best locations for beginner divers

[Mantasscareme]

Kona, Hawaii has good conditions, no currents, not too much surge (might be a hassle getting there from Minnesota). Jack's Diving Locker http://www.jacksdivinglocker.com/ is great with beginners, I got certified with them. Kona may not have the colorful soft coral and sponge life other parts of the Pacific and the Caribbean, but it does have a higher biodiversity than say.. Bonaire and the water is 20 degrees warmer than Southern California. Kona has one of the world's top rated dive sites. At night, up to 20 manta rays enter Garden Eel Cove to feed on plankton attracted by divers' lights. It's the most surreal experience! If you want to see the world's most unique big animal encounter and are ok with night diving, Kona is a must dive destination.
Happy Diving
-Mantasscareme

 

[Sunsfun]

Hi Paula,
The Florida Keys are great!! Key Largo and the upper Keys have some great diving for beginners. My husband and I got certified there, and try to make a trip at least once a year! There are lots of locations there to dive there, depending on what you would like to see. Diving is awesome fun!! ENJOY