

Best for intermediate divers, 9-18m, boat entry, moderate current.
Fantasy Reef off Oahu offers a combination of open reef and cave topography at depths between 9 and 18 metres. Divers navigate both well-lit terrain and overhead cave environments, requiring solid buoyancy control to manage moderate currents and surge. Visibility typically ranges from 18 to 30 metres. The site features sharp coral and rock surfaces, necessitating caution when moving through the caves. This location is suitable for intermediate divers and is also accessible for night dives. Species recorded around this area include various moray eels, wrasses, butterflyfish, and whitetip reef sharks.
21.25913, -157.75113
Watch the current direction before entering, as it can accelerate around the cave entrances and push you into the sharp reef. Book your charter in advance and confirm the operator is comfortable running night dives at this site if that is your plan.
Boat commute takes approximately 25 minutes from harbors.
Recorded at this site
Depth
9-18m
Visibility
18-30m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
24-26°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
50 min
Species recorded around this area include giant frogfish, various moray eels, Achilles tang, whitetip reef sharks, leaf scorpionfish, day octopus, wrasses, and butterflyfish.
No, this site is rated for intermediate divers due to the presence of overhead cave environments, moderate currents, and surge.
The site ranges from 9 to 18 metres, with an average depth of 15 metres.
Fantasy Reef is a boat dive; a boat charter is required to access the site.
The site is primarily a dive location featuring cave environments and depths that are better suited for scuba diving.
Diving at Fantasy Reef in Hawaii Kai requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Fantasy Reef in Hawaii Kai. Water temperatures range from 24°C to 26°C.
Divers at Fantasy Reef in Hawaii Kai should be aware of sharks. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Expect moderate currents at Fantasy Reef in Hawaii Kai. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Fantasy Reef in Hawaii Kai typically ranges from 18 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.