Temps at Depth in May (Kauai & Kona)

[Kryssa]

Husband and I are headed to Poipu, Kauai in a few weeks (May 9-16) and might possibly stay the next week in Kona, Big Island (May 16-21) and were wondering what to expect as far as temps at depth. This will help us decide how much neoprene to bring. Thanks!!!

 

[acooper]

Currently 75ish at depth, a little cool with the winter ending. I don't really expect it will have warmed up much in another month. We see the warmest temps in late summer and early fall.

I am a big guy, 6'2" and 240lbs, get by with a 3mm shorty year round here. If you are a smaller or get cold easy, bring something heavier.

 

[WetBoy101]

The water temp doesn't change here at any recreational dive depths. You will find more variation snorkleing near shore from under water springs pumping cooler fresh water into the ocean. By the way, the water temperature at Puako this weekend was 77 degrees Saturday and Sunday!!

 

[olelomoana]

You'll get a lot of opinions about what to wear in Kona waters. Some wear just a vest or shorty, others wear a full suit with hood. I think it depends on your own cold tolerance and what kind of dive profile you have. I don't consider myself to be particularly cold intolerant, in fact the opposite. I wear a 5-4-3mm suit with a 3mm hood in the winter (but I have no hair). When the water warms up, I skip the hood. Even with this, I still get chilled occasionally. Kona diving is generally very leisurely and with little physical exertion (most of the time, not always!), so after 60+ min at 75-77 deg water is easy to get cold. I suggest you bring at least full 3mm or a full 5mm. Also most (all?) dive operators have a selection of wetsuits available.

 

[AquamanKauai]

Kauai water temps this week have been 74-76 degrees. We do encounter some temp changes at depths but not true thermoclines in the traditional diving sense. Fresh water pockets after extended periods of rain or dumping of fresh water reservoirs are not uncommon. A good rule of thumb is to err on the side of warmth. Many "can" do just fine with a 3mm suit but 5mm suits are sure to keep the majority of divers warm during late spring/early summer months. Most shops here have hoods or vests available if you like to add something to your layering. We provide them at no additional cost to our boat/shore divers.

Feel free to drop a message my way if you have any specific Kauai diving questions. I've been here for a little over 12 years divemastering and would be happy to help you with any info you might need.

Have a great week!
AK