Hawaii is known for its incredible scenery during the day, but what about at night? While exploring the island’s marine reserves, we found some of the most dramatic sites around – including a deep-sea dive in darness!
What is night diving?
Night diving is a type of diving where the dive time is extended beyond the normal daytime duration. The most common night dive duration is three hours, but dives can be as short as fifteen minutes or as long as six hours. Night diving provides a unique opportunity to explore coral reefs and marine life at their most active and vibrant.
Why do people night dive?
There are plenty of reasons to night dive. Some people enjoy the secretive feeling of diving at night, while others find the darkness and absence of light calming and refreshing. Whatever your reason, night diving can be an incredible experience. Here are a few tips to make the most of your night dive in Hawaii:
1. Check the weather forecast before you go out. Hawaii is a hot and humid island, so it can be tricky to predict the weather conditions at night. If there’s any chance of rain or thunderstorms, make sure to stay inside.
2. Bring proper attire for the conditions. Hawaii is known for its warm waters and often humid air, so make sure you bring along clothes that will keep you cool and comfortable. Even if it’s chilly outside, the water can still be quite warm on a dive trip at night.
3. Use a dive light when entering the water. Even if it’s just for a few moments while you get your bearings, using a dive light will help you see where you’re going and avoid obstacles underwater.
4. Dress lightly but securely when entering and exiting the water.
People night dive for a variety of reasons. Sometimes people want to see marine life that is difficult to see during the day, other times people want to explore caves and shipwrecks. Night diving can also be a more affordable way to dive since there are usually less passengers and less demand for services during the night.
What equipment do you need to night dive?
As a beginner, the following are the basic equipment you will need to night dive in Hawaii: wet suit, fins, mask, snorkel and dive computer. You may also want to bring a light mask and a dive light. In addition, you will need a boat trip or tour operator to take you underwater and teach you how to use your equipment.
Some places where you can night dive in Hawaii are Hanauma Bay (north of Honolulu), Waikiki Beach (south of Honolulu), Lighthouse Point (on Kaua’i) and Captain Cook National Historical Park (on Oahu).
How to do a night dive in Hawaii
If you’re considering diving at night in Hawaii, there are a few things you need to know. The first step is understanding the various dive sites that are available at night.
The best place to start your exploration of night diving in Hawaii is the Kohala Coast. This area features coral gardens, reefs and giant clams that come alive at night. Other popular dive sites for night divers include Waimanalo Bay, Haena Bay and Molokini Crater.
To dive during the night, you will need to purchase a nighttime diving permit from the National Park Service (NPS). Permits can be purchased online or at the Maui Visitor Center on the island of Maui. Once you have your permit, make sure to bring your dive gear, a flashlight and plenty of fresh water.
When it comes to diving at night, be aware of the hazards that may be present. Some of these dangers include jellyfish blooms and sharks. If you encounter any problems while diving at night, don’t hesitate to contact a dive professional for assistance.
Tips for a safe and fun night dive
If you’re thinking about night diving in Hawaii, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
-Plan your dive well in advance. Many diving operators offer night dives as part of their regular program.
-Be cautious when reaching the dive site. Use a dive light to explore the area around you and look for obstacles near the water surface.
-Stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Watch for marine life and coral formations as you swim through the darkness.
-Take care when ascending back to the surface. Make sure you use a flashlight if needed to avoid hitting objects on the way up.