Solo trip in November

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Hi Guys,

looks like I'm going to visit Hawaii in mid-November. for 15-20 days.
Now working on my plan there. I will start in Kona - want to do manta dives. And I'm looking for ideas where to go next.
Important part: I'm going alone, and I'd like to avoid being surrounded but couples only. And I'm not a fan of big fancy resorts, prefer smaller places, even backpacker ones - the places people who travel a lot go.
Diving part - I prefer shops which can group me with more advanced divers. And to give some freedom underwater - want to make my photos. Wide-angle ones - so mantas and other big creatures are great Not looking for nudibranchs.

So, that's the story, thanks in advance for all the suggestions.

Greg

 

[scubamarketing]

I've been to Kona at least 10 times over the years, I love it there. I spend no time in hotel rooms when I travel, so I usually go for what's cheapest and within walking distance of where I see myself hanging out most. That being said, staying along Alii drive right along the coast in town always covered my needs.

As for diving, I'm a fan of Jack's Diving Locker. I've been diving with Keller there for over 10 years now, he knows more about mantas than anyone. They know tons of great dive sites, are very fun and professional and have nice boats.

I'd suggest heading north to Hawi for a day or two. Beautiful little town, local shops and restaurants. I believe there's a restaurant called Luke's that also has a small hotel right in the middle of town. Definitely go on the zip line ride from Big Island Eco Adventures, their tours start right behind Luke's.

Puako is a great beach to relax on, Waipio Valley is an awesome hike, the Thurston Lava Tube is a short but beautiful walk on the volcano, Hugo's in Kona has an incredible macadamia nut mud pie, Kealakekua Bay is beautiful, but can be crowded for good reason, shore diving by the old airport is fun...

I love it there, I'd suggest picking up the book "Hawaii the big island revealed" and taking notes on the things that stand out. It's the best guide book to anywhere I've ever seen.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to message me.