Koloa Landing

Entry and exit from a concrete boat ramp that provides easy access to the water. The ramp can be slippery, so proper footwear is recommended. During low tide, exposed rocky areas may require careful navigation. Enter along the right side of the ramp and swim out past shallow reef areas before descending.

Shore dive with easy entry from a small boat ramp. The site is accessible via a short walk from the parking area. Entry point is well-protected from waves in normal conditions.

Diverse species include green sea turtles, moray eels, octopuses, and reef fish such as butterflyfish, wrasses, and triggerfish. Frogfish and scorpionfish might be spotted by careful observers. Monk seals occasionally visit the area but should be given wide berth as they are protected.

The site features a gradually sloping bottom with coral outcroppings and rocky formations. Historic artifacts from the landing's days as a sugar port can be found, including old anchor blocks and chains. The reef extends outward and reaches depths of 25-40 feet with good coral coverage in many areas. Sandy channels cut through the reef formations, providing navigation references.

Free parking is available in a designated lot at Koloa Landing. The lot is relatively small and can fill up by mid-morning, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot.

Basic facilities include portable toilets and outdoor shower near the parking area. Gear rentals and air fills are available from dive shops in nearby Koloa town, about 5 minutes away by car.

High, especially on weekends and holidays. As one of the few easily accessible shore dives on Kauai, it attracts both independent divers and dive classes. The site is also popular with snorkelers, creating surface traffic. Early weekday mornings offer the least crowded experience.

Though typically calm, south shore swells can create challenging conditions, especially during summer months. Entry area has limited space, requiring careful coordination when multiple divers are present. The shallow reef sections can be damaged by inexperienced divers - proper buoyancy control is essential. Some areas have fire coral that can cause skin irritation if touched.