7 Big island scuba diving You Should Know

Getting Started

Scuba diving on the Big Island of Hawaii offers some of the most unique and vibrant underwater experiences in the world. From the iconic manta ray night dive to the surreal blackwater drifts, the Kona coast provides a diverse marine playground sculpted by volcanic activity. The island’s leeward side benefits from the massive shield volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea, which block the trade winds and create exceptionally calm, clear waters ideal for year-round diving. This unique geography preserves pristine coral reefs, intricate lava tubes, and a high concentration of endemic species found nowhere else on Earth.

This comprehensive guide serves as your primary resource for planning any Big Island scuba diving adventure. We will provide a detailed analysis of the most sought-after dive experiences, helping you understand what makes each one a must-do. Whether you're an advanced diver seeking a technical challenge or a novice looking for your first open-water certification, you will find the practical information needed to make informed decisions. We will explore:

• Top-Tier Dive Sites: Detailed breakdowns of Kealakekua Bay, lava tube caverns, and other premier locations.
• Signature Dives: In-depth looks at the world-famous Manta Ray Night Dive and the advanced Black Water Dive.
• Dive Operators & Charters: A comparative analysis of the top-rated Kona diving companies, including specialized services from operators like Kona Honu Divers, which focuses exclusively on certified divers.
• Essential Logistics: Guidance on equipment, certifications, and what to expect from diving conditions on both the Kona and Hilo coasts.

This article moves beyond simple descriptions to offer practical insights, ensuring you are fully prepared for an unforgettable exploration of the underwater world of diving Hawaii Big Island. We aim to equip you with the knowledge to select the right charters, understand the nuances of each dive site, and maximize your time exploring the incredible marine biodiversity that makes scuba diving the Big Island a world-class destination.

1. Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cook Monument)

Kealakekua Bay stands out as a premier destination for big island scuba diving, not just for its breathtaking underwater scenery but also for its rich historical context. Designated as a Marine Life Conservation District, the bay offers some of Hawaii's most pristine and well-protected coral reefs. This protection means the marine ecosystem is exceptionally vibrant, making it a must-visit site for any diver exploring the Kona coast. The bay is historically significant as the place where Captain James Cook first landed on the island and where he was later killed in 1779. A white obelisk, the Captain Cook Monument, marks the approximate location on the shore.

Why Dive at Kealakekua Bay?

The primary reason to dive here is the sheer density and diversity of marine life combined with phenomenal water clarity. Visibility often exceeds 100 feet, creating an amphitheater-like experience as the reef slopes from a shallow 10 feet near the monument down to over 120 feet. Divers can expect to see vast schools of yellow tang, spinner dolphins, and various species of butterflyfish. Green sea turtles (honu) are also frequent visitors, gliding effortlessly over the reef. The coral formations are extensive and healthy, showcasing cauliflower, finger, and lobe corals that provide shelter for countless smaller creatures like octopuses and moray eels.

Practical Considerations and Implementation

Accessing the prime dive spot near the monument is the main challenge, as it is difficult to reach from shore. Therefore, booking a boat dive is the most practical and common approach. Leading operators like Jack's Diving Locker and Big Island Divers regularly schedule two-tank dives to the bay.

• Booking: During peak seasons (winter and summer), it is crucial to book your boat tour well in advance, as spots fill up quickly.
• Best Conditions: Early morning dives typically offer the calmest waters and best visibility before the afternoon winds pick up.
• Conservation Rules: As a protected area, there is a strict "no-touch" policy. Do not touch, chase, or harass marine life, and do not touch or stand on the coral. Adherence to these rules is essential for preserving this unique environment.
• Photography: The excellent visibility and abundant light make this a paradise for underwater photographers. Bring your camera, as you will have countless opportunities for stunning wide-angle reef shots and macro photos.

Because this site is also a world-class snorkeling location, it’s a great option for groups of mixed interests. To understand the full range of activities available in this protected area, you can learn more about snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay. This makes it an ideal choice for divers traveling with non-diving family or friends who still want to experience the bay's incredible marine life from the surface.

