Big Island Divers has been sharing Kona’s extraordinary underwater world for decades. Their USCG-licensed captains and PADI-certified guides blend deep local knowledge with rigorous safety standards, creating easygoing adventures ...
With a 4.8 rating across thousands of reviews, this operation consistently delivers memorable diving experiences. The crew really stands out here. Names like Fernando, Kaitlin, Natalie, Bree, and captains like Tanner, Matt, and Chad get repeated praise for being knowledgeable, safety-focused, and genuinely caring. Multiple families and first-time ocean divers mention feeling watched over without being hovered over, which is exactly what nervous divers need to hear. The shop goes above and beyond with thoughtful touches like washing and storing personal gear between multi-day trips, keeping equipment clean and organized, and providing detailed marine life briefings after dives. The manta night dive is clearly the star attraction and seems to live up to the hype. Reviewers describe it as mesmerizing and once-in-a-lifetime, with the crew expertly organizing groups and providing lights for the experience. Fair warning though: the boat ride out can be extremely choppy, and several reviewers mention seasickness being an issue. Taking Dramamine beforehand is strongly recommended. One recent review detailed frustrations with incorrect weight setup and unfulfilled dive log promises, suggesting occasional lapses in attention to detail. However, this appears to be an outlier given the overwhelming number of glowing reviews from repeat customers who've done multiple dive trips over the years.
Here’s a tighter version: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Two dives in, totally hooked — Big Island Divers delivers! We did a two-tank day dive and a manta ray night dive with Big Island Divers and both were absolutely incredible. Captains Rory and Mika handled the boat and topside support flawlessly, keeping everything running smoothly from start to finish. Divemaster Natalie was attentive and skilled, making both dives feel safe and exciting. But the star of the show was Hailey — her energy, expertise, and love for the ocean made every moment underwater unforgettable. The manta ray night dive was one of the most magical experiences of our lives, and she made it even better. If you’re in Kona, don’t think twice. Book Big Island Divers, and ask for Hailey and you’ll also make Hailey’s Mom happy! Yes, we met her mom on our second dive!
Don O'Brien
May 25, 2026
Here’s a tighter version: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Two dives in, totally hooked — Big Island Divers delivers! We did a two-tank day dive and a manta ray night dive with Big Island Divers and both were absolutely incredible. Captains Rory and Mika handled the boat and topside support flawlessly, keeping everything running smoothly from start to finish. Divemaster Natalie was attentive and skilled, making both dives feel safe and exciting. But the star of the show was Hailey — her energy, expertise, and love for the ocean made every moment underwater unforgettable. The manta ray night dive was one of the most magical experiences of our lives, and she made it even better. If you’re in Kona, don’t think twice. Book Big Island Divers, and ask for Hailey and you’ll also make Hailey’s Mom happy! Yes, we met her mom on our second dive!
Don O'Brien
May 25, 2026