The Hawaiian Islands, isolated over 2,000 miles from the nearest major land mass, combine some of the most beautiful and varied landscapes to be found anywhere in the world (above and below water!). Hawaii’s marine world is replete with luminous coral reefs as well as numerous endemic species of reef fish and invertebrates. In these pages, we have documented over 70 shore-accessible reef sites; truly premier locations for dive enthusiasts of all levels!

Hawaii

The second largest island, known as the ‘Magic Island’ because of its inspiring beauty, Maui is also host to vast beaches and seemingly endless underwater reefs and exotic sea-life. A diver’s paradise!

Here is a good curated list with <a href="https://www.lovebigisland.com/maui/snorkeling/">beginner-friendly snorkeling spots for Maui.</a>

Check out this list for recommendations on the <a href="https://goingawesomeplaces.com/best-area-to-stay-in-maui/" target="_blank">best areas to stay in Maui</a>

Maui

Divers will travel far and wide to find the best diving. But those who live in the United States have plenty of great diving on their doorstep as well, with plentiful access to the Atlantic Ocean, the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. From warm-water reefs to temperate seas, here are some of the top places to scuba dive in the United States.

United States

Nice site to dive.  You must have a boat to reach the area. Snorkelers and other dive companies usually frequent the inside of the crater, but not so busy on the back. The back wall drops beyond 200'-300' and the visibility is usually good.  There were several reef sharks and a few whales on my trip.  If you travel in the winter months (Oct-Mar) you will most likely run across humpback whales.  This can be a drift dives at times, but the current was almost undetectable when I went.  

South side of Molokini Island

Back Side is also known as Back Wall.

Wailea-Makena

Back Side

Molokini Crater in Maui boasts some of the most unique geological features in the world. Not only is it a marine preserve, it is also a federally owned and protected Seabird sanctuary. The two nesting birds that most frequent the area are the Wedge-Tailed Shearwater and the Bulwer’s Petrel. The visibility in this beautiful crater is often 150 feet deep and there are an estimated 250 species of fish and 38 hard coral species. The humuhumunukunukuapua’a, which is Hawai’is state fish, can often be spotted at the crater. You may even see moray eels, octopus and reef sharks. From the months of December-April our guests also frequently see majestic humpback whales on their boat ride to and from the crater. The waters surrounding the area are part of the Hawaiian Islands Humback Whale Marine Sanctuary. Considered to be an underwater paradise by many, it is no wonder that Molokini is one of the most popular dive and snorkel sites in Hawaii.

Molokini

An advanced dive, the Molokini Backwall is a world class wall and drift dive for certified divers only. The Wall is approximately 300ft in depth, however, divers will level off at 80 ft or less. You may see white tip, black tip, and gray reef sharks, manta rays, dolphins and schooling fish. If you travel in the winter months (Oct-Mar) you will most likely run across humpback whales. This can be a drift dives at times, but the current was almost undetectable when I went.

Molokini Backwall

In the middle of the bay

Middle Reef is also known as Mid Reef.

Middle Reef (Molokini)



West side of the inner part of Molokini Island.

Tako Flats

Slope that goes from the surface to over 100 feet, if you turn the corner, and look for the shark ledges.

Northeast side of Molokini Island

Enenue Side is also known as Enenui Side, Rudder Fish.

Enenue Side

Reef's End

Remnants of World War II, the Tank and Landing Craft wrecks are in 60 feet of crystal clear water off the coast of the Makena Golf and Beach Resort. Still recognizable after 60+ years underwater, eels have taken up residency in the pipes and barrels. A strange mix of weaponry and old ammunition are interspersed with a plethora of sea life. Schools of Weke or goat fish swim around the wreck in synchronistic harmony. Octopus are regularly found here.

The short swim from one wreck to the other over a sandy bottom, offers an opportunity to find shells. Fragile, but beautiful, Sea Biscuit’s litter the sandy bottom and challenge scuba divers to pick them up without breaking them.

Landing Craft and Tank

For a more rugged adventure, try Ahihi Bay.  You'll find no facilities here, but you will find a private beach some excellent snorkeling and diving. Water-shoe rubble & surge entry. Inflate BCD, and apply fins after swimming out to shoulder-level.

Turtles, cleaning stations, large Sailfin Tangs, Yellow Tangs, triggerfish, large school of resident snapper, yellow & spotted moray eels, and Yellow Trumpetfish.

At the South End of Highway 31, bear right onto Wailea Iki.  Continue to the T, turn left on Wailea Alanui, which becomes Makena Alanui. After 5.5 miles, you'll see the parking to the right.

Ahihi Bay

At the south end of the beach, there is excellent snorkeling, and good diving a bit further out. At the north end of the beach there is decent snorkeling, but it is a bit shallow for diving. As with most beach in the islands, if the surf is crashing, stay out of the water. Rip tides and strong currents pose a genuine threat. There is no full time lifeguard. Parking is just past the Maui Prince Hotel. Do not leave any valuables in your car or unattended on the beach. There is a second parking lot near the Keawala'i Church but it is kind of isolated. The showers and restrooms are at the parking lot across the street from the church.

Maluaka Beach (aka Turtle Town)

This is a must-do site!  This picturesque area is perfect for beginners and advanced divers alike.  The entry is easy, and the fish are friendly (they know they're protected here)!  There are no facilities here, and the parking is limited-- but don't let that deter you!

At the South End of Highway 31, bear right onto Wailea Iki.  Continue to the T, turn left on Wailea Alanui, which becomes Makena Alanui. After 5.0 miles, you'll see the cove.

Back Side

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving at Back Side

Recommended dive shops