Do I need a scuba certification to try this dive?

No certification is needed; this is an introductory program with training, practice and a guided shallow open-water dive.

How long does the whole experience take?

Plan for about two to four hours from check-in through return, depending on class size and travel time to the launch.

What is the minimum age to participate?

Age minimums vary by operator; children sometimes participate with guardian consent and instructor approval — confirm before booking.

What if I get seasick?

Take preventive measures like avoiding heavy meals, using seasickness medication if you're prone, and choosing sheltered launch options.

Can I touch the turtles or coral?

No — touching wildlife or coral harms animals and fragile reef structures; keep a respectful distance and enjoy observation only.

What should I disclose before diving?

Always disclose medical conditions, recent surgeries, or medications that could affect diving safety so guides can advise appropriately.

First Dives and Honu: Try Scuba Diving Off Honolulu's Reefs

Try Scuba Diving offers first-time divers a clear, accessible entry to Honolulu's underwater world just off Oahu's southern shore. Located in Honolulu, Hawaii, this short-course experience drops you beneath warm Pacific swells to explore shallow coral gardens, lava-formed reef edges and the curious residents that make these waters famous. Operator information is not provided. You’ll slip through green-blue water over fringing reefs built on volcanic basalt, where patches of staghorn and brain coral host bright parrotfish, butterflyfish and surgeonfish. The real draw are the honu — Hawaiian green sea turtles — that often loaf on reef ledges or glide past with a slow, confident stroke. Visibility in calm conditions can stretch 30 feet or more; currents are usually mild near sheltered launch points, making this a strong beginner destination. The format is straightforward: a brief classroom orientation on basic skills and safety, pool or shallow-water practice of buoyancy and regulator use, then a guided open-water dive to about 20 feet. Total time for the outing typically fits into a half-day, making it an easy add to a beach morning or afternoon. No prior certification is required; instructors will guide air consumption, hand signals and emergency procedures so novices can focus on the scenery. Beyond marine life, the dive introduces visitors to features unique to Oahu: the interplay of black volcanic substrate with white-sand channels, fingerlike reef bommies, and occasional coral gardens ringed by sea grasses. Local culture values stewardship of the ocean — ask your guide about malama aina and simple steps to tread lightly, like reef-safe sunscreen and neutral buoyancy to avoid contact with fragile corals. Practical notes: expect a wetsuit or shorty depending on water temperature, and shore or boat launches from familiar Honolulu beaches. Bring identification for rental gear, and plan for about two to four hours from check-in to return. Operator contact details and exact meeting point are not provided in the listing; confirm logistics through the booking link. Why book it? For travelers who’ve watched turtles from shore and want to meet them at the reef, this Try Scuba Diving program converts curiosity into competent, supervised exploration. It’s an economical, low-barrier way to add a memorable aquatic chapter to a Honolulu visit, with hands-on instruction that leaves most participants smiling, relaxed and wanting to dive again. Booking through the provided FareHarbor link handles equipment rentals, liability waivers and group sizes; small groups mean more instructor time and a safer descent. If you have respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, consult a physician before diving. Children sometimes join with guardian consent and instructor approval — age minimums vary, so confirm before booking. Expect a confident first shallow dive, new skills, and a brighter sense of why Hawaiians revere the ocean. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a smile.

About Snorkel With Turtles

Snorkel With Turtles is a Honolulu-based marine tour operator focused on guided snorkeling experiences in Maunalua Bay and Haunauma Bay. The company offers a range of trips including a private catamaran cruise, a 2.5-hour Snorkel with Turtles excursion, a Haunauma Bay Snorkel Tour, and a family-friendly Mermaids and Turtles charter. Each experience emphasizes safe, beginner-friendly snorkeling with informative guides, provided equipment where noted, and opportunities to observe green sea turtles, reef fish, and occasional monk seals in their natural habitats.

The private DRIFT HK cruise departs Maunalua Bay aboard a historic catamaran with a friendly crew, music from local DJs, and scenic twilight views; guests may bring their own refreshments. The Snorkel with Turtles trip is a focused 2.5-hour outing designed for swimmers of all levels to encounter green sea turtles. The Haunauma Bay Snorkel Tour offers small-group guided access with entrance fees and equipment included to simplify planning. The Mermaids and Turtles charter combines family entertainment with mermaid performers, marine conservation education, and supervised snorkeling for children. Snorkel With Turtles operates in Honolulu, Hawaii, and provides clear trip descriptions, experienced guides, and safety-focused practices to help visitors explore Hawaii’s marine life responsibly.

Booking information and scheduling details are provided on the company’s website and reservation channels; the Haunauma Bay tour highlights skipping the park reservation hassle while delivering personalized attention in small groups. Guides brief participants on marine awareness, conservation best practices, and how to approach wildlife respectfully. All offerings prioritize safety, comfort, and memorable ocean encounters and stewardship.