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

Known as the ‘Garden Isle’ because of abundant rainfall and lush green vistas, Kauai has more white sandy beaches than any other island of Hawai’i. Opportunities for world-class swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and diving abound!

You can also find a good curated list with beginner-friendly snorkeling spots for Kauai at https://www.lovebigisland.com/kauai/kauai-snorkeling-spots/

Kauai

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

Note: Since 2015, this has been designated as a nursery/recovery area for the fishes and has been a no-entry area for the past 7 years (Haw. Code R. § 13-60.8-6). https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dar/regulated-areas/haena-community-based-subsistence-fishing-area/

Snorkeling Tunnels is great if you know where to go and are a confident swimmer. Tunnels, also known as Makua Beach, is a deceptively massive snorkeling area. Standing on this wonderful wide, long beach, looking out at the waves breaking on the reef edge offshore, it just does not look like all that big of an area, or that far away to its outer edge. But the reef here is a big horseshoe that protects what amounts to a small bay inside. It is much bigger than it appears when you start trying to swim around in it.

Snorkeling Tunnels is some of the best you can find on the island. It is one of the best places on Kauai for seeing big coral formations. Because it is a large area and there are currents, the snorkeling out on the larger reef is not for beginners, but for strong swimming, experienced snorkelers.

Tunnels, like any north shore Kauai snorkeling spot, is seasonal. Often in the winter the waves are too big and the current too dangerous to attempt to snorkel here. We recommend in the winter to snorkel on the south side of Kauai.

The parking for snorkeling Tunnels is even more scarce than at Ke’e Beach. You must arrive very early in the morning to guarantee yourself a spot here. If you don’t get here early enough to get one of the few spots nearer the beach, you can park farther down the road at Ha’ena Beach Park and walk down the beach to Tunnels area. It is over a half mile walk along the beach. If you don't want to try to find parking, you can ride the Kauai North Shore Shuttle to Ha'ena Beach Park.

Tunnels Beach