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

Cathedrals. Just outside Hulopoe Bay, Cathedrals was named the best cavern dive site in the Pacific by Skin Diver magazine. Shimmering light makes the many openings resemble 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 sharks add to the adventure. Tiger sharks may appear in certain seasons. Manele, HI, 96763.

Sergeant Major Reef. Off Kamaiki Point, Sergeant Major Reef is named for big schools of yellow- and black-striped manini (sergeant major fish) that turn the rocks silvery as they feed. There are three parallel lava ridges separated by rippled sand valleys, a cave, and an archway. Depths range 15 to 50 feet. Depending on conditions, the water may be clear or cloudy. Lanai City, HI, 96763.

Equipment, Lessons, and Tours

Trilogy Oceansports Lanai. Serious certified divers should go for Trilogy's four-hour, two-tank dive. Locations depend on the weather. The $189 fee includes a light breakfast of cinnamon rolls and coffee, wet suits, and all the equipment you need. Noncertified beginners over age 11 can try a one-tank introductory dive lasting 20 to 30 minutes for $102. You can wade into Hulopoe Bay with an instructor at your side. Certified divers can choose a 35- to 40-minute wade-in dive at Hulopoe, also for $102. Manele Small Boat Harbor, Manele Rd., Manele, HI, 96763. 888/628-4800. www.sailtrilogy.com.