PADI Open Water Referral Course in Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days (approximately 6–8 hours total)
Fitness Level
Basic swimming ability required; good physical condition to handle underwater activities and gear management.
Overview
Complete your PADI Open Water certification in Honolulu’s beautiful waters over two days with expert guidance from Dive Oahu. Discover vibrant reefs and amazing marine life while earning your global scuba qualification.
Details
Experience the ultimate underwater adventure with the PADI Open Water Referral Course offered by Dive Oahu in the crystal-clear waters of Honolulu, Hawaii. This two-day guided scuba diving certification is perfect for those who started the course elsewhere and want to complete their ocean dives in a stunning tropical setting without disrupting their vacation plans. Under the supervision of experienced PADI instructors, you’ll explore vibrant coral reefs, swim among diverse marine life, and gain essential scuba skills in a safe, supportive environment. From the calm blue coves to the abundant sea life, every dive introduces exciting challenges and rewarding moments that deepen your connection to the ocean. Whether you’re advancing your diving skills or completing your certification, the natural beauty and warm waters of Hawaii make this referral course a truly unforgettable experience. Alongside your dives, you’ll also learn about responsible diving practices and ocean conservation efforts that help preserve this incredible ecosystem for future generations. The course is designed to be accessible for beginners with basic swimming ability, yet thrilling enough to inspire even experienced adventurers. By the end of the course, you’ll hold a globally recognized PADI Open Water certification, opening doors to dive sites worldwide, all while enjoying the aloha spirit of Hawaii.
Adventure Tips
Stay Hydrated Before and After Diving
Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, especially in Hawaii’s warm climate before and after your dives.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin without harming marine ecosystems by choosing environmentally-friendly, reef-safe sunscreen.
Practice Buoyancy Control
Focus on controlling your buoyancy during dives to prevent accidental contact with delicate corals and minimize disturbance to wildlife.
Arrive Early for Briefings
Arriving early ensures you get a comprehensive safety briefing and have enough time to prepare your gear without rush.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Shark’s Cove for its unique tide pool ecosystems
- Electric Beach, known for peaceful currents and abundant marine life
Wildlife
- Green sea turtles (Honu)
- Hawaiian reef triggerfish (Humuhumunukunukuapua'a)
History
Hawaii’s ocean culture runs deep, with traditions of fishing, navigation, and respect for the sea influencing modern conservation and dive practices.
Conservation
Efforts like reef-friendly tourism, marine protected areas, and education on responsible diving help safeguard Hawaii’s fragile coral reefs and sea life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Hanauma Bay lookout
- Electric Beach pier
- Shark’s Cove shoreline
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Mask and Snorkel
A well-fitting mask and snorkel are crucial for underwater visibility and breathing during surface intervals.
Wetsuit (3mm recommended)
Provides thermal protection in cooler waters and helps prevent scrapes from coral or rocks.
winter specific
Dive Computer
Monitors your dive time and depth to enhance safety and optimize your dive profile.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protects your skin while preserving the marine environment when you’re on the surface or on boat rides.
summer specific