The Hawaiian Islands, isolated over 2,000 miles from the nearest major land mass, combine some of the most beautiful and varied landscapes to be found anywhere in the world (above and below water!). Hawaii’s marine world is replete with luminous coral reefs as well as numerous endemic species of reef fish and invertebrates. In these pages, we have documented over 70 shore-accessible reef sites; truly premier locations for dive enthusiasts of all levels!

Hawaii

The ‘Gathering Place’ is the most developed and populous island of Hawai’i. Aside from world-renowned landmarks such as Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach, and Pearl Harbor, Oahu offers magnificent beaches affording a multitude of snorkeling and diving opportunities.

You can also find <a href="https://loveoahu.org/activities-things-to-do/snorkeling/">a good curated list with beginner-friendly snorkeling spots for Oahu</a> or <a href="https://tridentadventures.com">Scuba diving adventures in Oahu</a>

Oahu

Divers will travel far and wide to find the best diving. But those who live in the United States have plenty of great diving on their doorstep as well, with plentiful access to the Atlantic Ocean, the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. From warm-water reefs to temperate seas, here are some of the top places to scuba dive in the United States.

United States

Haleiwa Trench has two sections. The first reef goes out from ankle deep to 30' then drops off to about 60'. Heading to the right side of the reef following the wall gets to about 90'.  There is a turtle cleaning station on the top of the reef in 30' of water just past the entry, its a good idea to come back on the top of the reef so you can see it toward the end of your dive.  To the left is shallower heading toward the beach.  This is a wall so there are plenty of nooks to look into.  Turtles also are very abundant.  The second reef which is straight out is pretty much the same just a longer swim but the top is about 30' and a little more interesting.  This is not the place to see anything other than turtles, sea life is sparse but navigation is easy even though the visibility is limited by silting from the nearby river and marina.  Boat traffic does occasionally pass, and small water craft tend to play over the reef.  Bringing a dive flag is mandatory and recommended even though it is rarely enforced.  The site is also a generally ok place to night dive, but the parking lot closes at 10pm.  The neighbouring town of Haleiwa is a great place to go for a deco stop with a variety of restaurants and shops to visit, they close early and are naturally full of tourists. 

Easily accessible from the parking lot next to the restrooms and community centre, past the left side of the building. Enter on the reef until it drops off.