Ke'e Beach

Ke’e is one of the most popular shore diving spots on the island.  Located at the very end of Kuhio Highway, the area just outside of the lagoon is a gathering spot for shore divers who come from near and far to enjoy the warm water and swim among a variety of tangs and spotted parrotfish. The facilities, including the parking lots are shared with large amounts of day-hikers at Haena State Park and snorkelers who fancy the interior of the lagoon. The beach is life guarded at all times, and the winter ocean conditions can be challenging. It is better to make it a point to arrive early for fewer crowds and clearer and calmer conditions.

Ahukini Landing

Located adjacent to the Lihue airport, this shore diving experience is one of the more interesting on the island. Snorkelers do not frequent this quiet area and the area is typically more vacant than not on weekdays. The dive site is accessible by swimming pas the jetty and around to the outside of the landing. The swim will reveal an ocean bottom is littered with World War II munitions dumped by military ships. The ocean ledge offers an enjoyable spot for un-crowded diving. Many small schools of tangs along with goatfish, halalu and more. 

Lawai Beach

The area is favorite among surfers, snorkelers and beach goers that gather on this sliver of sand next to the Beach House Restaurant in Koloa. There is a small restroom area and parking lot just mauka of the shoreline. The water conditions vary greatly during the year, but typically, the summer months will bring the best diving conditions. The small beach gets quite busy during the day, but early to mid-mornings will provide a quieter setting. The shoreline entry is easy from any point along the beach. Several openings in the reef provide access the outer edge of the reef. Caution should be used to avoid the surfers and large waves.

Koloa Landing

This is one of many good shore diving locations in the Poipu/Koloa area but this one is not over run by snorkels, sunbathers and surfers. Although there are several tour companies that offer comprehensive tours to this dive site, but since  one is as easy as pulling to the boat ramp in getting in, it one of the better to do without the extra cost of a tour. Most say that this Hanaka'ape Bay location is the perfect spot for beginners because of the uncrowded location, quick drop off and clear conditions. The area is filled with green sea turtles, opelu and parrotfish in and round large rocks. Not much reef here but enough rocks to keep the eels and schools of tangs, uhu and opelu happy.

Ni'ihau Island

SCUBA Diving the nearby island of Ni'ihau will require a long boat ride across the deep water channel to the west of Kauai - but the trip is worth it!  The diving is spectacular and the diversity in reef and fish life is stunning.  On one afternoon we encountered white-tip sharkes, endangered Monk Seals, and a whale shark!  Find out more about Diving Ni'ihau.

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