Papawai Point

This spot was about 5 minutes from my old job so it became my after-work stress reliever. Mr. Stohler's review on the entry with higher surf is spot on as if there is a 'South Swell' being broadcast then you will either have a rough entry, or the vis will be junk. For some reason though, I always see the divers going in from the far left side as opposed to the far right (as you walk down the trail). The left side is almost always exposed to the occasional bigger waves that roll through, bigger even when it seems there is no surf. The right side entry is actually in a semi-protected cove. I can sit on the rocks, at the water's edge, and put on my fins about 90% of the time. The exit (same way) is almost always just a matter of swimming up, taking off fins, and walking up a gradual slope. BUT…..to get to the far right is best with 2 divers as there is a small rock step you have to go down (about 3-4'). It's best if you go down, then have your partner hand you the dive gear. Once you go down this rock step though, you have a nice big flat 'platform' of rock if you will that allows you to suit up. As mentioned, it drops off fairly fast. The close-in reef has a lot of wana (urchins) so be careful. A lot of good fish here when the moon is good and A LOT of fishing line so make sure you have a knife or two. I did recently get the state record slipper lobster here, as well.