Hawaii is one of the most remote island groups in the world, with over 2,400 miles between it and the nearest continent. The Hawaiian islands are made up of 132 islands, with the eight main islands of the Big Island (Hawaii), Kahoolawe, Kauai, Lanai, Maui, Molokai, Ni’ihau, and Oahu. Hawaii, being surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, has a very unique underwater environment, with around 30% of its marine life endemic.
The four most visited islands are the Big Island (Hawaii), Kauai, Maui, and Oahu. Each of these islands has their own unique characteristics and beautiful dive sites. Lanai, Molokai, and Ni’ihau are locations with beautiful dive spots as well, but are more suited for advanced divers. Kahoolawe, conversely, can only be reached by a chartered boat so it is not a popular dive location.
Hawaii is home to some of the world’s most stunning dive locations and most distinct underwater ecosystems.
The Big Island (Hawaii) is one of the most popular destinations of scuba divers with unbelievably clear water. The underwater visibility in the Big Island reaches over 100 feet.
Kauai, also called the Garden Island, is known for its rugged and pristine diving sites. During winter months, the location is generally inaccessible. However, during summer months, its dive spots are among the most sought after.
Lanai is best known for its lava formations that house a large variety of marine creatures. Diving in Lanai offers divers the opportunity to witness some of the best light effects with the various lava formations creating ridges, tunnels, archways, and pinnacles.
Maui has its dive sites located on the western coast of the island with some of the most beautiful locations, including Black Rock, Five Caves, and Molokini. Molokai is rarely visited and only the more advanced divers get to experience its uniqueness. The longest barrier reef in Hawaii and some of the best diving spots in the island are located in Molokai.
Ni’ihau is suitable for the more advanced divers and home to some of the rarest species of fish in the world. Gigantic sea arches, large pelagic fishes, and the rare endangered monk seal are just some of the things to look for off the coast of this island.
Oahu is home to some of the most diverse dive sites in Hawaii. Offshore lava formations, plane and shipwrecks, along with a variety of marine creatures make up the underwater environment off the island.
Scuba diving in Hawaii is like nothing else on this planet. Though there are hundreds of beautiful dive spots all over the world, Hawaii has its own characteristics; the underwater experience is one of a kind. The warm water of Hawaii is home to an incredible number of sea creatures and mammal species, with a glorious array of coral reefs, sea caves, and marine life, including monk seals and spinner dolphins.