More about: Diving in Maui
Maui is an ideal destination for scuba diving. If you've never tried it before, you can take your first dive in several areas of the island.
Those with more experience can take advantage of some of the diving tours organised in Maui. Given their variety, you'll find them for all ages. An activity of this type is a must on your list of things to see and do in Maui.
Maui Scuba Diving Experience
A catamaran excursion with snorkelling stops
The activity takes place at Molokini, a volcanic caldera and marine sanctuary. The price includes the rental of snorkelling equipment, breakfast and lunch.
This activity is done on a triple-decker catamaran that departs from Maalaea and reaches the volcanic caldera of Molokini. This crescent-shaped crater is estimated to have been formed some 230,000 years ago by violent volcanic eruptions. It is a paradise for divers as it is home to many different species of fish.
You will also have the opportunity to explore Turtle Town and admire its native birds. To complete the experience, you can enjoy two water slides and the glass-bottomed observation room.
Recommended if... you want to see marine nature in one of Maui's most charming spots.
What are the best dive sites in Maui?
Hawaii is a paradise and much of its coastline is home to great marine life. However, to help you decide, here are my top 10 favourites.
As a word of caution, it's worth noting that dive sites may differ from snorkelling sites. For more information, I recommend you read the article dedicated to snorkelling in Maui: best spots, recommended tours and boat trips.
Lanai Cathedrals
Volcanic eruptions have shaped Hawaii's terrain and in some places, lava flows have created extraordinary environments.
Here you'll see arches, caves and two large cathedral-like rock formations. Although the different spaces are large and well lit, it is advisable to bring an underwater torch.
- Level required: intermediate
- Recommended if you want to swim among large underwater mountains.
Pailolo Channel
The channel that separates the islands of Maui and Molokai. Most divers travel here to see the sharks: grey, whitetip, hammerhead and, sporadically, whale sharks.
These deep, deep blue waters are also home to eagle rays and large schools of fish.
- Level: medium high, several agencies ask for a minimum of logged dives (around 20/25).
- Recommended if you are an experienced diver and want to swim with sharks in Maui.
Ulua Beach
An easy dive and entry directly from the sandy beach. Once below the surface, you will see turtles, eels and schools of fish moving fast in all directions. When the whales come to Hawaii, their song can be heard underwater.
The large cetaceans choose Hawaii's waters to breed and raise their young. They are usually in the archipelago from November to March.
For more information, I encourage you to read the post dedicated to whale watching in Maui.
- Level required: suitable for all levels
- Recommended if you are taking your first steps in diving.
Makena Landing
One of Maui's most evocative areas. Underwater are hidden caves, arches and overhanging rocks. A place like this could only become home to thousands of species. The most famous grotto is called Bubble Cave and is frequented by numerous green turtles.
Octopus, manta rays and white tip sharks abound in the area. Scorpion fish and monkfish also live here. As is often the case in Hawaii, visibility is almost always high.
- Required level: intermediate
- Recommended if you like cave diving.
Carthaginian
The replica of a brigantine built in the shipyards of Kiel, Germany. It was sunk in 2005 to convert it into a coral surface. It is not uncommon to see whitetip sharks lurking inside the ship along with toadfish, starfish and other marine life. Visibility is usually 100 metres.
To see it, you'll need to reach Lahaina, the former capital of Hawaii. The wreck is located a few kilometres from the harbour and a short boat ride (about 10 minutes) is enough to get there. There is usually a slight current in this area but it does not hinder the diving.
- Required level: suitable for all levels
- Recommended if you like wrecks.
Molokini Crater
This crescent of rocks is the only survivor of an ancient volcanic eruption. Because of its shape, the waters are mostly crystal clear and the waves are rare. An estimated 250 marine species live inside the crater, some of them very rare.
You will see Freckled Snake Eel (an eel that hides in the sand), butterfly fish and much more. Visibility is excellent: over 100 metres!
- Level required: intermediate
- Recommended if you want to see rare species
Black Rock
An overhanging rock near the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa at Kaanapali Beach. It's a quiet area and there are also introductory dive classes. Marine life is abundant and varied; the famous turtles swim among the reefs along with hundreds of fish.
At Black Rock, companies such as In 2 Scuba organise sundown dives.
