Scuba diving on the Big Island is an activity that a number of visitors choose to enjoy, and for good reason. Crystal-clear waters, marine creatures, coral reefs, and dazzling lava tubes are just some of the things that make Big Island scuba diving so enticing, and there are plenty of competent guides who can take you to all the right spots. The leeward side of Hawaii, which is the western side of the Big Island, is the best place to go scuba diving, thanks to the calm conditions and the number of attractive dive sites. Ulua Cave, which can be found off the Kohala Coast, is just one of the sites worth adding to the agenda when scuba diving on the Big Island, and you won't want to miss Horseshoe Reef if you plan to examine coral up close. The numerous Big Island scuba diving sites offer exceptional experiences for all levels of divers, so finding your ideal place to explore the underwater realms won't be hard.

When a Big Island diving excursion is part of your vacation plans, the Kona and Kohala areas are the best places to go, as they offer the bulk of the island's dive operators, not to mention the best access to the island's top dive sites. You can also find dive operators in Hilo if you are staying there and can't make it over to the west side. Certified divers can readily enjoy a range of Big Island diving experiences once they arrive, and it's recommended that you be certified before you leave for your trip if possible. You can at least take care of the academic requirements for certification before you depart from home, which is a good idea if you want to spend more time diving once you actually get to Hawaii. Most of the dive operators on the Big Island offer highly qualified PADI scuba instruction centers, so it's possible to take care of all the certification requirements upon arrival if that's what you have in mind.

While those who are serious about scuba diving on the Big Island can get certified before or after they arrive, those who are unsure if diving is for them can always choose an introductory course. These classes are often referred to as resort courses because resort guests will find them exceptionally easy to arrange. An introductory course involves learning the basics in a safe diving environment, namely a swimming pool. The option to add an ocean dive afterward is usually possible should you want to pursue the sport. There's always snorkeling if you are unsure about Big Island diving, and snuba tours are becoming more popular. Snuba tours involve diving with a regulator that is attached to surface-level air tanks by a hose that can measure up to 25 feet. While Big Island snorkeling and snuba tours are enjoyable, they don't offer the freedom that scuba diving excursions do, which is why you're encouraged to fit at least one open water dive into your plans if you really want the full underwater experience in Hawaii.

Big Island Map

Shore diving, boat diving, night diving, and cave diving are just some of the Big Island scuba diving adventures that you can try during your trip, and while advanced divers can look to dive on their own, a guide is recommended on most occasions. Shore diving is the easiest kind to arrange on the Big Island, as you won't need a boat to get to your site. The Big Island coast is quite rocky in spots, more so than other Hawaiian islands, such as Maui, but there is a sufficient amount of entry points. You can always look to shore dive off one of the Big Island beaches. Travelers also might be happy to know that most dive operators here supply their guests with food and beverages during their excursions. Half-day and full-day trips are easy to arrange, and extended vacation packages that revolve around scuba diving on the Big Island are available as well.

The Big Island volcanoes have shaped an impressive terrain both above the surface of the Pacific Ocean and below it. When you choose to take part in Big Island scuba diving, you'll have the chance to swim along pinnacles, arches, and other unique underwater formations, and there are numerous sea caves waiting to be explored. More than 50 species of coral adorn some of the underwater formations off the Big Island coast, and you never know what you might see when it comes to marine life. Turtles, sharks, rays, numerous species of tropical fish, octopuses, monk seals, and moray eels are just some of the creatures you might see when scuba diving on the Big Island. Dolphins are sometimes spotted as well, and you can always arrange a dolphin swim on the side if you please. There are plenty of fun things to do on the Big Island, and you won't be at a loss for water-related activities.