2. Manta Ray Night Dive

The Manta Ray Night Dive is arguably the most famous and unforgettable big island scuba diving experience, consistently ranking as one of the top night dives in the world. This unique Kona coast adventure involves descending to a designated sandy area after sunset, where powerful lights are placed on the seafloor pointing upwards. This light attracts swarms of plankton, the primary food source for manta rays. In a breathtaking display, these gentle giants glide, swoop, and perform graceful barrel rolls just inches above the divers, filter-feeding on the dense concentration of plankton in the light beams. It’s an otherworldly ballet that offers an unparalleled close encounter with magnificent marine creatures.

Why Dive with the Manta Rays?

This is a true bucket-list dive that provides an intimate, non-invasive interaction with one of the ocean's most majestic animals. Unlike many wildlife encounters, the manta rays are not baited or fed by operators; they are attracted naturally to the light-induced plankton bloom. Divers settle on the sandy bottom, becoming spectators in a natural feeding event. The experience of a 1,000-pound manta ray with a 12-foot wingspan soaring directly over your head is profoundly humbling and awe-inspiring. The Kona coast is one of the only places on Earth where this activity can be experienced so reliably, making it a must-do for any certified diver visiting the island.

Practical Considerations and Implementation

Success for this dive hinges on choosing a reputable operator and following specific guidelines to ensure both diver and manta safety. Several companies, including Kona Honu Divers and Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii, offer this specialized charter.

• Booking: This is an extremely popular activity, so booking several weeks or even months in advance is essential, especially during peak travel seasons. To increase your odds of a successful sighting, consider booking two nights, as weather or a rare no-show can happen.
• Diver Conduct: The cardinal rule is to remain stationary on the sandy bottom. Do not reach out, touch, or attempt to ride the manta rays. Let them control the interaction. Avoid shining your personal dive light directly into their eyes or mouths.
• Photography: Capturing this experience can be challenging due to the low light and movement. A red filter can help with color balance. More importantly, focus on being present in the moment rather than getting the perfect shot, as the memory will last a lifetime.
• Operator Choice: Different operators cater to different experiences. For example, Kona Honu Divers is known for small group sizes on diver-only boats, ensuring a less crowded and more personal encounter. Others, like Sea Paradise, may run larger boats that accommodate both divers and snorkelers.

3. Black Water Diving

For the ultimate thrill-seeker, Black Water Diving offers an unparalleled and surreal experience that is a pinnacle of big island scuba diving. This advanced, open-ocean night dive takes you miles off the Kona coast, tethered to a boat, to witness one of the planet's largest migrations. Every night, countless bizarre and fascinating deep-sea creatures ascend from the abyss toward the surface to feed. This cutting-edge dive, pioneered by operators like Jack's Diving Locker and perfected by local experts, provides a rare window into a world of bioluminescent, larval, and alien-like organisms that few people will ever see.

Why Dive at Black Water?

The allure of black water diving is the sheer unpredictability and the chance to encounter creatures that look like they belong on another planet. Suspended in the immense blackness of the open ocean, divers drift with the current, their focus narrowed to the small cone of light from their dive torches. This sensory experience is intense and focuses your attention on the incredible microworld floating by. You might see larval fish, glowing squid, pulsing siphonophores, and a variety of otherworldly jellyfish and crustaceans. It’s a dive that combines the thrill of exploration with the wonder of deep-sea biology, making it an unforgettable adventure for experienced divers.

Practical Considerations and Implementation

This is not a dive for beginners; it demands skill, composure, and a sense of adventure. The unique environment of drifting in open, deep water at night requires specific preparation and adherence to strict safety protocols.

• Certification: A minimum of an Advanced Open Water certification is required by all reputable operators. You should be very comfortable with night diving and have excellent buoyancy control.
• Booking: This is a specialized dive with limited spots. Booking in advance with a reputable company like Kona Honu Divers or Jack's Diving Locker is essential.
• Buoyancy: Flawless buoyancy is non-negotiable. You will be tethered and hovering at a specific depth (usually around 50 feet), and the ability to remain neutral without conscious thought is critical for safety and enjoyment.
• Photography: Black water diving is a macro photographer's dream. The subjects are small, often translucent, and incredibly detailed. A good macro lens, a powerful focus light, and strobes are necessary to capture these fleeting subjects against the black backdrop.
• Mindset: Go with an open mind. Every black water dive is different. Some nights are filled with incredible activity, while others may be quieter. The magic is in the discovery and the unknown.

