'Alula Beach (Kona Dog Beach)

Our group read about this site and over the course of the last 2 weeks we dove this site 5 times. The walk is the big concern on this dive. About 150 yards over lava rock. We found it easiest to totally equip ourselves where we parked, and then made the long trek in full scuba, holding our masks and fins. Once we exited the dive, we walked immediately to the car from the beach. We also did the dive taking 2 to 3 trips back and forth to the car, but that seemed more wearing at the end of the day. Swim out of the little bay and swim left. Take an azimuth at the green buoy and descend. Follow the reef south to about 90 feet. The animals are huge. Many ocean going fish, We had the dolphins dive with us on one occasion, and saw numerous spotted eagle rays every dive some in groups of 3 or more. The reef is totally alive, and you will hear the dolphins the entire dive as they rest in the bay there. Watch for boat traffic. Basic divers might want to stay to the south reef in about 50 feet of water. Eels, octopus, and the best chance for a Tiger Shark encounter (but we never saw one). Probably our favorite dive site of the trip. The beach is a great place to hang out if you want to do multiple dives or to relax before the trek back (bring water to drink). Many people and dogs show up (as there is no leash law there) in the later morning (10-ish). Everyone was super friendly.