5 Caves

Five Caves is a shallow coral-reef site with a complex of lava-tube caves, arches and swim-throughs cut into volcanic reef rock, surrounded by coral gardens, ledges and overhangs. Hawaiian green sea turtles commonly rest in the caves and white-tip reef sharks are often seen under the ledges, making those animals key attractions. Depths range from about 10 to 50 ft, with walls descending to roughly 30–40 ft in places. Visibility is generally good, often 30 to 60 ft, and water temperatures are typically in the mid-70s to low-80s °F. Currents are usually mild and conditions tend to be calmer in the early morning while winds can increase later. Entry is typically from shore at Makena Landing Park; after entering at the sandy boat ramp divers make a surface swim of roughly 200 yards along the coast to the reef near several lava rock fingers, with an alternate rockier shore entry further south. No boat is required. The common route goes around Nahuna Point to a lava-arch swim-through and Bubble Cave, a partially enclosed lava tube with an air pocket. Divers should maintain buoyancy, orient to exit points in each cave, avoid stirring up sand and be cautious of surge; specialized cave diving gear is not needed.