Scuba Diving Maui with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles

 

 

The Green Sea turtle aka Honu are some of the cutest and friendliest dive buddies.

Honu can grow to a length of 5 feet (1.5m). There are various scuba classes to get you ready for your diving adventure with these loveable sea creatures.

Snorkeling

Maui has a large selection of marine life, and some are picture-perfect when you embark on a snorkeling trip.

On your snorkeling adventure, you might see the Honu, manta rays, eels and sometimes some harmless reef sharks like the Black Tip. Snorkling comes with many health benefits, and you get to observe beautiful underwater diversity and bio-organisms

Whale Watching (seasonal)

Summer is the ideal time for whale watching. In the warm seasons, the humpbacks are more prominent.

They love the warm temperatures for their young and pregnant females appreciate this time of the year too. The whale-watching season takes place from mid-January to March each year.

Shark Dive Maui

Shark diving is a thrilling and unique experience and if you’re looking for up close and personal experience, this one is for you.

Unlike cage diving, you can enjoy swimming with the sharks at the Mala Pier. The one frequently found on the pier is the white-tip reef shark. They’re smaller shark species with many adults growing up to 5ft (1.7m)

Maui’s Spinner Dolphins

 

The Spinner dolphins of Maui are no strangers to the warm tropical waters, and you can find many of them swimming together in large groups.

These beautiful creatures get their name due to their love of leaping and spinning in mid-air. It is quite the spectacle and one not to miss. Spinner dolphins can grow up to almost 7 feet long (2.1 meters).

Hana

Hana aka Waia’napanapa, is a beautiful state park in Hawaii. There are many things to do when visiting Hana, including the exploration of fascinating sea caves, hiking trails, ancient sites, and blooming lustrous flora.

Visit art galleries, go scuba diving, shop fresh at a farmer’s market and take in picturesque scenery.

Haleakala

Haleakala is steeped in history and a sacred heritage of Maui. It’s believed that the demigod Maui had an encounter with the sun which is why the sun moves slowly around the earth as we know it today.

The vast landscapes feature volcanic craters, indigenous creatures, and plant life. Enjoy guided tours and stargazing in the evening.

ATV

Maui is rich in landscapes and various terrains, and this is why you can enjoy some off-road AVT adventures.

Experience the breeze and the sunny skies as you and your crew ride along the designated trails. When driving an AVT, wear safety gear and appropriate apparel.

Kayaking

Kayaking is one of many water activities in Maui. You don’t have to be a pro but knowing the basics is helpful. Some popular destinations in Maui for kayaking include Honolua Bay, Molokini, and Turtle Town. Kayaking can also be weather permitting so check the weather forecast ahead of time.

Para-sailing (seasonal)

 

Parasailing is an exciting way to get a true bird’s eye view of Maui’s coast. It often involves a bit of wind and elevations up to 500ft (152.4m).

Parasailing might not be for those who fear heights, but, it is a unique experience of a lifetime.

Jet Skiing (seasonal)

 

Hiking

Enjoy a leisure hike through the scenic trails observing nature at its best. Practice safety while hiking and there are also convenient guided hiking tours for an even better experience.

Fishing Charters

If you enjoy fishing, then a fishing charter might be the ideal adventure for you. You’ll be able to proudly catch your fish and share the spoils with friends or family.

Sunset Sails

Blissful fun and romance are what you can expect with a beautiful sunset sail. While out in the pristine waters of Hawaii, you take in the scenic ocean. Watch the skies and sea transition in color with an awe-inspiring sunset as a backdrop for your cruise.

Luau

To experience the culture and vibrance of Hawaii, what better way to do so than with a Luau festival?

Luau is a long practice passed from Hawaiian ancestors throughout generations. It features Polynesian dancing, music, and native cuisine. It is a unique experience and a must to witness when visiting Maui.

Aquarium

Visit the Maui Ocean Center aquarium with your family and discover the local sea creatures up close. You can also enjoy botanical tours, snorkling, shark dives and lots more.

Helicopter tours

Helicopter tours are not only a bird’s eye view of Maui, but also an exciting experience and one of a kind. Enjoy breathtaking views of waterfalls, Lao Valley State Park, and rainforests.

