Oceanatik logo
Oceanatik logo
HomeDestinationsDive SmartScuba Blog
Place of Refuge

Place of Refuge

Hawaii, United States

Depth
Depth Icon

37m

Visibility
Visibility Icon

13m - 38m

Entry
Boat Entry Icon

Boat

Experience Level

Beginner

Place of Refuge

Hawaii, United States

Place of Refuge
Depth
Depth Icon

37m

Visibility
Visibility Icon

13m - 38m

Entry
Boat Entry Icon

Boat

Experience Level

Beginner


About Place of Refuge

This is possibly the most beautiful, diverse, interesting and easily accessible site on the Island of Hawaii. It is located on the Kona Coast at Honaunau Bay, just north of the Pu'uhonua O' Honaunau (Place of Refuge) National Park. The location is also interesting as it is an ancient fishing and religious ceremonial area and should therefore be treated with the appropriate respect. This spot is great for snorkeling and scuba diving as the clear water is conducive for viewing the colorful reef marine life abundant at the site. This site is particularly good for scuba diving as there are two fantastic routes for divers to explore, both starting from the entry point. It is recommended that divers take two tanks when attempting the dive. The first route heads straight out towards the open sea and the second heads north along the rocky shore. When embarking on the first route, heading towards the open sea, constant awareness and a cautionary dive flag are recommended in order to avoid collision with one of the many fishing boats that use the bay as a launching site. This route will take you over many coral heads and channels and one can then view the many inhabitants of these areas, such as reef fish and various invertebrates. After a gradual slope, which drops off to a depth of approximately 30 to 35 feet, one will reach a living coral reef that is peppered with numerous pukas holding various eels, crabs and shells. There are also frequent sightings of Giant Green Sea Turtles at this spot, but one must remember not to touch, hold on to, or try to ride these endangered and protected animals - there are huge financial penalties for such actions. There is also the possibility of Hawaiian Monk Seal sightings near this spot. Monk Seals are currently being released along the Kona Coast as a measure introduced in order to try and preserve this endangered species.

Place of Refuge Dive Info

Terrain & Features

Reef

Entry Type

Boat

Max Depth

37m

Visibility Range

13m 38m

Experience Level

Beginner

Best Gas Mix

21% – 30%

O2

13% at 35m / 31%

O2
Multi-Level Dive Planner
Photo gallery

No photos yet.

Be the first to share your shots from Place of Refuge. Your photos help other divers plan their trip.

Marine Life

  • Achilles Tang
  • Crabs
  • Eels
  • Moorish Idol
  • Yellow Tang
Weather Conditions

Water temperature (℃)
Air temperature range (℃)
Average air temperature (℃)
Wind speed (km/h)
Precipitation (mm)
Dive Operators near Place of Refuge

View all operators in United States
Location

Dive Site Hazards

  • 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

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.

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.