Kauai Scuba Diving & Niihau Boat Dives

Why Go Scuba Diving in Kauai?

Kauai is a scuba diver’s paradise – known as the Garden Island, its emerald cliffs and crystal-clear waters hide a vibrant undersea ecosystem. Here you can explore 30+ unique dive sites teeming with marine life, from graceful sea turtles and playful dolphins to rare endemic fish found nowhere else on Earth. Must-do dives include the legendary Sheraton Caverns (an underwater lava tube labyrinth home to sleeping turtles) and Koloa Landing, a protected shore dive spot ideal for all levels.

The warm Hawaiian waters are rich with colorful corals, dramatic arches, and volcanic pinnacles – a living museum of ocean wonders. Hawaii is exceptional for marine life observation, with over 25% of fish species being endemic – that means they occur nowhere else on the planet! A few of these special species, such as the stunning Bandit Angelfish, appear more frequently on Kauai than other Hawaiian islands, making them a must-see on any Kauai diving trip.

Niihau Diving – A Bucket-List Adventure MAY-SEPT

Just off Kauai lies the Forbidden Island of Niihau, an untouched underwater frontier that every serious diver dreams about. With strictly limited access, Niihau is an underwater Eden – its remote reefs (like Keyhole at Lehua Rock) boast some of the best diving in the state. In fact, its distance from Kauai’s ports makes it the most western scuba dive location in the USA!

Fathom Five is extremely proud to run a 3-tank Niihau dive charter from May through September, using our custom 38-foot boat to whisk you across the channel in comfort. Because we carry fewer divers than anyone else on the island, you get an intimate experience on this all-day adventure. From endemic reef fish and Hawaiian monk seals to sheer volcanic drop-offs, Niihau offers a once-in-a-lifetime scuba experience – truly the most pristine dive location in the USA. (Pro tip: Bring your spirit of adventure and maybe some seasickness meds for the channel crossing!)

What About the North Shore Tunnels Reef?

The North Shore Tunnels Reef is often called the “Crown Jewel of Kauai diving” – an iconic labyrinth of coral tunnels and arches that will leave you breathless. While current DLNR regulations have temporarily paused commercial dive operations at Tunnels, we’re actively working toward resuming service and can arrange private charters when permitted. We know this site intimately – every arch, every swimthrough – and we look forward to sharing it with you again soon. In the meantime, we have incredible alternative sites on both the North and South shores that offer equally spectacular diving experiences.

Why Dive With Fathom Five?

Kauai has several great dive operators (shout-out to our local friends!), but here’s what makes us different: Fathom Five is located just minutes from the most spectacular South Shore diving Kauai has to offer. We pride ourselves on our PADI 5-Star Instructor Development Center rating – a mark of top-quality training and safety standards.

Our team of experienced and certified instructors are not only highly trained (with thousands of dives under their weight belts), but also patient, friendly mentors dedicated to making your dive experience safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable. What truly sets us apart? We deliberately limit our group sizes to a maximum of 6 divers per boat – no crowded cattle boats here! This boutique approach means more attention from your guide, more freedom underwater, and that relaxed, unhurried vibe you came to Hawaii for. Small groups equal better dives – it’s that simple.

Visiting Kauai But Not Certified? No Problem!

We offer Discover Scuba Diving experiences that let you try scuba in Kauai’s beautiful waters with no prior certification needed. In our relaxed 2-tank Introductory Dives at beginner-friendly sites like Koloa Landing or Tunnels Beach, one of our certified instructors will give you a fun 1-hour lesson on the basics and then take you on a guided dive hand-in-hand.

You’ll practice a few simple skills and then swim alongside tropical fish and turtles – all in the same day! This “Discover Scuba Hawaii” program is perfect for families, couples, or anyone curious about the ocean. It’s safe, easy, and absolutely exhilarating. (Many of our guests catch the dive bug after just one discover session!) We keep class sizes small so you get personal attention, and all gear is provided. You’ll be blowing bubbles in paradise in no time.

Already hooked? We also offer the full range of PADI certification courses – from Open Water to Advanced and specialties. Ask us about getting certified during your vacation!

Still Curious?

Watch some of the incredible content our customers have created while diving with Fathom Five – check out our photo gallery and follow us on Instagram @fathomfivedivers to see the magic for yourself. From sea turtle encounters to the dramatic underwater landscapes of Niihau, every dive tells a story.

Ready for your Hawaiian dive adventure? View all our dives and classes, or give us a call at (800) 972-3078. Drop by our shop in Koloa – we’re always here to help you make the most of your Kauai diving experience. Mahalo for considering Fathom Five! 🤙