Micro Breweries

With a microbreweries tour, you get to sample various craft beers and ciders. Some microbreweries include food pairing options.

The guided tours explore insightful information like how the beer is made and other interesting facts. Speak to your local tour guide for more.

Tedeschi Winery

Wine and food pairings, wine tastings and wine tours are just some of the experiences you can enjoy with a visit to Tedeschi Winery in Hawaii.

Zip Lines

Zip line adventures are not for the faint at heart. It is fast, adrenalin-pumping, and an experience of a lifetime. Maui has a variety of zipline and aerial parks to choose from and enjoy.

Golf

If you enjoy golf, you’ll be pleased to know that there are an array of golf courses to choose from in Maui. Visit the Makena Golf Beach Club and the 18-hole Fairmont Kia Lani Maui Wailea Golf course.

 

 

Aloha to all of our valued old and new friends and customers.

Due to the fire that occurred in Lahaina on Aug 8, 2024, our shop and and everything inside was a total loss. My home was not habitable and I could not return to live or conduct business since then. It has been a very tuff and long road trying to cope with all the loss and emotional state that our community has endured. I have been very grateful to all the help we have received from various sources.

It was so very hard to take phone calls  from all of our past and potential customers that wanted come to Maui and diving and join our classes to support us. But I had to tell everyone that I can’t take them out on dive tours in our beloved town of Lahaina, or Kaanapali at this time.

We are welcoming tourism back to Maui

There are a few that are trying to make it sound like tourists are not welcome in Lahaina, Kaanapali, Maui. This is NOT true!!! The economy here in Maui relies mainly on tourism. Tourism plays a crucial role in supporting local economies and communities, and without your support many business’s will close permanently, and jobs will be lost. The local people that you will encounter at the restaurants, Luau’s, sunset cruise tours, EVERYTING will meet you with the same Aloha that has always been part of the Hawaiian tradition.

Now on  May 1st 2024 we are resuming our scuba diving business here in Kaanapali.

We can’t wait to see all of you returning  and to coming out diving with us, while helping us in the recovery of what we have endured. Give us a call and I would love to answer any questions you may have about our dive tours and classes. Or, you can book online.

 

West Maui is still open. Please come visit Kaanapali, Honokawai, Napili, Kahana, Kapalua, the community needs your support.
We are hearing reports that people are trying to view the devastated area in Lahaina. Just a friendly reminder to help educate people. Please refrain from doing this. The comunity of Lahaina has endured so much trauma since this terrible event we need everyone to please be respectful. The comunity is welcomoing visitors with open arms and the workers in any form need your support.

Visitors to Maui, whether in West Maui can show their support by patronizing local businesses, participating in community events or initiatives, and contributing to recovery efforts in meaningful ways. By demonstrating care and solidarity, visitors can make a positive impact and help the community heal and rebuild.

Let’s continue to promote empathy, respect, and support for the communities of West Maui and beyond as they navigate through challenging times.

In2Scuba Diving Maui is now able to resume operating and we are ready to take scuba divers out inKaanapali for an amazing adveture. Please help support us, as we also lost our scuba shop in Lahaina during the fire.

Thank you, and please share this important message and reminder to your friends and family.

Aloha

Ty

With its beautiful beaches, fun water sports, and lush scenic drives, Maui is one of the top tourist destinations in Hawaii.

In one place, you can learn to surf, go wine tasting, snorkel with sea turtles, attend a luau, relax on the beach, visit a national park, and rappel down a waterfall.

It’s safe to say Maui is an incredible place to visit – it’s considered the “most fun” Hawaiian island, and it’s easy to see why. But with so much to see and do, it can be challenging to decide. Below, we’ll cover the best things to do in Maui, Hawaii.

Maui Hawaii has got to be the best island to visit when looking for things to do in Hawaii. With its pristine coastal vistas and numerous white sandy beaches. You will will never fall short when looking for things to do here.

Things to Do in Maui Hawaii

Here are the x best things you can do in Maui, whether this is your first visit or you’re returning for more fun and relaxation.

