Best Time of Year & Day to SCUBA Dive near Kona
Scuba diving in Kona, Hawaii, offers a remarkable underwater experience year-round, but there are certain months when the waters are teeming with vibrant marine life.
Kona is known for its crystal-clear waters, which serve as home to hundreds to thousands of colorful fishes and other marine creatures. The region is also home to diverse dive sites for divers of all levels.
Diving with Kona Ocean Adventures is a blast any time of the year. The best time depends on what you want to experience and see in the region. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the best months to scuba dive near Kona.
Best Months To Dive
June to September
The months of June to September are considered the summer season in Kona. These months see the largest crowds of people hoping to swim or scuba dive in the waters. There are good reasons for that, however.
During the summer months, the water temperatures in Kona range from 77°F to 80°F. The waters are also super clear, giving divers excellent visibility of over 30 meters or 100 feet below the surface. The ocean is also calm in these months, with little to no swells. Furthermore, there is an increased presence of baby fish on the reefs.
October to November
The months of October and November are the region’s fall season. The water temperatures and ocean conditions remain the same. Marine life is also still abundant and active. However, dive sites are less crowded as it’s the “off-season” for tourism.
December to March
The winter season brings colder water temperatures, commonly between 74°F to 77°F. There are also larger swells and rain is more frequent, both of which can impact visibility during dives.
That said, these months are perfect if you’re hoping to watch migratory humpback whales. Specifically, January and February are peak whale seasons, and whale sightings are common at surface intervals and boat rides. This also means there are plenty of tourists, and accommodation prices are at their highest.
In addition, winter is also fish spawning season, so you’ll likely see “fish fireworks” if you’re diving at dawn or dusk.
April to May
Finally, the months of April and May are the spring season. These months are considered the transitional period, with the waters just starting to warm up. Typically, the temperatures range from 76°F to 78°F.
Water and wind conditions are calmer in the spring compared to winter. There are also smaller crowds, especially at dive sites.
If you’re taking a break from diving, these months are perfect for visiting some of the region’s notable lava tubes, which are underground tunnels formed by flowing lava from volcanic eruptions. Some lava tubes to consider visiting include:
- Nahuku (Thurston Lava Tube)
- Kaumana Caves
- Kula Kai Caverns
- Kipuka Kanohina Cave System
- Hue Hue Lava Tube
Best Time To Dive
With the months set, it’s time to explore the best times to scuba dive in Kona. Your diving experience will differ depending on the time you go into the water.
Morning
Many dive operators offer morning charters, which typically start early in the day. Morning dives are perfect for beginners or those who want a relaxing dive, especially because the waters are the calmest in the early hours of the day. There is also excellent visibility in the morning.
Afternoon
If you’re not into morning dives, some operators also offer afternoon trips. The waters are generally warmer in the afternoon and it could also potentially be windier.
Evening
If you’re diving intending to see marine life, dusk dives are the best. Mantas, monk seals, and dolphins are more active during the dusk and the evening than in the mornings.
Additionally, the famous Manta Ray Night Dive takes place at dusk. During these dives, you’ll float on the water surface on a custom-built board with spotlights pointing down on the Manta Rays swimming and somersaulting below. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you truly breathless.
Dive With Us!
Are you planning to go on 
a diving trip to Kona? Book your adventure with us at Kona Ocean Adventures.
We are a leading provider of diving trips in the region. Our team has 30 years of combined experience in providing diving trips tailored to your specific diving goals and needs.
Let us help you plan your Kona diving trip. Connect with us today!