

Best for beginner divers, 1-12m, shore & boat entry, mild current.
Mahukona, located on the Big Island, offers a diverse underwater environment featuring a natural reef, wreck debris, and artificial reef structures. Suitable for beginners, the site ranges from 1 to 12 metres in depth with an average of 10 metres. Visibility typically spans 15 to 30 metres, supported by mild currents and water temperatures between 25 and 27 degrees Celsius. Divers and snorkellers frequently encounter wrasses and yellow tang, alongside less common species such as redlip parrotfish, moorish idol, and various triggerfish. Shore and boat access are available, though users should exercise caution regarding surf, surge, and sharp coral at the entry point. Night diving is also permitted at this location.
20.18377, -155.90047
Time your entry during a calm spell in the swell cycle and watch your footing on the sharp rocks and coral at the water's edge. Facilities include parking, toilets, and showers on site, so there is no need to travel far after your dive.
Drive Highway 270 between Kawaihae and Hawi. The park is well-signed for Mahukona.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 12m
Visibility
15-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore & Boat
Water Temp
25-27°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
50 min
Common sightings include wrasses and yellow tang. Less frequently, you may encounter redlip parrotfish, palenose parrotfish, moorish idol, African clown wrasse, pinktail triggerfish, flagtail triggerfish, black durgeon, Pacific trumpetfish, lined butterflyfish, pufferfish, wedgetail triggerfish, and Hawaiian convict surgeonfish.
Yes, Mahukona is suitable for beginners due to its shallow depth range of 1 to 12 metres and mild currents.
The site depth ranges from 1 to 12 metres, with an average depth of 10 metres.
Yes, Mahukona is suitable for both diving and snorkelling.
Yes, shore entry is possible, though you should be cautious of surf, surge, and sharp rocks at the water's edge.
Be alert for boat traffic, potential surge or swell, and sharp coral or rocks. Always check the shore break before entering the water.
Diving at Mahukona in Hawi requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Mahukona in Hawi. Water temperatures range from 25°C to 27°C.
Mahukona in Hawi typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Mahukona in Hawi typically ranges from 15 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.