The Hawaiian archipelago is home to eight major land masses, small islands, atolls and reefs. The chain's favorable position in the Northern Pacific Ocean allows it to maintain a marine ecosystem that is unrivalled in its splendor and abundance of unique sea creatures. Of the eight major islands, Maui, Big Island, Kauai and Oahu provide the most advantageous diving sites. Once in the crystal clear waters, divers are able to view the vivid oceanic environment composed of 25% indigenous marine organisms, thriving coral reefs, large humpback whales and playful dolphins with the Bottlenose being the most common specie. The best of Hawaii is experienced underwater. While the islands are certainly breathtaking, the world just beneath presents a wonderful opportunity for the exploration of the fascinating creatures that inhabit its depths.

Swimming with the Dolphins

The great thing about swimming with the dolphins is that they typically remain near the surface. Inexperienced swimmers are able to don a life jacket and enter controlled areas at any of the several parks available for this delightful activity. The Dolphin species that inhabit the archipelago are protected and some are considered endangered. It is therefore, against the law to disturb these creatures. Fortunately, they tend to be very friendly thus will get close enough for swimmers to interact with them. On some occasions a person may tour with a company that offers a full guarantee. If the dolphins are not particularly amicable on one day, a complimentary tour is offered for the swimmer to once again try his or her luck.

Swimming with the dolphins in the open ocean will most of the time lead to viewing the large childlike humpback whales. During the winter period between December and April, mighty humpbacks make the long journey to the archipelago to calf and enjoy warmer waters. They are a great spectacle to see up close, although swimmers are expected to keep their distance for safety purposes.

There are several dolphin parks throughout Hawaii, that offer a controlled environment for this particular activity. Visitors can enter programs that will allow them to pet, hug, kiss and swim with these gentle creatures. The Sea Life Park in Oahu is one of the most popular venues for this dolphin interaction. The park offers informative lectures about dolphins, their natural habitat and of course the opportunity to swim with them. There other creatures to behold at the park including penguins, sea turtles and seals.

The Bottlenose Dolphin
The Bottlenose Dolphin is the primary dolphin specie in the archipelago. It enjoys the warmer waters of the subtropics and is therefore found throughout the archipelago. Its name is derived from its elongated snout and lower jaw, it is grey in color with shades of darker and lighter regions on the dorsal fin and underbelly. A fully grown Bottlenose may be as large 6 to 13 feet and weighs anywhere between 400 to 600 pounds. They typically swim at speeds between 3 to 6 miles per hour although they can go as fast as 21 miles per hour in short bursts. They live in small groups of 12 and are usually very friendly, thus the label "man's best friend of the sea".

Best Diving Sites by Island

The islands of Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Big Island provide the best diving sites. Each location has its own unique appeal and there are several on each. Lanai, Molokai and Niihau are not dived as much as the other four larger land masses, yet, they too have wonderful dive sites. Lanai in particular is home to the First and Second Cathedrals which are immensely beautiful and abundant in marine life.

Kauai Diving Sites
Kauai, or the Garden Isle, is the oldest of the Hawaiian chain of islands. It also maintains the greenest and most fertile environment of all the major land masses. It is famous for attractions such as the Waimea Canyon, considered the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, and Wai'ale'ale a 5,000 foot mountain said to be the wettest area on the planet. There are several dive sites that entice swimmers year round including Blue Bluffs, Fishbowl, Sheraton Caverns, Brennecke's Ledge, Fast Lanes, Mana Crack, Dragon's Head, PK and Tunnels Reef Beach. The latter is by far the most popular. It is shaped like a horseshoe with an inner and outer reef on either side. Its pristine waters and tranquil environment are great for exploration. In addition, it presents a great opportunity for inexperienced swimmers to snorkel in shallower waters.

Big Island Diving Sites
Hawaii, Big Island is the youngest island in the archipelago. It is comprised of a dynamic environment that consists of several geological formations, beaches and waterfalls. The island is one of the chain's top tourist destinations and as a result allows visitors the thrill of several activities. Some of the more popular diving sites include Mauna Lani Caves or Haunted Cavern, Waialea Bay, Kiholo Bay, Horseshoe Bay, Frog Rock, Ruddles. Mahi Reef, Robs Reef/Twin Sisters and Puhi Bay. The Haunted Cavern, in particular, presents divers with the opportunity to explore the eerie caves, swim to depths of 30 - 40 feet and discover the bountiful sea-life which includes turtles, fish and several invertebrates.

Oahu Diving Sites
Oahu is the center of activity. It is the only truly metropolitan area in the entire archipelago and is by far the most popular tourist destination of the major land masses. Pearl Harbor Wall, Waimea Hall, Turtle Heaven Turtle Street, Devils Rock, Kahala Barge, Sea Tiger, Corsair Plane, Rainbow Reef and Magic, Blow Hole, and Waimea Bay are just a few of the manifold dive sites that can be explored.

Maui Diving Sites
Maui or the Valley Isle is the second largest island in the archipelago. It is a charmingly modest tourist destination, which does not have large resorts but instead quaint villas and bed and breakfasts for the more laid back visitor. Best diving sites include Black Rock Hyatt Marriott Reef , Cemetery, Hidden Pinnacle, Baldwin Beach, Mokolea Point, Napili Bay, Five Caves, Makena Beach and Shark Ledges.

The Hawaiian islands present visitors with the ultimate vacation experience. Tourists have the option to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the tropical city life in Oahu, the down to earth feel of Maui, witness the geological grandeur of Big Island, or absorb the enchantment of Kauai. Diving is one of the more thrilling activities to enjoy on the islands. It demonstrates a side to Hawaii that requires a little more effort to explore but which is undeniably worth it.

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