Halawa, HI Outdoor Activities

One hundred feet beneath the surface of Maunalua Bay, the Corsair⎯a World War II airplane—rests on a sandy floor. Its massive shell and magnetism for schools of soldier fish lures deep-sea explorers to the site every year. As divers propel themselves alongside the plane's wing and fuselage, they get an up-close look at the wreck's current residents, which range from colorful goatfish to reclusive moray eels.

With more than 30 years of experience, the scuba instructors at Waikiki Diving Center lead daily dives to submerged sites such as the Cosair wreck. Earning a five-star Instructor Development Center designation from the Professional Association of Diving Instructors, the center's team coordinates parties of 12–14 people and takes them out on one of two customized dive boats—The Submariner or Snoopy V—for adventures ranging from snuggling sea turtles to earning PADI open-water certifications. To enhance visitors' experiences, Waikiki Diving Center's crew arranges complimentary shuttle service to and from Waikiki hotels.

From surfing at secluded locations to hiking a private trail to a waterfall at the foothills of the Ko’olau Mountains, the team at Hawaii Water Sports Center designs excursions so visitors can experience thrills and explore Koko Marina’s pristine waters. USCG captains pilot a Ski Nautique that pulls along bumper tubes and six-person Banana Boats, and professional instructors help visitors master the skills of wakeboarding or water skiing through a six-ball course. Their snorkeling trips take place in Hanauma Bay’s reef-filled waters, and their Maunalua Bay scuba excursions are overseen by PADI-certified instructors and trained master divers. On these trips, they guide students along and point out colorful reef fish, sea turtles, and retired goldfish.

Natural bamboo and wood fences surround the miniature fairways of Jungle River Mini Golf, whose aptly named course pits putters against a slew of jungle-themed obstacles. Like rainforest explorers, groups of golfers hack through the wild landscape, forgoing machetes for colorful putters or spring-loaded spatulas sized to accommodate guests of all ages. Monkeypod trees, palms, crotons, and banana plants drape over the course, framing many attractions including sculptures of friendly gorillas and dinosaurs emerging from tar pits. The course also features large bridges and waterfalls that meander throughout to create sharp turns and contoured greens.