Papawai Point

Hawaii, United States

Depth

30m

Visibility

10m - 30m

Entry

Shore

Experience Level

Advanced

Papawai Point

Hawaii, United States

Depth

30m

Visibility

10m - 30m

Entry

Shore

Experience Level

Advanced

About Papawai Point

The diving here can be spectacular, although the entry is for advanced shore divers only. Check it out to see if you are comfortable. The left side is almost always exposed to the occasional bigger waves that roll through, bigger even when it seems there is no surf. The right side entry is actually in a semi-protected cove. The exit (same way) is almost always just a matter of swimming up, taking off fins, and walking up a gradual slope. The reef drops off quick into some sand, and depths of 27 meter plus are quickly accessible. Directions: Papawai Point is found at about the mile 8.7 mark on Highway 30. Look for the Turnout on the ocean side.

Papawai Point Dive Info

Terrain & Features

Drop Off, Reef

Entry Type

Shore

Max Depth

30m

Visibility Range

10m – 30m

Experience Level

Advanced

Best Gas Mix

21% – 35%

O₂

CNS Load (25 min)

16% at 28m / 36%

O₂

Multi-Level Dive Planner

Photo gallery

No photos yet.

Be the first to share your shots from Papawai Point. Your photos help other divers plan their trip.

Marine Life

Whale
Yellow Tang

Weather Conditions

Water temperature (℃)

Air temperature range (℃)

Average air temperature (℃)

Wind speed (km/h)

Precipitation (mm)

Dive Operators near Papawai Point

View all operators in United States

Location

Dive Site Hazards

Edge-Accelerated Currents — Currents often strengthen along drop-off edges.
Depth Perception Distortion — Visual contrast can distort perceived depth.
Terrain-Induced Descent — Divers may unintentionally follow terrain downward.

Hidden Depth Variations — Complex reef topography can conceal depth changes, leading to unintended profile variations.

Distraction from Marine Activity — High fish activity can distract divers and delay depth or gas awareness.

Rapid Surge Direction Changes — Surge near reef structures can reverse direction quickly, pushing divers sideways into unexpected areas.

Discover More

Discover United States

Connect with Operators

More Dive Sites

Oceania - Vanuatu

Vanuatu, a stunning South Pacific archipelago, offers some of the most diverse and exhilarating scuba diving experiences in the world. With its warm tropical waters, vibrant coral reefs, and historic wrecks like the famous SS President Coolidge, Vanuatu is a haven for divers of all skill levels. From exploring volcanic underwater landscapes to encountering rich marine biodiversity, Vanuatu’s pristine dive sites provide unforgettable adventures, all set against a backdrop of lush islands and tranquil lagoons.

Learn More

South America - Brazil

Brazil’s vast coastline and tropical islands make it a captivating destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. From the vibrant reefs of the Abrolhos Archipelago to the historic wrecks of Recife and the dramatic underwater cliffs of Fernando de Noronha, Brazil offers dive experiences for every level. With warm waters, incredible marine biodiversity, and breathtaking underwater landscapes, Brazil is a must-visit destination for divers seeking adventure, beauty, and cultural charm both above and below the surface.

Learn More

Asia - Philippines

The Philippines, a tropical paradise nestled in the heart of the Coral Triangle, is a premier destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. With over 7,000 islands, it boasts pristine coral reefs, breathtaking underwater landscapes, and a rich diversity of marine life. From the iconic Tubbataha Reefs to the thresher shark encounters in Malapascua, the Philippines offers unparalleled diving experiences for both beginners and seasoned divers. Whether exploring shallow coral gardens or delving into historic WWII wrecks, every dive unveils a new world of adventure.

Learn More