Scuba Diving on the Big Island

Scuba diving is one step up from snorkeling when  it comes to exploring underwater Hawaii. You will be able to stay under longer, dive deeper and see more exotic fish. The downside of scuba diving is that you only can do it with proper certification (PADI or NAUI).

If you don't have these qualifications but still want to go scuba diving, you can follow one of the 'resort courses'. A resort course (or introductory scuba course) consists of a lecture, a confined water session, and an actual 20 to 40 minute dive in the open ocean. Participants must be in reasonable condition to enroll.

Gear rentals and scuba courses

Dive shops around the island offer rentals for offshore scuba diving on the Big Island. Big Island Divers, Jacks Diving Locker, and Sandwich Isle Divers are some of your options to rent gear or take courses in Kailua Kona. If you want to get a feel for the possibilities of organizing your own scuba adventure (only for experienced scuba divers) and find dive reports see the lovebigisland scuba diving guide.

Scuba Diving Safety Tips:

• Have the proper qualifications: To rent diving gear, you should be either PADI or NAUI certified. If you have not dived for a while or are inexperienced, dive with an instructor and consider a "Resort Course".
• Be prepared: Always rent high quality equipment. You don't want your gear to fail you 20 feet below the surface! Also, plan ahead extensively. Check the local weather conditions, wear shoes, gloves and a wetsuit to protect you from the cold, sharp coral and lava rocks. Do not fly or travel to high altitudes (e.g. Mauna Kea or Mauna Loa) within 24 hours after your dive.
• Be careful: Always check your entry and exit points before diving in. Never dive alone or use up all the air in your tank. Completely check out the dive location before choosing whether to make the dive.
• Have fun! while taking in the spectacular underwater world around Hawaii. Consider taking along an underwater camera for some spectacular shots.

This information has been provided by the lovebigisland travel guide to Hawaii. Please note that Aaah the views takes no responsibility for the content, nor endorses and of the outfitters or vendors mentioned.