NIGHT DIVING.....it's wonderful!

"Frankly, Scarlet, I'd rather Night Dive than Day Dive!" People seem surprised to hear that, but its true. Night diving has a certain mystique about it that makes the thrill of entering a new environment even more exciting, at first. We say, "at first", because after you've become accustomed to night diving, you'll find the experience is not necessarily one of excitement, but of silent contentment. You are truly in your own little world, surrounded in weightless solitude with a feeling of peace and quite. We go night diving to relax. It is the "total escape" you've heard about. However, it is not for everyone. If you have a tendency to be claustrophobic, and can't kick it, FORGET IT! But, if you want to try, go with someone who is experienced at night diving and GO FOR IT! It may take more than one or two night dives to become comfortable, but once you can relax - you will love it. I promise.

Where can you go night diving? Actually, any of the Shore Dives we've described earlier (and most of those that follow) are excellent night diving spots. In fact, there are few places we go day diving that we would not go night diving. But, to be specific, and this may surprise many of you experienced Kona divers, one of our favorite night dive spots is right at the Kailua Bay Pier! That's right - right under your nose. The pier is close, well lighted, and the entry/exit is simple. You can enter the water at the beach area on either side of the structure. Parking, though now somewhat restricted, is right on the pier - they remove the gate guard at about 6:00 PM - but follow the rules and you won't have a problem with that. Some areas on the pier are restricted - so park in the Public Area, where there are no restrictive signs. When you get out, there are fresh water showers and rest rooms right at the pier area.

When we go in the water we watch closely that no boats are maneuvering in the area, and if there are fishermen trying their luck from the pier, we steer clear of their lines. After growing accustomed to the beam of our underwater light, we head north from the end of the pier. Across the narrow boat channel you'll come upon a gorgeous live coral reef that is literally teeming with drowsy or sleeping reef fish. Check 'em out, but don't disturb their slumber. They need their rest, too.

When night diving, always move slowly. If you do, the inhabitants of the deep will not be disturbed, and those waking night predators will come over to check YOU out - so you will be able to see them up close and personal (they're not looking for humans, so not to worry). Slow diving will also offer you opportunities to view the "little things" we often miss while diving. Slow night diving affords us the time and opportunity to really explore. Many times while night diving, I'll turn off my light - and after getting used to the dark it is always surprising how well I can see underwater, in the dark - almost as well as on land, at night. Try it. You'll be amazed at the visibility. When the moon is full, you'll be dazzled by the moonlight underwater. Especially in our clear Kona waters. And, if there's phosphorescence present, the undersea creatures will actually glow.

Tina Clothier once described Night Diving as, "Like a warm hug!" I agree.