AIEA WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Try Freediving on Oahu: A focused 2.5-hour introduction to breath‑hold diving
A 2.5-hour, ages-14-and-up session that teaches basic freediving skills, safety protocols and a short guided dive—an ideal primer before Level 1 certification.
Try Freediving on Oahu: A focused 2.5-hour introduction to breath‑hold diving.
Free diving in Hawaii compresses ocean literacy, gear basics and breath‑hold technique into an accessible shore-based session. Over roughly two and a half hours, instructors take participants through mask and snorkel fundamentals, duck dives, finning and streamlining, equalization, buoyancy and critical safety protocols before putting skills to the test in a short, supervised dive at local sites such as Shark's Cove on the North Shore or Magic Island.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Hands-on freediving fundamentals
The session is structured to teach entry-level freediving skills: use of a mask and snorkel, the duck dive, finning techniques, streamlining, equalization, buoyancy management and important safety protocols. The course includes a review of freediving equipment and a supervised, short fun dive to apply the drills.
Shark's Cove or Magic Island, weather permitting
Sessions typically take place at either Shark's Cove (North Shore, Oahu) or Magic Island; classes usually start at 1 p.m., and the operator will stay in contact with participants if conditions or locations change.
Provided equipment and what to bring
Fins, masks and other snorkeling gear are provided on request; participants should bring reef‑safe sunscreen and towels. Short video clips are included in the session, so bring a GoPro if you want footage. The operator can provide free‑dive gear in your size if notified in advance.
What the day feels like
What the session feels like
The 2.5‑hour flow moves quickly from shore-based instruction to in-water drills: you practice mask and snorkel handling, duck dives and finning on the surface, refine equalization and buoyancy techniques, and work through safety procedures before a short guided dive to explore the immediate area. There are no line dives or deep dives—this is a controlled, introductory environment designed to build confidence and basic competence.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this session suits—and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The experience runs approximately 2.5 hours; sessions usually start at 1 p.m. and locations are chosen based on conditions.
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen and towels; bring a GoPro if you want short video clips of the session. Notify the operator ahead of time if you need specific freedive gear sizes.
Fins, masks and other snorkeling gear are provided by the operator; advise if you need particular sizes.
There are standard forms and documents to complete prior to the course; you must be a proficient swimmer and meet age/health guidelines.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be at least 14 years old.
How long is the Try Freediving session?
The session is approximately 2.5 hours.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
Yes. You must be a proficient swimmer to participate.
Is equipment provided?
Yes. Fins, masks and other snorkeling gear are provided; inform the operator ahead of time if you need specific freedive gear sizes.
Are there deep or line dives in this session?
No. This introductory activity does not include line dives or deep dives.
Will I receive any recognition or certification?
Participants receive a Try Freediving recognition card from SSI for completing the session.
Are there any forms or waivers?
Yes. Standard forms and documents must be completed prior to the course.