moderate
4 hours
Participants should be in good physical condition and able to carry 50 lbs of equipment and swim unassisted.
Dive into Hilo’s unique brackish waters with Hilo Ocean Adventures’ two-tank shore dive. Encounter sea turtles, manta rays, and vibrant coral reefs on this guided underwater journey.
4 hours • Ages 10+ • Explore the unseen side of Hawai‘i Island!
Experience the breathtaking underwater world of Hilo with a two-tank shore dive along the stunning East Hawai‘i coast. Guided by local experts, explore unique brackish waters teeming with vibrant marine life, including sea turtles, manta rays, and colorful coral. This unforgettable adventure promises a memorable journey beneath the waves.
4 hours
10yrs+, Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
If you have come to Hawaii to enjoy diving along the lush and iconic East Hawaiian coast, this is the excursion for you!
Guided by local, experienced dive professionals, your tour departs in the morning just a few miles from where your breathtaking dive site resides. After a safety briefing and review of the creatures likely to be encountered, enjoy a non-taxing tour of the underwater wonders near Hilo.
The waters around Hilo are especially unique as the cool fresh water springs that enter the sea along the coast regulates ocean temperatures and prevents coral bleaching.
Hilo's coastline is renowned for its brackish waters and abundant sea turtle population and beautiful coral as well as a wealth of marine diversity including octopus, manta rays, eels and tropical reef fish.
Your dive master will guide you on an incredible journey through the abundance of sea life and will ensure you have a fun and memorable experience. Come and explore the unseen, underwater side of Hilo, Hawaii.
This tour: Is not suitable for those who are pregnant, over 300lbs, have back problems, or cannot swim unassisted in the open ocean.
All tours: Leave promptly at the specified time. Tours will not be held back for late arrivals and missed tours will not be eligible for refund. If guests require rental gear for this adventure, they will be responsible for showing up before the specified time in order to have gear fitted and be ready for an on-time departure.
Certified Divers: Must show proof of Open Water Diver or higher certification upon check-in.
Uncertified/Introductory Divers:
**ALL Divers: **MUST wait at least 12 hours before ascending to altitude above 2,500 ft after your dive. A two-tank dive increases your wait time to 18 hours.
Customers will receive a full refund with 24 hour notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather, should a tour fail to reach our minimum capacity (2) or other unforeseen circumstances. In all cases we will do our best to offer alternative dates for your tour. No-shows will be charged the full price. Late arrivals may be charged a late arrival fee. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation.
Show up at least 30 minutes early to ensure proper rental gear fitting before your dive.
Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life and prevent coral damage before and after your dive.
Hilo’s tropical climate means hydration is key—drink plenty of water before and after diving.
Certified divers must bring proof; uncertified divers must complete mandatory instruction and medical forms in advance.
The East Hawai‘i coast near Hilo holds cultural significance for native Hawaiians, with sea turtles considered ‘aumakua (family guardians).
The area’s brackish waters help protect coral reefs from bleaching, and local operators like Hilo Ocean Adventures prioritize sustainable diving practices to preserve these habitats.
Provides thermal protection in cooler ocean temperatures especially during winter months.
winter specific
Helps monitor depth and time underwater to ensure safe diving limits.
Capture vibrant sea life and coral in this unique brackish environment.
Protects skin and the delicate coral ecosystem during surface intervals.
summer specific