Dive of the Month

Ewa Pinnacles (Oahu)

With 40 foot waves on the north shore and 4-8 footers on the leeward side much of Oahu's diving gets "closed out" in the winter months.  What's Left?   The south shore has some pretty cool dives that should not be overlooked.  One of my favorites is the "Pinnacles".  Located just west of the Pearl harbor entrance #1 buoy, this is a large reef area in about 35-45 feet of water.  There is a permanent mooring lying just under the surface at one of the better spots on the reef.   The area is probably out of reach of a shore diver but is perfect for dive kayaks. You can launch from Hickam or the Navy beach by the rifle range if you have military access, or right off of Ewa Beach if you don't.   Paddle through the surf (it's usually only 1-3 feet) and anywhere out on line with the entrance buoys to Pearl.  Unless storms blow up from the south and southwest the visibility is usually in the 50' range.  You'll see turtles, eels, many reef fish, lobster and the occasional ray or reef shark.  I make my first dive further out and upwind, then on the way in I'll make a shallow dive.  You can either anchor your kayak or use the drift technique.  Don't forget your dive flag, there is a lot of boat traffic in the area, and never dive in the entrance channel to Pearl.  After your dive, unload the dive gear and play some in the surf.  This is a good area to hone your boathandling skills.  Have fun.  See ya on the water.

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