Kona’s underwater world features vibrant coral gardens, dramatic lava formations, and abundant marine life. With opportunities to dive with manta rays, swim through volcanic structures, and explore clear waters, it’s unforgettable.
Scuba Dive Level
All Levels
Visibility
75 to 100 feet (22 to 30 meters)
Average Water Temperature
78
Manta Ray Encounters
Great Night Dives
Kona offers a great mix of marine life and dive-site opportunities. From reefscapes, to lava tubes, and from Mantas to indigenous butterfly fish, there truly is something for everyone.
Hawaii holds a large number of indigenous species of butterfly fish and angelfish. More than 20% of the Hawaiian reef fishes are found nowhere else in the world. In addition, prepare for encounters with Spanish dancers, turtles, barracuda, mantas, frogfish, sharks, and dolphins!
Learn about other great Hawaii dive areas.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) offers direct flights into Kona International Airport (KOA). You should consider renting a car for your stay in Kona. Even if you don't plan on beach diving, you may want to take advantage of your stay to check out some of the topside attractions.
Diving Kona is done with one of the numerous reputable dive operators on the island while staying at one of the various accommodation options, from self-catering condos to luxury resorts. Diving is usually done in groups of 4-6 divers under one divemaster. Make sure to include the incredible manta ray night dive on your itinerary!
Conditions in Kona (the "dry" side of the island) are good for diving nearly every day of the year. September and January are the least crowded months, if you're looking for less-than-full dive boats. If you want the chance to do some whale-watching, November - March is your best bet.
Take a trip up to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and see the steam rise up as lava rushes into the ocean. For you, coffee lovers, explore the Kona plantations and sample some 100% pure Kona Coffee! In the evening, visit the Mauna Kea Observatories to watch the sunset and then stargaze. Take a hike along the east side, in lush rainforests, or just take a dip and snorkel around, Kona has some unbelievable snorkeling as well.