Scuba Diving and Snorkeling - Big Island, Hawaii

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Scuba Diving and Snorkeling at Big Island, Hawaii.  A scuba diving or snorkeling adventure off the coast of Big Island will be one of the most memorable experiences of your Hawaiian holiday. The waters at Big Island tend to be calm and a variety of beautiful underwater formations and sea life presents divers and snorkelers with an amazing opportunity to experience life beneath the waves.

Lava rock formations, sea caves, coral reefs and sea arches are some of the incredible features below the water’s surface at Big Island. You’ll see tropical fish unique to the Hawaiian Reef, plus have the chance to spot green sea turtles, Hawaiian spinner dolphins, and perhaps the rare monk seal. The coral reefs where these creatures live at Big Island are dramatic and beautiful to see and explore up close in person.

There are many places to go scuba diving at Big Island, and you can take your pick of daytime or night time diving trips. Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area in Kohala is an excellent choice, as is Puako to the south of the State Park if you wish to explore sea caves, chasms and rock arches.

If you are interested in a night scuba dive, Manta Village is one of the best in Kona. Those interested in seeing manta rays won’t want to miss this unique opportunity. If you prefer to enter the water from the shore instead of chartering a dive operator, Puuhonua O Honaunau is one option located about 20 miles to the south of Kailua-Kona.

Kealakekua Bay is considered the very best snorkeling location on the Island. Not only can you enjoy snorkeling in calm, clear waters, you’re likely to have the chance to experience a dolphin swim. You may wish to explore the Captain Cook monument during your visit to Kealakekua Bay. Snorkeling is also excellent at Puuhonua O Honaunau, Kahaluu Beach Park, and at Kapoho Tide Pools.

You can find dive shops and charters all along Big Island’s Kona Coast that will be happy to take you on an expedition to either snorkel or scuba dive. Prices vary according to your level of skill and certification and the amount of instruction you need. The location of your dive including whether you are diving from boat or shore also determines cost, as does the equipment you rent. You can choose your dive tour company according to the level of service they provide as well as the sites they offer and of course, by price.

You can find a variety of hotel accommodations at HotelsCombined.com for Big Island, Hawaii at excellent rates.