Kewalo Pipe Reef Dive

Explore Oahu's Largest Dive Site with Dive Oahu

Quick Dive Stats

  • Location: Off the coast of Oahu

  • Depth: 30 to 60 feet

  • Visibility: Up to 100 feet

  • Dive Type: Reef Dive

  • Experience Level: Intermediate

  • Marine Life: Yellow margin moray eels, Heller’s barracuda, devil’s scorpionfish, leaf scorpionfish, nudibranchs, flatworms, butterflyfish, wrasse, pygmy angelfish

Introduction to Kewalo Pipe Reef Dive

Kewalo Pipe, located off the coast of Oahu, is the largest of Dive Oahu’s dive sites. This old storm drain has become a thriving underwater ecosystem, surrounded by garden coral fields and finger reefs. With its diverse marine life and intriguing underwater landscape, Kewalo Pipe is a must-visit dive site for intermediate divers.

History and Background of Kewalo Pipe

Kewalo Pipe is an old storm drain that has transformed into a vibrant underwater habitat. The surrounding garden coral fields and finger reefs provide a thriving environment for a variety of marine species, making it a popular dive site. The end of the pipe, which lies at 60 feet, is particularly known for its resident yellow margin moray eels.

Divers surfacing after a dive.

Location and Accessibility

Situated off the coast of Oahu, Kewalo Pipe is easily accessible by a short boat ride. With Honolulu's Inouye International Airport offering daily international flights, reaching this diving hotspot is convenient for travelers. Once on the island, various transportation options, including car rentals, buses, or taxis, are available to access the dive site. Dive Oahu ensures a seamless experience from arrival to dive.

Exploring Kewalo Pipe Reef

Kewalo Pipe features an old storm drain surrounded by garden coral fields and finger reefs. The end of the pipe, lying at 60 feet, is home to resident yellow margin moray eels. Divers can also spot school Heller’s barracuda, devil’s scorpionfish, leaf scorpionfish, and various species of nudibranchs and flatworms. The surrounding reefs are teeming with butterflyfish, wrasse, and pygmy angelfish, creating a vibrant underwater environment.

Diving Preparations for Kewalo Pipe

For diving at Kewalo Pipe, basic scuba gear is required, along with a dive computer to monitor depth and bottom time. A flashlight is recommended for better visibility inside the pipe and to spot marine life hiding in the crevices. Dive Oahu provides all necessary gear and ensures all divers are well-prepared and briefed on safety protocols.

Marine Life at Kewalo Pipe

Kewalo Pipe hosts a diverse array of marine life. The end of the pipe is home to resident yellow margin moray eels, while school Heller’s barracuda, devil’s scorpionfish, and leaf scorpionfish are commonly seen throughout the dive. Divers can also observe various species of nudibranchs, flatworms, butterflyfish, wrasse, and pygmy angelfish.

Preservation Efforts

Responsible diving practices are crucial for preserving the integrity of Kewalo Pipe and supporting marine life conservation efforts. Divers are reminded to refrain from touching or disturbing the reef and to exercise good buoyancy control to minimize impact on the environment. Dive Oahu is committed to promoting sustainable diving practices to ensure the longevity of this incredible dive site.

Best Time to Dive Kewalo Pipe

With favorable water temperatures averaging 75-80°F year-round, Kewalo Pipe welcomes divers in all seasons, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable diving experience. However, certain times of the year may offer better visibility and more marine life sightings. Dive Oahu provides up-to-date information on the best times to dive and what divers can expect during different seasons.

Why Dive Kewalo Pipe with Dive Oahu

Dive Oahu offers unparalleled diving experiences with a focus on safety, customer satisfaction, and expert guidance. Our experienced instructors and well-maintained equipment ensure a memorable dive every time. Customer testimonials frequently highlight the professionalism and friendliness of our staff, the comprehensive pre-dive briefings, and the stunning dive experiences. Choosing Dive Oahu means choosing quality, safety, and adventure.

FAQs

  • How deep is the Kewalo Pipe dive site? 

    • Kewalo Pipe ranges from 30 to 60 feet in depth, making it suitable for intermediate divers.

  • What marine life can I expect to see at Kewalo Pipe? 

    • Divers can encounter yellow margin moray eels, school Heller’s barracuda, devil’s scorpionfish, leaf scorpionfish, various nudibranchs, flatworms, butterflyfish, wrasse, and pygmy angelfish.

  • What gear do I need for the dive? 

    • Basic scuba gear, including a mask, fins, buoyancy control device (BCD), regulator, and dive computer, is required. A flashlight is recommended for exploring inside the pipe and spotting marine life.

  • Is Kewalo Pipe suitable for beginners? 

    • Kewalo Pipe is more suitable for intermediate divers due to its depth and the presence of currents at times.

  • When is the best time to dive Kewalo Pipe? 

    • Kewalo Pipe can be dived year-round due to Oahu's warm waters. However, conditions can vary, so it's best to check with Dive Oahu for current conditions and recommendations.

Conclusion

Kewalo Pipe epitomizes the allure of reef diving, offering an exhilarating underwater adventure for intermediate divers. From its unique storm drain structure to its abundant marine life and captivating underwater landscapes, diving Kewalo Pipe promises an unforgettable experience that embodies the spirit of exploration and adventure.