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Great Places to Dive on the Big Island of Hawai‘i – And What It’s Like
The Big Island of Hawai‘i is a diver’s dream. With over 260 miles of coastline, it offers everything from calm, beginner-friendly bays to dramatic offshore lava tubes and manta ray night dives. Each coast has its own personality, shaped by the island’s volcanic history, currents, and unique marine life.
Hilo – East Side Wonders
The lush, green east coast around Hilo is famous for nutrient-rich waters that keep the reefs vibrant and teeming with life. Sites like Leleiwi, Richardson Beach, and Puhi Bay feature lava arches, turtle cleaning stations, and abundant reef fish. Visibility can vary due to freshwater inflows, but the trade-off is more wildlife and healthier coral. You might even hear humpback whales singing in winter.
Kona – West Side Classics
The Kona coast is known for its calm, clear waters and sunny skies. Two Step at Hōnaunau Bay is a shore diver’s paradise, with easy entry and a huge variety of fish. Crescent Beach and Kealakekua Bay are full of coral gardens, while Garden Eel Cove is the launch point for the world-famous Manta Ray Night Dive, where dozens of mantas glide gracefully around you under the lights.
Kohala Coast – Northern Reefs
Up north, you’ll find less-crowded dive sites with pristine coral and great visibility. Spots like Puako and Black Point are home to reef sharks, turtles, and schools of goatfish. The volcanic topography here creates swim-throughs, caverns, and ledges to explore.
What It’s Like to Dive Here
Diving the Big Island is about variety—you can explore shallow reefs one day, drift dive with pelagic fish the next, then float alongside manta rays at night. The water stays warm year-round (74–80°F), marine life is abundant, and the island’s volcanic seascapes make every dive unique. Whether you’re new to diving or a seasoned explorer, the Big Island offers unforgettable underwater adventures.
