The Big Island’s scuba scene stands among Hawaii’s finest, offering crystal-clear waters and rich marine habitats. Two well-organized programs make it easy to get started: The Shore Discover experience impresses with its small groups and patient instructors – perfect for first-timers wanting to see tropical fish up close.
Meanwhile, the Hilo Refresher Course, conducted in a controlled pool setting, efficiently brings rusty skills back up to speed in just a few hours.
We especially love the Shore Discover program for its thoughtful approach to newbies and its prime location near colorful reef systems. The Hilo course wins points for its heated pool and one-on-one attention.
Let’s explore these outstanding water adventures in detail.
Good To Know
- The Big Island offers crystal-clear waters and rich marine habitats, with well-organized scuba programs like the Shore Discover experience and Hilo Refresher Course.
- The Shore Discover experience introduces participants to the underwater world with a 45-minute classroom session, pool skills, and a 45-minute ocean dive.
- The Hilo Refresher Course allows previously certified divers to brush up on their skills in a controlled, heated pool setting with one-on-one attention.
- Participants can witness the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, including tropical fish, during the guided scuba diving experiences.
- The scuba diving experiences have safety measures in place, such as medical questionnaires, pool training requirements, and free cancellation policies, ensuring accessibility for qualified divers.
Shore Discover Scuba Diving Experience
Offering an introduction to the underwater world, the Shore Discover Scuba Diving Experience takes participants on a guided journey to explore the vibrant marine life of Hawaii’s shores. Designed for those without prior scuba certification, the 4-hour experience begins with a 45-minute classroom instruction, followed by a 45-minute pool skills session to ensure proper technique. The highlight is the 45-minute open water ocean dive, where a certified scuba instructor accompanies a maximum of two guests to witness the colorful coral reefs and diverse aquatic creatures up close.
The experience includes transportation to and from the dive site, as well as water, juice, and local snacks. However, it’s not suitable for children under 15, pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with pre-existing medical conditions. Participants must complete a medical questionnaire 72 hours in advance and successfully pass the pool training to continue to the ocean dive. With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior and a “book now, pay later” option, the Shore Discover Scuba Diving Experience offers a safe and accessible way to explore the underwater treasures of Hawaii’s shores.
Read our full review: Shore Discover Scuba Diving Experience Review
Book now: Check availability
Hilo: Scuba Refresher Course
For those who’ve previously been certified but need to brush up on their scuba skills, Hilo’s Scuba Refresher Course provides the perfect opportunity. This 1.5-hour course, led by an English-speaking instructor, is limited to just 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
The refresher course takes place in an indoor heated pool, allowing divers to get reacquainted with the fundamentals of scuba diving in a controlled environment. Participants will review safety protocols, best practices, and the basics of scuba diving, helping them feel comfortable and confident for their next underwater adventure.
The course includes all necessary scuba equipment, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient and hassle-free experience. However, it’s important to note that the refresher course isn’t suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or divers without a valid certification. Participants should check in at the Hilo Ocean Adventures shop before the start of the course.
Read our full review: Hilo: Scuba Refresher Course Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
The island of Hawaii offers incredible shore-based scuba diving opportunities. The Discover Scuba Diving experience allows beginners to explore the underwater world, while the Scuba Refresher Course in Hilo helps experienced divers brush up on their skills. With diverse marine life and stunning volcanic landscapes, the Big Island’s scuba diving experiences are a must-do for any ocean enthusiast visiting this tropical paradise.