Explore Maui
Diving in Maui offers an unparalleled marine adventure, blending stunning underwater landscapes with diverse marine life. Known for its incredible shore dives, Maui's leeward side is a diver's paradise. Sites like Black Rock, Honolua Bay, and Kahekili Beach along the Ka’anapali coast provide accessible, yet breathtaking experiences. To the south, the shores of Kihei and Wailea beckon with their clear waters and abundant sea life, perfect for both novice and experienced divers.
One standout feature is the Molokini Crater, a partially submerged volcanic crater that promises thrilling underwater exploration. The crater's "backside" offers a more challenging dive, with deeper waters and stronger currents, attracting those seeking adventure. Additionally, Lanai's dive spots, reachable by charter from Maui, present enchanting underwater scenes, including vibrant coral reefs and fascinating rock formations.
Maui's underwater world teems with life, from colorful reef fish to graceful sea turtles, and, during certain seasons, the majestic humpback whales. This diversity enhances the island's appeal, making it a must-visit destination for diving enthusiasts worldwide. Whether looking for a serene shore dive or an exhilarating deep-water challenge, Maui offers something special for every diver.
Dive Activity
Diving in Maui
Maui is a diver's paradise, offering a blend of stunning shore and adventurous liveaboard diving experiences. Some of the top dive sites include the Molokini Crater, a partially submerged volcanic caldera known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. The Cathedrals, located off Lanai, offer dramatic underwater lava formations and are a favorite for their unique structure and light play. For wreck enthusiasts, the Carthaginian II, a sunken whaling ship, provides an intriguing dive into history along with an abundance of marine life. Night dives at Black Rock are popular for witnessing the curious behavior of nocturnal sea creatures. Maui's diverse dive sites cater to all preferences, from tranquil shore dives to more challenging adventures, making it a versatile destination for divers of all levels.
Top Wildlife Sightings in Maui
Maui's waters are teeming with a vibrant array of marine life making it a diver's paradise. Common species include the brightly colored butterflyfish and parrotfish, often seen darting around the coral reefs. The Moorish idol is another frequent sighting, recognized by its striking black, white, and yellow bands. During the winter months, divers may encounter humpback whales as they migrate to Hawaii for breeding. Green sea turtles are a year-round staple, frequently spotted at popular dive sites like Turtle Town. Reef sharks and manta rays are also notable, with the former more commonly seen in deeper waters and the latter during night dives or around feeding stations.
Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content
Shutterstock-Shane Myers Photography
2.6k Sightings
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230
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180
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159
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224
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195
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168
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216
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 200
Alamy-WaterFrame
Moray Eel
1.9k Sightings
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153
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137
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160
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125
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203
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224
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173
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148
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153
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147
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131
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167
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 300
Alamy/Reinhard Dirscherl
Octopus
485 Sightings
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59
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49
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44
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32
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42
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42
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19
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29
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44
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31
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41
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53
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 600
iStock/ultramarinfoto
Wrasse
441 Sightings
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16
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42
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44
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27
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39
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54
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31
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31
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50
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47
N
36
D
24
Shutterstock-Andrey Armyagov
Hawksbill Turtle
372 Sightings
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40
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20
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30
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23
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46
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27
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25
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29
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46
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27
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29
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30
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 25
iStock/Juliosanjuan
Eagle Ray
272 Sightings
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24
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26
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18
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24
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5
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10
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17
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31
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36
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31
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16
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34
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 130
Shutterstock_Krzysztof Odziomek
Butterfly Fish
1.4k Sightings
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97
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103
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137
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91
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132
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195
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130
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96
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121
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106
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81
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105
iStock-June Jacobsen
Whitetip Reef Shark
1.3k Sightings
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107
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114
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125
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94
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142
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121
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97
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79
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103
O
94
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98
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84
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 90
Shutterstock-Rich Carey
Angelfish
1.2k Sightings
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87
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87
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105
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61
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117
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162
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96
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86
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112
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88
N
88
D
92
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 40
iStock-wrangel
Triggerfish
1.1k Sightings
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65
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76
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113
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66
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99
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141
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98
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73
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103
O
85
N
75
D
79
The best Months to dive in Maui
Maui offers excellent year-round diving opportunities with generally favorable conditions. Water temperatures range from 24°C–28°C/75°F–82°F, ensuring comfortable dives throughout the year. Visibility is typically 15–30 meters/50–100 feet, providing clear underwater views of the vibrant marine life.
While diving is possible all year, winter months can bring stronger currents and large swells, especially on the north shore, potentially reducing visibility and accessibility. Summer months tend to offer calmer seas and more predictable conditions. Divers should consider seasonal changes in wind patterns and swells when planning their trips for the best experience.