1. Relax on the Beach

No vacation to Maui would be complete without visiting at least one of the many beaches. With over 120 miles of stunning coastline, the list of Maui beaches is long. Some of the best beaches to visit are:

• Kapalua Bay Beach – Perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and paddle boarding.
• Ho’okipa Beach – Best for spotting sea turtles and surfing.
• Polo Beach – Ideal for boogie boarding, snorkeling, and swimming with kids.
• Big Beach – Great for swimming and sunbathing.
• Black Sand Beach – Good for sunbathing and beach gazing.

2. Watch a Sunrise or Sunset from Haleakala

There’s no better way to watch the sunrise or sunset than from the top of Haleakala – above the clouds! Of course, seeing the sunrise involves waking up very early.

It takes around 1.5 – 2 hours to reach the top of Haleakala, so if sunrise is at 6.30 am, you must leave your accommodation by 4.30 am. But it’s well worth the effort!

The sunrise viewing requires an advanced reservation (it’s THAT popular), but the sunset viewing doesn’t. Sunset is much less crowded and a great way to enjoy views around the island.

3. Attend a Luau

Nothing says “Hawaii” quite like a luau, so going to one is essential when visiting Maui.

You can enjoy the vibey, live music, eat traditional food, and go on a cultural journey through Hawaii. Plus, watching the hula girls dance and move to the beat of the drums or watching a fire-dancing show will be an unforgettable experience

4. Check Out Iao Valley State Park

This park is in central Maui and is home to Kuka’emoku, the Iao Needle. Hawaiian culture sees this as the phallic stone of Kanaloa, who was the god of the ocean. The cliffs in the park were also once used as the burial site for Hawaii’s royalty. Visiting the park to see the Needle is quick – it’s located at the end of a 1-kilometer trail.

5. Snorkel Around the Island

One of the top activities to do in Maui is snorkeling. You can do it as part of a tour or by yourself if you hire a snorkel. Maui has dozens of locations ideal for snorkeling. Here are a few of the best snorkeling spots:

• Molokini Crater – Perfect for beginners, and you can see a variety of fish.
• Turtle Town – Great for those wanting to swim with sea turtles (also plenty of fish).
• Honolua Bay – Quiet cove, calm waters, and a beautiful reef teeming with ocean life.
• Kapalua Bay – One of the best snorkel locations and beaches.

Of course, you can enjoy a great snorkeling experience at just about any location on the island, so ask around.

6. Stroll Along the Kapalua Coastal Trail

Probably one of the most underrated Maui experiences, this short 1.76-mile walk is something anyone will enjoy.

The trail takes you past a few stunning beaches, tidepools, luxury resorts, and breathtaking views of Maui’s coastline. The trail starts at Kapalua Beach and finishes at D.T. Flemings Beach and alternates between sandy trails, boardwalks, and sidewalks.

7. Watch the Whales

Humpback whales, on their migration route each year, travel to the Hawaiian islands during winter months for their mating season.

The crystal clear, shallow water between Moloka’i, Lana’i, and Maui are the prime spots to see whales in winter between November and May. Peak whale watching season is from January to March.

8. Discover Dragon’s Teeth

While walking the Kapalua Coastal Trail (#6 above), you can visit Makalua-puna Point. Lava has eroded the earth so much that a series of pointed spires have been left behind. They line up so that they look exactly like dragon’s teeth.

If you keep walking towards the point, you’ll find a massive circle maze called the Labyrinth that you can walk through. At Makalua-puna Point, you can snap a few awesome pictures of the rocky volcanic coastline as the surf smashes into the rocks. Fancy a round of golf? You can enjoy a morning or afternoon in the sun at the local golf course – with a view!

9. Visit the Nakalele Blowhole

The Nakalele Blowhole is located along the robust volcanic coastline in northern Maui on Nakalele Point. The blowhole often “erupts” when the waves hit the shore, sending water shooting out the hole. It looks like a natural geyser as the water shoots several feet through the air.

You can view the blowhole from the bottom of the hill or the top of the cliff. You’ll need to walk down the slippery, steep, sandy path to get to the coast. Ensure you maintain a safe distance from the blowhole – if you get too close, you may be sucked into the blowhole by a wave.

