Dolphin Divers
About
When you're looking for world-class diving on Oahu's west side, Dolphin Divers in Waianae is where the locals go. They've been the go-to outfitter here for years, and once you experience their operation, you'll understand why.
The west side is where Oahu keeps its best-kept diving secrets. Dramatic lava formations carved by ancient volcanic activity, coral reefs that haven't been touched by crowds, and marine life that thrives in these protected waters. Dolphin Divers knows these sites like the back of their hand – they'll take you to spots that most visitors never see.
Their dive menu reads like an underwater adventure wishlist. Want to see Hawaii after dark? Their pelagic night dives reveal a completely different ocean world. Ready to go deep? They'll guide you through challenging dives along Oahu's dramatic underwater topography. The lava tube expeditions are absolutely incredible – swimming through ancient volcanic formations feels like exploring another planet. They also run three-tank charters that serious divers love, plus wreck diving adventures and intro experiences for newcomers.
If you need certification, their PADI programs are thorough and well-run. But what really makes them special is how they operate – small groups only, which means your dive master actually has time to show you the good stuff. These guys have been diving these waters for years, so they know exactly where to find the turtles, rays, and schools of fish that make west side diving legendary.
The combination of expert local knowledge, diverse dive options, and that small-group approach makes Dolphin Divers the smart choice for exploring Oahu's underwater world.
Activities (5)
3 Tank West Side Dive Charter
Having operated on Oahu's west side for years, I can tell you that this 3 tank west side dive charter offers something truly special – they're the only dive boat on this side of the island, which means you'll skip the crowds that plague other parts of the island. Your day kicks off with the Mahi wreck, one of two fascinating LCUs (landing craft utility vessels) resting on the ocean floor. Depending on conditions, you might also explore airplane canyon. The guides read the ocean conditions and will pick the best sites based on what's best for the conditions that day. The second dive could take you to deep reef exploration at Black Rock Sea Cave, another historic wreck, or through one of the area's incredible lava tube formations. Each option offers something completely different, keeping the adventure fresh. Your final dive shifts to shallow lava tube reef exploration – perfect for soaking in the volcanic formations and marine life at a more relaxed pace. Since this is the only dive boat on this side of the island, they get first pick of dive spots and can adapt to find the day's most promising locations. A few things to remember: no flying for at least 18 hours post-dive, and bring your bathing suit, towel, sunscreen, plus any snacks and drinks you'll want. Regarding cancellations: more than 14 days out gets you a full refund minus $40 booking fee. Less than 14 days nets you credit minus the same fee. Within 48 hours requires trip insurance for refunds, and rebooking runs $50. Weather cancellations by the operator mean full refunds or credits. This 3 tank west side dive charter opens up Oahu's untouched underwater western frontier like nowhere else can.
Two Tank Lava Tube, Reef and Intro to Scuba Dives
West Oahu's calm, protected waters offer some of the island's most spectacular diving, and this two tank lava tube, reef and intro to scuba dives showcases the best of what lies beneath. You'll explore depths up to 40 feet alongside experienced guides, discovering unique lava tube formations while Hawaiian green sea turtles glide through their natural habitat. The star attraction here is Makaha Caverns, where you'll find some fully formed underwater lava tubes. Green sea turtles love to rest at these cavern entrances, giving you front-row seats to observe these gentle giants up close. The lava tubes themselves offer safe swim-through opportunities – you can always see your exit from the entrance, making for an exhilarating yet secure underwater passage. All dives are guided at a six-diver-to-guide ratio or less from the dive boat, ensuring you'll receive personalized attention throughout your journey. First-time divers from age 12 are welcome under direct instructor supervision at a maximum 2:1 ratio and will receive one dive at Makaha Caverns if conditions permit, while non-diving companions can enjoy the boat ride and surface intervals. The shallow reef dives work perfectly for divers wanting extended bottom time or those getting back into diving after a break. All essential scuba equipment comes included – dive computers, gear, the works – though you're welcome to bring your own setup. Refreshments keep you fueled between dives, and they'll pick you up from Ko Olina hotels and resorts. Cancellations must be made 48 hours prior to departure for full refunds – no refunds are provided after this time, and cancellations cannot be made via email. The cancellation policy does not change due to food poisoning, congestion, other sickness, travel plan changes, or inability to complete a dive. Consider travel insurance for unexpected changes. This two tank lava tube, reef and intro to scuba dives adventure delivers an unforgettable combination of geological wonders and marine life encounters in some of Hawaii's most pristine diving conditions. From $XXX
