Quick Details
Certified Diver
Priced per person
$ 199
About the Dive
Spend the morning exploring Hilo’s Wai’olena Reef on a challenging 2-tank shore dive adventure. This experience gives you extended time underwater to explore one of East Hawai‘i’s most unique volcanic reef systems. After meeting at our dive shop, our crew transports you and your gear to the site where a natural shoreline entry leads into dramatic lava formations, coral growth, and deep reef structure.
This dive site offers incredible marine biodiversity, but conditions can vary with surge, swell, and footing on lava rock. Because of the demanding shoreline entry and the physical nature of completing two dives, this experience is best suited for confident, experienced divers who are comfortable managing gear and navigating dynamic ocean conditions.
Note: This is an advanced shore dive with uneven lava terrain, surge, and variable entry conditions. Divers should be comfortable carrying gear, walking on volcanic rock, and entering and exiting the ocean safely.
What You’ll Experience
- Two guided dives exploring the coral slopes and lava formations of Wai’olena Reef.
- Freshwater springs mixing with ocean water to create a nutrient-rich ecosystem supporting vibrant coral and reef life.
- An abundant population of Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) often resting on the reef or swimming alongside divers.
- Depths ranging from 25 to 70 ft, with the second dive often exploring deeper sections of the reef.
- Healthy coral gardens, volcanic terrain, and the quiet beauty of Hawai‘i Island’s eastern shoreline.
Guided by Experts
Our experienced divemasters know the terrain of Wai’olena Reef and guide you through the safest and most interesting sections based on the day’s conditions. They’ll point out hidden marine life, share insights about Hilo’s unique reef ecosystem, and help ensure safe entries, exits, and navigation throughout the dive.
At Hilo Ocean Adventures, we believe exploring Hawai‘i’s reefs comes with responsibility. Our team practices and teaches eco-friendly diving habits, from buoyancy control to reef-safe sunscreen use. Learn more about our conservation efforts and how you can help mālama i ke kai (care for the ocean) during your dive.
Dive Details
- Includes: 2 air tanks, weights, expert divemaster guide, snacks, and bottled water between dives.
- Full Gear Rental Available: Masks, fins, wetsuits, BCDs, and regulators can be rented individually or as a full set.
- Duration: Approximately 3.5 hours including transport, setup, surface interval, and dive time.
- Meeting Location: Meet at our dive shop. We provide round-trip transportation of guests and gear to the dive site.
- Typical Depths: 25 to 70 ft depending on conditions and diver certification.
- Experience Level: Recommended for experienced certified divers comfortable with demanding shore entries and ocean conditions.
- Water Temperature: 75 to 80 °F (24 to 27 °C). A 3 mm wetsuit is recommended year-round.
- Group Size: Small groups of up to 6 divers for safety and comfort.