If you are thinking about a scuba diving vacation spot, then you should consider Hawaiian waters. Hawaii's waters are warm and clear, filled with different colored fish and coral reefs. No place can compare to Hawaii when it comes to scuba diving. A different world once you are under the water, you will experience an adventure you are sure to remember for the rest of your life.

There are eight main islands to choose from, each with their own diving locations, and unique characteristics.Throughout the islands, diving offers many different types of marine life, color coral, and even lava formations. The water is clear and beautiful and most of the time you can see as far as 100 feet. There are diving shops and resorts located throughout the islands, so you can either rent equipment, or bring your own. If you don't know how to dive, don't worry, most shops will offer certification courses, or lessons if you aren't feeling comfortable.Hawaiian waters offer diving for all skill levels.

There are five main underwater habitats that you can explore. They include the coral reefs, caves, small caverns, lava tubs, drop-offs, basalt boulders, and sandy bottoms. These areas are so diverse that you can gain access to them either from the shore line, or also from boats. Boating out to a dive spot is the easiest access and offers the best conditions. Diving from the shore line is not encouraged when there is high tide.During the summer months on islands Kauai and Nihau, the water is calm and clear.

Some of the best diving spots can be found here. Some spots you might want to visit are the Cannons, Tunnels Reef, or Ke' Lagoon. All offer a wide range of depths for beginner and intermediate divers, ranging from 12 feet to 65 feet.

There is also Brennecke's Drop-Off, Sheraton Caverns, and Oasis Reef on the south side of the island. These locations are suggested for intermediate divers. If you are looking for a more challenging environment that includes monk seals, and dolphins swimming side by side with you, then head out to the north side of Nihau.On the main island of Hawaii you might want to visit the Kohala or Kona coastlines. There are spots like Pine Trees, Place of Refuge, Cavern Point, and Kailua Pier that offer a difficulty level of beginner to advanced.

The depths here range from 10 to 130 feet. Maui is also a good choice with locations such as Five Caves, Olowalu and Honolua Bay. There you could encounter tame fish and depths also from 10 to 130 feet.

By: J Aubin