10. Go to the Maui Ocean Center

Opened in 1988, the Maui Ocean Center has educational exhibits and programs that teach visitors about local sea life. You can learn about sea turtles, Hawaiian coral, hammerhead sharks, and reef fish. Plus, you can check out the Sphere, an awesome 3D experience where you can swim with humpback whales.

11. Rappel Down a Waterfall

Are you looking for a bit of adventure that envelops you in Maui’s natural beauty? Rappelling down a waterfall is for you! You can explore tropical rainforest cliffs and freshwater pools as you hike to the waterfall location. Then you get up close and personal with the rock face of the waterfall as you lower yourself down. Thrilling!

12. Go Ziplining

If you feel like soaring over Maui’s green valleys and lush forests, you can go ziplining. Depending on which company and tour you choose, you’ll be in the treeline for two to four hours, enjoying a bird’s eye view of the island. Each company offers unique zipline options, from amazing hikes and breathtaking views to racing your friends or family and enjoying extra-long zip line rides.

13. Try Hawaiian Shave Ice

Much like a luau, eating Hawaiian shave ice is a must-do in Maui. While shave ice was originally started in Japan, it was brought to the islands in the 1900s. The ice is shaved to be super fine, resembling snow. Then a flavored syrup is poured over the ice, and it’s served with ice cream. If you feel adventurous, top your shave ice with condensed milk, toasted coconut, or Li Hing Mui powder.

14. Scuba Dive Around the Maui Island

A trip to Maui wouldn’t be complete without scuba diving around the island! You can see various sea life and Hawaiian green sea turtles all year round along Maui’s southern and western coastlines. As you scuba dive, you can watch the sea turtles eat algae deposits, rest on the seafloor, and surf to take a breath of fresh Hawaiian air.

You’ll also be able to explore the volcanic lava shoots, archways, and caverns. The best months to scuba dive in Maui are from April to October, and you’ll be able to see everything from sea turtles and manta rays to monk seals to sharks. If you are looking to learn scuba diving, check out our award winning Scuba Diving For Beginners Course.

The island of Maui is one of the most beautiful in Hawaii. Here you can find beautiful beaches, rich marine life, and, of course, exceptional scuba diving sites.

The waters around Maui are crystal clear and calm, and this makes the island a popular destination for scuba divers, of all skill levels. With that in mind, these are our top 10 best dive sites in Maui. 

1. Mala Wharf Pier

 

This scuba diving spot can be found in Lahaina, and local people consider it to be one of the best diving spots in Maui and it has a depth of around 35 feet.

No Certification is required for this beginner-friendly scuba diving spot. A dive here is going to reward you with an amazing experience of sighting White Tip Sharks, sea turtles, and Frog Fish.

2. Airport Beach (Kahekili Beach Park)

 

Kahekili Beach Park, also known as Airport Beach, can be found along Kaanapali Beach. The scuba diving spot here has a depth of over 40 feet, making it ideal for professional and beginner divers.

Divers are likely to find various species of fish, such as Needlefish, Yellowtail Coris Wrasse, and Ornate  butterfly Fish to name just a few. There are several diving courses on offer here, and if you are a beginner you will not need a Certification

3. Lanai Cathedrals

 

Voted as being one of the top 10 scuba diving sites in the world, not just Maui, Lanai Cathedrals is possibly the best scuba diving site in Maui.

With a depth of around 50 feet, diving here can afford you a fantastic tour of the visually stunning cathedrals (caverns) and marine life of Maui. When exploring this scuba dive site you can expect to spot turtles, dolphins, and rare corals.

4. Back Wall of Molokini

 

Provided that you are a licensed scuba diver, Molokini is one of the best sites for wall diving in Maui. The volcanic back wall is an excellent wall dive, with 300 feet of deep, clear, and sparkling waters.

The marine life here is as spectacular as you might imagine, with frequent visits from whales, dolphins, sharks, and many other amazing creatures.

5. Black Rock Point

 

Black Rock Point can be found at the northern end of Kaanapali Beach and it is rated as being in the top 4 of all beach scuba dives in the United States. The dive site here has a depth of around 32 feet, making it ideal for beginner and intermediate divers for shore dives.

The site is also known for its night dives and you may be able to spot some reef fishes, Moray eels, turtles, rays, and unique corals right through the season.

