Slowly sloping coral reef to 50 feet of depth, sea turtles and tropical fish.  Moderate shore break.  

Beach entry, park off road off coast route.

Pray for Sex Beach is also known as Yokohama Bay.

Pray for Sex Beach

Makua Beach offers an easy beach access to an interesting shoreline.  There are no facilities at many sites on this stretch, so take plenty of water with you.

At the North end of the Farrington Highway on the West Shore.

Makua Beach

Eels, Hawksbill turtles and somethime Mantas.



Kewalo Pipe

Pukano Point is just south of Yokohama Bay.  There is excellent coast line to explore here for the intermediate diver.

At the Northern most end of the Farrington Highway on the West Shore.

Nai'a

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving at Nai'a

Recommended dive shops