- Level: suitable for all levels
- Recommended if you are looking for an easy dive
Airport Beach
A shallow water beach where coral thrives. The reefs are home to moray eels, octopus, hawksbill turtles (a difficult species to find) and schooling fish.
It is not as famous as others, but I assure you that it is worth it. A highlight is the ease of parking in the area and access to the water from the coast.
- Level required: beginner
- Recommended if you want to make a nice dive and then enjoy the services of the area (showers, bar, etc.).
Mala Wharf
A concrete structure built in the 1920s. It was built as a wharf for passenger boats, although it was quickly abandoned due to the strong waves in the area.
According to connoisseurs, this is home to the island's most colourful coral and fish. It is located off the coast of Lahaina, a short distance from the Cannery shopping centre.
It's also home to whitetip sharks and Hawaiian green turtles. If you want to avoid a fine, you should wear a dive flag and not park in the dedicated boat trailer car park. Police checkpoints are frequent.
- Level required: suitable for all levels
- Recommended if you want to see a dive site off the beaten track.
Honolua Bay
The manta ray sanctuary. These sinuous marine animals usually arrive in the area in the afternoon.
They're not the only inhabitants: jacks, green turtles and a host of butterfly fish swim in these waters. Important: diving is not allowed in winter. Large waves prevent diving.
- Required level: for experts only
- Recommended if you have an adventurous profile
How much does a dive trip in Maui cost?
Typically, the price of a package is between $100 and $200. If you want to book an activity that lasts two days, the price can go up to $500.
If you want to spend less, I recommend choosing a different type of activity, such as a kayaking tour in Maui. The price is usually less than $100.
When can you dive in Maui?
If this is your concern, I'll take it away right away: in Maui you can dive all year round. No matter the season, the waters of the archipelago are ready to welcome you.
Being a tropical environment, the temperature difference between winter and summer is very small. For more information on this topic, you can read the article explaining the best time to visit Maui.
What is the best time to dive in Maui?
On Maui, and in general for any underwater activity, it is best to be underwater between 10:00 and 14:00. In the morning, the angle of the sun is ideal and guarantees good lighting. If you are looking for an original alternative, you can also opt for a night dive.
Do I have to wear a wetsuit?
Although the waters are warm, it is best to pack a wetsuit. If you visit Maui in winter you should opt for the long version (3 millimetres thick) while in summer a short wetsuit will suffice.
If you prefer to rent a wetsuit, Ali'i Adventures (75-5663 Palani Road Unit A, Kailua-Kona) is the place to go.
Is it advisable to dive alone?
In general, it is preferable to do water activities with another person. There are essentially two reasons for this: for safety reasons and because it's usually more fun.
However, some areas of Maui are characterised by calm waters and are perfect for a solo trip. One of these is Black Rock, a rocky outcrop near Ka'anapali Beach.
Do you have to tip your dive instructor?
Yes, in the United States tipping is part of the pay for some categories of workers, including dive instructors.
As is always the case, the amount depends on the total amount of the excursion. As a rule of thumb, a correct tip is around $10. Clearly, if the tour lasts more days or if you spend more than one tank of oxygen, this amount is bound to increase.
Can I collect shells on Maui?
There are no specific laws but Hawaii is not famous for shells. Generally speaking, the impact on the marine ecosystem should be minimal and so I would leave them where they belong. Nor should you take starfish or disturb the animals that live in the island's waters.
If you collect shells, the best place to find them is Baldwin Beach. It's on the north shore and is known for being a family beach. The calm waters and golden sand are ideal for children.
More tips for Maui
- Do you know how to prevent masks from fogging up? It's easy, put it in a container with warm water mixed with dish soap. With your fingers, spread the solution all over the surface, let it act for a few minutes, rinse and repeat the operation again.
- If you think you might get too tired swimming, I recommend that you buy a snorkelling accessory. A buoy has a double advantage: it signals your position and helps you float. On the other hand, a pair of webbed gloves will help you move faster.
- Move slowly! Both at sea and on land, fast movements are synonymous with aggression. If you want a creature to get close to you, stay calm. You will also enjoy the experience more
- Be careful when passing near coral reefs. Some species, such as the fire coral (Millepora dichotoma), contain a poison that is toxic to humans. Try not to touch them to avoid problems
- Before you leave, or once you arrive, you should buy an underwater camera. You'll want to go home with a nice souvenir, won't you? Affordable disposable versions are available