Rich Bender's Dive Log

Just as everyone has noted previously, the entry is a bit rough getting through the rocks. They are very slippery and even the remainder of the boat ramp is slick. But after you get through that little hurdle you are rewarded with a magnificent dive. We kicked out just a short distance before dropping down in 10 feet and had great viz. It was a little murky in close due to lots of people in the water around the shore. We headed to the north side and found very cool swim through canyons in the lava and coral with tons of fish life. Unicorn fish were out in abundance along with parrots, butterfly, and boxfish. There is a sign posted about the break-ins , but we had no problems with the car or stuff being vandalized. One more thing, there is no sand at this beach, so my wife and daughter had to entertain themselves with the chickens running free and the mystery of the wooded forest that you walk through to get to the water. It is worth the drive and the walk to enjoy this site. Max depth for our dive was 37 ft viz 40-50, temp was 79. I am not sure, but I don't think that the aerial photo is the correct bay, it might be the bay just south of Honolua, as there is a very nice sand beach there. Not to mention a great dive spot as well!

Good parking along the hiway. Nice stairs to walk down to a beautiful sand beach. The only problem is after the dive, you gotta carry all your gear back up what seems to be an eternity of steps. Now don't let that keep you away from this spot as it is a excellent dive. We entered the water and headed to the north side of the bay. We kicked out about 100 yards before dropping down and it was worth the walk and the all the stairs. Great viz 50-60, temp 77-79. Giant turtles were found at the reefs end before wrapping around to Honolua Bay. Schools of bait fish everywhere, several eels tucked away in their caves and some very large unicorn fish. There are several large corals just sitting alone in the sand that make for great sanctuaries for marine life, so be sure to explore those as well. The back side, as it wraps around to Honolua, has a few swim through and lava canyons to explore. Last thing, keep in mind that there is no grassy area to set your gear up on, so take towels or gear up at the car and walk down ready to go in the water. Wash down showers would be nice, but as most beaches here, they are a hit and miss.