For those ready to take on this unique challenge, you can learn more about what to expect on a specialized black water dive. It is a profound experience that truly redefines what big island scuba diving can be.

4. Kona's Lava Tube Diving

For those seeking an experience that goes beyond typical reef exploration, big island scuba diving offers a truly unique adventure: navigating underwater lava tubes. Formed by ancient volcanic activity, these intricate tunnels, caverns, and archways create a dramatic subaquatic landscape found nowhere else. Diving through these geological wonders feels like exploring a submerged cave system, with shafts of light piercing the darkness from overhead openings. This type of diving blends the thrill of overhead environments with the vibrant marine biology of the Kona coast, offering a distinctive and memorable challenge.

Why Dive in Kona's Lava Tubes?

The main allure of lava tube diving is the unparalleled sense of discovery and adventure. The complex topography provides a completely different environment compared to open reefs. Inside these structures, divers often find unique marine life seeking shelter, such as reclusive white tip reef sharks resting on the sandy bottom, large crustaceans, and schools of fish that use the tubes as a refuge. Sites like Two-Step (Honaunau Bay) and Place of Refuge offer accessible and extensive tube systems. The interplay of light and shadow, combined with the raw, basaltic rock formations, makes for an unforgettable visual experience and a fantastic opportunity for creative underwater photography.

Practical Considerations and Implementation

Safely exploring lava tubes requires specific skills and preparation, as they present an overhead environment. While some larger caverns and swim-throughs are accessible to certified Open Water divers under expert guidance, true penetration requires advanced training.

• Certification and Training: Never attempt to enter a complex lava tube system without proper training and certification in cavern or cave diving. Technical diving organizations like PADI and NAUI offer specialized courses.
• Hire an Expert Guide: Always dive these sites with a local, experienced guide who is intimately familiar with the layout, potential hazards, and emergency procedures for that specific system.
• Essential Equipment: Redundancy is key. Carry at least two light sources, a dive knife or cutting tool, and any other emergency equipment recommended by your guide.
• Practice and Briefing: Pay close attention to the pre-dive briefing. Thoroughly review emergency procedures, communication signals, and the planned route with your dive buddy and guide before entering the water. Your buoyancy control must be impeccable to avoid stirring up silt or making contact with the lava rock.

5. Hilo Side (East Coast) Diving

While the Kona coast dominates the conversation, the Hilo side offers a completely different and rewarding chapter in the story of big island scuba diving. This windward coast presents a wilder, less commercialized experience defined by its unique geology and freshwater influences. The underwater landscapes here are shaped by more recent volcanic activity, creating dramatic lava tubes, arches, and ledges. It is an adventurer's coastline, appealing to divers seeking exploration off the beaten path.

Why Dive on the Hilo Side?

Diving on the East Coast is about discovering a different ecosystem. The significant freshwater runoff from rain and springs creates a unique environment where freshwater meets saltwater, sometimes resulting in a slightly cooler and more brackish layer at the surface. This environment supports different marine life and coral species adapted to these conditions. Divers can explore fascinating lava formations that are not as common on the Kona side. Sites like Richardson's Beach Park provide accessible shore diving, but the true gems often require local knowledge to find. It’s a chance to see a more rugged, untamed version of Hawaii's underwater world.

Practical Considerations and Implementation

Hilo side diving is less about organized tours and more about self-guided adventure, heavily influenced by weather and ocean conditions. The windward coast is exposed to more wind and swell, making careful planning essential.

• Weather and Conditions: Always check the weather forecast and surf reports. Conditions can change rapidly, and safety is paramount. Winter months can bring large swells, making many sites undiveable.
• Local Knowledge: Connecting with the local dive community through shops like Nautilus Dive Center or local clubs is highly recommended. They possess invaluable, up-to-date knowledge of site conditions and access points.
• Gear: Water temperatures can be a few degrees cooler due to freshwater springs mixing in. A slightly thicker wetsuit (e.g., a 5mm instead of a 3mm) is often a good idea for comfort.
• Tides: Understanding local tide schedules is crucial for both entry/exit points and for experiencing the best visibility, which can be affected by runoff.

This type of diving is best suited for experienced, self-reliant divers who are comfortable with shore entries and navigating potentially challenging conditions. For those looking for guided boat experiences, it's worth exploring if any specialized Hilo diving tours are available during your visit, as offerings can vary.

