Koloa Landing Dive Site

Kauai's premier shore dive with abundant reef fish and turtles.

Shore Access
12m Avg Depth
18m Max Depth

About this dive site

This dive site is located on the south side of Kauai and is consistently ranked as one of the most popular shore diving locations on the island. Hanakaape Bay offers exceptional protection, making it suitable for year-round diving adventures. Historically a major harbor, divers can still explore remnants of boating activity underwater, including old anchor chains. Unlike many shore dives requiring extensive walks, this site provides exceptionally easy access and exit points, featuring a distinctive ‘U’ shaped reef surrounded by a sloping rock wall formation. The seabed is primarily comprised of sand and rubble. Expect to encounter large congregations of colorful reef fish along the bay's edges, as well as hidden flounders within the sandy areas. Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) frequently rest here during daylight hours, and on occasion, you might even spot a curious Hawaiian monk seal basking on the ramp. Keep an eye out for lagoon triggerfish, boxfish, various species of moray eels including the dragon moray eel, octopus, frog fish, and trumpetfish amidst the coral rubble. Winter months often bring the enchanting sounds of migrating whales singing beneath the waves. This location boasts a remarkable diversity of over 20 endemic fish species, truly making it a premier shore diving destination in Kauai.

Diving Freediving Snorkeling

Site Ratings

Big Marine Life Good
Macro Marine Life Very Good
Landscape Quality Excellent
Water Visibility Very Good Viz
Famousness Well Known

Plan Your Visit

turtlecoral reefbeginner friendlyshore divemacro photographywhalemuck diving

Marine Life

Hawaiian green sea turtleHawaiian monk sealdragon moray eeloctopusfrogfishtrumpetfishlagoon triggerfishboxfishfloundervarious reef fish

Things to Note

Difficulty:

All levels

Protected bay with exceptionally easy shore access, suitable for all divers.

Hazards:
boat traffic
Current Strength:

Mild

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