Two Tank Wreck and Lava Tube Dive
Here's your gateway to Oahu's most exclusive underwater adventure - the only boat dive charter operating from the west coast. This two tank wreck and lava tube dive Waianae excursion launches from Waianae Small Boat Harbor, perfectly positioned to explore the island's pristine western waters. What sets this operation apart? They maintain an intimate 6:1 diver-to-guide ratio, ensuring you get personalized attention on their full guided tours. Safety and comfort of guests is their highest priority, with dive masters providing expert guidance throughout your underwater experience. The gear situation is impressive: everything's from top brand name manufacturers and always a year or less old, so you're diving with reliable, well-maintained equipment. No need to lug your own gear or hunt for rentals - it's all included. Staying at Ko Olina? They've got you covered with complimentary transportation from Ko Olina resorts, though divers from anywhere on the island are welcome. The convenience factor alone makes this two tank wreck and lava tube dive Waianae charter appealing. The cancellation policy is straightforward: full refunds when you cancel 48 hours ahead, but nothing if you wait until the last minute. Cancellations cannot be made via email. The cancellation policy does not change due to food poisoning, congestion, other sickness, travel plan changes, inability to complete a dive, etc. Travel insurance is recommended if you're worried about schedule changes. Weather cancellations or mechanical issues? That's on them, and they'll refund every penny. This charter serves the west side of the island, catering to island visitors staying nearby in Ko Olina resorts while giving you access to Oahu's west coast diving opportunities.
Two Tank - Dusk/Night $219
There's something magical about slipping beneath Oahu's waves as the sun melts into the Pacific horizon. Dolphin Divers' Two Tank - Dusk/Night $219 Waianae adventure captures this enchantment perfectly, offering Friday and Saturday night dives that reveal a completely different side of Hawaii's underwater world. Your evening starts with a sunset cruise along Waianae's dramatic coastline. Keep your eyes peeled during the boat ride—dolphins, sea turtles, and whales frequently make appearances as golden light dances across the water. It's the kind of wildlife viewing that makes locals feel lucky to call this place home. Once darkness settles and you descend to the coral reefs, the ocean transforms entirely. Nocturnal creatures emerge from their daytime hiding spots, creating a vibrant underwater theater that most visitors never witness. The colorful marine life behaves differently after dark, offering encounters you simply won't find on typical daytime dives. With two tanks, you'll have ample time to explore multiple sites and truly immerse yourself in Waianae's nocturnal marine ecosystem. Dolphin Divers handles all the logistics, providing complete diving gear and equipment (though you're welcome to bring your own wetsuit). Don't forget your swimsuit, towel, and waterproof camera—you'll want to capture these unique night diving moments. Complimentary snacks and refreshments keep you fueled throughout the adventure. Starting from $219, this two tank - dusk/night $219 Waianae experience operates exclusively on weekends. Plan ahead though: cancellations need more than 14 days notice for refunds minus a $40 booking fee. Last-minute cancellations within 48 hours require trip insurance for refunds, and any booking changes come with a $50 rebooking fee.
Pelagic Night Dive
Nothing quite compares to a pelagic night dive Waianae expedition—it's one of those experiences that changes how you see the ocean forever. We launch from Waianae Small Boat Harbor just before sunset, heading far offshore where the Pacific drops to 2,000 feet below. As darkness settles over the water, you'll slip into the black abyss, tethered safely but floating free in the open ocean's embrace. What happens next feels like entering another planet. Tiny organisms seemingly made of light and rainbows drift past, making their way through life around you. Jellies put on colorful light shows while bizarre, almost alien beings emerge from the depths. It's the zooplankton that really steal the show though. During daylight, they hide in the deep, but once darkness falls, they rise to feed at the surface, creating this incredible display that most people never get to witness. This pelagic night dive Waianae adventure keeps groups small—just 8 divers maximum—so you get that intimate connection with this extraordinary ecosystem. There's something magical about floating in the vast Pacific, waiting to see what mysterious creatures will appear in your light beam next, usually not descending any lower than 50 feet. It's a one-tank dive that packs more wonder into three hours than most people experience in a lifetime of diving. The complete 3-hour experience starts at Waianae Small Boat Harbor. Cancellations more than 14 days out get refunded minus a $40 booking fee, while those with less notice receive credit minus the same fee. Cancellations within 48 hours of departure can only be refunded with the purchase of trip insurance. You'll also receive a refund or credit in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. A $50 rebooking fee applies to changes in original booking. This isn't just diving—it's an expedition into the Pacific's hidden nocturnal world that few will ever witness. From $XX