6. South Point (Ka Lae) Diving

South Point, known locally as Ka Lae, represents the southernmost point of the United States and offers some of the most challenging and rewarding big island scuba diving. This is not a dive for the faint of heart; it is a remote, wild location where powerful currents converge, creating an environment that demands respect and expertise. The area is characterized by dramatic underwater lava cliffs, deep-water drop-offs, and the potential for incredible pelagic encounters, making it a bucket-list destination for highly experienced and adventurous divers. The raw, untouched nature of the marine ecosystem here is a direct result of its inaccessibility.

Why Dive at South Point?

The primary draw of Ka Lae is the chance to dive in a truly pristine and untamed environment. The strong currents, while hazardous, act as a conveyor belt of nutrients, attracting large pelagic species rarely seen closer to the Kona coast. Divers who brave these conditions may be rewarded with sightings of oceanic whitetip sharks, silky sharks, and occasionally even whale sharks or marlin. The underwater topography is spectacular, featuring sheer vertical walls that plummet into the deep blue, ancient lava formations, and underwater caves. Because so few people dive here, the marine life is often curious and unafraid.

Practical Considerations and Implementation

Diving at South Point is an undertaking that requires meticulous planning and is only suitable for advanced divers with extensive experience in strong currents and blue-water diving. Due to the remote location and volatile conditions, shore diving is extremely hazardous and not recommended. The only viable method is via a specialized boat charter with a captain who possesses intimate knowledge of the area's unique challenges.

• Operator Choice: Only select advanced charter operators or technical diving outfits that specifically offer trips to South Point. These expeditions are rare and often arranged by private charter.
• Experience Level: This is an experts-only dive site. You must be comfortable with drift diving in strong, unpredictable currents, have excellent buoyancy control, and be prepared for deep-water scenarios.
• Contingency Planning: The remote location means emergency services are far away. Ensure the dive operation has a robust emergency plan, including ample oxygen and communication devices. Divers should carry their own safety equipment like a surface marker buoy (SMB) and a signaling device.
• Weather Monitoring: Trips are entirely dependent on weather and ocean conditions. Be prepared for last-minute cancellations, and plan to go only when a calm weather window presents itself, which is most common in the summer months.

While the majority of divers will access sites via boat, the rugged coastline offers some of the most extreme shore diving on the island for those with the requisite training and knowledge. To better understand the challenges and rewards of this type of adventure, you can explore more about the best shore diving on the Big Island. This context highlights why South Point is considered the pinnacle of difficult, yet rewarding, independent diving.

7. Big Island Dive Operators and Charter Services

Selecting the right charter is a critical component of a successful big island scuba diving trip. These professional operators provide the essential infrastructure for exploring the island’s best underwater sites safely and efficiently. Beyond just boat transport, they offer invaluable local knowledge, expert guidance, safety oversight, and access to premier dive locations that are often unreachable from shore. A quality operator handles all the logistics, from providing well-maintained rental gear to ensuring compliance with all local marine life protection regulations, allowing you to focus purely on the incredible diving experience.

Why Use a Dive Operator?

Partnering with a professional dive charter is the most reliable way to experience the best scuba diving the Big Island has to offer. These companies possess intimate knowledge of local conditions, including currents, visibility, and seasonal marine life patterns, ensuring you are taken to the best spots on any given day. They are also essential for accessing specialized dives like the world-famous Manta Ray Night Dive or the unique Blackwater Dive. Reputable operators prioritize small group sizes, personalized attention, and stringent safety protocols, creating a comfortable and secure environment for both novice and advanced divers.

Practical Considerations and Implementation

Choosing the right operator can make or break your dive vacation. The Kona coast is home to numerous excellent companies, each with its own focus and style.

• Research and Reviews: Look into an operator’s safety record, PADI or NAUI certifications, and recent customer reviews. Companies like Jack's Diving Locker, established in 1981, have a long-standing reputation, while operators like Kona Honu Divers are known for their small-group focus and award-winning service.
• Group Size: Inquire about the maximum number of divers per guide. Smaller groups generally lead to a more personal and less crowded experience, which is a hallmark of premium operators.
• Specializations: Some companies cater to specific interests. Big Island Divers and Kona Honu Divers are renowned for their manta ray and blackwater charters. For families with non-divers, Sea Paradise offers larger boats that accommodate both divers and snorkelers.
• Booking and Policies: Book your charters well in advance, especially during peak season. Always clarify their cancellation policies, equipment rental procedures, and whether they offer services like underwater photography or videography.

