Learn scuba basics, practice in a pool, then dive from shore in Hilo
4 hours
Pool training, ocean dive
Try scuba diving in Hilo with a short presentation, a pool skills session, and a supervised shore dive. This is designed to help you see if scuba is right for you before committing to a certification course.
You must be age 10+ and able to swim unassisted in water too deep to stand. This is not a certification course and does not allow you to dive without a scuba professional afterward. If paperwork is not completed before attending, it may reduce class time and add a $50 fee; some policy rescheduling situations also carry a $50 fee.
Full refund if you cancel 48+ hours in advance. No refunds for late cancellations or no-shows. Full refund if the operator cancels (for example, due to weather).
Yes. You must be able to swim unassisted in water too deep to stand, and you need to be able to use a snorkel or regulator.
Bring a completed PADI medical form. If the form shows any conditions, bring physician sign-off showing you are cleared to dive.
Yes. If you do not complete your paperwork before attending, you may lose class time and pay an extra $50. If you are not fully prepared to participate (including required PADI medical forms signed off), you will not be allowed to attend and a $50 rescheduling fee applies (this fee may be waived if circumstances are out of your control).
1717 Kamehameha Ave. Hilo, HI 96720
Hilo Ocean Adventures shines when it comes to their instructors and guides, who consistently earn glowing praise from visitors. Shayna, a PADI-certified Master Scuba Diver Trainer, gets mentioned repeatedly for making both beginners and experienced divers feel confident and comfortable. Other guides like Morgan, Alex, and Aulki also stand out for their knowledge, patience, and genuine enthusiasm. The staff accommodates solo travelers and small groups without hesitation, often personalizing tours when group sizes are minimal. The marine life around Hilo delivers too—multiple turtles spotted within minutes, beautiful reefs, and memorable underwater encounters. The operation offers variety beyond diving, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling trips around Hilo Bay and beyond. Equipment rentals receive positive marks overall, though there's mention of some aging gear like fin straps. One review noted a particularly rough day where safety concerns and operational issues converged, though this appears to be an isolated incident during challenging surf conditions. The front desk staff, including Natalia, earns appreciation for being welcoming and helpful with scheduling. Most visitors leave calling their experience a highlight of their Big Island trip.
Just got off the whale watching boat with Morgan and Kevin. Even though we didn’t spot a whale they were really nice guys to hang out with. My daughter wasn’t feeling well and they were great making accommodations for us. Have a great time in Kauai Kevin, and thank you Morgan and your Egg McMuffins
kallas78
March 27, 2026
Just got off the whale watching boat with Morgan and Kevin. Even though we didn’t spot a whale they were really nice guys to hang out with. My daughter wasn’t feeling well and they were great making accommodations for us. Have a great time in Kauai Kevin, and thank you Morgan and your Egg McMuffins
kallas78
March 27, 2026