Makaha Caverns

Makaha Caverns is a popular west-side Oʻahu dive site featuring trenches, arches, lava tubes, and large caverns with dramatic natural lighting. It is well known for turtle encounters, whitetip reef sharks, and rich reef fish populations.

Better conditions are more likely for diving and snorkeling during the calm summer months (typically May through September) when the big winter surf is absent.

Check current conditions before diving. Weather and ocean conditions can change rapidly.

A network of collapsed and intact lava tubes, arches, and ledges running parallel to shore. Depths remain relatively shallow, creating numerous swim-throughs and light-filled caverns.

• •Unique Lava Tube Topography: The site is a dramatic underwater playground of collapsed and intact lava tubes, arches, and ledges, creating fascinating swim-throughs and caverns.
• •Abundant Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (Honu): Makaha is one of the best locations on Oʻahu to encounter these animals, which are frequently seen resting or napping inside the sheltered caverns.
• •Dramatic Ambient Lighting: Many of the caverns have openings or "skylights" in the ceiling that allow shafts of sunlight to penetrate the darkness, creating stunning photographic effects.
• •Encounters with Whitetip Reef Sharks: Divers often spot whitetip reef sharks resting quietly on the sandy bottom inside the larger, light-filled chambers.

• •Strong currents and surge during swell.
• •Silt can reduce visibility to zero.
• •Overhead environment swim-through risks.

• •Parking
• •Showers
• •Restrooms
• •Lifeguard Tower