For an in-depth comparison of the top service providers, you can review this ranking of the best Kona diving companies. This will help you select an operator that perfectly aligns with your skill level, interests, and vacation style.

Big Island Scuba Diving: Key Site & Service Comparison

Dive Experience / Service	Core Features ✨	User Experience ★★★★☆	Value Proposition 💰	Target Audience 👥	Unique Selling Points 🏆	Price Points 💰
Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cook Monument)	Protected marine conservation, 15-60+ ft depth, spinner dolphins	Exceptional visibility, calm waters	Pristine reefs, rich biodiversity	Beginners to Intermediates	Historic site, turtle encounters, crystal-clear water	Moderate
Manta Ray Night Dive	Night dives, manta ray encounters, shallow depths (25-35 ft)	99% success for mantle sightings, safe	Unforgettable wildlife experience	Beginners (Open Water)	World-renowned manta interaction, underwater photography	Higher than day dives
Black Water Diving	Deep ocean night dives, tethered drift, bioluminescence	Advanced experience, rare deep-sea sightings	Unique pelagic life encounters	Advanced to Expert divers	Cutting-edge deep ocean technique, scientific focus	High
Kona's Lava Tube Diving	Underwater cave/lava tunnels, specialized marine life	Technical skill challenge, overhead environment	Unique geology and ecosystems	Advanced to Technical divers	Volcanic lava tubes, freshwater springs, archaeological	High
Hilo Side (East Coast) Diving	Freshwater springs, black sand entries, less crowded	Shore dives, diverse marine life	Lower cost, less commercialized	Intermediate to Advanced	Fresh and saltwater mix, native cultural significance	Lower-mid
South Point (Ka Lae) Diving	Remote, strong currents, pelagic fish, underwater cliffs	Challenging, expert-only conditions	Pristine, little-dived environment	Expert divers only	Southernmost US dive, remote and wild	High
Big Island Dive Operators & Charters	Guided dives, rentals, certifications, boat charters	Professional service, safety, quality gear	Access to premier sites, expert instruction	All levels	Wide service range, experienced local operators	Varied (mid to high)

Final Thoughts

The journey through the underwater world of the Big Island is as vast and varied as the island’s terrestrial landscape. From the moment you descend into the clear, warm waters off the Kona coast, you are entering a realm of unparalleled beauty, unique geological formations, and vibrant marine biodiversity. This guide has aimed to provide a comprehensive roadmap, illuminating the path for both novice divers dipping their fins in for the first time and seasoned veterans seeking their next great underwater adventure. The key takeaway is clear: big island scuba diving isn't just an activity; it's a profound experience that connects you with the raw, creative power of nature.

We've explored the calm, protected waters of Kealakekua Bay, a living aquarium perfect for all skill levels, and plunged into the otherworldly darkness for the now-legendary manta ray night dive. This ballet of gentle giants is more than just a dive; it's a core memory, a moment of connection with one of the ocean's most majestic creatures. For those with an adventurous spirit, the black water dive offers a glimpse into a rarely seen world of pelagic drifters and bizarre, bioluminescent life forms, truly a frontier of underwater exploration. The intricate lava tubes and caverns along the Kona coast provide a different kind of thrill, a chance to navigate the island’s volcanic skeleton and witness how life finds a way to thrive in every nook and cranny. Understanding the nuances of these distinct dive sites is the first step in crafting your perfect diving Hawaii Big Island itinerary.

Choosing the right guide for your journey is paramount. Our breakdown of the top Kona diving companies was designed to help you match your needs, expectations, and skill level with the operator best suited to deliver a safe, memorable, and enriching experience. Whether you require the specialized shore diving expertise of Kona Shore Divers or the family-friendly approach of mixing snorkelers and divers, there's an option available. However, for a truly diver-centric experience, an operator like Kona Honu Divers stands out. Their commitment to creating a dedicated environment for certified divers, free from the logistical complexities of accommodating snorkelers, ensures that every aspect of the trip, from boat layout to dive site selection, is optimized for the best possible underwater exploration. This focus is a significant practical consideration for serious divers who want to maximize their bottom time and explore sites that might be deeper or require more advanced skills. For mixed groups, pairing a Kona Honu Divers trip with a charter from its sister company, Kona Snorkel Trips, presents a brilliant solution, allowing everyone to have their ideal day on the water.

