Waimea Wall

Waimea Bay is an ideal spot for snorkeling. It can be very busy when the big waves arrive in winter, but it tends to be quiet in summer. On the east side of Waimea Bay is a site accessible by shore (a 250 yard swim) or by boat. There are three underwater coral fingers which are the extensions of the lava flow which created the land formation. The coral fingers begin at 25 feet and then drop to a depth of 60 feet. The bases of these drop-offs are the most interesting areas. About two-thirds of the full distance from the shore a tunnel which transects the middle coral finger can be found. Cracks in this tunnel's walls give shelter to nurseries of about 20 to 30 young lobsters and the ceiling is covered with snowflake coral. There are frequent sightings of whitetip sharks and turtles, as well as occasional eagle ray sightings. One can find ulua and interesting shells at the bottom. The waters are usually calm as the site is sheltered from strong winds by Kalalua Point.