Garden Eel Cove

Entry via boat with a controlled descent to the reef; exit by ascending to the boat, following a safety stop.

Boat dive only, departing from Honokohau Harbor, a short ride from Kailua-Kona.

Garden eels, manta rays (especially at night), sea turtles, reef fish, and occasional whitetip sharks.

Sandy bottom with garden eel colonies, coral heads, and lava formations, sloping to deeper waters.

Parking available at Honokohau Harbor or dive shop lots for boat trips; spaces are generally plentiful.

Boat facilities include gear storage and rinse areas; Honokohau Harbor has restrooms and nearby dive shops.

Moderate, with night dives attracting manta ray enthusiasts, but boat-only access keeps crowds manageable.

Night dives require strong navigational skills and lights. Currents can be present, so stay with your group. Visibility is typically excellent but can vary with plankton blooms. Monitor air closely at depth.