Under the Sea: Kauai’s Colorful Snorkeling and Scuba

Posted by

While the picturesque rainforest houses hidden trails, under the Kauai ocean is like stepping into a different world full of color and mystery. Whether you enjoy the view from the top or swim deep below with the fish, the coral reefs filled with schools of fish will capture your imagination and create lasting memories.

Snorkeling is the perfect experience for beginners who want to get a taste of what the ocean has to offer. Anini Beach has a lagoon with calm waters where you can get used to snorkeling and enjoy the wonders of life under water. Kauai offers great snorkeling spots around the island, including Makua, or “Tunnels,” Beach in Haena where a wide colorful reef filled with marine life will enchant your senses. Lydgate Beach Park is the perfect family friendly snorkeling area because of its protected lagoon. Poipu Beach State Park can be great for snorkelers, just make sure to check the surf reports because winter months bring big north shore swells.

You can rent equipment yourself, bring your own, or go on a boat tour, where equipment is usually included. Arguably the best guided snorkeling tour is SeaFun Kauai, where you can enjoy the guidance of marine experts who can point out marine life you may not have noticed. Make sure you book your tour in advanced and get ready to enjoy the delights of Kauai under the sea.

Scuba diving is an exciting and invigorating experience! On the island of Kauai, several scuba spots offer both novice and experienced divers an incredible opportunity to explore caves, lava tubes, colorful coral reefs, schools of fish, sea turtles, dolphins, and more. Generally, experienced divers will enjoy the thrills of the east and west shores, while beginners will have a great introduction to scuba diving on the north and south shores.

5 Tips for First Time Divers

1- Research Dive Schools: Make sure you do your homework before you book your tour. Check reviews and ensure that you feel safe and confident with your decision. Scuba diving can be extremely fun and exciting when you do your homework and understand the exactly what your package includes.

2- Check out PADI Diving Courses: PADI is a leader in the world for diving instruction and certification. You can go through PADI to find a local scuba class before your vacation, or check to find places in Kauai that offer PADI classes.

3- Get in Swimming Shape: Before you dive, or if you have taken time off since your last dive, make sure you are in relatively good physical condition. Scuba diving can be physically challenging, so it is a good idea to make sure can tread water and swim a couple hundred yards without too much trouble. The Divers Alert Network lists heart-related problems as a leading cause in scuba-related death. Make sure you are receiving annual physicals, especially if you are over the age of forty, to ensure you are in good health for your scuba adventure.

4- Drink Plenty of Water: Diving itself can cause dehydration, so make sure you are fully hydrated the day of and day after you dive. The Divers Alert Network states that decompression illness can be caused by as well as exacerbated by dehydration. Drink more water than your typical eight glasses a day.

5- Plan Ahead: Kauai has varying altitudes around the island. If you want to take a helicopter excursion, drive Waimea Canyon or Kokee State Park, you will need to wait at least 24 hours after your dive due to the altitude changes.

Aloha!