Golden Arches

Golden Arches is a reef dive defined by a series of large lava-tube arches carved into the reef that create wide, open swim-throughs and dramatic beams of sunlight. The arches open into a scenic coral bowl surrounded by coral outcrops, bommies and gabions, producing a classic Hawaiian reef environment and an expansive, easy-to-navigate terrain suitable for divers of all levels. Depth reaches about 60 feet at the deepest parts, with visibility commonly around 66 to 75 feet once past the breaking waves near shore. The site is typically accessed by boat (some operators permit a surface swim from a nearby bay); divers usually descend along the reef slope or from an anchor set downcurrent of the arches, pass through the main arches first, then circle adjacent coral before returning via a parallel reef route. Currents can be moderate to strong at times, so checking conditions and staying with organized groups is a primary safety consideration, and the water is warm and generally comfortable year-round.