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5 Best Dive Sites of Hawaii

Written by Leisure Pro Staff
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Published on May 11, 2015

Oh, sweet Hawaii! It is by far one of the most magnificent places in the world, both on land and under the water. Its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and delicious local food attract hundreds of thousands of people each year. But beneath the hustle and bustle of island life lay one of the greatest creations on this planet: the best dive sites of Hawaii.

The Cathedrals – Lanai

Diving depth is sixty to seventy feet, and visibility is typically 100 feet or more. Beginner through advanced divers can enjoy this spot! It is the most popular dive site off the island of Lanai. The dual pinnacles of Cathedrals sets up great wall diving, as well as dramatic arches and caves. The caverns have ceiling heights up to twenty feet, laced with lava rock, which lets in pockets of light, much like a stained glass window.

Black Wall of Molokini – Maui

There is often only a slight current here, though it is mainly for intermediate to advanced divers because its unique ledges and walls drop down to over 200 feet. The wall and ledge formation also makes this spot a drift dive. The incredible depths mean that there is typically more than 100 feet of visibility! This is the perfect spot to see wildlife, including sharks, whales, dolphins, manta rays, and many other rare fish.

Golden Arches – Big Island

The access to this favorite local dive spot is moderately difficult. You can only get there by boat. Depth is up to sixty feet, and visibility is moderate to good most of the time. This site is on the Kona side of the island, so the reefs have gorgeous stony coral and a variety of marine life. The rare Whitley’s Boxfish and Longnose Butterflyfish have often been spotted there. The ancient round arches overlook miles of crystal clear blue water and healthy reef.

Niihau – The Forbidden Island

Diving off the coast of Niihau is something that can’t be missed! It can only be accessed from late spring to early autumn, as the winter months produce swells too big to combat. These dives are for experienced divers only. There are a variety of dive spots, from walls that go down over 200 feet to more relaxed dives just twenty feet over pristine reefs. Monk seals and spinner dolphins, along with rare species of fish, are common on these dives.

Leisure Pro Staff

Leisure Pro Staff

Marketing Director for LeisurePro