Scuba Diving in Lanai

When you have a dive site such as Cathedrals—with eerie pinnacle formations and luminous caverns—it's no wonder that scuba-diving buffs consider exploring the waters off Lanai akin to having a religious experience.

Best Spots

Just outside of Hulopoe Bay, the boat dive site Cathedrals was named the best cavern dive site in the Pacific by Skin Diver magazine. Shimmering light makes the many openings in the caves look like stained-glass windows. A current generally keeps the water crystal clear, even if it's turbid outside. In these unearthly chambers, large ulua and small reef shark add to the adventure. Sergeant Major Reef,off Kamaiki Point, is named for big schools of yellow- and black-striped manini (sergeant major fish) that turn the rocks silvery as they feed. The site is made up of three parallel lava ridges, a cave, and an archway, with rippled sand valleys between the ridges. Depths range 15 to 50 feet.

Equipment, Lessons, and Tours

Trilogy Oceansports Lanai. Serious divers should go for Trilogy's two-tank dive; location depends on the weather. You must be certified, so don't forget your documentation. The $213 fee includes a light breakfast of cinnamon rolls and coffee. Equipment, wet suits, accessories are included. Beginners (minimum age 12) can try a one-tank introductory dive for $101. You'll wade into Hulopoe Bay with an instructor at your side; actual dive time is 20 to 30 minutes. Certified divers can choose a 35- to 40-minute wade-in dive at Hulopoe, also for $101. 888/628-4800. www.scubalanai.com.