Two-Tank Wai'anae Reef Dives — Guided Shallow Dives Off Oahu
Spend a half-day diving two of Wai'anae’s top shallow reefs with a PADI professional. Ideal for certified divers who want approachable depths, diverse marine life, and a small-group boat experience off Oahu’s west shore.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring your certification card
All divers must show proof of PADI or equivalent certification before boarding—have your card or digital proof ready.
No flying after diving
Divers must not fly within 24 hours of diving to reduce decompression risk—plan return flights accordingly.
Hydrate and protect from sun
Bring water and reef-safe sunscreen for surface intervals—the Hawaiian sun is strong even on cloudy mornings.
Arrive early for fittings
Be at the harbor 30 minutes before departure to complete waivers and get fitted for rental gear.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Star Caves (shoreline swim-throughs visible from the surface)
- •Makaha Caverns—an underwater ledge system with good macro life
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtle (honu)
- •Reef sharks and rays
Conservation Note
Divers are asked not to touch or feed marine life, use reef-safe sunscreens, and avoid standing on coral to reduce damage to fragile reef ecosystems.
The Wai'anae coast is part of Oahu’s oldest shoreline communities with long ties to fishing and canoe navigation; offshore reefs supported local food systems for centuries.
What to Bring
Dive certification card (or digital proof)Essential
Required to dive—operators will check certification before boarding.
Personal mask and snorkel
A well-fitting mask improves visibility and comfort; rentals are available but many divers prefer their own.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin during surface intervals while minimizing harm to coral.
Light windbreaker or towel
Useful for cool mornings or breezy returns to harbor.
Common Questions
Do I need to be a certified diver?
Yes—participants must present proof of certification from PADI or another recognized agency before boarding.
What depths will we dive?
Sites are typically shallow, averaging 25–50 feet, making them well suited to recreational certified divers.
What wildlife might I see?
Common sightings include green sea turtles, rays, eels, reef fish like surgeonfish and parrotfish, and occasionally reef sharks and octopus.
What is the cancellation and flying policy?
Cancellation is allowed for a full refund if made at least 24 hours before departure; divers must not fly within 24 hours after diving.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Waianae, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for people in good general health who are comfortable swimming and performing basic diving tasks; not strenuous but requires safe buoyancy control.
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