Ultimately, mastering big island scuba diving is about preparation and choice. It’s about understanding the seasonal variations, knowing the unique characteristics of each dive region, and selecting an operator whose philosophy aligns with your own. It's about knowing whether you want to explore from the shore or a boat, dive with a crowd or a small group, and whether your priority is seeing manta rays, exploring lava tubes, or simply enjoying a relaxing reef dive. The value of this knowledge cannot be overstated; it transforms a simple vacation into a seamlessly executed expedition, freeing you to focus on the wonder of the dive itself. The volcanic slopes of Hawaii don't just stop at the shoreline; they continue into the deep, creating a dynamic and ever-changing underwater playground. The opportunities for discovery here are virtually limitless, promising new sights and encounters on every single dive. The Big Island is calling.

Your unforgettable underwater adventure is just a click away. For a premium, diver-focused experience with an award-winning team dedicated to safety and marine conservation, book your charter with the best in Kona diving.

Check Availability

Ready to take the plunge? With its world-class dive sites, dedicated operators, and unique marine encounters, scuba diving Big Island offers an experience that will stay with you long after you've dried off. We encourage you to use the insights from this guide to plan your trip, ask questions, and get ready to explore the incredible underwater world that makes Hawaii a top-tier global diving destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there good diving on the Big Island?

Absolutely. The Big Island is widely regarded as one of Hawaii's premier diving destinations. Its volcanic underwater topography creates a stunning environment of lava tubes, arches, and craters. The Kona coast, in particular, is sheltered from prevailing trade winds, resulting in consistently calm and clear conditions, with visibility often exceeding 100 feet. It is famous for unique experiences like the manta ray night dive and black water dives, in addition to abundant reef fish, sea turtles, and healthy coral systems.

What are the best months to scuba dive in Hawaii?

While you can scuba dive in Hawaii year-round, the best conditions are typically found during the summer months, from May to September. During this period, the water is warmest (around 80°F or 27°C) and the seas are generally calmer, especially on the Kona coast. The winter months (December to March) can bring larger swells, particularly on north-facing shores, but Kona's leeward position keeps it diveable and it's also peak season for whale watching.

Is Kona good for scuba diving?

Kona is exceptional for scuba diving. It is the epicenter of scuba diving on the Big Island for several reasons: calm, clear waters, incredible biodiversity, and unique dive sites that are easily accessible. The absence of major rivers means less runoff and better visibility. Kona is world-famous for its reliable manta ray night dive, a must-do for any diver, and offers everything from beautiful shallow reefs to deep, advanced drift dives and eerie lava caverns.

Is it better to snorkel or scuba dive in Hawaii?

This depends on your comfort level and what you want to see. Snorkeling is more accessible, requires minimal equipment, and is great for seeing the vibrant marine life in shallow reef areas like Kealakekua Bay. However, scuba diving allows you to explore deeper, see different marine species, navigate through lava tubes, and spend more time fully immersed in the underwater environment. To truly experience the three-dimensional volcanic seascape and unique sites like the manta dive, scuba Big Island is the superior choice.

Which Hawaiian island is best for scuba diving?

While all the islands offer beautiful underwater experiences, the Big Island, specifically the Kona coast, is often cited as the best for scuba diving. It offers the most diverse range of unique dives, including the manta ray and black water dives, extensive lava tube systems, and the most consistent calm and clear water conditions year-round. While Maui has Molokini Crater and Oahu has excellent wreck diving, the overall variety and reliability of diving the Big Island make it a top contender for the best overall diving destination in the state.

When to dive Kona?

You can dive Kona any time of year. The summer months (May-September) offer the warmest water and flattest seas, making it an ideal time for all divers. The winter (December-March) is also excellent; while air temperatures are slightly cooler, water visibility remains high, and it's humpback whale season, so you can often hear whale songs underwater, adding a magical element to your dive. The shoulder seasons (April-May and October-November) are also fantastic, often providing a great balance of wonderful conditions and fewer crowds.