Scuba Diving at Coconut Island - Hilo, Hawaii - Moku Ola Beach Park

Conditions were looking great for the east side of Hawaii Island, so we loaded up the car and took a road trip to the other side of the island. We opted to dive off Coconut Island (Moku Ola) in Hilo to look for critters. We found 28 different species of sea slugs (nudibranchs) and flatworms and some surprisingly healthy and huge rice coral colonies. The water clarity wasn't good and definitely greener than in Kona, but sifting through all of the muck we found some true gems! There is a lot to explore within the Hilo Breakwall and we plan on going back, hopefully sooner rather than later!
Music from Artlist IO, license # 749789
Songs: Blissful Ride, The Rainbow Train, and Island of Daisies all by Alon Ohana.

[@randall928]

Any recommendatoins on the best dive companies to go with on the Big Island? I'm planning a trip in May, thanks!

[@shoredivingalongthekonacoa6450]

Aloha! For Kona side, most locals prefer Kona Honu Divers, Aquatic Life Divers, or Pacific Rim. That being said, all of the charter companies are pretty highly rated and should give you a good experience. The manta ray night dive and the blackwater dives are a must do while on island - truly unique experiences! Hope you have a great trip!

[@MrNicholaslarghi]

I live in Hilo now. Did you dive all around the island? I’ve only found one species of nudibranch there? Recommended entry and route to follow?

[@shoredivingalongthekonacoa6450]

@@MrNicholaslarghi​​⁠yes, I dive all over the Big Island. If I can get to the waters edge, I’m thinking about how to get in and out with dive gear on! For this Coconut Island dive, we hopped in off the rocks at the northern tip and set a compass heading going towards the rocky outcropping. Happy exploring!