Scuba Diving and Snorkeling in Kauai
The sparkling blue waters of this Hawaiian island are only the start of the beauty it has to offer. Underneath this turquoise cover are sea turtles, colorful coral reefs, dolphins, humpback whales, more than 680 fish species that are only found here, and a wealth of other marine wildlife. This is the reason that it is one of the best snorkeling and scuba diving sites in the world.
If you are planning a trip with these two things particularly in mind, the best time to visit is in the summer months (May-September) when the swells that pound the north and west coasts subside and waters are calm and clear.
Snorkeling
There are several local agencies that offer Kauai snorkeling tours on the best beaches on the island. They rent equipment and they will take you out on a boat to coral reefs, where you can get an up close look at all the tropical wildlife they have to offer. If you prefer to go it alone, many of the best sites are also accessible from shore.
The last accessible beach on the north shore of the island, Kee Beach, offers a protected lagoon that provides good snorkeling where you can see an assortment of tropical fish and sea turtles. The currents tend to be strong there, so it's a good idea to stay inside the reef as you float around. That way you avoid unknowing drifting far from shore.
Lydgate Family Beach is a very good beach for children and beginners. Located on the east shore between Lihue and Waiula, it is enclosed by a protective stone barrier, where a number of tropical fish, including the parrot fish. The beach also features a playground, areas for playing Frisbee and flying kites, picnic tables, and bike paths, giving it something that will appeal to everyone in the family.
Probably the best beach for snorkeling enthusiasts is along the Na Pali Coast, especially if you are not going to be able to make your trip in the summer. Along this coastline are sea caves, that you can explore as you admire the tropical fish and other marine life that inhabit them. Groups of sea turtles are often seen swimming about as well. And, best of all, this is where you can swim with dolphins in Hawaii!
Scuba Diving
With the weightlessness and freedom of swimming with the fish, dolphin and wildlife, Kauai scuba diving takes snorkeling to a higher level. Those who dive must be certified or take an introduction to diving class from a qualified diving instructor. There are also a variety of agencies that offer scuba diving tours, which can be great because they tend to take divers out from shore to more remote and isolated reefs, which allows you to see more wildlife.
The East side has Black Coral Arch and Dragon's Head
With its unique coral reefs, sharks, jacks, and abundant fish life Mana Crack has some of the best diving on the island. Located on the west coast and approximately 10 miles long, this coral formation is a formidable resembles a sunken barrier reef with associated lagoon. The area has unique coral formations and abundant fish life. Jacks, sharks and other large fish are observed here.
The healthiest coral reefs are found in and around Ni'ihau (The Forbidden Island) where blacktip reef sharks, moray eels, an occasional octopus, and an assortment of tropical fish swim undisturbed. Although overnight visitors are not permitted, scuba divers are welcome to this mecca of biodiversity.
Weather conditions can drastically effect the water and make it unpleasant, or even dangerous, to go out. Therefore, wherever you choose to go to snorkel or scuba dive on this list, be sure to check the current and ocean conditions before you go out.
For more information on places to go and things to do in Kauai go to the kauai scuba diving section of Hale Makai Cottages site.
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