6. Ulua Beach

 

 

Ulua Beach is the normal spot for scuba diving beginners to train, with its calm waters and plentiful marine life. While beginners are completing their training, they can expect to see trigger fish, Eels, and butterfly fish swimming with you.

Ulua Beach is the normal spot for scuba diving beginners to train in Kihei, with its calm waters and plentiful marine life. While beginners are completing their training, they can expect to see trigger fish, Eels, and butterfly fish swimming with you. Be sure to take a camera with you (either a waterproof camera or one placed in a sealed, transparent bag) when you dive – something that is recommended regardless of the scuba diving site.

7. Makena Landing

 

Also known as Turtle Town and Five Caves, Makena Landing is one of the most beginner-friendly shore-diving sites in Maui.

With a depth of around 45 feet, there are caves to explore and various marine animals. The marine life that can be found here includes sea turtles and octopuses.

The bubble cave is a must-see spot here while exploring, and it is encouraged by local dive operators.

8. Kapalua Bay

 

Kapalua Bay has a depth of 45 feet, is rich with marine life, and is one of the best-protected bays to be found in Maui. This dive spot is ideal for divers of any skill level, with or without a license.

The bay itself is less dived, but the lava beds with their corals and rare fishes can be found.

9. Honolua Bay

The massive waves and dense reef water combine to make Honolua Bay one of the very best scuba diving sites in Maui. Both professional and beginner divers will feel right at home at Honolua Bay, and there are many diving operators to help with training.

There is a very long walk to get in to the area, and a long swim out. So we don’t take divers here.

If you happen to enjoy exploring marine life, this is the spot you need to visit. You can enjoy close views of barracuda, tropical fish, manta rays, and many more besides.

10. The Carthaginian

Some people enjoy exploring history while they have a great diving experience. If this sounds like you, then The Carthaginian scuba diving site in Maui is the place you need to visit.

At a depth of 97 feet, the 100-foot shipwreck site is accessible only by certified divers that have prior experience. Divers will have a 10-minute boat ride, from the dock to the dive site.

The site is also home to some of the best ocean-dwelling creatures you will find. Divers can expect to be greeted by White Tip Sharks (which are perfectly safe, don’t worry), eels, turtles, and much more.

Are there dive sites in Maui that you enjoy, that are not listed here? Let us know. & if you are thinking about taking a scuba diving class while you are in Maui, check our Scuba diving classes.

This is a common question that people ask us. I know the question well! Because when I first came out to Maui as a new certified diver, I had the same question. I found out in a 2 hour scuba tour that the answer to my question was undoubtedly YES! Maui IS GOOD for SCUBA diving!

Lets start with the why, where and when Maui is so popular for scuba diving at all levels.

Why:

Maui has so many locations that are easily accessible from the shore. There is no need to get on a boat for hours to get to the dive locations. We have  very diverse marine life. Whether you are looking to find the very small critters like Nudibranchs, or the big things like Turtles and sharks, and everything in between. You will not be disappointed, we have it all!

Where:

Maui has dive sites located all along the west and south facing shores that most of the hotels and resorts are nearby. These dive sites are perfect for the first time divers all the way to advanced divers. There is something for all scuba divers at all levels. Certified divers can dive with  family or friends that are not certified in our Intro course and still see tons of cool stuff.

When:

All year around. We don’t have a “non scuba season” like many places globally. Our weather is pretty much consistent, therefore providing good conditions for diving. We do get surf seasons that may affect us but not to worry. We can usually find good water in another place that is not being affected. So, when is the surf seasons you ask?

Well, we are located in the middle of the Pacific ocean 2500 miles from the nearest land mass. When the northern hemisphere is have its winter,  the resulting storms generate waves that travel from the north southbound towards Hawaii.

During this time we may get the north swells as a result, causing surf to get bigger on the north and northwest shores. The same effect is caused when the southern hemisphere is having their winter. The swells come up and affect our south facing shores.

Rest at ease. This is not a continuous event, they come and go.  Just as the storms you may be used to come and go where you live.

 

Check some more info here.

https://porch.com/advice/scuba-diving-101-beginners-guide-exploring-ocean

New to scuba diving? Check our Beginner’s Scuba Diving Classes.