kanonfodr
Contributor
For the diver looking for everything: Oahu, Hawaii!
Reefs: It surrounded by some the best and easiest reef in the world. Every type of mass, too, be it deep walls, flowing canyons, to even caverns for the lusty.
Wrecks: Got several, from World War II fighter planes to sunken research vessels. Big to small, something sure to please.
Conditions: It's never bad everywhere. On Oahu, if the north shore is kicking, go west or south shore. If the east side is experiencing cloudy vis, head somewhere else. And it's almost a sure bet that conditions at the west side are going to be good no matter what. Never had a bad day diving from the west side.
Non-diving attractions: Musuems, Historical Monuments, Cultural diversity, and great nightlife. I can only think of two mentionable hotels that are not located in Waikiki, which is nightlife central. Whatever you're into, it's there somewhere. If you're not as vampiric, there is plenty of things to do in the day as well.
I'm sure there's better diving than Hawaii, but having spent over two years of my life there, I can't think of too many destinations that offer as much. And the other islands are a blast as well, whether you're checking out the world's longest-erupting volcano (Kilauea on the Big Island), or some of the most beautiful mountain ranges ever seen (Maui and Kauai). All still offer excellent diving with reputable shops.
Peace,
Greg
Reefs: It surrounded by some the best and easiest reef in the world. Every type of mass, too, be it deep walls, flowing canyons, to even caverns for the lusty.
Wrecks: Got several, from World War II fighter planes to sunken research vessels. Big to small, something sure to please.
Conditions: It's never bad everywhere. On Oahu, if the north shore is kicking, go west or south shore. If the east side is experiencing cloudy vis, head somewhere else. And it's almost a sure bet that conditions at the west side are going to be good no matter what. Never had a bad day diving from the west side.
Non-diving attractions: Musuems, Historical Monuments, Cultural diversity, and great nightlife. I can only think of two mentionable hotels that are not located in Waikiki, which is nightlife central. Whatever you're into, it's there somewhere. If you're not as vampiric, there is plenty of things to do in the day as well.
I'm sure there's better diving than Hawaii, but having spent over two years of my life there, I can't think of too many destinations that offer as much. And the other islands are a blast as well, whether you're checking out the world's longest-erupting volcano (Kilauea on the Big Island), or some of the most beautiful mountain ranges ever seen (Maui and Kauai). All still offer excellent diving with reputable shops.
Peace,
Greg