Hawaii Diving

From Molokai alone, experience up to 1,200 miles of pristine coral reef in Hawaii's diving paradise. Popular with professional and amateur divers alike, Molokai's South Shore boasts the longest barrier reef in Hawaii. Explore kaleidoscopic colours and vivid marine life as you swim through the turquoise waters.

As a major attraction for Hawaii, travellers will have no problem finding a school or guide to teach them the diving basics. Starting off in a hotel pool, guests are helped to feel comfortable under the water as they’re taught the best techniques and use of equipment before heading into the ocean. Advanced scuba diving instructors are here to help customers feel totally at ease and in control of their personal safety in case of emergency. Whether you're a complete beginner or feel confident among the coral, Hawaii is equipped with the best guides, equipment and coral gardens for every level.

Those that would prefer to stay afloat the surface can also enjoy incredible snorkelling along the Hawaiian coastlines. Some reefs are quite shallow, allowing snorkelers an intimate look at the marine world below the waves.

We've put together a short list of some of Hawaii's best diving locations below:

Lanai

For great snorkelling, check out the tide pools by Hulopae Bay. Fans of boat diving will also love the lava caves at the First Cathedral. Feel the swell as you swim through underwater caves and arches while admiring your fellow turtles, dolphins and reef sharks.

Hawaii Island

While divers will find great spots everywhere across the island, popular reefs are enjoyed in Honaunau Bay (along the North Shore) and Kealakekua Bay. Specifically the manta night dive is a remarkable experience, for even the most accomplished divers. Drawn by the darkness and flashing torches, big and beautiful manta rays glide about in search of their dinner. This is not to be missed.

Maui

Minutes offshore from Molokini Crater in Maui, snorkelers and divers enjoy some of the worlds best underwater experiences. We also really recommend checking out the Carthaginian II, sunk in 2005 to form a reef system. Divers enjoy nearly 100 ft of visibility and myriad tropical fish, including the trumpetfish and frogfish.

Oahu

The North Shore's Shark Cover offer shallow waters and world-class snorkelling, a favourite among locals and visitors. Keep an eye out for octopus, lobster and schools of vivid parrotfish.

Kaua'i

Featuring a natural rock barrier, Lydgate Beach Park is ideal for kids and beginners seeking gentle, shallow waters to gain confidence in the waters. More experienced divers will love the Three Fingers (so-called for the three tall lava columns rising beneath the waves) outside of the harbour; here you'll enjoy myriad examples of the local marinelife.